What Men Should Wear to a Wedding, According to a Stylist

Wedding season is all fun and games—until you’re staring at your boyfriend’s closet wondering how he doesn’t own a single thing that meets the “black tie optional” dress code. Been there, struggled through that. Don’t even get me started on navigating the more confusing “beach formal” or “garden chic” soirées.

Since we all have enough to worry about (like finding own dresses), we tapped menswear stylist Marisa Menist for the 411 on dressing a significant other to look polished and appropriate for wedding season—without totally stripping them of their personal style. 

“It’s important to not out-do the hosts,” Menist tells E!. Accessories are where he can shine while still keeping it respectful. “Maybe it’s a fun belt, a new bracelet, a cool tie with a subtle difference in color, a shoe that isn’t just like the rest of the guests.” 

Oh, and the idea that he needs to drop thousands on a suit just to look the part? A total misconception. Instead of overspending on the actual style, he should opt for something more affordable and get a good tailor instead.

“The biggest mistake men make is not tailoring their clothes properly,” she says. “You don’t need to wear the most expensive suit in the room. What really makes a difference is fit. A well-tailored outfit, perfectly suited to the wearer, can look just as sharp and high-end as the fanciest suit around.” 

Keep scrolling for how (and what!) to style your boyfriend/husband/hot date for wedding season.