What Should the Groom Wear to the Rehearsal Dinner?
Looking for wedding rehearsal dinner outfits for the groom? We love the brides around here, of course, but it’s time we gave the men a little fashion love too! So if you’re wondering what to wear to a wedding rehearsal dinner as the groom, you’re in the right spot. We go you!
Choosing the groom’s attire for the rehearsal dinner can feel similar to the wedding day look, but we’ll help explain how to keep the two different. The wedding rehearsal dinner is an important pre-wedding event and will include many photos throughout the evening, so looking and feeling your best is key.
And, if you’re also looking for men’s wedding rehearsal dinner outfit ideas, you’ll find lots of good fit checks in here too.
The groom’s rehearsal dinner attire and outfit deserves careful consideration and thought to make sure it works together with the partner’s outfit and stands out from the groom’s wedding day look. After all, you don’t want to clash with your partner. We’ve seen this many times, in the photos, it’s all you can see!
And if you don’t want to feel like you just put on the same thing two days in a row, you’ll also want to put some thought into your rehearsal look. In this wedding rehearsal dinner fashion post, we have curated guide showing you what the groom should wear to the rehearsal dinner. Plus, we’ll be sharing some dress code ideas for the rehearsal dinner for the men.
Let’s get to it!
Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Don't get stressed - get Let's Get Rehearsed’s FREE rehearsal dinner guide packed full of everything you need to plan a welcome party, from saving money to celebrating the night before the big day!
Rehearsal Dinner Outfits for The Groom vs. The Groomsmen
When it comes to any wedding related event you’ll want to make sure that the groom stands out from the group of groomsmen. While you may want to make sure their outfits coordinate, you don’t want a guest from his partner’s side of the family to confuse a groomsman for the groom. How can the groom stand out with his outfit?
If the groomsmen are coordinating together, be sure to have the groom’s attire a slightly different shade. For example if the groomsmen are wearing grey suits, opt for a shade lighter of gray for the groom. The groom can also wear an upgraded fabric for a different look. Another alternative for allowing the groom to stand out is to opt for elevated accessories to help him stand out.
While the wedding rehearsal dinner is a coordinated event for the wedding weekend, it is not typically an event where the groomsmen need to wearing matching outfits. If they’d like to coordinate wearing something similar to match the pre-wedding event’s theme or venue that helps create a cohesive look.
Rehearsal Dinner Dress Codes for Men
One of the first things to consider when choosing men’s rehearsal dinner attire is the dress code. For any wedding related event the vibe and venue will help you decide what is appropriate attire.
Here’s a breakdown of common dress codes, what each one means for men’s attire, and how the groom can dress the part. Whether you’re the groom, a groomsmen or a guest, you’re gonna love this rehearsal dress code for the guys. You’re welcome!
Casual Rehearsal Dinner Attire
Casual means a relaxed but put together ensemble. For a casual rehearsal dinner, men can opt for chinos or even dark jeans paired with a button-down shirt or polo. A nice pair of loafers or clean dress sneakers fit the part. The groom specifically can stand out by adding a blazer in a lightweight fabric or choosing a bold colored shirt or a shirt with a pattern to stand out.
Speaking of casual, if your wedding rehearsal dinner is more laid-back, you’ll love our guide on what to wear to a casual wedding rehearsal dinner. It’s full of easy outfit ideas and styling tips to help you look relaxed yet put together for a casual celebration.
Semi-Formal Rehearsal Dinner Attire
Semi-formal is one of the most common rehearsal dinner dress codes. Consider this dress code a notch below full suit and tie but a step up from casual. Men can wear dress pants with a blazer or a matching two piece suit in a lighter fabric. Ties are optional here but dress shoes are typical. The groom can consider wearing an upgraded jacket, like a chic velvet blazer, or a pocket square.
Speaking of, if you’re planning a more formal rehearsal dinner, it helps to understand how your budget fits in with the rest of your wedding weekend. Check out our guide on how much to spend on the wedding rehearsal dinner for expert tips and real examples.
Cocktail Rehearsal Dinner Attire
Cocktail attire falls right between semi-formal and formal. It’s also a fairly popular rehearsal or night before option. It’s polished but not overly stiff. Men can wear tailored dress pants with a button-down shirt and a coordinating blazer. A tie is optional but adds a refined touch. The groom can stand out by choosing a sharp suit in a textured or bold color, or by adding details like a pocket square or statement shoes.
