You’ve chosen the people who will stand beside you, and now you want them to look and feel their best. While renting might seem like the easy route, a purchased suit is an investment in quality and a thank-you gift your groomsmen can wear for years. A perfectly tailored suit makes a world of difference, ensuring your wedding photos look timeless and your friends feel confident. This isn't just about a one-day outfit; it's about the experience you create for your wedding party. This guide will help you navigate your options, from custom details to classic styles, so you can find the best place to buy groomsmen suits that reflect the importance of the day.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a shop that specializes in group service and expert tailoring: The right partner will manage measurements, coordinate with remote groomsmen, and ensure a perfect fit for everyone, taking the logistical stress off your shoulders.
- A purchased suit is a smart investment in fit and future use: Unlike a one-time rental, a well-tailored suit offers long-term value and can be worn for years, making it a practical and meaningful choice for your groomsmen.
- Start the process early with a clear timeline and budget: Begin planning at least four to six months before the wedding and be upfront about costs to avoid last-minute rushes and awkward money conversations with your wedding party.
What to Look For in a Groomsmen Suit Shop
Finding the right place to get your groomsmen suits can feel like a huge task, but it doesn't have to be. The best shops make the process smooth for everyone involved, from the groom to the out-of-state groomsman. It’s not just about finding a suit that looks good; it’s about the entire experience. A great shop will guide you through every step, ensuring your wedding party looks sharp and cohesive without adding stress to your plate. As you start your search, focus on a few key areas that separate the average suit store from the exceptional one. Look for a partner who values craftsmanship, offers stellar service, and understands the unique logistics of outfitting a wedding party.
Check for Quality and Craftsmanship
The look and feel of a suit come down to its quality. A well-made suit stands out, and you can spot the difference in the details. Look for shops that prioritize premium fabrics and superior construction techniques. This means clean lines, unique details, and precise tailoring that create a polished silhouette. Don't be afraid to ask about the materials and how the suits are made. A reputable shop will be proud to share what goes into their garments. Investing in quality ensures your groomsmen not only look fantastic on the wedding day but also have a suit they can wear for years to come.
Prioritize Great Service and Group Coordination
Outfitting a group of guys is a team sport, and you want a shop that acts as your MVP. The best retailers offer personalized service to help you coordinate everyone. This can be a game-changer, especially when your groomsmen have different styles or body types. Look for services like a dedicated style expert who can help you select the right look for your wedding. Some shops even have online tools to send reminders and track measurements, which is incredibly helpful for keeping everyone on schedule. A shop that offers dedicated wedding services can take the logistical pressure off your shoulders, making the entire process feel seamless and organized.
Ensure They Offer Expert Tailoring and Fittings
A perfect fit is non-negotiable. An off-the-rack suit rarely fits perfectly, which is why expert tailoring is essential. A great suit shop will have experienced tailors on-site to handle alterations, from hemming trousers to adjusting the jacket for a clean fit across the shoulders. This ensures every groomsman looks his absolute best. When you’re vetting shops, ask about their fitting process and their custom tailoring options. A place that offers comprehensive wardrobe consulting and fittings demonstrates a commitment to a truly personalized and polished final look. It’s this attention to detail that makes all the difference on the big day.
Demand Clear Pricing and Real Value
Your budget is important, and you deserve to know exactly what you're paying for. Look for shops with transparent pricing, so you aren't surprised by hidden fees for things like alterations or accessories. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that real value is about the intersection of price and quality. A high-quality, well-fitted suit is a better investment than a low-cost one that looks and feels cheap. A good rule of thumb is to find a suit that fits your budget while still meeting your standards for fabric, fit, and craftsmanship. This ensures you get the best possible outcome for your money.
Confirm They Can Help with Exchanges and Remote Groomsmen
It’s rare for a wedding party to live in the same city anymore. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a shop that can accommodate out-of-town groomsmen. Ask about their process for remote measurements and shipping. You’ll also want to confirm their exchange policy. If a suit arrives and the size is slightly off, you need a hassle-free way to get the right fit. Many modern retailers have streamlined this process, making it easy to manage everything online. This flexibility is key to ensuring every groomsman, near or far, looks and feels great without adding extra complications to your wedding planning.
Our Top Picks: The Best Places for Groomsmen Suits
Finding the right place to outfit your groomsmen can feel like a huge task, but it all comes down to balancing your wedding's style, your budget, and the convenience for your guys. Whether you're looking for a fully custom experience that will leave everyone with a suit they'll wear for years or a simple, stylish rental that gets the job done, there's a perfect fit out there. We've narrowed down the options to our top five picks, each catering to a different need. From the ultimate bespoke service to the most convenient online platforms, here’s where to start your search.
