The Groom’s Guide To Understanding Dress Codes

custom made beige wedding suit with Windsor tie knot

The groom’s attire sets the dress code

We know that it can be tricky to navigate the dress code jungle – especially in a time where dress codes are very rarely upheld. That is unless the occassion is… yes, you’ve guessed it: a wedding.
As a groom or a guest, it is important to understand that the groom’s choice of wedding attire sets the dress code for all guests. With this guide, you will be able to identify which dress code you want to set if you are the groom, or how to interpret the dress code on your invitation if you are a guest.

Remember, we are always at your service if you need assistance with dress codes. Contact us through the site’s chat function or visit us in-store.

  • black twistair, suit, mond, hochzeitsanzug, schwarz
    933,82 

    Our Black TwistAir Suit is the perfect suit for a groom, the black fabric has a matt sheen and is one of our most wearable suit - meaning that is durable and breathable. The cloth is pure wool in our rich black TwistAir which we’ve also used for one of our smokings. We’ve chosen to present the suit in our Business-Preset here as it is our most minimalist preset, to really let the cloth speak for itself. If you as a groom want to make the suit more detailed or outstanding, you could add roped shoulders and peaked lapels.
    Wool is the gold standard for suit fabrics and this one is special as it is part of Mond's very own TwistAir collection. The fabric is woven with a special high twist that creates a thin and strong fabric with excellent drape. In addition, the TwistAir fabric is treated with a special finish that gives it a soft touch. As well as being beautiful and exclusive, this fabric is also very comfortable and forgiving; the strong and durable yarn allows for a slightly looser weave that is breathable, has natural stretch and is very crease resistant. The cloth itself weighs in at 300 g/m2 and is made from 100% wool.
    Styling the black twist air as a groom is a true pleasure, the rich dark colour becomes a beautiful canvas for whatever details and accessories you’d like to incorporate. But basics first; a white shirt that matches the brides dress colour, a pair of black (not brown shoes) and that’s it. The black suit allows for any colour of tie, though we recommend unicoloured for a wedding. Normally we recommend that the groom goes for a more subtle colour for the tie, however since black is quite saturated, another strong color like a burgundy or bottle green. For a cool touch you can add in a boutonnière as well as cufflinks, more accessories will only contrast the fabric and enhance the appearance of the suit. A pocket square is almost a must for a suit in such a dark hue as it breaks up the dark colour and makes it appear even stronger.
    Huddersfield is a textile mill from the town of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire, England. The town itself has grown around the textile industries since the Industrial Revolution. What makes Huddersfield unique is their extremely soft water in which the raw wool is washed, before it is woven into luxurious and unique suiting fabrics. To learn more about their production and dedication towards sustainable production please visit their website.

  • blue suit in twistair, with black shoes
    933,82 

    Blue TwistAir Suit- The ultimate suit for almost any occasion. The TwistAir fabric, exclusively from Mond, is our latest and most comprehensive fabric collection to date. Woven in the UK, this 300g fabric features a breathable, wrinkle-resistant weave. With a softening finish, TwistAir is not only comfortable but also offers a natural stretch. Ideal for various occasions, TwistAir keeps you cool and fresh with its breathability. It maintains a polished look, thanks to its remarkable resistance to wrinkles. Experience the luxury of its soft touch and elegant drape. Elevate your wardrobe and make a statement with Mond's exclusive TwistAir collection.

White Tie

Morning Coat / Morning Suit

Morning jacket
If the dress code states “formal” and the event takes place before 5 PM, the appropriate attire would traditionally be a morning coat or morning suit.

This is the most formal of dress codes and is rarely used outside of royal weddings and events such as the Royal Ascot horse race in England. However, the very traditional style has grown popular for grooms if the wedding takes place in a castle-like venue.

Apart from the top hat, we can tailor a full morning dress ensemble to you. Here is what you need to wear:

  • Morning coat in dark hues (black, midnight blue or charcoal)
  • Dark grey striped trousers or alternatively a black-white puppytooth pattern
  • Double- or single breasted waistcoat in third color (pastels are great)
  • White or light blue shirt with regular collar
  • Bow ties are allowed
  • Black leather shoes (e.g. Oxfords)
  • Black or charcoal top hat

A morning suit features the same components, but here the coat, trousers and waistcoat are all cut from the exact same fabric.

If the dress code states “formal” and the event takes place after 5 PM, the appropriate attire would traditionally be a white tie outfit.

Equally as formal as the morning coat, this attire is meant for the same level of events, but taking place during the evening. Most people are more familiar with this outfit, the main characteristic being the tail coat. Sometimes the dress code would state “tails” or “full evening dress”, which are all the exact same outfit.

