Wedding season causes mixed emotions. While the thought of a free bar, buffet food, and friends tying the knot gives you a warm, fuzzy feeling, there still remains the conundrum of what to wear.
Once upon a time, a single navy suit would suffice—regardless of the location or time of the year. And it still does, to some extent. But as ceremonies get more extravagant and dress codes more unique, it pays to round up a selection of versatile pieces that’ll ensure you’re always suitably dressed.
Join me as I run through Coofandy’s finest wedding essentials, proving that tired tailoring and stale shirts are no longer your only option.
Key Takeaways
After considering a range of dress codes, weather possibilities, and locations, I’ve reviewed Coofandy’s occasion wear and picked out the pieces that’ll help you create the ultimate wedding outfits. Whether it’s a countryside celebration of a destination do, these are the versatile staples to invest in should you plan on looking your best.
If your friends are getting hitched against the backdrop of Tuscan hills, or it’s simply a sunny day, nothing ensures warm-weather smartness better than a cream blazer. Versatile enough to wear with a dress shirt or tee, it’ll really look the part with tailored pants and a pair of suede loafers. But before you hop into your convertible and take to the winding roads, don’t forget your shades and a spritz of your favorite cologne.
Turns out you don’t need a master’s degree in styling to rock a vest with a suit. It’s actually pretty simple. And highly effective. A fantastic option for city ceremonies and chilly days alike, a check design like this one is a seriously suave layer. Not only will it keep you stylishly warm, it can also help to tuck in your waistline—giving you free rein to scoff every sausage roll and sugary treat in sight.
If you can’t show off your bulging biceps and killer chest at a wedding full of friends and family, what’s the point of even going? I’m joking, of course. But if you’re looking for a shirt that flatters your muscular figure while remaining super smart, this tight-fitting option from Coofandy is a safe bet. The perfect partner for chinos and loafers (should the dress code be casual), it’s made from a soft and stretchy fabric that clings to all the right places without restricting your movement.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with a gray or navy suit—in fact, they’re two excellent options for any type of wedding. It’s just when they’re teamed with a white shirt, it’s all too easy to look like every other man waiting for the bar to open. Which is why investing in an additional layer, such as this layered vest, is highly recommended. A must-have for winter weddings, it’ll bring extra character to your ensemble while also keeping you warm.
Every man should own a crisp white dress shirt. Ideally two or three. Versatile, timeless, and effortlessly stylish, it’s a great foundation for a wide range of wedding outfits. Not to mention you can also use it for graduation ceremonies, job interviews, and everything in between. Wear it with your garments of choice, from blazers and chinos to suits and ties. Just don’t forget to iron it and be extra careful with the red wine.
There are countless occasions that would benefit from a blue blazer, but probably none more fitting than a wedding with a smart-casual dress code. Smart without feeling too stuffy, it’s the kind of jacket that can look just as good with a polo and tailored pants as it would with chinos and a button-down Oxford. Should you really want to make an impression, I suggest pairing your choice of bottoms with a striped T-shirt, statement shades, and leather sneakers.
When a two-piece suit doesn’t feel quite formal enough, the addition of a vest often seems most appropriate. Particularly beneficial for weddings during the fall or winter, it’ll turn the smartness up a few notches and also allow you to remain presentable when the time comes to throw your blazer to the ground and head to the dance floor.
Traditional black-tie rules state you should be wearing a black or midnight blue dinner jacket. But if your wedding dress code is slightly more lax, this paisley version is a fine alternative. Eye-catching without being too showy, it’ll give your outfit the kind of difference that ensures you’re the topic of conversation during dinner (for all the right reasons).
You’ll want to wear this a lot—not just for weddings. Which will probably have you worrying that your friends will consider you a one trick pony. Thankfully, it’s versatile enough to style so many ways no one will have a clue you’re rocking the same blazer. Suitable for year-round wear, it pairs seamlessly with a range of options, from camp collar shirts to crew neck tees and turtleneck sweaters.
Not all weddings are going to be super-formal affairs—some couples may want their guests to keep it casual. Or at least slightly more relaxed. So, if the invitation tells you to keep it low-key, but presentable, this gray blazer is a winner. Light enough for summer ceremonies but a great layer for winter, it’s a versatile option that will work with everything from dress shirts to fine knit sweaters.
Three Things to Consider When Dressing For a Wedding
Weather
Almost as important as remembering the wedding card, taking the weather into account is crucial when deciding what to wear. As a rule of thumb, seasonal appropriateness will guide your choice of fabrics. Consider breathable options, like linen, for warm weather, and heavier materials, such as wool, for winter or fall. You should also be prepared for temperature fluctuations throughout the day by incorporating layering pieces like jackets or vests.
Dress Code
Respecting the specified dress code on the wedding invitation is paramount. Whether the occasion calls for casual, semi-formal, formal, or black-tie attire, following the guidelines ensures you’re appropriately dressed and don’t upset the husband and wife-to-be.
Accessories
Seeing as outfit options are fairly limited when it comes to dressing for a wedding, accessories are your secret weapon. It’s important not to go overboard, but you should think about adding two or three to really help your outfit pop. Pocket squares, ties, and cufflinks are all excellent options.
Final Verdict
Dressing for a wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. By adding a few key pieces to your closet, you can ensure you always have a number of different options to hand. Whether it’s a black-tie theme at a manor house or a tropical ceremony by the sea, these Coofandy staples are a must-have for being the best-dressed guest.
