Usually, we give out our best tips for brides regarding engagement photos and what to wear, but there are definite considerations for the guys too! We have some tips for men when choosing engagement outfits for men.
Our first tip…
Start Here First
Remember when we said we’ll focus on the guys? Well, we will…but the first part in figuring out the groom-to-be’s outfit is actually considering the bride’s. She really is much of the star of the show, so once she has her outfit planned, coordinate from there!
There are still other general considerations when choosing your outfit besides coordinating with the bride. Color is a big factor! Both of you should be sticking with neutrals or other muted tones like dusty blues and pinks. If she is in white, consider light gray or navy trousers with a light blue shirt. The camera loves these shades and the more muted neutral tones fit beautifully into almost all natural outdoor environments!
Choose the Right Pants
Long, fitted pants and closed toes shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from the legs and feet, bringing attention to your face! Shorts, flip flops, and the ultra casual vibe are best saved for the weekend BBQ. Pinstripes and plaid patterns or anything with logos should be avoided too! Solid neutrals are going to photograph best and be seen, without being fully noticed – we want to be looking at your smiling, kissing faces!
Layer
Another tip, especially for change of location photo shoots is layering your outfit. Next time you walk by a store like J. Crew, you’ll notice the male mannequins and models are almost always wearing several layers at once. Layers on men look great on camera, so even when it’s hot outside, trust me when I say it’s worth an hour or two of discomfort for photos that will last you both a lifetime.
A great way to consider layering is also with a sport coat, suit coat, or blazer! This also can extra visual interest and breaks up color tones. I especially think it’s sharp and amazing in photographs when the jacket is different from the pant color. Talk about style! I’m a big fan of this fresh take on a timeless classic.
Just as the bride’s details matter in photos, so do the guys! Brown leather dress shoes complement nearly every look and are suited for nearly every environment. Full suit? Bown dress shoes are the winner! Blazer and colored pants? Brown shoes still are number 1! Accessorizing with details like pocket squares, colored socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, or watches are all interesting additions that complement an already sharp outfit! Opting for two looks during your engagement shoot? Consider doing a full tie with your first look and something more casual like suspenders for the second look. This gives you options and visual interest, creating a different photo, without changing your entire outfit!
I have photographed many engagement shoots through the years and while we always start with “What is the bride wearing?”, know that these tips are tried and true for my grooms! It’s way simpler to choose engagement outfits for men than us girls. These tips have given images to last a lifetime and allow the groom to shine on those save-the-dates you’ll be mailing soon!