Here is what to wear for a formal evening dress code:
  • Black tail coat (also referred to as “dress coat”)
  • Black trousers with satin galon
  • White piqué waistcoat
  • White shirt with wing collar
  • White bow tie (opt for self-tie)
  • Highly polished or patent black leather oxfords. Court shoes/opera pumps are acceptable too
  • Black top hat, white gloves, pocket watch, white pocket square and a boutonniere are all acceptable accessories

Keep in mind, although the dress codes states white “tie”, the only appropriate neckwear is a bow tie!

White Tie Jacket

Black Tie / Stroller

MxW Mond of Copenhagen black fresco mohair tuxedo

If the dress code states “semi-formal” and the event takes place after 5 PM, the appropriate attire would traditionally be a black tie outfitBefore 5 PM, the appropriate attire would be the “stroller” or a “lounge suit”.

Don’t be fooled by the “semi”-prefix – this is likely the strictest dress code for most social events. If the event takes place during the day time, choose the stroller (a semi-formal version of the morning coat with the only difference being that the jacket is a traditional suit jacket) or the lounge suit (dark-colored 3-piece suit worn with black tie and black shoes).
Here is what to wear for a “semi-formal evening” dress code:
Important to remember: Never wear a tuxedo before 5 PM, and the only appropriate neckwear for a tuxedo is a bow tie!

You might be able to opt for a white or off-white dinner jacket for the “semi-formal” dress code, but proceed with caution. If the dress codes states “strictly black tie” always go for the traditional black tuxedo.

  • Black-Velvet-Mond-Custom-Jacket-Main
    534,66 

    This custom tailored black velvet dinner jacket is the perfect addition to any wardrobe. Crafted from luxurious cotton velvet, this jacket is sure to make a statement. The plain black design is timeless and versatile, allowing you to dress it up or down for any occasion. With its tailored fit, this jacket will provide you with a comfortable and flattering look. Whether you’re attending a formal event or just want to add a touch of sophistication to your everyday look, this jacket is the perfect choice.

  • 933,82 

    The Midnight Blue Smoking suit. This suit is made to perfection and will make you look and feel your best. With a unique color and style, this suit is sure to turn heads.

  • mond custom made white linen dinner jacket
    566,18 

    This custom tailored white linen dinner jacket is the perfect addition to any wardrobe. Crafted from a luxurious Irish linen fabric, this jacket features a classic plain design that is sure to make a statement. With its tailored fit, this jacket is sure to provide a comfortable and stylish look that will last for years to come. Whether you're attending a formal event or just looking to add a touch of sophistication to your everyday look, this white dinner jacket is the perfect choice.

Suit / Dress Clothes

man in navy blue wedding suit and knit wool tie in grey

If the dress code states “dress clothes” or simply “dark suit”, the appropriate attire would traditionally be a dark-hued 3-piece suit with tie.

Moving into slightly less restricted dress code territory also means room for more interpretation – which only adds to the confusion, we know! The traditional suit and an optional waistcoat are the main components here. The dark-colored, 3-piece suit is the more formal option in this category (and also called the lounge suit, which is acceptable as the daytime option of the “semi-formal” dress code). The least formal version is a light colored suit.

If you are in doubt which is more appropriate, the venue should give an indication; castle-like wedding venue = dark 3-piece suit, elegant garden wedding = light-colored regular suit.

Here is an option for a “dark suit” dress code:
Note: Shirt and tie are still required!

You might be able to opt for a less traditional tuxedo (e.g. burgundy dinner jacket + black trousers), if the groom/host is wearing a dark 3-piece suit.

Navy three-piece suit from MOND
  • custom brown suit in twistair, with black shoes
    933,82 

    Brown TwistAir – The ultimate suit for almost any occasion.
    The TwistAir fabric, woven exclusively from Mond, is our latest and most comprehensive fabric collection to date. Woven in the UK, this 300g fabric features a breathable, wrinkle-resistant weave. With a softening finish, TwistAir is not only comfortable but also offers a natural stretch. Ideal for various occasions, TwistAir keeps you cool and fresh with its breathability. It maintains a polished look, thanks to its remarkable resistance to wrinkles. Experience the luxury of its soft touch and elegant drape. Elevate your wardrobe and make a statement with Mond’s exclusive TwistAir collection.

  • NEW burgundy suit in twistair fabric
    933,82 

    Burgundy TwistAir - The ultimate suit for almost any occasion. The TwistAir fabric, exclusively from Mond, is our latest and most comprehensive fabric collection to date.

  • Full body picture of a man in dark green suit, with a maroon tie, white shirt and black patent shoes
    933,82 

    The TwistAir fabric, woven exclusively from Mond, is our latest and most comprehensive fabric collection to date. Woven in the UK, this 300g fabric features a breathable, wrinkle-resistant weave.
    With a softening finish, TwistAir is not only comfortable but also offers a natural stretch. Ideal for various occasions, TwistAir keeps you cool and fresh with its breathability. It maintains a polished look, thanks to its remarkable resistance to wrinkles.
    Experience the luxury of its soft touch and elegant drape.
    Our TwistAir fabrics are designed to be the ultimate fabric that checks all the boxes for every wearer – from the busy professional at the office to the groom seeking a sharp and comfortable look on their wedding day.
    This fabric features an open weave that facilitates excellent breathability and unmatched comfort.

