Four Ways the Groom Can Stand Out
Sure, all eyes will be on the bride, but as the groom you should still set yourself apart. Although the tradition dictates that the groom and his groomsmen all wear similar outfits, it's important to help guests identify you as the special guy who is kissing the bride at the altar.
1. Alternative Tux
Wearing a subtly different jacket from those of your groomsmen is a surefire way to make your mark. For a daytime affair, wear a cutaway coat, but have your boys wear a stroller coat instead. If you select a double-breasted jacket, put your men in a single-breasted cut. Or, put yourself in a one-button jacket and have the groomsmen sport a three-button version. If your tux has a satin lapel, the boys' could be plain. Another option: wear a white dinner jacket, and put the groomsmen in traditional black tuxes (or vice versa).
2. A Fancier Flower
A unique boutonniere worn on the jacket lapel is the easiest way to help guests single you out. If your wedding will be very formal and mismatched tuxes would seem inappropriate, run with this option. For example, have boutonnieres made of the same flower for the groom and groomsmen’s, but add some additional accent to the grooms. Another idea is to give the groom a completely different boutonniere from the groomsmen, one that matches the bride’s bouquet would work.
3. The Tie
Boost your "all about me" factor by wearing a different colored tie or bow that the gang. For instance, if you wear a silver tie and matching vest, the groomsmen could sport a vest and a tie combo that complements or matches the bridesmaid dresses. Grooms can go one step further and wear a different type of neckwear from the guys. If you choose a bow tie, the guys could wear neckties with a Windsor knot, which has a triangle-shaped knot, larger than your standard, everyday four-in-hand. Or, if you plan to wear to ascot, select a matching necktie for your men.
4. Variety in the Vest
Vests are another element of the tux which grooms can experiment. Pick a vest that's a different color from that of your groomsmen’s. If you choose a black tie and black west, you could put the groomsmen in a color that matches the bridesmaid dresses. Or, set yourself apart in a cummerbund and put the fellas in vests.
