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Photo by HANA GONZALEZ PHOTOGRAPHY
While we're huge proponents of the classic black tuxedo (there’s a reason why this style is the go-to wedding outfit for grooms), sporting something informal can be just as swanky and, arguably, more comfortable. In fact, a laidback look is the perfect opportunity to showcase your personality quirks, your individual style, and the endearing qualities that define your relationship. So instead of blindly following the "wedding tux" tradition, consider embracing casual groom attire by donning a vibrantly-hued suit, or going all out with a boldly patterned accessory, such as a polka dot tie, a striped shirt, or flamingo socks. You can even opt to wear an alternative suit fabric, like wool or velvet, or forego sporting dress shoes in favor of custom sneakers.
Of course, this all depends on your wedding's level of formality, as casual groom attire is best suited for informal dress codes. But if you aren't restricted to sporting an ultra-lux look, dress yourself in something that makes a statement as you walk down the aisle. Need some inspiration? Here, we’ve rounded up 20 of our favorite casual groom outfit ideas from real weddings to help inspire your own day-of look.
Ditch the Tie
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PHOTO BY SCOTT CLARK PHOTO
While topping off your getup with a tie will make your outfit look more polished, this particular accessory can feel a bit restricting, especially if you're hosting a laid-back celebration. Therefore, consider ditching your tie to create a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an intimate micro wedding with immediate family or a boisterous soirée with everyone you know.
Select Light Linens
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Photo by For Love & Light
For grooms looking to don an effortless outfit for their spring or summer nuptials, linen suits are the perfect ensembles to consider for a casual vibe. The lightweight fabric will keep you cool and comfortable, and the neutral shade is a versatile option that pairs well with any accessory.
Embrace a Colorful Ensemble
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Photo by Ivy Weddings
If you want to make a statement without sporting the typical black tux, consider wearing a vibrantly-hued suit, like cobalt blue, green, or pastel pink. However, since all the attention will be on your getup, try and keep accessories to a minimum to avoid looking too over-the-top.
Dress Down in Sneakers
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PHOTO BY HANA GONZALEZ PHOTOGRAPHY
Instead of slipping on dress shoes like oxfords or loafers, grab a pair of sneakers for a fashion-forward casual vibe. Pro tip: Pair your sneakers with a slim-fit suit, and make sure your pants stop at or above the ankle so you can show off your non-traditional footwear.
Pull Up Your Socks
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Photo by Chi-Chi Ari
Though grooms often keep their socks hidden underneath their pants, we recommend showing off this accessory if embracing a casual vibe. Take a cue from this groom and sport socks with red hearts to pay homage to you and your partner's love story.
Rock a Funky Tie
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Photo by Kai Villanueva
If your vows are less dressy, you have the freedom to sport any accessory that suits you, like a funky tie. Consider a monochromatic blush option or a floral-printed one, like this groom sported for his laid-back celebration.
Unbutton Your Top Button
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Photo by People Photography
Leaving your top button undone gives your ensemble an easygoing appeal that’s relatable, breathable, and perfect for warm-weather nuptials. Not to mention, an unbuttoned shirt, paired with an all-white suit, is the perfect summer wedding uniform.
Embrace a Floral Pattern
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Photo by By Julieta
Want something completely unexpected? Go ahead and embrace a floral-printed suit for the big day. It's the perfect ensemble if hosting a garden party or destination soriée.
Look Snazzy in Velvet
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Photo by Peyton Byford
Though velvet is often worn for formal dress codes, casual grooms shouldn't be afraid to embrace this material for laid-back celebrations. A textured look is at once bold and dapper, and a velvet suit will allow you to break with tradition and stand out in the best possible way.
Wear Shorts
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Photo by Greg Finck
Calling all bold grooms! If you're not afraid to show a little skin on the big day, consider wearing shorts for your walk down the aisle. However, be sure that you and your partner are on the same page about this look, as it's best suited for ultra-casual celebrations.
Opt for a Playful Accessory
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PHOTO BY HOUSE ON THE CLOUDS
Show off your playful side by sporting an unexpected accessory down the aisle, like a parasol. It'll keep the sun out of your eyes and help enhance your casual wedding photos.
Don an Ocean Blue Hue
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Photo by Stephanie Vegliante
Hosting a seaside ceremony? Coordinate your attire with the color of the ocean for a beach wedding outfit everyone will love.
Sport Sunglasses
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PHOTO BY 515 PHOTO CO.
Whether you’re saying “I do” on a tropical island or in the summer heat, sunglasses are guaranteed to provide both shade and style. Not to mention, your wedding portraits will turn out much better because you won’t have to squint into the sunlight.
Go Barefoot
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Photo by Sarah Falugo
Is there anything more freeing than running around barefoot? While not all grooms have the luxury of taking off their shoes, if you’re hosting beachside or backyard nuptials, going shoeless is a fun way to de-formalize your dress code.
Choose an Unexpected Shirt
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PHOTO BY JILLIAN MITCHELL
Who says you have to wear a white dress shirt to your wedding? Bring some serious style to the aisle by sporting a casual blue shirt and a white jacket once it's time to say "I do."
Take Off Your Jacket
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Photo by Yellow Bird Visuals
Celebrating your nuptials sans jacket is the best way to kick back, relax, and enjoy your wedding. You can even take it one step further and style your look with a vest and hat for a one-of-a-kind groom's outfit.
Choose a Gray Shade
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PHOTO BY JENNY QUICKSALL PHOTOGRAPHY
For a casual look that still feels fresh and modern, gray is a color you need to consider. It’s suave and versatile, and you can easily personalize your getup with anything you’d like.
Wear Denim
PHOTO BY KT MERRY
If you and your partner are hosting a themed celebration, go all out and sport a casual look that aligns with your designated dress code—similar to this groom who wore a denim outfit for his Western-themed welcome party.
Keep Things Light and Airy
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Photo by Jacob Van Rozelaar
Summer casual nuptials call for light and airy ensembles in fashion-forward silhouettes. Case in point: These grooms looked perfectly on trend for their warm-weather celebration hosted in Amsterdam.
Don a Polo Shirt
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PHOTO BY ALEN KARUPOVIC
Don't want to wear a dress shirt? No problem! Pair a polo shirt with a sports jacket to create an elevated casual grooms outfit that'll look absotlely striking in photos.