Details Make the Difference
A great suit is the foundation. Accessories are what make the outfit yours.
Here's my complete guide to getting the details right, without overdoing it.
Ties and Cravats
Standard tie: Classic, versatile, works for almost every wedding. Slim ties (6–7cm) are modern. Standard width (8–9cm) is timeless.
Cravat: More formal, more traditional. Pairs beautifully with morning dress or vintage-inspired looks.
Bow tie: Statement choice. Make sure it's a proper self-tie, not a clip-on. Nothing ruins a look like a crooked clip-on bow tie.
Skinny tie: Very modern, works for relaxed weddings. Can look too casual for formal settings.
Knitted tie: Textured, relaxed, perfect for tweed and country weddings. Adds visual interest without being loud.
Colour choices: Match or complement your partner's colour scheme. Or ignore it completely and do your own thing; it's your wedding too.
Pocket Squares
A pocket square adds polish. It shouldn't match your tie exactly, that looks dated. Instead:
Complement, don't match: Same colour family but different shade or pattern.
White is always safe: A white linen or cotton pocket square works with everything.
Pattern can work: Paisley, dots, or subtle prints add personality if your tie is plain.
The fold matters: A simple square fold is classic. A puff fold is relaxed. We'll show you options.
Shoes
Oxford shoes: The most formal. Closed lacing, sleek shape. Perfect for traditional weddings.
Brogues: More character, visible stitching. Great for country and relaxed weddings.
Derby shoes: Open lacing, slightly less formal than Oxfords. Very versatile.
Loafers: Modern, relaxed. Suit summer and destination weddings.
Colour: Brown leather for brown/tan/blue suits. Black leather for black/charcoal suits. Can you wear brown with navy? Absolutely, it looks great.
Belts and Braces
Belt or braces, not both. That's the rule.
Belts: Match your shoe colour. Simple buckle, not flashy. The belt should be invisible from a distance.
Braces (suspenders): More traditional, often worn with higher-waisted trousers. Button-on is more formal than clip-on.
If you're wearing a waistcoat, what's underneath matters less, but still make a choice.
Cufflinks and Watches
Cufflinks: Only if your shirt has French cuffs. Simple designs are elegant. Novelty cufflinks are a personal choice (I won't judge).
Watches: Wear your favourite. Or wear your dad's. Or wear none, you probably won't be checking the time.
Other jewellery: Keep it minimal. A wedding band is all you need. Anything else should be meaningful, not decorative.
Buttonholes (Boutonnieres)
Usually handled by the florist, but some tips:
Size matters: It should complement, not overwhelm. A small, tight bloom works best.
Coordinate with the wedding flowers: Don't clash with the bridal bouquet.
Pin it properly: Through the lapel buttonhole (that's what it's for), angled so the stem isn't visible.
The Golden Rule: Less is More
It's tempting to add everything. Pocket square, lapel pin, tie bar, cufflinks, contrasting socks...
Pick your moments. One or two well-chosen details beat five competing accessories.
If in doubt, take something off.