20 Casual Grooms From Real Weddings

Updated on 01/14/21

There's no denying a black tux is a classic, dapper look, but we always love a fresh shake-up with the groom's shoes and wardrobe. Donning an alternative groom look on the wedding day is a bold move—one that we appreciate. The key lies in creating a style that's true to both his personality and your wedding theme and venue. If your groom considers adding a little personal style to their wedding-day attire part of their groom responsibilities, look no further.

For something a little different while still playing it safe, consider mixed separates in blue hues, a tux in shades of gray, or a suit in neutral, beige, or brown tones. Want to add a subtle punch? Step up the game by opting for an ensemble that plays with textures or prints—or both. Think a suit made of wool or velvet, a floral pocket square or tie, a checkered button-down shirt.

If he's daring enough, he can amp it up by throwing on a patterned jacket, such as plaids or stripes. But if he really wants to stand out, a colored suit in a vivid jewel tone or popping pastel will do the trick.

And if your wedding style calls for it, he doesn't have to stick to formalwear either. Forget the coat altogether. A vest or suspenders would look just as great. Or mix tops and bottoms to achieve a semi-casual balance—think slacks with a chambray shirt. Because as much as grooms should look good, they should also be comfortable. Don't forget to add a little flair to personalize the look, such as a Western-inspired brooch for a boho style or a top hat for an art deco vibe.

We've rounded up casual wedding attire inspiration from 20 stylish grooms.

01 of 20

Wear a Checkered Button-Down Shirt

Groom in a pink suit — Photo by Cassandra Farley Photo

Think pink with a cotton candy suit and playful patterns of a checkered shirt and polka-dot tie for some spring flair. We love the fun, quirky play on prints that would fit any garden or whimsical spring wedding.

02 of 20

Keep It Classic in Blue

Groom in cobalt blue suit — Photo by Curly Tree Photography

A bold cobalt is chic and sharp. Consider donning a blue suit if you still want to look crisp and classic without wearing a typical black tux.

03 of 20

Go for Khaki

Groom in an olive green suit — Photo by Swatch Studios

This suit proves that khaki gets a bad rap. We love the rich neutral tones of this olive khaki suit and the way the three-piece set makes a white dress shirt pop. This will look especially great at a fall wedding.

04 of 20

Take a Cue From the Venue

Groom in a blue shirt and mustard pants — Photo by Jennifer Armstrong Photography

This casual ensemble is all seaside sophistication with a shirt and shoes that mirror the color of the waves and pants that mimic the hues of the sand. A charming bow tie tops off the look that's sure to wow at any beach wedding.

05 of 20

Wear a Statement Shirt

Groom in a floral shirt — Photo by Hailey Howard; Florist and Creative Direction by Cargo Creative

This groom knows how to pull off some serious florals. A statement shirt combined with a ponytail is the perfect style for alternative grooms. You can even toss the jacket at the reception for a more comfortable look.

If you want your statement shirt to be the key focus of an outfit, keep all the other elements in the same solid color family.

06 of 20

Mix Bold Prints

Groom in a striped suit — Photo by David Newkirk Photography

Blue stripes, a hot pink diagonal checkered bow tie, and an orange boutonnière—this bold groom pops with style, thanks to mixing and matching patterns with bright colors. This look is perfect for the stylish grooms who love making a fashion statement.

07 of 20

Opt for a Waistcoat

Groom in a waistcoat — Photo by Kate Weinstein

Why bother with a coat? This groom proves a waistcoat is all you need, donning a palette of grays and blues. With the right fit and a classic boutonnière, the coat leaves this groom looking extra dapper and polished.

08 of 20

Rock Velvet

Groom in velvet separates — Photo by Leighanne Herr Photography

This rich, luxe look plays up textures with a striped button-down and velvet separates in navy and burgundy—heavy hues we're loving for a winter wedding. We adore how the look was streamlined by his matching burgundy accessories.

09 of 20

Throw on a Black Jacket

Groom in a black jacket — Photo by Erin Wheat Photography

Edgy with a bit of Western flair, this look is perfect for an adventurous elopement. It could easily match a boho wedding in the woods or an edgy, rock-inspired country shindig.

10 of 20

Add Seasonal Colors

Groom in a red suit — Photo by Andrew Franciosa

A rustic brick red suit and pale tie with a splash of neon orange juxtapose for a stylish look. It's a befitting combo for a late-summer wedding.

A more casual wedding is the perfect opportunity to add some personality to your look. So if you want to inject subtle fun, consider adding a smaller printed item like a tie or bow tie.

11 of 20

Go for Unexpected Texture

Groom in a seersucker suit — Photo by Callie Davis of Nancy Ray Photography

Seersucker stripes are so much more fun than a plain-colored suit. Besides, this summer staple is all Southern charm, especially with a sporty red polka-dot bow tie. We can definitely see this at a casual outdoor celebration—like a garden party or a barnyard wedding.

12 of 20

Accessorize With Suspenders

Groom in tweed pants — Photo by Chris & Ruth Photography

Tweed pants, suspenders, and a geometric bow tie—this look may sound nerdy, but this groom proves it's anything but. We'd love to see this dapper look at a fall wedding!

13 of 20

Look Festive

Groom in a maroon suit — Photo by Blest Studios

An all-over burgundy suit has a subtle festive flair for a seasonal wedding, achieving a smooth and sophisticated style. Pair the look with classic oxfords or brogues to keep it polished.

14 of 20

Add a Funky Tie

Groom in a floral tie — Photo by Chloe Tanner Photography

A tailored blue blazer, brown pants, and white shirt are dream semi-formal attire, but the real eye-catcher is the groom's multi-colored floral skinny tie, a perfect way to complement the bride's bouquet.

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15 of 20

Layer a Cardigan

Groom in a cardigan — Photo by Katie Stoops Photography

This groom knows how to layer and work an autumn palette, evident in a pale blue button-down, navy cable-knit cardigan, olive pants, and wool maroon jacket. Paired with a man bun, this is one stylish ensemble.

16 of 20

Mix Navy and Black

Groom in a navy suit and black pants — Photo by Jen Huang

Fashion rules dictate that one shouldn't mix navy and black, but this groom shows that rules are meant to be broken. A velvet jacket adds an air of elegance to an otherwise casual ensemble of black jeans and a white linen shirt.

17 of 20

Mix Tan and Black

Groom in a light blazer and black pants — Photo by We Are the Portos

Can't decide between light or dark? Both look great juxtaposed as separates. Brown shoes are the perfect in-between while striped socks and a funky colorful bow tie bring a dash of stylish whimsy.

18 of 20

Consider Chambray

Groom in an edgy look — Photo by Christa Kimble Photography

This groom creates a bit of boho appeal with a chambray shirt, wine-colored pants, and chocolate-colored vest. We love the effortlessness of this semi-casual ensemble.

19 of 20

Roll Up Your Sleeves

Groom in a black vest — Photo by Galaxie Andrews

Rolled-up sleeves and a charcoal-colored vest have a style all on their own—and it's hot. Try the look for an edgier, grunge-inspired vibe.

20 of 20

Pair a Chino Suit With Loafers

For a casual, effortless look that still looks polished, consider a beige chino suit paired with loafers. We especially love this groom's choice of forest green tasseled loafers that perfectly complement his green tie.

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