When it comes to weddings, the guys always end up with the short end of the stick. So much attention is paid to the bride’s gown, from what shade of white it is (my clueless hubby was dumbfounded to learn that there is more than just stark white to choose from), to what accessories play up the gown (and the girl’s features!) the best. I guess this makes sense. After all, many girls dream of their wedding day before they’re even in a training bra. Boys, on the other hand, usually can’t be bothered.
But think about it, ladies. Do you want to look like a supermodel as you exchange vows while your soon-to-be husband looks like an afterthought? He should look just as fierce as you do! Why have him throw on an outfit with no personality? His ensemble can and should be just as personalized as yours.
If your guy is going to wear a suit, it should be the foundation of his outfit. I really like the suit shown here by Michele Nassaney. Cool, classic and slim fitting, the satin piping sets it apart from the sea of clones that are out there. While holding on to a certain timeless quality, it also manages to be hip and modern. Paired with a solid black tie as it is here, 
your guy is sure to look smooth and sophisticated.
If you’d like to add a bit of edge to his look, you can start with his tie. I love the silk-screened offerings at Cyberoptix Tie Lab. From typewriters and phonographs to topographical maps and vinyl records (shown here), you’re sure to find something fun and funky that matches your groom’s taste. The best part is, while the theme of some of the designs might be a little offbeat (see Black Plaguesley), the designs themselves are really beautiful—which is an awesome juxtaposition.
Another great way to add some fun to your almost-hubby’s look is with a playful pair of shoes. I’m a big fan of Converse sneakers and I love the cheekiness they 
add when you pair them with a more formal look. Kat of geschichtenvonkat’s idea of embroidering them with something special for your big day is fabulous! Add a quote, lyrics, just about anything that sums up your thoughts about the day. It will make for a really fun picture too.
If embroidered sneakers are a little out of your comfort zone, you can always play with alternative boutonniere options. Flowers that match your maids’ bouquets are not the only possibility. In fact, here are two very different examples of fun choices in the same color family. At left, there is Into the Woods, a nature-inspired look by Peppermint Cloud. Hand-cut fabric flowers are accented by twigs, wheat, dried gypsophilia, funky fabric leaves and a polka-dot brown organza ribbon.
The result is a look that is totally unique 
without straying too far from traditional. If traditional is the last thing you’re looking for, the one-of-a-kind upcycled designs of AllieRuth are so worth checking out. Her Retro 70s Boutonniere (at left) is just one example of the cool styles she has available. Here she accents a chocolate brown satin bow with mustard yellow and natural-colored fabrics and a rusty vintage key. I’m absolutely in love with this look! It’s both charming and unexpected—a winning combo in my book!
You can also have a lot of fun with cuff links. Small and anything but intrusive, you can let your hubby-to-be go wild here. On Etsy, I've seen everything from Legos to steampunk gears for you to choose from. One of my favorite options is by DLK Designs. They use vintage maps to custom create a look just for you. Choose a spot on the map that's important to you or your relationship. Perhaps where you met? A memorable vacation spot? The possibilities are endless!
So spend a little more time thinking about your guy’s look. Dressing him in something that let’s his personality shine will make him so much more comfortable—and your experience all the more memorable!
Jennifer Garry is a writer and accessories designer living in Westchester, NY with her husband and daughter. When she's not up to her ears in kiddie crafts, you can find her swimming in a pool of beads. Her obsessions include tea, chocolate, sarcasm and her daughter's giggle--any of which can be used to coax her from her little jewelry-making fantasy world.
