The rules of wedding attire etiquette surrounding the father of the bride are often misunderstood. A crucial question that arises is should the father of the bride wear the same color suit as the groomsmen? According to Julie Sabatino, founder of The Stylish Bride, the answer lies in the principle of complementary styles instead of mimicking identical looks. This enables the father to stand out in the crowd even as the groom steals the show with their distinct style.
The Historical Tradition of Matching Wedding Attire
The tradition of matching wedding attire for men traces back to medieval times, when identical looks were believed to confuse evil spirits, protecting the newlyweds from bad luck. In the past, men would don morning suits, featuring formal jackets, waistcoats, striped trousers, top hats, and gloves.
While modern wedding fashion has evolved, the practice of coordinating attire persists. Today, couples often add unique elements like ties or boutonnieres to distinguish the groom, groomsmen, and fathers from looking identical.
Coordinating Father-of-the-Bride and Groomsmen Attire
When it comes to special events such as a walk down the aisle or the father-daughter dance, coordination is necessary for the father of the bride to stand out. Sabatino recommends that the father’s outfit should match the wedding mood. It is also essential that the father’s outfit is as formal as that of the other guests. For instance, if the groomsmen wear black tuxedos, the father could go for a navy tuxedo.
Fathers can also add some style to their suits through add-ons like ties and pocket squares. According to Sabatino, color schemes, the decor of the wedding, the bridesmaids’ dresses, and the gown choice of the mother of the bride should all create a cohesive look in the wedding photos.
Personal Comfort Combined With Aesthetics
When it comes to the attire of the father of the bride, the key lies in achieving a balance between personal comfort and style. As fathers set out on wedding shopping sprees, comfort becomes a priority, considering the long and potentially stressful events that follow a wedding day.
While tradition suggests coordination, contemporary weddings allow for individuality. Whether it’s through subtle accessories or strategic color choices, the father of the bride can make a statement that aligns with the wedding’s theme. Ultimately, the emphasis should be on creating a memorable and harmonious visual narrative for the family on this special occasion.