From the journal

The Groom’s Accessory Guide

By Elaina Moore

 

When it comes to weddings it seems the bride puts a lot of time and effort into her appearance while historically the groom just puts on a tux, shows up and hopes for the best. The good news is, these days the grooms are giving their ensembles more attention by adding unique fashion touches and elements of their personalities to complement the look. Pulling together the perfect wedding day outfit, as the groom, doesn't have to be hard; it just takes a little know-how. Being stylish on the big day is all about how you make use of accessories to take your look to the next level and as a bonus, brides the world over appreciate the extra effort and time their husbands-to-be take in planning for this extra special day.

 

Tie vs. Bow Tie + Pocket Square

When it comes to picking a tie and pocket square combination on your wedding day most grooms play it conservatively by choosing standard black or something in the neutral color family compelling designers like Ralph Lauren to create elegant combinations suitable for every groom. The main thing for grooms to remember is the style of the wedding and formality. Even the most die-hard t-shirt wearing groom will want to pull off a bow tie and tuxedo combination if your wedding is formal. When hosting a semi-formal or informal affair match your tie to your threads for a polished, monochromatic look, or choose a punchier color from your wedding palette. Then, consider texture like a knit, for a more relaxed look. And last but not least, make sure your pocket square selection plays on the tie choice by either picking up the same colors in the design or adding in color and pattern. It’s the perfect way to punch up a rather conservative look and makes the groom look extra dapper.

 

The Groom’s Accessory Guide — photo 1

  

Cuff-Links

These days cufflinks are one of the most overlooked accessories, not just for the groom on his wedding day but in general. Cuff links may be a guy’s only shot at putting on “fun” jewelry for his big day. And if Paul Smith’s unique cufflinks, featuring honeybees, ice cream cones and skulls as well as so many unique design elements with nods to a favorite hobby, has anything to do with it, you’ll be seizing the fashion day! Cufflinks come in many different shapes, sizes and colors and since it is your big day you want to make sure you're wearing something that is dapper and expresses your personality. In the end it is a matter of personal taste, but cufflinks are great touches to amp up the wow factor for the groom and can be a lot of fun.

 

The Groom’s Accessory Guide — photo 2  

 

Wrist Watch

When selecting your ensemble, ask, “What would James Bond do?” The obvious answer is pair a killer tux with debonair accessories. For a 007-worthy watch, think Breguet Swiss timepieces. A sleek black leather strap with minimal gadgets and buttons is the way to go. An informal suit can stand up to sportier wrist wear. While digital faces and rubber straps are a little too gym rat rather than groom. For the perfect suit worthy wristwatch chunkier designs with bells, whistles, and metal bands are spot-on.

 

The Groom’s Accessory Guide — photo 3

 

Traditional Beads

Tradition and opulence go hand in hand at South Asian weddings, which is why Indian jewelry designers like Sherezad Jewellry pay close attention not only the bride but the groom as well. On a South Asian groom’s wedding day, he wants to feel like a king, dressed in an elaborate turban, the finest brocade sherwani lined with gem-studded buttons and of course the ever present multi-string beaded necklace. Traditional beads are the perfect items to add a pop of color against the red and blue of the grooms stole; adding two strands of emeralds or pearls adds a royal touch to his elegant look.

 

The Groom’s Accessory Guide — photo 4
 

 

Shoes

It’s time to prove that Hugh Hefner isn’t the only man who can sport a sleek slip-on shoe. As the groom your shoe game has to be on point and it’s the perfect time to consider slick patent leather lace-ups with personality. You’ll look swanky, not silly, in a shoe that has lots of visual interest like these custom studded Christian Louboutin "roller balls." If you are on the more conservative side a shiny pair in black and not overly embellished, will fit the bill.

 

The Groom’s Accessory Guide — photo 5

 

Lapel Pins

This groom accessory is very similar to cufflinks in the fact that it comes in a huge variety of shapes, sizes and styles. And once again you can't go wrong with a simple and elegant lapel pin like this one from Theo Fennell. The perfect way to pull in the wedding colors or a fun motif loved by the couple, the lapel pin is a trending men’s wedding accessory. With men’s tuxedo designers, accessory brands and florist all finding ways to create new and interesting options there should be no trouble in finding something you like for your big day.

 

 

The Groom’s Accessory Guide — photo 6

 

The Rings

There’s no need for matching bands these days! The groom should love his wedding band as much as the bride loves hers and be given as many options. From titanium to rose gold, textured to polished there is a ring for every groom. Designers like David Yurman offers grooms a wide range of styles and materials. An accessory many grooms are new to wearing, rings are a great way to show some personality. Consider options that are durable and elegant as this is a ring you will have for a lifetime.

 

The Groom’s Accessory Guide — photo 7

 

 

For more on accessories, click HERE to view some amazing bridal accessories featured in our Head Turning Headpieces article!

 

CREDITS:

Article written by:  Elaina Moore