  • NEW forest green suit in twistair, with beige necktie and black patent shoes
    933,82 

    The Forest Green Suit in TwistAir - The ultimate suit for almost any occasion. The TwistAir fabric, exclusively from Mond, is our latest and most comprehensive fabric collection to date. Woven in the UK, this 300g fabric features a breathable, wrinkle-resistant weave. With a softening finish, TwistAir is not only comfortable but also offers a natural stretch. Ideal for various occasions, TwistAir keeps you cool and fresh with its breathability. It maintains a polished look, thanks to its remarkable resistance to wrinkles. Experience the luxury of its soft touch and elegant drape. Elevate your wardrobe and make a statement with Mond's exclusive TwistAir collection.

Casual

Bride in wedding dress standing with her groom in his beige linen three-piece suit

A dress code for a wedding would rarely state “casual”, but this is what is implied when no dress code is given, except for a theme, such as “garden- or beach wedding”.

Although this dress code is much less strict than the others, it can indeed be one of the more challenging to dress for, as “casual” can have different meanings depending on the recipient. You can never go wrong in a light-colored, traditional suit with a shirt and tie/bow tie and a nice pair of shoes. In Scandinavia, (clean!) sneakers can be appropriate, but opt for a nice suede shoe or loafer if in doubt.

Here is our take on a “casual” dress code:

  • Blazer
  • Light colored trousers
  • Nice shirt with regular collar
  • Optional tie or bow-tie (bright colors acceptable)
  • Nice shoes (e.g. suede oxfords or loafers)

Rule of thumb: for a “casual” wedding, you still need to be more dressed up than you normally are.

This dress code is the perfect opportunity to sport an outfit in a more casual fabric such as linen or corduroy, and shirts in a more casual weave such as oxford or chambray.

  • Blue suit in a hard spun weave / Blåt Tropical jakkesæt / Blauer Anzug in einer Tropical-Webart / Blå dress i Tropical-vev
    713,24 

    Blue suit in a hard spun weave. A perfect base in your wardrobe, and perfect for a party because of the fresh colour. – The price is for jacket and trousers. Vest and extra trousers can be purchased by contacting us on the chat.

  • green Suit / grønt jakkesæt / grüner Anzug / grønn dress
    713,24 

    Green suit in a tropical weave that ensures you don’t overheat. A perfect suit for all summer parties. – The price is for jacket and trousers. Vest and extra trousers can be purchased.

  • Rust suit in tropical weave
    786,77 

    The Rust Tropical suit. the perfect suit for any occasion. From weddings to formal events, this suit will make you look your best.

  • NEW beige / tan suit in twistair fabric
    933,82 

    This tan TwistAir suit has a beautiful sand/beige colour with a slightly cooler hue. This suit is perfect for weddings as it combines some unique qualities, not only aesthetically but also practically. The fabric is wool, making it strong and formal, but the weave makes it light and comfortable - almost linen-like, but without the wrinkles. We've presented the suit in our business preset, our most minimal preset, to allow the beautiful colour and texture of the fabric to take centre stage. And it should be noted that this suit is by no means restricted to weddings, it is first and foremost a warm weather suit and can be styled as business wear as well as for the groom.
    Wool is the gold standard for suit fabrics and this one is special as it is part of Mond's very own TwistAir collection. The fabric is woven with a special high twist that creates a thin and strong fabric with excellent drape. In addition, the TwistAir fabric is treated with a special finish that gives it a soft touch. As well as being beautiful and exclusive, this fabric is also very comfortable. The strong and durable yarn allows for a slightly looser weave that is breathable and even has some natural stretch, despite being made from 100% wool. Weighing in at 300g/m2, it is definitely on the lighter side for a wool fabric.
    Styling this suit for a wedding is an easy affair, though it should be noted that this suit by nature of the relaxed cloth is not the first choice for a very formal wedding. For a wedding combine the suit with the mandatory white shirt, either a contrasting dark or complementing light tie. When it comes to shoes this suit goes wonderfully with all shades of brown, where darker brown shoes make for a more formal outfit. Black shoes are notoriously difficult to pull off with a beige suit, and thus we discourage it. If you’d like to take the formality of the suit up a notch you can always add waistcoat by asking about it in the chat. Since this suit is more on the subtle end you can be generous with accessories without fear of overdoing it. A personal favorite of ours is the boutonnière. A part form that, some cufflinks and a pocket square always make for a good addition.
    Huddersfield is a textile mill from the town of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire, England. The town itself has grown around the textile industries since the Industrial Revolution. What makes Huddersfield unique is their extremely soft water in which the raw wool is washed, before it is woven into luxurious and unique suiting fabrics. To learn more about their production and dedication towards sustainable production please visit their website.

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