Introduction:
When it comes to your wedding day, the right men’s wedding accessories aren’t just extras—they’re essential elements that elevate your look. Think of them as the final brushstrokes of your wedding day attire, adding elegance, personality, and timeless style to your suit. In this guide, we’ll walk through the must-have accessories that help you stand out and make your suit truly yours, from classic choices to statement pieces you may not have considered.
1. Choosing the Right Tie or Bow Tie: Which Complements Your Wedding Style Best?
Neck Ties vs. Bow Ties
Deciding between a necktie and a bow tie often comes down to the formality of your wedding and your personal style. Neck ties offer versatility—they’re sleek, subtle, and suit both modern and semi-formal weddings. For example, a slim tie in a dark hue adds elegance without overpowering your suit. Bow ties, on the other hand, add a touch of tradition and sophistication, making them perfect for formal and black-tie weddings.
Current Trends
Grooms today are leaning towards textured fabrics, like linen and wool blends, which add dimension without being flashy. In terms of colour, subtle shades like dusty blue, charcoal, and deep greens are popular, while classic shades like navy, burgundy, and black remain timeless. Patterns, like soft stripes or checks, can bring a modern twist without detracting from a polished look.
Bolo Ties for the Bold
For outdoor, rustic, or vintage-themed weddings, bolo ties have made a stylish comeback. They bring a sense of laid-back charm to a suit, perfect for those who want to step outside traditional choices. Opt for a bolo with a simple clasp and neutral rope colour for a touch of personality without overpowering the outfit.
2. The Perfect Pocket Square: Elevate Your Look with Colour and Texture
Why Pocket Squares Matter
A pocket square is a small but powerful addition to any suit. It not only brings in a splash of colour but also adds visual interest and elegance, allowing you to play with textures that match your wedding style.
Styles and Folds
Choosing the right fold and style can influence the formality and overall look of your attire. The classic fold is simple and timeless, suitable for highly formal events. The puff fold, on the other hand, gives a soft, relaxed look that works well for semi-formal weddings. The three-point fold is an elegant choice, blending formality with flair, perfect if you want to add dimension to your suit without overdoing it.
Coordinating with Other Accessories
Matching the pocket square to your other accessories helps create a cohesive look. For example, if your tie has a pattern, choose a solid pocket square in a complementary colour to avoid clashing. If you have a boutonniere, make sure the colours harmonise, bringing balance to the entire ensemble.
3. Cufflinks and Tuxedo Studs: Adding a Touch of Sophistication
Choosing Cufflinks
Cufflinks are often seen as a finishing detail, but they hold the power to elevate your look significantly. Traditional materials like silver or gold bring a refined touch, while personalised monogram cufflinks add an extra layer of meaning. For a more modern edge, try subtle stones like onyx or sapphire, which add depth without being overly bold.
Tuxedo Studs for Formal Flair
Tuxedo studs are a great way to add sophistication for black-tie or formal weddings. They’re typically small and subtle but lend an extra level of polish. Black, gold, or mother-of-pearl studs complement classic tuxedos, while darker shades or metallic finishes can bring a modern feel to suits in navy or charcoal.
When to Use Both
Using both cufflinks and tuxedo studs is ideal for highly formal or black-tie events. However, keep the designs complementary to avoid looking too flashy. For example, if you choose cufflinks with a subtle stone, match them with simple tuxedo studs in a coordinating metal.
4. Statement-Making Footwear: Finding the Right Dress Shoes for Your Wedding Day
Choosing the Right Colour
The colour of your shoes can make or break your look. For black suits and tuxedos, black patent leather shoes are classic. Navy suits pair well with either black or dark brown shoes, but be mindful to choose shades that complement rather than distract. Avoid lighter shades, like tan, with darker suits to keep the look unified and polished.
Patent Leather vs. Matte
Patent leather shoes offer a high shine finish, which is ideal for very formal or black-tie weddings. Matte shoes, like those made from calfskin or suede, lend a subtle sophistication, especially suited for less formal or outdoor weddings. Remember to choose a style that’s cohesive with the formality of the wedding and the suit.
