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Dresses, suits and style · Suits for the groom

What should a groom wear to a black tie wedding?

Answered by the UK Wedding Websites editorial team · Updated 2026-10-12 · For grooms · For guests

Short answer

Wear a black dinner jacket, matching trousers, a white dress shirt, a black bow tie and black formal shoes. This is the standard black tie dress code for a groom in the UK.

For a black tie wedding, the groom should follow the formal dress code closely. A classic black dinner jacket with satin or grosgrain lapels, paired with matching black trousers, is the safest and most traditional choice. Wear a crisp white dress shirt with French cuffs and cufflinks, and finish with a black bow tie. Black patent leather shoes or polished black Oxfords work well. You can add a white pocket square for a touch of personality, but keep it simple. If the invitation says black tie optional, you can wear a dark lounge suit instead, but a dinner jacket is still the better choice. If you prefer not to wear a bow tie, a black long tie is acceptable at many weddings, but check with the couple or the venue if you are unsure. Your outfit should feel comfortable, so have it tailored in advance. Remember that the groom often sets the tone, so being slightly more formal than the guests is usually a good idea. If you are unsure about any detail, ask the couple or the wedding planner. The key is to look polished and confident, and to enjoy the day.

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