Formal or Black Tie Rehearsal Dinner Attire
For rehearsal dinners hosted at upscale venues we often see a formal or black-tie dress code. Men should wear a dark suit or tuxedo, crisp white shirt, and dress shoes. A bow tie or classic tie completes the look. The groom can distinguish himself by choosing a tuxedo with a unique detail, like a velvet jacket or satin lapels.
Mistakes To Avoid for Groom’s Rehearsal Dinner Outfits
Even the most stylish groom can miss the mark with a few common outfit mistakes. Here’s what to avoid when choosing your wedding rehearsal dinner outfit so you look confident, coordinated, and completely ready for the night before the wedding.
Speaking of planning mistakes, if you’re feeling unsure about how much to DIY versus what to outsource for the night before the wedding, our post on whether you need to hire vendors for the rehearsal dinner breaks down exactly what’s worth handling yourself and when it’s smarter to get professional help.
Ignoring The Venue Vibe
Your outfit should always match the setting. Showing up overdressed or underdressed can make you stand out for the wrong reasons. A beachside bar, an upscale steakhouse, or Aunt Jo’s backyard all call for very different styles of rehearsal dinner attire. Pay attention to the venue and dress to complement its atmosphere and decor.
Skipping the Tailor
Even the nicest suit can look sloppy if it doesn’t fit properly. Pants that drag over your shoes or a blazer that’s too boxy will take away from the look you’re going for. A quick visit to the tailor makes all the difference. Hems to the proper length, sleeve length, and jacket adjustments can transform an outfit from “just okay” to polished and sharp.
Not Considering Your Partner’s Outfit
It’s easy to forget that your partner’s outfit sets the tone, too. The best photos and overall look of the night come when your outfits complement each other. If your partner is wearing something light, flowy, or colorful, choose pieces that balance that vibe — not compete with it. Ignoring what they’re wearing can make you look mismatched in photos or overly formal or casual by comparison. A quick outfit check together before the big night can help you both look cohesive and confident.
Repeating the Wedding Day Look
This is a big one! Your rehearsal dinner outfit should feel special, but not identical to what you’ll wear down the aisle. Save the big statement for your wedding day. Instead, choose a look that’s stylish, complementary, and distinct so both events feel unique.
Style Tips for the Groom’s Rehearsal Dinner Look
Wedding rehearsal dinners help set the tone for the celebration ahead and it’s the perfect way to show off your personal style, too. Here are two easy ways to make sure your look feels intentional and memorable.
Coordinate with the Bride or Partner
The rehearsal dinner is one of the first times guests see you as a couple during the wedding festivities, so a little coordination goes a long way. You’ll likely have a photographer at the event too and hopefully some time for some couples photos. You don’t need to match perfectly, but your outfits should complement each other.
Neutrals, pastels, and soft jewel tones tend to photograph beautifully and work well together. If your partner is wearing something bold or patterned, balance it with a solid, complementary tone. Think navy with blush, black with champagne, or olive with cream. These pairings always look timeless and polished in photos from the night before the wedding.
Stand Out as the Groom
While you don’t want to overshadow your wedding day attire, the groom should still stand out from the crowd, and groomsmen, at the rehearsal dinner. Small touches like a patterned tie, a pocket square or a statement watch can help set you apart. The key is to look just a little more polished and intentional than your guests.
Where To Shop for Unique Men’s Attire for the Rehearsal Dinner
Finding the right look for your rehearsal dinner doesn’t have to mean settling for the same department store suit that everyone else is wearing or risk it with a questionable outfit from an online big box site. If you want something the feels personal and memorable, consider shopping with Etsy.
From standout jackets, to statement watches, and even embroidered dress shirts, Etsy has some unique options perfect for the night before the wedding. We’ll get into our favorites below and show you exactly where to shop these key rehearsal pieces for the groom and our guys!
Once you’ve found your outfit, don’t forget to finish the look with the right setup for your event. From centerpieces to signage, our roundup of wedding rehearsal dinner decorations you’ll adore will help you create a setting that looks as good as you do.
Shop Groom’s Rehearsal Dinner Outfit Core Pieces
Now that you know what to wear for every type of wedding rehearsal dinner dress code, it’s time to shop the look. Below, we’ll show you exactly where to shop for the groom’s rehearsal dinner outfit, featuring our favorite core pieces with photos and links to help you create a polished, memorable look for the night before the wedding.
Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Rehearsal Dinner Outfit Accessories for the Groom
Once you’ve nailed the main pieces of your rehearsal dinner outfit, it’s the accessories that really pull everything together. From watches and pocket squares to shoes and ties, these groom rehearsal dinner accessories add just the right amount of personality and polish to your look.
Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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Shop this rehearsal dinner attire for the groom:
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The rehearsal dinner is your chance to set the tone for the wedding weekend, and the groom’s outfit should feel polished and intentional yet distinct from the wedding day look. Whether your rehearsal dinner dress code is casual, semi-formal, or black tie, the key is to:
Match your look to the venue and vibe
Choose a style that’s different from your wedding day suit
Add personal touches to stand out from the groomsmen
Coordinate subtly with the bride’s outfit
Pay attention to fit and tailoring
Your rehearsal dinner attire should feel like a reflection of your style while keeping the spotlight ready for your wedding day.
If you’re not the groom but still wondering what’s appropriate to wear, don’t miss our full guide on what to wear to a wedding rehearsal dinner as a guest. It breaks down outfit ideas for every dress code so you can show up confident, stylish, and perfectly dressed for the occasion.
Rehearsal Dinner Outfit Inspiration for the Bride
While this guide focuses on the groom, the bride’s look is just as important for setting the tone of the night before the wedding. Whether she prefers something classic, modern, or totally unexpected, there are endless ways to make the rehearsal dinner outfit feel special.
If you’re a bride searching for outfit ideas, check out our complete guide on what to wear to your wedding rehearsal dinner for expert tips on finding a look that feels effortless but elevated.
For brides who want to step away from traditional white dresses, our feature on wedding rehearsal dinner jumpsuits for the bride offers fresh, modern inspiration. Or, if you love timeless elegance, you’ll adore our roundup of stunning wedding rehearsal dinner dresses for the bride.
Don’t forget the finishing touches! Accessories can completely transform your look. Explore our post on wedding rehearsal dinner outfit accessories for the bride for jewelry, shoes, and detail ideas that make your outfit shine.
FAQs About Groom’s Rehearsal Dinner Outfits
Before we wrap up, let’s answer a few of the most common questions about men’s rehearsal dinner attire and what the groom should wear to the rehearsal dinner. These quick answers can help you feel confident about your outfit choice, no matter the dress code or setting.
What should the groom wear to a rehearsal dinner?
The groom should always look slightly more elevated than the other guests or groomsmen. The best choice depends on the dress code and venue, but a well-fitted blazer or tailored suit paired with polished shoes always works. It should complement the event’s vibe but still feel distinct from your wedding day look.
Can you wear jeans to a rehearsal dinner?
Jeans can work for a casual wedding rehearsal dinner, especially if the event is outdoors or at a relaxed venue. Choose dark, well-fitted denim without distressing, and pair it with a button-down shirt or sport coat to keep the look intentional and polished.
What is cocktail attire for a rehearsal dinner?
Cocktail attire for a rehearsal dinner strikes the perfect balance between formal and relaxed. Think tailored dress pants, a crisp shirt, and a coordinating blazer. A tie is optional, and the groom can elevate the look with a stylish pocket square or statement shoes.
Should groomsmen match the groom at the rehearsal dinner?
Not exactly. The groomsmen don’t need to match the groom at the rehearsal dinner the way they do on the wedding day. Coordinating colors or fabrics can look nice, but the groom should stand out, even if it’s just through a different jacket, tie, or unique accessory.
Should the groom match the bride or partner at the rehearsal dinner?
You don’t need to match perfectly, but your outfits should complement each other. Think of it as coordinated, not identical. If the bride or partner is wearing something flowy with a floral print, the groom might wear a light-colored blazer or shirt that picks up one of the colors in the outfit. The goal is to look cohesive in photos without looking like you planned matching outfits for a school dance.
How can couples coordinate their rehearsal dinner outfits?
Start by considering the setting and dress code. If it’s a beachside rehearsal dinner, both of you might lean toward lighter fabrics like linen. For a formal restaurant, choose more structured pieces like a suit or cocktail dress. Subtle color coordination, like wearing shades from the same palette, helps you look unified without being overly matchy.
Recap: Dressing for the Wedding Rehearsal Dinner with Confidence
Whether your wedding rehearsal dinner is casual, semi-formal, or cocktail attire, the goal is to look polished, confident, and true to your style. The groom should always stand out, but in a way that feels natural and effortless. Fit, fabric, and small accessories can make a big difference in creating a memorable look that photographs beautifully. With these rehearsal dinner outfit ideas for the groom, you’ll feel relaxed and ready to enjoy the night before the wedding.
About Let’s Get Rehearsed!
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