Father of the Groom Outfit: What to Wear and How to Get It Right

When it comes to the father of the groom outfit, the suit and accessories worn by the groom’s father on the wedding day. Also known as groom’s father attire, it’s not just about looking sharp—it’s about respecting the wedding’s tone, matching the party’s style, and staying out of the spotlight. Too often, dads end up in the same color as the groom, or worse, in something that looks like a rented tuxedo from 1998. The goal? Look polished, feel comfortable, and let the bride and groom shine.

The formal suit colors, the standard palette for wedding attire. Also known as wedding-appropriate suits, it’s not about following old rules—it’s about matching the vibe. Navy, charcoal, and light gray are safe. Black is fine if the wedding is formal or evening-only. Avoid white, cream, or anything too bold like red or neon. The groom's parents wedding costs, the typical expenses covered by the groom’s family. Also known as groom’s family contributions, it often includes the father’s outfit, the rehearsal dinner, and sometimes gifts. That means you might be paying for the suit yourself, so pick something you can wear again. A well-tailored navy suit with a crisp white shirt and a silk tie? That’s an investment, not just a one-time look.

And don’t forget the details. Shoes should match the suit—no brown shoes with a black suit unless it’s a very relaxed wedding. Cufflinks? Optional, but they add polish. Tie or bowtie? Go with what the groom is wearing, unless he’s in a tux and you’re in a suit. The wedding guest attire, the expected dress code for non-wedding party guests. Also known as wedding dress code, it’s the baseline you’re building on. You’re not a guest—you’re family. That means you get a little more leeway, but also more responsibility. If the wedding is beachy and casual, a linen blazer works. If it’s in a cathedral at 4 p.m., skip the open collar. And if you’re unsure? Ask the groom. Or the wedding planner. Or even the bride. Most will be happy to give you a hint.

The father of the groom outfit isn’t about standing out—it’s about fitting in, the right way. You want to look like you belong, not like you’re auditioning for a corporate photo shoot. The best outfits are the ones you forget you’re wearing. That means comfort, fit, and coordination matter more than brand names. You don’t need a $1,500 suit. You need a suit that fits your body, matches the wedding’s mood, and doesn’t make you feel like you’re trapped in a costume.

Below, you’ll find real advice from real weddings—what worked, what didn’t, and how other fathers nailed their look without overthinking it. No fluff. Just what to wear, when to buy it, and how to avoid the five most common mistakes.