Suit Rules: A Guy’s Guide to the Perfect Wedding Photos

Every month we receive hundreds of real wedding photos from all over the United States. And let me tell you, they aren’t all picture perfect. In fact, too often we see photos completely ruined by one factor or another. Nine out of 10 times, it’s those darn boys. The last one is usually a grandma photo bomb.

I am going to let you in on a little secret: the bride just wants the pictures to be perfect.

As wedding day nears, a bride and groom will undoubtedly be on edge and thinking about thousands of details. So, a good looking wedding party ready for the ceremony and photos can ease a lot of stress. Do groomsmen always get it right? No. They don’t. And the bride doesn’t have time for every single groomsmen to ask her “how do you wear a suit?” But fortunately with a little education and guidance any guy can master their look and avoid common mistakes. We asked our stylists for their insider knowledge and pet peeves to ensure that the groom and groomsmen make the photos perfect.

1. Check your zipper

Dude, common courtesy. Already checked it? Check it again.

2. Remove your wallet, keys and phone from your pocket

You can totally see it in the photos. And not only that, it will leave an impression on your pants, so just avoid it all together. At least until after all real photos have been taken.

3. Button only the top button of your jacket

Otherwise, you’ll just look silly. Don’t ask us why there’s a second or third button when they’re never used. That’s just how it is.

4. If you’re wearing a vest, always keep the bottom button unbuttoned

More silliness. Plus, it’s proper. You want to be a good gentleman, right?

5. Always unbutton your jacket before sitting down

Ever wonder where this habit came from? Test it out to see. Actually, don’t. It can ruin your jacket.

6. Ensure your suit jacket is just long enough to cover your pants zipper and butt

Any longer and you’ll be swimming in it—and the hand-me-down look is not very attractive. And any shorter and it’ll look like you grew a few inches since your fitting.

7. The top button of a two-button (or the middle button of a three-button) jacket should fall at or above your navel

And that’s the way it is.

8. Your tie should just reach the waistband of your trousers or the top of your belt buckle

That’s the way the cookie crumbles.

9. Sleeve cuffs should be exposed about half an inch

That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

10. Pin boutonniere on/near lapel buttonhole

And for the love of all things holy, make sure it’s secure.

11. Never remove the stitching of the jacket pockets and never use your pockets

This can stretch and warp your suit. You don’t need them anyway. You’re a man, your pants come with back pockets. (Except for in photos, remember.)

12. Your belt should be relatively thin and the same color as your shoes

You’d think that would be obvious, but no.

13. Refrain from putting your arms around shoulders

For the nice photos at least. It creates bulges in the suit and we’re not going for the frat look, anyway.

14. Make sure your pocket square doesn’t match your tie in either pattern or fabric choice

But, by all means, wear one. They add a little extra polish to your look.

15. Your tie bar should never be wider than your tie

Another should-be-obvious one.

16. Make sure that your socks are long enough

Otherwise you end up showing off your pale, dad-at-a-waterpark calves. Not a good look. Kind of icky, if you ask us.

17. Avoid over-accessorizing

If you’re already wearing a pocket square and a tie bar, you’ll want to reconsider that clever lapel pin. Yes, even the one that says, “Assistant to the Regional Manager.” Yes, we know it’s funny. No, you still shouldn’t wear it. Even if you’re the best man.

18. Don’t pair a three piece suit with a belt

Too much, bro.

Being asked to serve as a groomsman is a major honor. Sure, you’ve got some duties to attend to, but having fun is still part of the plan. Supporting one of your best guys (and looking good for their forever photo albums) can be easy. Keep these tips in mind and you’re sure to impress.

The boys have enough to worry about the day of the wedding and their brains can only handle so much responsibility at one time. But why not ease some of that burden and get what you want and what they want?

With Generation Tux, the wedding party will receive their outfits two weeks prior to your event—no last minute pickups and try-ons. If anything doesn’t fit to your liking, send it back within 48 hours of delivery and we’ll make it right. We’ll guide them through the entire process from fitting to placing their order.

Plus, we’ll give you full visibility into their process with our event dashboard. No more stressing about your groomsmen. We have you covered.