Written by Sonia Su

Choosing groomsmen suits is more than a matter of style — it often comes with the tricky question of cost. Who pays for groomsmen suits: the groom, the couple, or the do the groomsmen pay themselves?

While traditions offer some guidance, modern weddings leave room for flexibility and consideration. In this guide, we’ll dive into etiquette, budgeting, and tips for making the best decision for your wedding attire — while still ensuring everyone looks their best in styles from brands like Nimble Made.

The idea of having matching wedding groomsmen suits dates back to medieval times on the belief that "dressing identically would confuse any evil spirits wishing to distribute bad luck on the newlyweds."

Be sure to check out our other guide on best suit brands and types of suits for men.

Who Traditionally Pays for Groomsmen Suits?

Traditionally, groomsmen are expected to pay for their wedding suits. This has included not just the suit or tuxedo, but also accessories like shirts, ties, shoes, and cufflinks.

However, with weddings becoming more personalized (and often more expensive), couples may offer to cover some or all of the cost as a thank-you gesture. Think gifted shirts, ties, or even renting the suits for the group. The key is clear communication and respect for everyone's financial comfort.

However, it's becoming increasingly common for wedding couples to offer to cover some or all of the wedding expenses as a gesture of appreciation for their groomsmen's participation and support.

They may mean gifting the slim ties, pocket squares, or slim fit dress shirts for the wedding party. Ultimately, the arrangement can vary depending on the couple's preferences and the groomsmen's financial circumstances.

It's essential for the couple and groomsmen to communicate openly about wedding expenses, expectations, and financial arrangements to ensure everyone is comfortable with the decision.

A few exceptions to consider when it comes to wedding attire:

• Modern Takes: Millennials and Gen Z couples often rethink traditions and may offer to cover costs, especially for destination weddings or elaborate dress codes.
• Destination Weddings: When travel costs are high, it’s more common for the couple to cover attire or at least offer heavily subsidized options.

 

Renting vs. Buying: Which Makes More Financial Sense?

The decision to rent or purchase groomsmen suits depends on several factors, including budget, style preferences, and the overall wedding vision.

Here are some considerations for both options:

Renting Groomsmen Suits

• Cost-Efficiency: Renting groomsmen suits for the wedding party is generally more cost-effective, especially if the groomsmen won't wear the suits frequently after the wedding.
• Variety: Rental shops often offer a wide range of wedding attire styles and colors, allowing you to choose a cohesive look for the wedding party for the big day.
• Convenience: Renting is convenient, as it typically includes alterations, cleaning, and return services, saving time and hassle.
• Ideal for Destination Weddings: Renting is an excellent choice for destination weddings, as it minimizes the need for transporting wedding suits for these special occasions.

Purchasing Groomsmen Suits

• Long-Term Investment: Purchasing groomsmen suits can be a long-term investment for wedding attire, especially if the groomsmen anticipate wearing them for future events. Make sure you know how to buy a suit correctly.
• Tailored Fit: Owning suits allows for customization and tailoring to ensure a perfect fit, enhancing the overall appearance. Here's how long it takes to get a suit tailored.
• Personalization: Groomsmen can keep their suits as a memento and may be more likely to invest in accessories that suit their style.
• Suit as a Wedding Gift: Some couples choose to gift the groomsmen their suits, making this wedding gift a meaningful and practical token of appreciation. Here are more groomsmen gift ideas.
• Consistency: Buying ensures that the groomsmen have consistent suits that match the wedding attire perfectly.

5 Ways to Handle Suit Costs with Your Groomsmen

When it comes to wedding planning, talking about money can feel awkward—but it’s important to set clear expectations early on.

Groomsmen suits can be a significant expense, and deciding who pays (and how) can make or break the experience for everyone involved. Here are five common and thoughtful ways couples handle the cost of groomsmen attire:

1. Groomsmen Pay for Everything

This is the traditional route and still the most common. Groomsmen are responsible for purchasing or renting their own suits and covering accessories like shirts, ties, shoes, and cufflinks.

If you're going this route, try to keep cost in mind when choosing the suit and provide plenty of lead time so your wedding party can budget accordingly.

2. Couple Covers Part of the Cost

Many couples offer to chip in by covering one component of the outfit—such as a dress shirt, tie, or even part of the rental cost. This is a great compromise that shows appreciation without taking on the full financial burden.

Nimble Made’s slim fit dress shirts, for example, make a perfect groomsmen gift because of their high quality materials and slim fit that doesn't need a tailor. 

3. Split the Total Cost

For more expensive custom suits or destination weddings, some couples opt to split the cost of the full outfit with their groomsmen.

For example, the groomsmen pay half of the suit cost while the couple covers the rest. This option works well if you're requesting a very specific or premium look.

4. Groom Pays as a Wedding Gift

If your budget allows, covering the full cost of each groomsman’s suit or shirt is a meaningful gesture of appreciation, especially if you’re asking them to travel or take on other wedding-related costs.

This can also double as a practical groomsmen gift they can use beyond the wedding day.

5. Choose Budget-Friendly or Rental Options

Whether the groomsmen are paying or you are, consider choosing affordable off-the-rack options or working with rental companies that offer group discounts. Rentals are especially ideal for formal tuxedos or suits that likely won’t be worn again.

If you're buying, brands like Nimble Made offer tailored, slim fit shirts that pair well with rental suits or make a cohesive look easy to coordinate.