Trevor Furbay Bespoke: For a Premium Custom Experience
If you want your groomsmen to look and feel their absolute best, nothing compares to a custom suit. At Trevor Furbay, we specialize in creating a personalized wedding experience for the groom and his entire party. We guide you through selecting fabrics, fits, and details to create a cohesive look that’s perfectly tailored to each person. It’s more than just a suit; it’s an investment in a flawless fit and an unforgettable experience you can share with your closest friends. A custom suit ensures every groomsman has a high-quality piece they can wear to future events, making it a meaningful and practical gift.
The Black Tux: For Modern Online Convenience
For wedding parties scattered across the country, The Black Tux is a game-changer. This online rental service makes it incredibly easy to coordinate stylish, modern suits without ever stepping into a store. Their process is straightforward: groomsmen enter their measurements online, and a suit arrives at their door with plenty of time for a try-on. If the fit isn’t quite right, they make exchanges simple and fast. It’s the ideal solution for busy groups who value convenience and contemporary style. While you won't get a bespoke fit, you will get a sharp, consistent look with minimal hassle.
Joseph A. Bank: For Traditional, Mid-Range Suits
Joseph A. Bank strikes a great balance between quality, price, and accessibility. As a long-standing menswear retailer, they offer a wide selection of classic suits that are perfect for a traditional wedding. With physical stores all over the country, it’s easy for groomsmen to get measured and fitted in person, which can be a huge relief for everyone involved. They frequently run promotions, making it an affordable option for buying rather than renting. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss suit that delivers timeless style without the premium price tag, this is a solid choice.
Menguin: For an Affordable, Group-Friendly Option
When budget and simplicity are your top priorities, Menguin is an excellent online rental service to consider. They are known for their affordable pricing and user-friendly platform designed specifically for wedding parties. The groom can select the outfits and track his groomsmen’s progress, which helps keep everyone on schedule. Like other online options, they ship directly to each person and offer fit guarantees to handle any sizing issues. Menguin is a practical choice for a coordinated look that’s easy on everyone’s wallet and requires very little management from the couple.
Men's Wearhouse: For Budget-Friendly, Accessible Choices
As one of the most recognized names in menswear, Men's Wearhouse is an accessible option for both renting and buying groomsmen suits. With countless locations, it’s convenient for groomsmen to stop in for measurements and fittings, no matter where they live. They offer a massive inventory with options for nearly any budget, making it a go-to for many wedding parties. While the experience can sometimes be less personal than a smaller boutique, it’s a dependable choice for finding standard suits that will create a uniform look for your wedding day without any surprises.
Should Your Groomsmen Buy or Rent Their Suits?
One of the biggest questions when planning your wedding party’s attire is whether to have your groomsmen buy or rent their suits. There’s no single right answer—it really depends on your budget, your groomsmen's locations, and the overall style of your wedding. Renting can seem like the easier, cheaper option upfront, but buying offers long-term value and a much better fit. Let's walk through the pros and cons of each so you can make the best decision for your crew.
The Long-Term Value of Buying
Think of a great suit as an investment. When your groomsmen buy their suits, they’re getting a high-quality piece they can wear for years to come—to other weddings, job interviews, or formal events. This makes the cost-per-wear significantly lower than a one-time rental fee. Plus, buying allows for precise tailoring, ensuring every person in your wedding party looks sharp and feels confident. A purchased suit can be altered to fit perfectly, which is something a rental can never truly offer. When you consider that some modern, quality suits cost about the same as a high-end rental, the choice to invest in wedding attire becomes a lot clearer.
When Renting Is the Smarter Choice
Renting can be the most practical solution, especially if your groomsmen are scattered across the country. Many online rental companies have streamlined the process, allowing guys to submit their measurements online and receive a suit at their doorstep. This saves everyone the hassle of coordinating in-person fittings at a single location. Renting is also a great option if you’ve chosen a very specific or trendy look—like a velvet tuxedo or a bold color—that your groomsmen might not have an occasion to wear again. It gives you the freedom to achieve a unique aesthetic for your wedding day without asking your friends to purchase a suit that will just collect dust in their closets.
Watch Out for Hidden Rental Costs
While renting might seem like a straightforward way to save money, it’s important to read the fine print. Many rental services have hidden fees that can quickly add up. Be on the lookout for charges like damage waivers, mandatory cleaning fees, late return penalties, and shipping costs. Some grooms have also shared stories of poor customer service and last-minute sizing issues that caused unnecessary stress right before the wedding. Before you commit, be sure to ask for a complete breakdown of all potential costs to avoid any unpleasant surprises for you or your groomsmen.
