Paul Frederick
Wedding season is all fun and games—until you’re staring at your boyfriend’s closet wondering how he doesn’t own a single thing that meets the “black tie optional” dress code. Been there, struggled through that. Don’t even get me started on navigating the more confusing “beach formal” or “garden chic” soirées.
Since we all have enough to worry about (like finding own dresses), we tapped menswear stylist Marisa Menist for the 411 on dressing a significant other to look polished and appropriate for wedding season—without totally stripping them of their personal style.
“It’s important to not out-do the hosts,” Menist tells E!. Accessories are where he can shine while still keeping it respectful. “Maybe it’s a fun belt, a new bracelet, a cool tie with a subtle difference in color, a shoe that isn’t just like the rest of the guests.”
Oh, and the idea that he needs to drop thousands on a suit just to look the part? A total misconception. Instead of overspending on the actual style, he should opt for something more affordable and get a good tailor instead.
“The biggest mistake men make is not tailoring their clothes properly,” she says. “You don’t need to wear the most expensive suit in the room. What really makes a difference is fit. A well-tailored outfit, perfectly suited to the wearer, can look just as sharp and high-end as the fanciest suit around.”
Keep scrolling for how (and what!) to style your boyfriend/husband/hot date for wedding season.
When to Wear a Bow-Tie and When to Wear a Tie?
Stylist tip: “Black tie is always a bow tie, cocktail attire is always a tie.”
Adam Young Pre-Tied Bow Tie
The best part about this sleek bow tie (besides the super affordable price tag)? The fact it comes pre-tied so he won’t have to watch a YouTube tutorial 30 minutes before the wedding.
Adulove Classic Silk Tie Set
This $20 silk tie set comes with six different designs, so he can rotate through the patterns and avoid outfit repeating in the same wedding season.
Suitsupply Black Self-tie Bow Tie
Menist recommends this $49 self-tie bow tie that she calls her “favorite” and a “fair price” for the quality. It comes in four different shades and is made from the highest-quality pure silk for an overall luxe look.
The Chicest Style for a Black-Tie Wedding?
Stylist advice: “A stud-front tuxedo shirt. It has holes instead of sewn buttons on the front and you insert the shirt studs. This looks the nicest in my opinion. ”
Bonobos Empire Stretch Tuxedo Shirt
The shirt’s interchangeable Mother-of-pearl buttons—which come in both white or black—feel so much chicer, and will instantly elevate his entire tux.
What’s a Foolproof Wedding Guest Outfit for Men?
Stylist tip: “A well-fitted suit, steamed crisp shirt, leather belt and non-scuffed shoes … one great suit is all you need! Maybe that same suit in Black AND Navy.”
Calvin Klein Slim Fit Suit Jacket
Looking for a sign to buy a new suit? This 40%-off (!!!) Calvin Klein style ticks all of Mentist’s boxes. Pair the slim fit blazer with matching pants in black, navy, or gray to complete the whole look.
What Are Some Accessories a Guy Should Consider For a Wedding?
Stylist tip: “A pocket square could be fun! I also think sunglasses really elevate a man’s look.”
SOJOS Polarized Sunglasses
These will instantly elevate his entire wedding look, especially for a spring ceremony or beach formal gathering when the sun is pretty much a guaranteed attendee too.
Bonobos Classic Pocket Square
While this on-sale pocket square comes in so many different colors and patterns, we love this classic pistachio green style or floral version that will look so good with a linen suit this season.
What’s a Staple Pair of Shoes That Works for Multiple Dress Codes?
Stylist tip: “Every man should own an oxford once they hit the age of 25.”
Quince Italian Leather Cap Toe Oxford
Quince’s luxe italian leather oxford shoes will be a staple in his wardrobe that he’ll get so much use out. At just $140, he’ll easily get his money’s worth too. And as Mentist puts it: “Shoes make the outfit.”
What Should He Wear to a Summer Wedding, So He Doesn’t Sweat Through Everything?
Stylist tip: “Linen, linen, and more linen! Also a breathable shirt, cotton or linen. Lighter colors.”
Paul Frederick Linen Blend Windowpane Single Breasted Notch Lapel Sport Coat
Shoppers gushed over this linen sport coat, which is perfect for a cocktail event. They called the color, fabric, and design is “the most elegant.”
Paul Frederick Linen Blend Single Pleat Suit Pants
These crisp white linen suit pants are perfect for the warmer months—lightweight, breathable, and so flattering. He’ll be crossing his fingers for only summer wedding invites.
Sandals for wide feet that are comfy, stylish, and affordable? We found them at Amazon’s Big Spring Sale.
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