The Groom's Attire: Accessories

Ties, Vests, Cummerbunds and Cuff Links

It's not enough to just have a dapper suit on your wedding day; accessories turn a nice suit into a great ensemble. Here are some ways you can really own your wedding day outfit:

Neckwear. You've got a few different choices here. While, in general, you should tend to the conservative side in your choice of color and pattern, you can really juice up a nice suit with a classy tie, be it a long tie or a bowtie. Try a silver silk tie with a black tux, or a subtle stripe or weave. Long neckties tend to be slightly less formal with a tux than bowties. Also, white ties are ultra-formal, black ties formal, and colored ties can suit a range of occasions.
Vests. Also known as waistcoats, these are a good way to personalize your suit. Again, white vests are the most formal. You may also want to choose a color or pattern in the vest that complements what your wedding party is wearing. You'll find that a backless vest is typical in a rental tuxedo, but that a full-backed vest is more stylish.
Cummerbunds. A cummerbund is a large band of pleated fabric worn around the waist in lieu of a vest. Again, you can go for the complementing effect here, or stay with classic black. Two things to remember: the ruffles point up, and while you're wearing one, your jacket should stay on. A cummerbund with no jacket looks unkempt and uncool.
Cuff links. These tiny flourishes can make a big statement, and you should absolutely have them as part of your accessories. You can go with a classic silver square, or again take an opportunity to express yourself. Football fan? Wear cufflinks with your favorite player's number. Devoted to cars? Try ones featuring your favorite ride. Many jewelers will custom design cufflinks to your personal tastes, or you can look around for ones that suit your style. Ebay can be a great resource for unusual cufflinks.
Stud set. These four little pieces of jewelry are used instead of buttons on a formal shirt. If you're renting your tuxedo, they should provide you with a set to wear. Since these are typically not high-quality, many men own their own studs. Often a stud set will include cuff links. If you're going for a creative touch with the cuff links, find studs that will complement but not match.
Shoes. Above all, don't forget to get some great shoes! If you're wearing a tuxedo, you'll need a simple yet elegant patent leather shoe. Most guy's renting a tuxedo rent shoes as well, but don't worry; rental tuxedo shoes have gotten far more comfortable and attractive over the years. For guys wearing a nice suit, don't be afraid to wear shoes you already own, as long as they match and are in good shape. Put in the time and effort to shine them to a rich polish, or get a professional shine to have them looking their best.

Whether you are a jeans-and-T-shirts man, or wouldn't be caught dead leaving the house in sweats, your wedding day is a time where you get to show the best side of yourself. Make sure you look and feel your best, and your wedding day will be one you'll always remember.