A close friend or family member of yours is getting married, and you are cordially invited, but you’ve got one big problem: you don’t know what to wear. While teens are more flexible than adults in fashion, they should be very careful in choosing the most appropriate options for their age.
Farewell to those days where a groom’s only option is the traditional morning suit or a dinner jacket, adorned with a pocketsquare and stylish cufflinks. Men nowadays can pull off their own signature on their weddings. But with the increasing number of dress code choices also comes an extra pressure to get it right, which can be overwhelming at times.
Find an outfit that will suit the theme without looking identical to every other man in the room. The following will facilitate your attire hunt and will help you narrow down your options so you can come up with the outfit that’s more than convenient for the occasion:
- The Invitation. Take the invitation seriously. Save yourself the embarrassment by reading the details carefully. If the bride and groom specified a dress code, go for it.
- The Venue. If the invitation doesn’t suggest a dress code, do your homework and research about the wedding theme to have a hint as to what attire will be most appropriate.
- The Climate. Consider the weather. Most couples these days opt for destination weddings which means you will have to do some research on the weather of the place that you’re flying to.
What Should a Teenager Wear to a Wedding?
↓ 17 – Navy Blue Suit
If you’re someone who likes to make a style statement then there’s nothing better than a bright navy blue suit. You can buy it at OppoSuits for just £54.95. They have an awesome collection of unique and funky suits that have that youngster-energy we love so do check them out.
↓ 16 – Outfit For Black-tie Weddings
A black or navy suit is a great option. The tie should be conservative and matching with the suit. And your shoes should be black patent or leather oxfords.
DO NOT intend on upstaging the Man of the Hour with your outfit, so keep your look lowkey and classic. That means no white or ivory dinner jackets – leave them to the groom and his attendants. Also, no floral boutonnieres. You can adorn your tuxedo lapel with a stylish pin instead. Take your look to the next level by going for one of these Teen Celebrity Hairstyles for Boys.
↓ 15 – Formal Wedding Outfits For Teenage Guys
Black-tie dress code applies for formal weddings, only that wearing a tuxedo is OPTIONAL. This dress code also applies to civil weddings held in a public hall.
You can wear dark suits in shades like black, charcoal grey, midnight, and blue. A bow tie is not required, so go for a necktie. The footwear should be dress shoes or patent oxfords. Like in black-tie weddings, project a humble ensemble at formal weddings as the spotlight should be on the groom and bride. You can buy this suit here for just £79.95.
Another option is to wear a suit in pastel colors instead of white, provided that it’s theme-appropriate. Don’t be too plain; show off your personal style through textures and patterns like denim and stripes. Just AVOID mixing suit separates in different colors as you would look like a rainbow if you did.
↓ 14 – White-tie Wedding Dress Code
Wear a black tux, matching trousers, a white, spread-collar shirt, and waistcoat. A white bow tie is required, but gloves are optional, however. The footwear should be black patent leather shoes with a cap toe or wingtips.
↓ 13 – Beach Wedding Outfit
There’s no doubt that the sea, sand, and sunshine might provide the ideal backdrop for such a romantic ceremony. But finding the best outfit for a beach wedding is rather tricky. Styling a dress shirt with khaki pants is the safest option. Roll up the sleeves for a relaxed yet exotic beach-ready look. A tie may be necessary in some cases.
Some beach weddings allow guests to go barefoot or wear flips flops during the ceremony, but it’s best to bring a pair of suitable shoes with you. Be practical and cool at the same time, so go for Sandals or deck shoes and wear them without socks. They will look perfectly stylish when paired with a linen suit. You can find more ideas from our earlier post on Amazing Beach Outfits for Men.
If the wedding is more formal, opt for linen or other summer-weight suits that will make you look smart and celebratory. The breathable fabric will keep your body cool – choose a light neutral shade, like beige or khaki. Footwear options: leather dress shoes, boat shoes, and sandals.
↓ 12 – Winter Wedding Outfit
Opt for a wool suit in navy, grey, charcoal, and mid-blue colors. Accessories like a tie in a dark muted colour are recommended. Pulling off stripes and polka dots also give teenagers a different flair in a winter wedding.