Comparing Quality and Fit: Buy vs. Rent
At the end of the day, the most important factor is how the suits look and feel. A well-fitting, affordable suit will always look better than an ill-fitting expensive one. Rental suits are designed to be durable and fit a wide range of body types, which often means they’re made from heavier, less breathable fabrics and have a generic, boxy cut. When you choose to buy, you have control over the fabric, the cut, and most importantly, the fit. Professional tailoring can make all the difference, ensuring sleeve lengths are perfect and jackets drape correctly. This attention to detail is what separates a good look from a great one.
How to Choose the Perfect Groomsmen Suits
Once you’ve decided whether to buy or rent, the fun part begins: choosing the actual suits. This is your chance to define the wedding party's style and create a cohesive look that complements your overall theme. From the color palette to the fit, every detail matters. Thinking through these elements ahead of time will help you select suits that not only look fantastic on the big day but also make your groomsmen feel confident and comfortable.
Select Your Fabric and Color Palette
The fabric and color of the suits set the tone for the entire wedding party. When choosing a fabric, consider the season and venue. A lightweight linen or cotton blend is perfect for a summer beach wedding, while a classic wool or tweed is ideal for a formal autumn or winter event. The color palette should align with your wedding's theme. While classic black, navy, and charcoal are always safe bets, don't be afraid to explore other options. Rich jewel tones like emerald green and burgundy are great for making a statement, while softer shades of tan or light gray work well for a more relaxed, rustic vibe. Thinking about current wedding suit trends can also provide some fresh inspiration.
Consider Different Fits and Body Types
A suit's impact comes down to its fit. It doesn't matter how much it costs; a well-fitting, cheaper suit looks better than an expensive suit that doesn't fit right. Your groomsmen will likely have different body types, so a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Consider whether a slim, modern, or classic fit will be most flattering for the group. The best solution is always professional tailoring. A skilled tailor can make adjustments to ensure every jacket, shirt, and pair of trousers fits perfectly, creating a polished and uniform look. This is where a custom clothing experience truly shines, as each suit can be tailored to the individual, ensuring everyone looks their absolute best.
Explore Customization and Personal Touches
Customization is what transforms a standard suit into something truly special and memorable. This is your opportunity to add details that reflect the groom's personality and the wedding's unique style. You can design a look from the ground up, starting with an amazing fabric and adding a pop of color with unique buttons or thread. One of the most popular ways to personalize a suit is with a custom jacket lining—think a bold pattern or a meaningful print. You can even add embroidered details, like the wedding date or each groomsman's initials, inside the jacket. These small touches make the suits feel less like a uniform and more like a cherished keepsake.
Decide How the Groom Will Stand Out
While the goal is a cohesive look, the groom should still be the main event. There are many subtle yet effective ways to distinguish his attire from the groomsmen's. He could wear a suit in a slightly different shade or a completely different color that still complements the wedding palette. Another popular option is to have the groom wear a three-piece suit with a vest while the groomsmen wear two-piece suits. You can also create distinction through accessories. The groom could have a unique boutonnière, a different style or color of tie or bow tie, or a patterned pocket square while the groomsmen wear solid colors. These details ensure the groom remains the clear focal point.
Think About Versatility for Future Use
If your groomsmen are buying their suits, it’s a thoughtful gesture to choose a style they can wear again. A classic, well-made suit is an investment, and picking something versatile ensures they get more value out of it. A timeless navy, charcoal, or gray suit can easily be worn to other weddings, job interviews, or formal events for years to come. By choosing a versatile suit, you’re not just outfitting them for your wedding day; you’re giving them a quality staple for their wardrobe. This is a key reason why many groomsmen appreciate buying a suit instead of renting one—they get to keep it and use it long after the celebration is over.
How to Coordinate Groomsmen Suits Without the Headache
Getting your groomsmen organized and looking sharp doesn’t have to feel like herding cats. The key is a solid game plan. With a bit of foresight, you can handle everything from budgets to out-of-town fittings smoothly, ensuring everyone looks and feels their best on the big day. A clear process eliminates last-minute stress and makes sure the entire wedding party looks cohesive and polished. Follow these steps to keep the process simple and straightforward for everyone involved.
