What Should Groom's Dad Wear? A Simple Guide to Wedding Suit Style

When your son is getting married, you want to look sharp-but not steal the spotlight. Finding the right outfit for the groom’s dad isn’t about matching the groom exactly. It’s about looking polished, respectful, and comfortable while fitting into the wedding’s overall vibe. Too many dads end up in ill-fitting tuxedos or outfits that feel outdated, and it shows in photos. Here’s how to get it right without overthinking it.

Start with the wedding’s dress code

The first thing to check is the dress code on the invitation. It’s not just for guests-it’s your rulebook. If it says "black tie," you’re expected to wear a tuxedo. If it says "formal," a dark suit works fine. "Cocktail attire" means a suit, but you can skip the tie or go for a more modern cut. "Semi-formal" or "smart casual" gives you room to breathe-think navy or charcoal suit with a button-down, no tie needed.

Don’t guess. If the invitation doesn’t say, ask the couple. Some weddings now use "dressy casual" or "rustic formal," and those terms mean different things in different places. In Auckland, a beach wedding might call for a linen suit, while a city ballroom might demand a classic black suit. Always match the tone of the event, not your old closet.

Choose a suit color that complements, not competes

The groom usually wears the boldest look-maybe a black tuxedo, a navy suit, or even a patterned jacket. Your job is to support that, not copy it. Avoid matching the groom’s suit exactly. Instead, pick a color that sits one step down in formality or tone.

For a black-tie wedding, a midnight blue suit looks rich and modern without clashing. For a daytime wedding, charcoal gray is safe and elegant. Dark navy works for almost any setting-it’s less formal than black but still sharp. Avoid white, cream, or light gray unless the wedding is beach-themed or explicitly asks for it. Those colors are usually reserved for the groom or ushers.

Patterned suits? Skip them. A solid color is always the right call. Even subtle pinstripes can look too loud when you’re not the main guy. Stick to clean lines and neutral tones. Think of your outfit as the supporting actor-not the lead.

Fabric and fit matter more than brand

A cheap suit that fits poorly will ruin your confidence. A well-tailored one-even if it’s off-the-rack-will make you look like you belong. Look for wool or wool blends. They drape well, breathe in warm weather, and hold their shape. Avoid polyester blends unless they’re labeled "premium." They shine under lights and look cheap in photos.

Fitting is non-negotiable. The jacket should end at your hipbone, not your waist. Sleeves should show about half an inch of shirt cuff. Shoulders should sit right on your bone-not hanging off or squeezing. Pants should break slightly at the shoe, not pool around your ankles. If you’re buying online, check the return policy. If you’re buying in-store, insist on a free alteration. Most tailors will do a quick hem or waist tweak for free if you’re spending over $300.

Don’t buy a suit just because it’s on sale. Buy it because it fits you. You’ll wear it again-for birthdays, funerals, job interviews. A good suit lasts ten years. A bad one gathers dust in the closet.

Shirt, tie, and shoes: the quiet details

Your shirt should be white or light blue. No patterns. No prints. Keep it simple. If the wedding is formal, button the top button. If it’s relaxed, leave the top one open. A tie is optional unless the dress code says "neckwear required." If you wear one, pick a silk tie in a solid color that matches the groom’s palette-maybe a deep burgundy, forest green, or soft gray. Avoid anything too bright or flashy. No novelty ties. No cartoon prints. No bow ties unless the groom is wearing one too.

Shoes should be polished leather. Black or dark brown, depending on your suit. Oxfords are classic. Derbies are fine too. Avoid loafers unless the wedding is super casual. Socks? Match your pants, not your shoes. Dark gray or navy socks keep your legs looking seamless. No white socks. Ever.

Accessories: less is more

A pocket square? Only if you want to. If you do, pick a color that echoes the bride’s bouquet or the groom’s tie-never match it exactly. Fold it simply: a puff or a one-point fold. No fussy curls or military corners.

A watch is fine. A lapel pin? Only if it’s subtle-a small flower, a family crest, or a single pearl. Avoid cufflinks unless you already wear them regularly. Don’t buy them just for the wedding. They’re not worth the cost unless they mean something to you.

Cologne? One spritz. That’s it. Too much smells like a department store. You’re not trying to impress everyone-you’re trying to look like a calm, confident dad who’s proud of his son.

What to avoid

Here’s what never works:

• Matching the groom’s exact suit or tuxedo
• Wearing a tuxedo to a daytime or outdoor wedding
• Wearing a suit that’s too tight or too baggy
• Choosing a suit in a color that clashes with the wedding theme (like bright red or lime green)
• Wearing sneakers, sandals, or boots
• Wearing a tie that’s wider than your face
• Wearing a shirt with a collar that doesn’t fit your neck

These aren’t fashion crimes-they’re photo disasters. You’ll see yourself in the wedding album for decades. Don’t regret how you looked.

Real examples from real weddings

Last year, a dad in Wellington wore a charcoal gray wool suit with a white shirt and a dark burgundy tie to his son’s autumn wedding. The groom wore black. The dad’s outfit looked elegant, not loud. He got five compliments that day-and no one asked if he was the groom.

In Christchurch, another dad wore a navy linen-blend suit with no tie to his son’s beach wedding. The groom was in a light gray suit. The dad looked relaxed but put-together. He even stayed cool in the sun.

One dad in Auckland showed up in a black tuxedo to a 3 p.m. garden wedding. He looked like he’d wandered in from a funeral. The couple politely asked him to change. He did. He borrowed a navy suit from his brother. The photos afterward? Perfect.

When in doubt, ask for help

Talk to the groom. He’s probably thinking about this too. He might have a color palette, a theme, or even a photo reference. Ask him: "What do you want me to wear so I don’t look out of place?" Most grooms appreciate the thought.

Or ask the wedding planner. They’ve seen hundreds of outfits. They’ll tell you what works for the venue, the lighting, and the season.

And if you’re still unsure? Go to a tailor. They’ve seen every mistake you can make. They’ll tell you what to avoid and what to buy. Most offer free consultations.

Final rule: Be yourself, but better

You’re not trying to be the best-dressed man at the wedding. You’re trying to be the dad who looks proud, calm, and ready to dance with his daughter-in-law. A well-fitted suit, a clean shirt, and a quiet confidence say more than any flashy accessory ever could.

Wear something you feel good in. Not because it’s trendy. Not because it’s expensive. But because it fits you, suits the occasion, and lets you focus on what really matters-celebrating your son’s big day.