How to Buy a Wedding Suit

Words by Abigail Gurney-Read


Perhaps you already know everything there is to know about buying a suit. Buying a wedding suit, though, is a different kettle of fish. Choosing your groom’s outfit is a key part of planning a wedding – read on for our top tips on what to think about and how to go about it.

Plan Ahead

A couple of things should be considered when deciding how many months before your wedding you should buy a suit. Firstly, do you foresee any changes to your measurements? It sounds obvious, but it’s worth remembering that if you’re planning to hit the gym and bulk or shred, a suit you buy now might not work by the big day.


“It sounds obvious, but it’s worth remembering that if you’re planning to hit the gym and bulk or shred, a suit you buy now might not work by the big day”


Secondly, are you buying made-to-measure or off-the-rack? If the former, you should allocate around three months from the first appointment with your tailor. For pre-made designer suits, six weeks to two months in advance of your wedding is a good rule of thumb, but it’s worth factoring in some leeway for any changes you may want. The Tailors at Harrods offers bespoke alterations services including at-home consultations, available within two miles of our Knightsbridge store.

Think Dress Code

When shopping for your groom’s suit, front of mind should be the type of wedding you’re planning. Question one: are you buying a suit for a modern wedding or something more traditional? There are fewer rules around modern weddings, and formal dress codes may be next to non-existent. If this is the case, you’ll want to read our guide on what to wear to a modern wedding. By contrast, traditional weddings often come with a morning dress, black-tie or black-tie ‘invited’ dress code. Morning suits are typically made to measure unless you choose to rent – Brioni at Harrods can be commissioned to create a morning suit on request. Visit the brand’s boutique on the Second Floor for more information.


Found your suit? For a personal touch, get your wedding date embroidered on the inside of your jacket by The Tailors at Harrods.


At black-tie weddings, tuxedos reign supreme. Previously, you may have opted for something with a sheen finish. As a groom, however, matte fabrics (with the requisite satin trim) will be your best friend – these won’t reflect the flash of a camera and make for stronger wedding photography. But tuxedos aren’t the only option for a formal wedding. The somewhat ambiguous black-tie ‘invited’ or ‘optional’ dress code allows some flexibility. In this scenario, a smart dinner jacket, matching trousers, silk tie, and formal shirt are the port of call for grooms, groomsmen, and guests alike.

Align with Your Scheme

A couple of things should be considered when deciding how many months before your wedding you should buy a suit. Firstly, do you foresee any changes to your measurements? It sounds obvious, but it’s worth remembering that if you’re planning to hit the gym and bulk or shred, a suit you buy now might not work by the big day.

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