Although it says casual, this style should not be confused with everyday wear like denim, shorts, or a T-shirt. If the host didn’t require a dress code, you could wear whatever you like. But a wedding is a special event, so honor the groom and bride, and express your best wishes through your attire. Pair up a shirt with trousers for a relaxed yet smart summer look. You can spice things up with pastel shades such as pink, light blue, and light khaki. It’s also a good idea to pair a tailored jacket in a light colour with navy chinos.
Opt for casual shoes, but that doesn’t mean you are free to wear sandals and trainers. Brogues, deck shoes, and loafers would do. Tuck your shirt into your pants, and finish off the look with a black or tan leather belt.
Remember that T-shirts are off the table unless it’s about a very casual wedding. And a polo shirt may be an alternative if you want to go for something short-sleeved. There’s also no need for ties. Lastly, you shouldn’t consider flip-flops and slippers unless you’re going to a beach wedding.
↓ 10 – Smart Casual Wedding Outfit
Be a little more creative than going with a black- or white-tie dress code. If you are wearing a grey or navy suit to a wedding, make sure the rest of your outfit is not too plain. Also, a shirt in a festive color or print will take a plain suit to a whole new level. Pick a tie in an eye-catching print or colour. You can complete the look by adorning the outfit with stylish cufflinks and a corsage or pocketsquare.
Your footwear doesn’t need to be dress shoes, so feel free to substitute them for loafers or brogues. You could show off some ankles and go for a pair of colorful socks to add a funky touch to your overall look.
↓ 9 – Rustic Wedding Outfit
The rustic style would let you picture barns and village halls. It is often linked to the country theme, so you can expect to see bales of hay, wooden pallets, kraft paper, hessian fabric, bunting, and plenty of florals at the reception. Country-themed weddings are usually held at a farm or in a country setting. It requires a smart-casual to formal dress code, but your best option would be to don the Bohemian style. Opt for pieces in blue and brown shades. And the hat is highly recommended with this look (Take note of that).
↓ 8 – Cruise Wedding Outfit
A nautical theme perfectly complements a seaside ceremony. While blue and white tones are best for cruise weddings, you could always opt for stripes as they are suitable for occasions like this. Nautical designs like stripes and plaids are best for a cruise wedding. While shorts, flip-flops, and sleeveless shirts are comfy to wear, I’m afraid you’re gonna have to drop the option of wearing them when attending a wedding like this. Instead, go for plaid shirts, roll up the sleeves, and pair them up with khaki chinos. The best footwear choice would be boat shoes like a pair from Sperry.
↓ 7 – Vintage Wedding Outfit
Some couples take some inspiration from the style and candor of decades past. Vinyl players, typewriters, and vintage cars – what could be more nostalgic than a glimpse of the 70s? Retro fashion, perhaps. Well, no vintage wedding is really complete without the iconic dress code that will remind you of the good old days. Wear an off-white or ivory suit jacket with a black waistcoat and matching trousers. Ground the overall look with brown brogue shoes.
I must say, suspenders are essential for a vintage wedding dress code. Match them to your shirt or suit to achieve a smart, subtle look, or be daring and choose a contrasting colour, but match them to your tie or shoes. Make some changes, and channel a real retro vibe with a fancy-looking bowtie instead of a usual and boring one.
↓ 6 – Garden Wedding Outfit
A vineyard or garden wedding is usually held in serene natural surroundings. The ceremony is held outdoors, and the styling elements and dress code often reflect the location. There’s a high chance that it’ll be hot at the venue, so you’ll want to wear lightweight fabric.
While bright colors like red and yellow are best for summer when garden weddings are usually held, it’s time to go for something different this time. Also, try to avoid wearing green as much as possible and consider blue, grey and white, instead. Earth tones, including khaki, are also acceptable. For more summer wedding outfits, you can find some inspiration from these Best Summer Outfits For Teenage Guys.
↓ 5 – Semi-formal Attire For Teenage Guys 2021
First off, don’t go for a style that’s too sophisticated, so do not wear tuxes. Semi-formal or “cocktail wedding” outfits often include a navy or blue suit, a monochromatic dress shirt, a necktie or bow tie in different patterns.
Teen boys should wear a suit, necktie, and dress shoes. Another option is to lose the jacket as long as you’re wearing a vest or waistcoat and add some flavor to your overall style with a pocket watch. In the spring and summer, wear a light-colored suit in tan or dove grey. In the fall and winter, a dark suit in navy or charcoal works best. Accessorize with sophisticated jewelry, lapel pin, tie bar, or patterned pocket square to show your unique statement.
