Mix and Match Colours with Fouzul Hameed

by Hafsa Killru

With so much focus placed on bridal attire, it definitely feels like there is less importance given to groomswear. Grooms – this one’s for you! And if the men are not bothered – Brides, here’s everything you need to know about picking out the best groomswear for your hubby.

Grooms today have endless choices of style to embrace. From various colour palettes to different fabric patterns, the options are diverse. Any modern man could get lost amid his choices to look dashing next to his fairytale bride. The up and coming trends sure make it seem like an advancement in groomswear. However, do they really make things better or are we just letting the men become a laughing stock? 

In order to heat things up at your wedding and dress up to flabbergast everyone with your style, we spoke to the guru of groomswear, Fouzul Hameed. Read on to find out how you can look unique and fashionable on the most important day of your life without compromising on your dress sense. 

Trending Colours for the Grooms

Grooms should be the perfect portrayal of style and class with the right touch of masculine appeal on their wedding day. Although their personal preferences play a huge role in picking out the right outfit colour, many other factors such as skin complexion, time and location of the wedding affect the choice of colour as well. Let’s start with the basics.

Night black still remains classic and in vogue despite the many decades and styles that have passed. They are suitable for any situation and complement any bridal dress. Black is the most formal colour option for grooms, yet it is considered a little harsh for a groom suit. Therefore, it is recommended for night weddings. However, try not to stick to the basic black and white as you have many more options to mix and match. 

But, hey! Let’s not forget the next best traditional colour – grey! Now, we can’t guarantee you fifty shades of grey for your wedding suit but we can assure you that light grey and silver grey are among the elegant options available. Light grey suits are considered the best for spring and summer and they make the perfect pick for a day time wedding as well. It’s known that grey colour would absorb less heat and keep you cooler than a darker shade such as black. Pick out a darker shade of grey – we suggest charcoal – if your wedding is formal as light grey is one of the most casual groom suit colours. Medium groom suits are much more versatile. They go along with just about anything! Now that’s a much more suitable option if you’re planning to stay in the same attire throughout all your ceremonies. 

Hopping on to the next best on the colour palette, the blue suit denotes a sense of power. Dusty blue has been on the rise lately and the soft hues of this colour palette has been taking the wedding industry by storm. The monochrome characteristic gives you a range of shades in the same blue that can be accented with silver. Opt for a navy blue if you want to keep it fairly formal and if black isn’t suitable for your occasion. On a side note, they work best for summer and fall evenings. You also have the choice of midnight blue for a night wedding.

Next on the list are tan suits! A relatively casual option, the tan suit is best for day time weddings. Now, now. You wouldn’t want to choose a tan suit for your formal wedding because this wouldn’t give you that polished, intimidating look you need. However, if you are tying the knot on a tropical beach, a rustic barn or even at the foot of a mountain during spring or summer, the tan suit would blend in with the vibe perfectly. Champagne, ivory and beige will look great only when the bride’s dress has a similar colour tone. Keep in mind that beige and pastels look great for a beach wedding!

Don’t forget - your suit colour has to blend well with your complexion! If your skin is pale, you’ll be on the safe side if you pick dark colours such as black, navy or charcoal. A medium skin tone would look great against warm and bright colours. If you’re picking out a black or navy suit, you can incorporate these warmer colours into your accessories. To those with a darker skin tone – stay away from browns!

Mix and Match Colours

Darker shades of suits would contrast greatly against lighter colours. That’s a known fact! The shirt plays a supporting role by enhancing the suit. It’s vital that you consider both the colour and fabric when choosing your shirt. Be it a night black or a dusty tan, a white shirt would match any shade of suit. It’s the perfect choice because they work well with any casual attire and also suit any formal occasion. The pure colour pops out and gives a clean, crisp look always. Light shades of blue, off-white and cream are acceptable as long as they don’t make you look like you’re straight out of a circus, performing your role as a clown. Remember - your shirt colour has to match well with your bride’s dress.

Are Prints a Good Choice?

DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!

Suitable Fabrics

Ensure that your shirt is opaque and thick. The thicker the fabric, the more wrinkle resistant it will be. We say, the go-to option for grooms is choosing one of the natural fabrics. 

Accessories and Shoes

Cufflinks are a must if your attire is formal and classic. Opt for a simple and sophisticated design if your occasion is more towards the formal end. Don’t directly match your pocket square and tie. Monochrome shades work well for pocket squares if your suit is black or grey. Choose a pocket square that is a darker or lighter shade of your complete ensemble. What more? You can always stand out with a boutonniere and currently one of the most popular styles is a mini version of the bride’s bouquet. If you’re choosing not to wear a boutonniere, add a decorative pin for something different. The classic shoe colours are black, brown and blue and we’d say these are good enough to suit your relevant suit colour. 

Coordinating with the Groomsmen

Don’t worry too much about matching your ensemble with your groomsmen. Indeed, your looks should be complimentary. However, there’s no need to look like carbon copies of one another. Your outfit should be easily distinguishable from the rest of the boys and their outfits should match the bridesmaids’ dresses. 

One for All Outfit 

We know it can be a little hassling to keep changing your outfit for each of your ceremonies. Here’s a much convenient approach – The 3 piece suit! Pose for your fun photo shoot with only your waistcoat and bow. Complete your formal ceremony in your full suit and shake your legs at the after party in only your pants and shirts. Psst! Don’t forget to roll those sleeves!