When you start planning a wedding, you quickly realise how fast the costs add up. Venue. Catering. Photographer. Flowers. And then there are the groom’s and groomsmen’s suits to consider.
It’s usually around this point that the question comes up:
“Is it cheaper to hire wedding suits, or should we just buy them?”
The honest answer?
Most of the time, hiring works out cheaper, especially if you’re dressing more than just the groom. But there’s more to it than simply comparing price tags.
Let’s look at it properly.
What Does Buying Actually Cost?
A good quality suit isn’t inexpensive — and it shouldn’t be. If you’re buying something well-made that fits properly and photographs well, you’re likely looking at several hundred pounds.
Then add:
- Shirt
- Waistcoat (if it’s a three-piece)
- Tie or cravat
- Pocket square
- Shoes
- Alterations
Alterations alone can add a noticeable extra cost, particularly if multiple groomsmen need adjustments.
Now multiply that by four, five, maybe six people. For larger wedding parties, buying can very quickly become one of the bigger expenses in your budget.
What Does Hiring Typically Include?
Hiring is often more straightforward than people expect.
In most cases, you’re paying one set price per person for a full outfit — usually including jacket, trousers, waistcoat, shirt and accessories.
Because the suits are designed for hire, they’re made to fit properly with professional measuring and adjustments where needed. You’re not having to factor in tailoring costs on top.
For many couples, that bundled pricing makes it easier to plan and control spending.
The “Will I Wear It Again?” Question
This is where the decision becomes more personal.
If you’re choosing something quite traditional, like a morning suit or a very formal three-piece, you may not realistically wear it again. In that case, buying can feel like a large investment for one day.
However, if you’re opting for a versatile lounge suit in a colour you’d happily wear to future events, work functions or other weddings, then buying could make sense long term.
It really depends on whether this is a “wedding outfit” or a “future wardrobe staple.”
Matching Matters More Than You Think
One thing couples often overlook is coordination.
When everyone buys their own suit — even if you all agree on “navy” — you can end up with:
- Slightly different shades
- Different fabrics
- Lapels that don’t match
- Waistcoats that clash in photos
Individually, they might look fine. Together, especially in professional wedding photos, the differences become noticeable.
Hiring from the same place keeps everything consistent. The colour, the cut, the styling — it all works together. And that makes a big difference on the day.
The Practical Side of Things
Buying means:
- Organising fittings and alterations
- Collecting everything in time
- Paying for cleaning afterwards
- Finding space to store it
Hiring simplifies the process. You’re measured, the suits are prepared, you wear them, and then they’re returned.
When you’re already managing seating plans, suppliers and timelines, reducing one area of stress can be invaluable.
So, Is It Cheaper to Hire Wedding Suits?
If you’re dressing multiple groomsmen in formal weddingwear, hiring is usually the more cost-effective option.
If you want a suit you’ll wear repeatedly in the future, buying may offer better long-term value.
The key is not just looking at the price, but at:
- How many suits you need
- How formal the style is
- Whether it will be worn again
- How important is perfect coordination to you
For many weddings, hiring offers the best balance of cost, convenience and a polished final look.
If you’re unsure, the best approach is to compare both properly. Try the styles on. Look at the full costs. Ask questions.
Once you see everything side by side, the right choice usually becomes clear.
Looking for help and advice with hiring wedding suits for your big day? The team at Salters of Rugby is on hand to answer your questions. Why not get in touch to book an appointment?
