At very formal events, the groom and groomsmen are all to be dressed identically, so one way to distinguish the groom is to give him a different, but complimentary, boutonniere to wear. For less-formal events than white tie, you have more options. The groom could wear a white or ivory jacket while his groomsmen are in black. Or the groom could wear a white, ivory, or silver vest and/or tie while his groomsmen wear vests and/or ties in black, or a color that matches the bridesmaids’ dresses.

When visiting the formalwear shop, have a firm idea of the women’s wedding attire and bring fabric or color swatches from the bridesmaids’ gowns. Pictures of preferred formalwear styles would also be helpful in the decision-making process.

Reserve rentals at least three months in advance of the wedding (although the earlier, the better, especially during the busy season). Final measurements should be taken about three weeks before the ceremony; however, be sure to come back a few days before the wedding for last-minute alterations.

Out-of-town groomsmen can get measured at any formalwear store or local tailor’s near them and send their measurements to the groom or to your formalwear store.

Someone (often the best man, if he’s responsible!) should be designated to return all formalwear to the store on time in order to avoid late fees, which can get quite expensive adding up the per day, per outfit costs.

There are a few key points to keep in mind regarding fit when ordering formalwear. Shirts should fit well around the neck. The bottom hem of the pants should just touch the top of the shoes. Jackets should be fitted, with some room at the waist. Sleeves should end at the wrist bone with the same number of shirt buttons showing. Vents on the side of the jacket should lie smoothly and follow the lines of the body. The collar should hug the neck comfortably, and the lapels shouldn’t buckle. Your formalwear store consultant will certainly be a huge help in getting the fit just right.

For the groom especially, buying the wedding suit/tux is recommended. This way it can be tailored to his specific measurements. Rental suits and tuxes generally have a more generic fit; the only adjustments that can be made are to the sleeve and pant length. However, rentals nowadays do offer more options than in the past. You’re likely to find a range of fits (traditional, modern, and slim) to resemble more closely what’s in a groom/groomsman’s personal wardrobe.

With all the attention given to men’s clothes, an important detail that is sometimes overlooked is the groom’s hair. Men are generally more casual about haircuts than women, but they should ideally get their hair trimmed two weeks before the wedding to add the finishing touch to their wedding finery. Pass this helpful tip on to the groomsmen as well! If you plan to take photos of the bride’s hand and the groom’s hand with the new rings, it would be a great idea for the groom to get a manicure just before the wedding, to address any out-of-control cuticles and shape the nails.

Overall, men’s formalwear is trending towards elegant, tailored, distinguished and conservative. Here are some specific trends seen lately:

Black is classic. But navy blue, grey, or tan suits provide your wedding party with a modern, sophisticated look.

Vests win. While cummerbunds are always a classic tuxedo accessory, currently vests are more popular. Vests are easily worn with nearly any tuxedo ensemble and are available in a wide variety of colors to compliment your wedding.

Lapel styles. Notched lapels on coats are the most common, however peak lapels and shawl collars are increasing in popularity.

Trendy ties. Dressy standard neckties, often called four-in-hand ties or Windsor knotted ties, are becoming a more popular option in wedding attire, but bow ties are making a comeback. Whichever style you choose, they are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

Going pleatless. Things are moving away from shirts and pants with pleats. Current fashion trends opt for flat fronts on pants and smooth fronts on shirts.

Compliment the groom. Groomsmen accessories that complement the groom instead of matching the bridesmaids’ dresses are another alternative. For example, having the groom in a silver vest with black detailing, while the groomsmen are in black vests with silver detailing.

Have fun. Adding colored or patterned socks is a fun way to tie in the wedding colors and show some personality. Groomsmen can also wear colored suspenders and matching bow ties.