GROOMS’ ACCESSORIES

From a classic tie to a suave pair of shades, a few expressive extras together will create a look that’s wholly customised.

Suit and shirt aside, there’s more to nailing the groom’s wedding day look than just the staples. Sure, he can get away with looking good if the ‘ bare bones’ items are solid, but the outfit will be next-level when you tailor an ensemble using an arsenal of accessories.

These extras are the simplest way to tie the groom’s look in with the overall theme of the day, and to ensure there’s a common thread between the guys’ and girls’ attire. Although getting creative with colour can be effective – think matching the shade of the tie, cufflinks or socks with the flowers – for a chic look, choose only two key shades to work with so it’s not too matchy-matchy. The most important tip to note: trends come and go, so it’s wise to choose classic accessories he can wear for years to come and that won’t date in photos.

THE TIE

One of the first things people notice about the groom’s get-up is the tie, so it should above all else be tasteful – no novelty prints allowed! By all means use the tie as an opportunity to inject some colour, but keep it tonal to the bride and bridesmaids’ bouquets – for instance, a rich burgandy to go with red roses, not the exact same shade of scarlet.

While the most popular neckwear choice is a long tie, a bow tie affords a unique spin to a hipster suit or classic tux, while a cravat is a more formal, traditional choice.

THE POCKET SQUARE

A pocket square in complementary tones and patterns is the groom’s chance to have a little bit of fun with his look. It shouldn’t match the tie exactly, but rather be similar in tone and design. Again, he should work with the bride to see which hues and patterns best work alongside the other wedding elements.

CUFFLINKS

A sentimental pair of cufflinks is the ultimate finishing touch. If he’s buying a new pair, opting for a classic design means they can be cherished from generation to generation. Alternatively, a quirky choice allows him to have some fun.

FOOTWEAR

This is the groom’s opportunity to invest in a quality pair of shoes that suits the location and tone of the day. Generally, black leather shoes are recommended for all darkcoloured suits excluding navy, for which a shade of brown is more appropriate.

When it comes to the soles, he should go for leather rather than rubber – it might seem like a minor detail, but can make a big difference to the overall look.

Ahead of the big day, he should wear his shoes around the house to make sure they don’t rub uncomfortably, and top them up with a fresh coat of polish so he can be sure he’s looking the part.

WATCH

As well as being a style statement, a quality watch is an heirloom in the making, and will save him from having to pull his phone out every few minutes in order to stay punctual. It means he can stay in the moment and savour the day – and his phone won’t be accidentally ringing in the middle of “I do”!

HAT AND SUNGLASSES

While he’ll obviously want to remove it for the ceremony and photos, a smart, classically designed hat – think a panama – will provide welcome relief during in- between moments, especially on a scorching day. Similarly, a pair of tidy sunnies will keep his eyes from straining while en route to your portrait session, or just before the ceremony. Just be sure he hands them to a member of the congregation when it’s time for you to walk up the aisle.