What the Father of the Bride or Groom Should Wear
The father of the bride or groom should look sharp, coordinate with the wedding party, and never outshine the couple. A well-fitted suit that matches or complements the groomsmen, in the same formality, is the safe and elegant choice. Confirm the colour with the couple first.
Fathers are in more wedding photos than almost anyone except the couple, so how they dress matters. The goal is simple: look sharp, fit the tone of the day, and coordinate with the party without pulling focus. Here is how to get it right.
Coordinate, Do Not Compete
The father should sit comfortably within the wedding party, matching its formality and complementing its colours rather than standing apart. A well-fitted suit in the same register as the groomsmen looks intentional in photos. The one rule is not to outshine the groom, so take your lead from what he and the party are wearing.
Match the Formality and Season
Read the dress code and the season. A formal evening calls for navy or charcoal, a summer garden wedding allows something lighter. If the party is in a specific colour, echo it or choose a neutral that sits alongside it. Our guide on matching the wedding party shows how the pieces fit together.
Confirm the Details Early
The simplest way to get it right is to ask. Check the colour and formality with the couple, then have the suit made in good time. A made-to-measure suit takes about six weeks, so order a few months ahead so you are photographed in something that fits properly. See the full wedding suits guide for timing.
FAQ
What should the father of the bride wear?
A sharp, well-fitted suit that matches the formality of the wedding and coordinates with the wedding party, without outshining the groom. Navy or charcoal is safe for formal weddings, with lighter colours fine for summer. Confirm the colour with the couple first.
Should the fathers match the groomsmen?
They should coordinate rather than match exactly. A suit in the same formality and a complementary colour looks intentional in photos. Echoing the party colours or choosing a neutral that sits alongside them works well.
When should the fathers order their wedding suits?
A few months ahead. A made-to-measure suit takes about six weeks to build, and ordering early leaves room to get the fit right so the fathers look sharp in the photos rather than rushed.
Your wedding photos are forever. Do not leave the suit to a last-minute rental. Book a complimentary consultation and we will get it right, for you and the whole party. Four months out is ideal, sooner still works. Let's talk.
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