Cocktail attire is semi-formal, so clothes with rips and holes will not make the cut. Also, you shouldn’t opt for T-shirts, shorts, or other items from your everyday wardrobe. Jeans are not acceptable as well, even with a blazer. And if you still haven’t decided a hairstyle, go for one of these Cute Hairstyles for Teen Boys.
↓ 4 – Suit Jackets For Weddings
Jackets in navy, charcoal, or midnight blue colors are the best options for weddings, but you may also want to consider wearing patterns like a pinstripe. Clothes in light colors are perfect for ceremonies held in places with hot climates. Try brands like Tom Ford, Burberry, and Moss Bros.
↓ 3 – Dress Shirts For Wedding
Some formal ceremonies will require you to wear solid color shirts, but you’re free to play with patterns on semi-formal and cocktail occasions. And you may want to wear a floral or pinstripe shirt to express your youth. Try brands like Tom Ford and Van Heusen.
↓ 2 – Trousers For Weddings
Jeans and shorts are not the best options for a wedding ceremony, so you may want to consider chinos or dress pants instead.
Chinos. They are made of high-quality, breathable cotton, which makes them suitable for warm weather. Choose black, earthy-toned chinos or khakis for the best experience. There are many good-quality, budget-friendly chinos available on Amazon and Kato Brand.
Dress pants. They are made of cotton-blending fabrics and has a sophisticated design suitable for wedding parties. Pair them with a shirt for a classic look that is worth remembering. Try Kenneth Cole trousers – get yourself a pair on Mr Porter and Amazon.
↓ 1 – Accessories For Wedding Outfits
Aside from a timeless wristwatch with a gold or silver strap, you can complete your wedding outfit with the help of the following accessories:
Corsage. Since you don’t want to upstage the groom with your getup, go for a corsage instead of a boutonniere.
- Pocketwatch. It is a simple yet iconic addition to your getup as it instantly gives a vintage vibe to even the most modern of suits. It would also make a perfect gift for the groom.
- Brooch. This is just a pin, but it can take your outfit from zero to 100 real quick. Find one with a look that reflects your style and personality.
- Cravat. Worn by men at the start of the 20th century, this neckerchief can substitute for ties, especially for vintage and casual weddings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the difference between formal and semi-formal?
A. Formal dress code is for both white tie and black tie. Black-tie is the attire for evening events, including galas and weddings, although some prefer to keep a semi-formal setup by calling for a “black-tie optional” dress code. On the other hand, semi-formal is a bit more relaxed dress code, meaning there’s less pressure to find an outfit. Men (and teens) can wear a simple dark suit and a tie (though it’s optional) to a semi-formal wedding.
Q. What is the safest outfit option for weddings?
A. It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Wear a suit; the advantage of wearing it is that it’s adaptable. Why is that? If the weather gets hot, you can lose the jacket and roll up the sleeves. But make sure you’re wearing a tie and waistcoat. Also, it’s versatile: Regardless of the wedding theme, if you feel more dressed up than the other guests, you can just take off your jacket, remove your tie, and unbutton your collar for a more humble getup.
Q. What should I wear to a no-dress-code wedding?
A. Even if you are not required to follow a particular dress code, it doesn’t mean you should attend the wedding wearing your everyday outfit or something that will make you upstage the groom. To ensure you look the part while keeping the balance between formal and casual, go for something like a charcoal or navy suit, a shirt, and a tie.
Q. How should a teenager groom for weddings?
A. Hairstyle. There are many trendy hairstyle options to don to a wedding, and there’s no pressure for men to have the same hair getups. And while men’s hairstyles are unique on their own, it’s a key reminder to maintain a professional and business-appropriate look when going as guests at weddings. If you have messy hair, brush it up and apply pomade or wax to achieve the volume you want.
Beard and Mustache. Although not all teenagers have facial hair yet, it’s best to know that one must not go to a wedding with a rugged look. It’s advisable to trim your facial hair on the morning of the big day. Consider using a clipper, and apply an aftershave. Remember that you don’t need to be cleanshaven unless it’s a formal wedding.
Makeup. Make sure to choose the right products as teenagers are prone to acne and skin breakouts. Go for hypo-allergenic brands. Apply a light foundation or CC cream to your face for a healthy and natural glow. Blotting paper and powder are recommended for teens with rather oily skin.