 

Suit Styles for Groomsmen Suits

No matter who’s paying, knowing your options helps set the budget and expectations early. Here’s a quick breakdown…

• Classic Two-Piece Suit: A timeless choice, the classic two-piece groomsmen suit includes a jacket and trousers in the same fabric and color. It's versatile and suitable for most wedding themes, from traditional to modern. Pair it with these best dress shirts for a wedding.
  
• Three-Piece Suit: This ensemble includes a waistcoat (vest) in addition to the jacket and trousers. It adds an extra layer of sophistication and is ideal for these special occasions.
• Tuxedo: Tuxedos are the perfect option if you're looking to exude elegance and are typically reserved for black-tie weddings. They feature satin lapels and a satin stripe down the trousers, providing a high level of formality for formal vs black tie events. Wear them with one of these best tuxedo shirts.
  
• Linen Suit: Perfect for destination or summer weddings, linen suits are lightweight and breathable. They often have a relaxed and casual look.
• Slim-Fit Suit: Slim-fit power suits have a tailored and modern silhouette. They are a popular choice for contemporary weddings and offer a sleek appearance. Use our suit size calculator to find the right fit for you.

No matter the style, be sure to pair it with a pocket square to enhance your overall look and check out our helpful guides on how to fold a pocket square. Make sure you learn how to put on a boutonniere as well. 

 

Best Color Choices for Groomsmen Suits

• Classic Black: Timeless and formal, black suits are suitable for elegant and traditional weddings. They pair well with various shirt and tie colors.
• Navy Blue: Navy wedding suits are versatile and can be dressed up or down. They work for both indoor and outdoor weddings and complement a range of themes. Here's how to wear a navy suit with brown shoes.
• Gray: Gray wedding suits come in various shades, from light gray to charcoal. They are adaptable and suitable for a wide range of wedding styles. Here is a guide on how to pair a gray suit with a black shirt.
  
• Tan: Tan suits have become increasingly popular for spring and summer weddings, thanks to their light and airy appearance. This versatile and timeless color for all skin tones adds a touch of warmth and sophistication to the wedding party's attire and looks great for a beach wedding.
  
• Charcoal: Charcoal suits are a refined choice for formal weddings. They offer a classic and sophisticated look.

Ultimately, the choice of suit style and color for groomsmen suits depends on the wedding's formality, theme, and the couple's dress code preferences. It's essential to consider these factors to ensure that the groomsmen suits harmonize with the overall wedding aesthetic.

 

What Should Groomsmen Consider When Choosing Dress Shirts?

Choosing the right dress shirts for groomsmen is essential to achieving a cohesive and polished look for the wedding party. Here are some key considerations when making this important decision:

Color — Coordinate with the Wedding Theme

The color of the dress shirts should complement the overall wedding color palette and theme. It's essential to align with the couple's vision for the wedding. Nimble Made has a variety of high-quality colored dress shirts to choose from with hassle-free returns.

Fabric — Opt for Comfort and Breathability

Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, especially for warm-weather weddings. Consider the season and climate to ensure the groomsmen stay comfortable throughout the day.

 

Fit — Prioritize a Tailored Fit

Well-fitted shirts enhance the overall look. Tailoring may be necessary to achieve the ideal fit, ensuring that the shirts don't appear baggy or too tight. You can also go off-the-rack with fitted wedding dress shirts from Nimble Made. Here's a good dress shirt should fit.

Tie and Accessories — Plan for Accessories

Coordinate the dress shirt with the chosen ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks. Ensure these accessories complement both the shirt and the overall wedding color scheme.

Groomsmen's Personal Styles — Acknowledge Individual Preferences

While achieving a cohesive look is essential, allow some room for individual style preferences among the groomsmen, such as collar accessories or tie knots.

Maintenance — Think About Care and Wrinkling

Consider how easy the shirts are to maintain and whether they wrinkle easily, as this can impact the groomsmen's comfort throughout the day. Check out our dress shirt care guide.

Try On — Ensure Proper Sizing

Encourage the groomsmen to try on their shirts well in advance of the wedding to address any sizing or fit issues promptly. Use our dress shirt fit guide.

 

Groomsmen Suits Bottom Line

Whether you stick with tradition or cover the cost as a gesture of thanks, the key is clear communication. Be upfront about expectations, offer flexible options, and make sure your wedding party feels appreciated — and well-dressed.

With high-quality options from brands like Nimble Made, it’s easier than ever to balance budget and style for your big day.

Whether you opt for classic black tuxedos, contemporary gray suits, or colorful ensembles, thoughtful consideration and coordination of groomsmen attire contribute to a polished and memorable wedding celebration.

 

FAQs about Groomsmen Suits

How much should a groomsmen suit cost?

The cost of a groomsmen suit can vary widely depending on factors like the brand, fabric, style, and customization. On average, groomsmen suits can range from $150 to $500 or more, with premium and designer options potentially exceeding this range.

What suits should groomsmen wear?

The choice of suits for groomsmen often depends on the wedding's formality and the couple's preferences. Common options include classic black, navy, gray, or charcoal suits, but the specific style and color should align with the wedding theme and the groom's attire for a cohesive look.

Is it normal for groomsmen to pay for suits?

It's common for groomsmen to cover the cost of their own suits and accessories when participating in a wedding. However, this can vary based on individual arrangements and the preferences of the couple getting married.

Do groomsmen hire their own suits?

Yes, groomsmen often have the option to either purchase or rent their suits, depending on the couple's preferences and the wedding's formality. Renting suits can be a cost-effective and convenient choice, especially for groomsmen who may not wear formal attire frequently.