Grooms are officially done playing it safe. The days of cookie cutter tuxedos and stiff black suits are giving way to bold colors, unexpected fabrics, and fashion forward fits that reflect personal style, not just tradition. Whether he’s the edgy minimalist, the romantic maximalist, or somewhere in between, there’s something thrilling about a groom who isn’t afraid to break the rules.
So if your groom wants to wear something that makes guests do a double take (in the best way), you’re going to want to bookmark this one. These 8 alternative groom outfits are totally non-traditional, yet still impossibly stylish, and yes, still wedding appropriate.
1. The Velvet Dinner Jacket Moment
Why It Works
Velvet instantly feels luxurious, and when styled in a rich jewel tone like emerald, navy, or burgundy, it gives off major main character energy. This look is bold but still polished, the perfect alternative for grooms who want to turn heads while staying dapper.
Picture This
The groom stands confidently under twinkle lights at a winter wedding, his deep green velvet jacket catching the soft glow. Guests murmur compliments as he walks by, his black tailored trousers and silk bow tie grounding the luxe texture.
How to Recreate This Look
Pair a velvet dinner jacket with slim fit black pants, a classic white shirt, and black patent loafers. Add a boutonnière with matching florals from the wedding bouquet to pull it all together. Bonus, this look photographs beautifully.
2. The Floral Suit
Why It Works
Florals aren’t just for bridesmaids anymore. A floral patterned suit brings in personality, whimsy, and an unexpected dose of joy. Whether it’s a subtle print or a full on garden party, it’s a fresh take for the fashion forward groom.
Picture This
At a spring garden wedding, the groom steps out in a cream floral two piece, his suit blooming with watercolor roses and wildflowers. His tie is soft pink, matching the bride’s bouquet. Even the grandmas are swooning.
How to Recreate This Look
Look for floral suits in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Stick to one pattern, jacket and pants, and balance with neutral accessories. If a full floral suit feels too bold, go for a printed blazer with solid trousers.
3. The All Neutrals Vibe
Why It Works
There’s something insanely cool about a groom who skips the black and leans into monochrome neutrals. Think oat, stone, or almond tones. This look feels fresh, modern, and high end, especially in outdoor or destination weddings.
Picture This
On a sun drenched terrace in Tuscany, the groom wears a light beige suit with a sand colored shirt, no tie in sight. His look is effortless, his tan shoes and linen pocket square completing the laid back luxury vibe.
How to Recreate This Look
Start with a well tailored suit in warm or cool beige, and pair it with a tonal shirt, think ivory, cream, or mushroom. No tie needed, just clean loafers and a confident smile.
4. The Bold Colored Suit
Why It Works
Color is making its way to the groom’s side and we’re here for it. From terracotta to sapphire blue, a colored suit is such a fun way to add personality and tie in your wedding palette without being too over the top.
Picture This
At a modern city rooftop wedding, the groom stuns in a terracotta orange slim fit suit, paired with a white shirt and no tie. His groomsmen wear black, making his color pop even more.
How to Recreate This Look
Look for suits in unexpected tones like copper, sage, plum, or even mustard. Keep everything else minimal, no prints, sleek shoes, and a fresh haircut.
5. The Modern Turtleneck Swap
Why It Works
Skip the shirt and tie altogether and sub in a sleek, fitted turtleneck. This look is especially sharp for colder months or fashion forward city weddings. It’s minimal, clean, and undeniably cool.
Picture This
In a moody candlelit loft venue, the groom stands tall in a black suit with a fitted gray turtleneck underneath. The lack of collar draws attention to his sharp jawline and bold boutonnière.
How to Recreate This Look
Pick a thin, high quality knit turtleneck in a neutral tone and wear it under a perfectly tailored blazer. Keep the pants classic. This outfit’s all about sleek lines and contrast.
6. The Printed Statement Suit
Why It Works
From plaid to pinstripe to abstract texture, prints instantly give your groom a runway inspired look. The key is fit, the bolder the print, the sharper the tailoring should be.
Picture This
At a stylish Brooklyn warehouse wedding, the groom wears a navy windowpane plaid suit, fitted to perfection. His tie is charcoal, and his shoes are vintage leather. The whole thing feels modern with a nod to tradition.
How to Recreate This Look
Start with one print, windowpane, check, or stripe, and anchor it with solid accessories. Make sure the pattern is sharp and high quality, no cheap polyester here.
7. The White on White Look
Why It Works
A crisp white suit with a white shirt is bold, unexpected, and totally elegant. It’s a major departure from the typical black tux but still feels special enough for the occasion. Ideal for beach or modern weddings.
Picture This
At a destination beach wedding, the groom stands barefoot in the sand wearing a slim white suit with rolled sleeves, no tie, and a relaxed linen shirt underneath. The look, heavenly.
How to Recreate This Look
Go for a well structured white or off white suit in linen or cotton. Choose a shirt in a similar tone and keep everything else minimal. A tan belt or pocket square can add a hint of contrast.
8. The Cultural or Heritage Ensemble
Why It Works
There’s nothing more meaningful or stylish than a groom who embraces his roots. Whether it’s a modernized barong, a colorful sherwani, or a kente cloth suit, this is fashion meets legacy, and it always turns heads.
Picture This
At a vibrant multicultural wedding, the groom walks down the aisle in a gold embroidered sherwani with tailored white pants and polished loafers. Every detail tells a story, and every guest feels it.
How to Recreate This Look
Work with a tailor or designer who specializes in cultural attire. Add modern elements like slim cuts or contemporary shoes to blend tradition with today’s style.
Final Thoughts, Let the Groom Dress Like Himself
The best part about breaking the rules, there are no rules anymore. Whether he wants to wear florals, velvet, bold colors, or traditional heritage attire, the key is fit, confidence, and staying true to his style. After all, it’s his wedding too.