Set a Clear Budget and Expectations
Let’s talk money. It can be an awkward conversation, but having it early saves a lot of headaches. Be upfront with your groomsmen about the expected cost. Generally, groomsmen suits can range from $200 for a basic rental to over $500 for a quality purchased suit. Setting a clear budget from the start helps everyone plan accordingly and avoids any surprises down the road. When you work with a dedicated stylist for your wedding party attire, they can help you find incredible options that respect everyone’s budget while achieving the perfect look for your wedding.
Start Early and Create a Timeline
Time is your best friend in wedding planning, and that’s especially true for groomsmen suits. I recommend starting the process at least four to six months before the wedding. This gives you plenty of time for selection, ordering, shipping, and—most importantly—alterations. Create a simple timeline with deadlines for your groomsmen: when they need to submit measurements, when the final order needs to be placed, and when they should have the suit in hand. This is particularly crucial if you have groomsmen living in different states. Having expert guidance can streamline this timeline significantly.
Get Measurements from Out-of-Town Groomsmen
Coordinating with groomsmen who live far away is a common challenge, but it’s completely manageable. The goal is to get accurate measurements to ensure a great fit. Ask your out-of-town friends to visit a local tailor or menswear shop for a professional measurement. Have them send you a consistent set of numbers (chest, waist, inseam, neck, and sleeve length). A reputable suit provider will know exactly what to do with these measurements and can advise on the best size to order. Make sure you choose a shop that has experience with remote fittings to make the process seamless.
Track All Orders and Plan for Exchanges
Once measurements are in, it’s time to place the orders. To stay organized, keep a simple spreadsheet to track who has ordered and when their suit is expected to arrive. If you’re working with a full-service shop, they will often handle this for you. It’s also smart to build in a buffer for potential exchanges or alterations. Even with perfect measurements, small tweaks are often needed for that tailored look. Encourage your groomsmen to try on their suits as soon as they arrive so there’s plenty of time to address any fit issues.
Avoid These Common Coordination Mistakes
A little research goes a long way in avoiding common pitfalls. The biggest mistake is choosing the wrong retailer. Look for a shop with a proven track record for handling group orders and positive reviews from other wedding parties. Rushing the process is another classic error, so stick to your timeline. Finally, don’t forget the details! Decide on shoes, belts, ties, and pocket squares early on so no one is scrambling at the last minute. A great custom suit experience will cover all these bases, ensuring a cohesive and stress-free outcome.
Related Articles
- The Groom’s Guide: Getting Wedding-Ready with Trevor Furbay
- Tailored to Wed: Tux vs. Suit for the Big Day
- Why Choose Bespoke Suits Over Off-The-Rack Options?
- Bespoke Wedding Suits Columbus Ohio
- Men's Suits
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should we really start the suit process? I always recommend starting the search for groomsmen suits about four to six months before the wedding. This might sound early, but it builds in a comfortable buffer for every step. It gives you plenty of time to choose a style without feeling rushed, allows for shipping, and most importantly, leaves a month or two for alterations. A perfect fit requires tailoring, and you don't want that process to become a last-minute source of stress.
What's a realistic budget to ask my groomsmen to spend? This can be a tricky conversation, but it helps to be prepared. A rental will typically cost between $150 and $250, while purchasing a quality suit can range from $400 to $800 or more, depending on the level of customization. When you're deciding, think about the long-term value. A purchased suit is an investment they can wear for years, which often makes more sense than a one-time rental fee for a suit that won't fit as well.
How can we make sure suits fit everyone, especially our out-of-town friends? Coordinating remote groomsmen is easier than you think if you have a good plan. The best approach is to have your out-of-town friends visit any local tailor or menswear shop to get professionally measured. They can then send their numbers to your chosen suit provider. A shop that specializes in wedding parties will know exactly how to handle these remote measurements to ensure a great fit and can guide you through the process.
Does the groom's suit have to be different from the groomsmen's? Not at all, but it's a great way to make him stand out. The goal is a cohesive look, not a completely identical one. You can create a subtle distinction in many ways. The groom could wear a three-piece suit while the groomsmen wear two-piece versions, or he could choose a different tie, bow tie, or boutonnière. Some grooms even opt for a suit in a slightly different shade or a complementary color to set themselves apart.
Is it really worth it for my groomsmen to buy suits instead of renting? It truly comes down to what you value most for your wedding day. Renting offers convenience, especially for a very specific or trendy style you know they won't wear again. However, buying is an investment in quality and fit. A purchased suit can be tailored perfectly to each person, which makes a huge difference in photos and comfort. It also becomes a lasting, practical gift they can use for other formal events.