Modern Options
For a unique take, consider loafers or oxfords in luxe finishes. Loafers are a stylish alternative to lace-ups, especially if you want a slightly modern edge. Break in your shoes well before the big day to ensure they’re comfortable and wedding-ready, as you’ll be on your feet for long hours.
5. Lapel Pins and Boutonnieres: The Small Details That Make a Big Impact
Lapel Pins vs. Boutonnieres
While lapel pins and boutonnieres can both add a personalised touch, they serve different purposes. A boutonniere, typically floral, brings in a natural element that’s perfect for formal or semi-formal weddings. Lapel pins are a great alternative if you’re going for a more understated look. They can add a subtle touch of metal or a personal emblem without drawing too much attention.
Matching with Suit Colour
When choosing colours, consider the suit and overall theme. For instance, a white or cream boutonniere works well with dark suits, while metallic lapel pins can pair nicely with lighter suits. Opt for textures and colours that add dimension but don’t overpower the look. Need a little inspiration? Dive into our gallery images and unleash your unique wedding style. Let your creative juices flow!
Combining the Two
If you’d like to wear both, keep them small and balanced. A delicate lapel pin in silver or gold can pair well with a small, muted boutonniere, adding layers of sophistication without clashing.
6. Watches and Pocket Watches: Adding Timeless Style and Sophistication
Choosing Between Modern and Vintage Watches
A watch is both functional and stylish. Wristwatches are sleek and modern, easily paired with a variety of suit styles. Pocket watches, on the other hand, add a vintage touch that’s ideal for classic or three-piece suits.
Style Tips
To avoid an overwhelming look, match the watch metal with other metallic elements like cufflinks or a tie bar. For vintage-themed weddings, a classic pocket watch adds a distinguished touch, particularly with a vest.
For Rustic or Vintage Weddings
Pocket watches add charm to rustic or outdoor weddings, bringing a unique, nostalgic feel to the attire. Opt for a subtle chain for a refined finish.
7. Suspenders and Belts: To Wear or Not to Wear?
When to Choose Suspenders
Suspenders add a classic, slightly retro look that pairs well with vintage or outdoor wedding themes. They offer great support and keep the trousers looking polished throughout the day. Just be sure to choose high-quality fabric suspenders that blend well with the colour and material of your suit.
Belts for a Sleek, Modern Look
Belts are a practical and stylish choice, particularly for modern or minimalist looks. Choose a belt that complements your shoes—black leather with black shoes, brown leather with brown shoes—to keep your outfit cohesive and sophisticated.
Matching with Other Accessories
The key to a balanced look is coordination. Make sure that your belt, shoes, and any leather elements (like a watch strap) share the same shade and finish to create a unified, polished appearance.
8. How to Coordinate Accessories for a Cohesive Look
Choosing Colours and Materials that Compliment Each Other
Balancing the colours and materials of your accessories can make all the difference. Stick to a consistent metal tone for cufflinks, watches, and tie bars—silver or gold are safe choices. For fabrics, pair a textured tie with a plain pocket square or vice versa to avoid visual overload.
Avoiding Over-Accessorising
It’s tempting to add all the details, but simplicity can make a stronger impression. Select two to three standout accessories to keep the look elegant and avoid overwhelming the suit.
Aligning Accessories with Wedding Theme and Venue
Consider your wedding setting—outdoor, indoor, beach, or black-tie—and match your accessories accordingly. A beach wedding might call for lightweight fabrics and softer colours, while a black-tie event demands more polished, formal elements.
Conclusion
Accessories are what make your wedding look unique to you. With careful choices, you can highlight your personality, complement your suit, and bring cohesion to your entire wedding day attire. Winslow Style offers a range of custom options to make your look one-of-a-kind, ensuring that every detail is carefully crafted. Which accessory are you most excited to choose for your wedding day? Contact us for a free consultation in our small store to make your perfect wedding day attire.
