Weddings31 January 20263 min read
Best man: how not to outshine the groom.
Matching the groom without taking his light: the palette, the cut and the finishes that hold the balance between presence and restraint.
By Gilles Masson, Atelier Mesure, Paris 7ᵉ
Standing as best man is an honour that comes with its own obligation: not to outshine the groom. Finding the right outfit is a matter of balance between presence and restraint. In spring, lighter textures and softer colours sit well with the season while keeping the day in order. Here is how to choose an outfit that complements the groom rather than competing with him.
Matching without standing out
The first thing to settle is the palette. It has to agree with the theme of the wedding and with what the groom is wearing. Soft shades such as sky blue, pale rose or mint green are refined and suited to spring, and they keep attention where it belongs. For a more formal result, lighter textures such as linen or a linen and wool blend handle the milder temperatures well.
The cut and the quality of the cloth
Choosing a spring outfit as best man asks for attention to detail. The point is to be elegant without being conspicuous, and the answer lies in the cut and the quality of the garment. A well-fitted outfit that respects your proportions does most of the work. See the wedding suit guide for more on choosing a style.
Accessories matter too. A tie or bow tie in a complementary shade adds refinement without pulling the eye. Keep them in agreement with the colour scheme of the wedding, and avoid patterns bold enough to compete.
Cloth is the last consideration, and not the least: spring asks for something that breathes without losing its shape by the evening.
Shoes and finishes
Shoes deserve their own thought. Light leather, mid brown or beige, sits well with spring outfits and lifts the whole. Classic shapes such as derbies or oxfords are both elegant and comfortable enough for a long day. Make sure they are properly cleaned and polished: it is the finish that people notice last and remember.
« Elegance is when the inside is as beautiful as the outside. »
Key points
Getting the best man's outfit right
- Match your outfit to the colours of the wedding
- Choose a fitted cut that follows your silhouette
- Pick accessories that complement rather than compete
- Favour light, breathable cloths for comfort
- Choose light leather shoes
- Avoid patterns bold enough to pull the eye
- Make sure shoes and accessories are impeccable
Standing as best man deserves proper preparation. An outfit that is elegant and in keeping contributes to the day without taking from it. For more on weddings and style, see the wedding suit guide.
