Wedding day fashion trends have changed through the years, not only for brides but also for grooms and groomsmen. Previously, a groom's attire stayed cookie-cutter safe, but now men are making bold new statements. These days, men are turning heads along with their brides.
• Bow ties are making a comeback. The timeless James Bond look with a simple black tuxedo and a black bow tie is always an easy, complementary match for the wedding's theme color, especially as more brides choose black and white or ivory themes.
• Ties aren't the same boring black, blue or white. Bold and rich colors such purple, pink, yellow and even prints are popular now. For formal weddings, an ascot or cravat is part of the ensemble. These wide, long ties come from the English tradition and look good with a morning coat. Matching cummerbunds have phased out. Instead, the groom and groomsmen wear vests in the same colors or prints as the tie.
• Add color with boutonnieres. Make every groomsman's boutonniere different, matching it to the bouquet of the bridesmaid he escorts down the aisle. Or ditch the flowers altogether and have boutonnieres of wheat, herbs, or leaves for the "green" bride or a more masculine look.
• Brides and grooms are moving from formal wedding attire to a more casual look. Simple dark suit with white shirts and matching ties are an option for an informal ceremony. Do you want to go a little more casual? Pair khaki pants with a navy blazer and a white or pastel shirt to coordinate with bridesmaids' dresses. If that's too boring, have the guys wear matching socks, pocket squares or ties in colorful, fun patterns.
• While most tuxedos will still be in shades of gray, other colors are in demand. Men are wearing dark, black-coffee shades of brown for fall weddings and popularizing lighter shades of brown (think mocha or mushroom) year round. Navy tuxedos are also an option. Ivory jackets with thin color stripes are among the newest trends in the bridal magazines and shows. The look is dramatic and regal when paired with darker pants.
• We love the polished shoes that come with every tuxedo rental but, mostly, we love men wearing shoes that show their personalities while providing comfort. Guys are ditching the generic, black, polished shoes for Converse, TOMS Shoes, Sperry Top-Siders and Nikes, among other brands.
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