What to Wear to a Wedding as a Groomsman: The Complete NZ Guide

Looking Sharp on the Big Day

Being asked to stand up as a groomsman is an honour — and it comes with the responsibility of looking the part. Whether the wedding is a relaxed garden ceremony or a formal black-tie affair, your outfit needs to complement the groom while letting you feel confident and comfortable all day long.

At SimonVonShop, we specialise in formalwear for New Zealand men — from hire suits to complete vest and bow tie sets. Here's everything you need to know about dressing as a groomsman.

Step 1: Talk to the Groom First

Before you buy or hire anything, check in with the groom. Most wedding parties coordinate their look — whether that means matching suits, complementary colours, or a shared accessory like a pocket square or bow tie. Ask about:

• The wedding's dress code (black tie, lounge suit, smart casual)
• The colour palette the couple has chosen
• Whether groomsmen are expected to match exactly or just coordinate
• Whether the groom is providing or subsidising any part of the outfit

Step 2: Choose the Right Suit

The suit is the foundation of your groomsman look. For most New Zealand weddings, a well-fitted lounge suit in navy, charcoal, or grey is the safest and most versatile choice. For formal or black-tie weddings, a classic black suit or tuxedo is expected.

If you're not ready to invest in a new suit, suit hire is a smart option — especially for a one-off occasion. Browse our Weddings & Celebrations collection for curated looks built for the occasion.

Fit is everything. A well-fitted mid-range suit will always look better than an expensive suit that doesn't fit. If you're hiring, allow time for any alterations.

Step 3: Nail the Waistcoat

A waistcoat (vest) instantly elevates a groomsman look from smart to polished. It adds structure, fills the gap when you remove your jacket, and gives the wedding party a cohesive, dressed-up feel.

For weddings, consider:

• Matching waistcoat sets — a vest, bow tie, pocket square, and cufflinks in one coordinated set makes dressing easy and ensures the group looks unified.
• Silk or jacquard fabrics — these catch the light beautifully in photos and feel luxurious against a dress shirt.
• Paisley or floral patterns — a subtle pattern adds personality without clashing with the wedding's aesthetic.

Explore our Silver Purple Paisley Jacquard Silk Waistcoat Vest Set or the Coral Pink Solid Vest Bowtie Set for popular wedding-ready options.

Step 4: Bow Tie or Necktie?

This is one of the most common questions we get. Here's a simple guide:

• Bow tie — more formal, more fun, and a great choice for black-tie or themed weddings. Pairs perfectly with a waistcoat.
• Necktie — more traditional and versatile. Works for lounge suit weddings and is easier to wear all day.

If the groom is wearing a bow tie, it's a nice touch for groomsmen to match. Check out our Bow Tie Sets — many include a matching pocket square and cufflinks so you're sorted in one purchase.

Step 5: Don't Forget the Details

The finishing touches are what separate a good groomsman look from a great one:

• Pocket square — fold it neatly or go for a casual puff. Match it to the bride's bouquet colour or the wedding palette.
• Cufflinks — a small but meaningful detail, especially if the groom gifts them to the groomsmen.
• Dress shirt — white or light blue are the safest choices. Make sure it's properly ironed and fits well at the collar.
• Shoes — black Oxford or Derby shoes for formal weddings; brown brogues work well for garden or rustic settings.
• Socks — fun patterned socks are a popular groomsmen tradition in NZ. Just make sure they don't clash.

Timing: When to Sort Your Outfit

Don't leave it to the last minute. Here's a rough timeline:

• 3–4 months out — confirm the dress code and colour palette with the groom.
• 2–3 months out — purchase or book your suit hire, waistcoat set, and accessories.
• 2–4 weeks out — try everything on together and arrange any alterations.
• 1 week out — press or steam your suit, polish your shoes, and lay everything out.

Shop the Look at SimonVonShop

We've helped hundreds of New Zealand groomsmen look their best. Whether you need a complete suit hire package or just the right accessories to finish your look, we've got you covered.

👉 Browse our Weddings & Celebrations collection
👉 View suit hire options
👉 Shop bow tie sets