Wedding Suit Colors: Best Choices for Groom, Father, and Wedding Party

When it comes to wedding suit colors, the specific shades chosen for the groom and wedding party affect the entire look and feel of the event. Also known as formal suit colors, these choices aren’t just about style—they’re about balance, contrast, and timing. A suit that’s too bright can steal the spotlight. One that’s too dark can make the groom look lost in the crowd. The right color works with the season, the venue, and the bride’s dress—not against it.

For the groom, the person whose outfit sets the tone for the entire wedding party, navy and charcoal gray are the safest, most timeless picks. They’re sharp enough for formal events but flexible enough to pair with any tie or boutonniere. Father of the groom suit color, a common point of confusion for families, should always be a shade darker than the groom’s. That means if the groom wears medium gray, the father wears charcoal. If the groom wears navy, the father goes with black or deep charcoal. Matching exactly? That’s a mistake. You want harmony, not duplication.

Then there’s the wedding party attire, how the groomsmen and ushers dress to support, not overshadow. Light gray, slate, or even soft taupe can work beautifully in spring or summer weddings. Avoid white—it’s reserved for the bride. Steer clear of neon, red, or overly bold patterns unless you’re going for a very specific, intentional look. And while black suits are classic for evening weddings, they can feel too heavy in daylight or outdoor settings.

What colors should you avoid?

Some colors just don’t belong at a wedding. Red, for example, can clash with the bride’s dress in photos and carry unintended cultural meanings. Bright white? That’s the bride’s territory. Pastels like baby blue or mint can look cheap under wedding lighting and don’t photograph well. Even subtle mistakes—like a suit that’s too shiny, too wrinkled, or too trendy—can throw off the whole vibe.

It’s not about following rigid rules. It’s about making smart choices that let the day feel polished, intentional, and personal. The best wedding suit colors don’t shout—they complement. They let the bride shine, the groom look confident, and the family look like they belong together without trying too hard.

Below, you’ll find real advice from real weddings—what worked, what didn’t, and why. Whether you’re picking your own suit, helping your dad choose, or coordinating the groomsmen, these posts give you the facts without the fluff.