The history of the wedding suit is a long and varied one. In the early days, men wore their everyday clothes to get married. This could mean anything from a simple tunic and breeches to a more elaborate outfit, depending on the social status of the groom. In some cultures, men would also wear a special headdress or other adornment for the wedding.
- In ancient Greece, men would often wear a simple chiton, which is a long, loose-fitting garment.
- In ancient Rome, men would often wear a toga, which is a long, draped garment that is wrapped around the body.
- In medieval Europe, men would often wear a tunic and breeches.
- In Renaissance Europe, men would often wear a doublet and hose.
Evolving Fashions
As fashions changed, so did the wedding suit. In the 17th century, men began to wear more formal clothing, such as breeches and frock coats. This trend continued into the 18th century when men would often wear elaborately decorated suits to their weddings.
The 19th Century Onwards
The 19th century saw a shift towards more understated attire. This was influenced by the wedding of Prince Albert to Queen Victoria in 1840. Albert wore a morning suit, which is a two-piece suit with a cutaway front and tails. This style of suit became popular for weddings and is still worn today.
In the 20th century, the wedding suit continued to evolve. In the early years of the century, men would often wear three-piece suits to their weddings. However, in the 1960s and 1970s, there was a trend towards more casual wedding attire. This trend has continued in recent years, and many grooms now choose to wear a tuxedo or even a suit in a more contemporary style.
The Modern Wedding Suit
Today, there is no one definitive style of wedding suit. The groom can choose a suit that reflects his personal style and the formality of the wedding. However, the morning suit remains a popular choice for many grooms, as it is classic and elegant.
Here are some of the different styles of wedding suits that have been popular over the years:
- Morning suit: This is a two-piece suit with a cutaway front and tails. It is typically made from black or gray wool and is worn with a white shirt, a black bow tie, and a waistcoat.
- Tuxedo: This is a three-piece suit with a shawl collar and satin lapels. It is typically made from black or midnight blue wool and is worn with a white shirt, a black bow tie, and a cummerbund.
- Suit: This is a two-piece or three-piece suit in any color or style. It is typically worn with a white shirt, a necktie, and a vest.
No matter what style of wedding suit the groom chooses, it is important that it fits him well and that he feels comfortable and confident in it. After all, he will be wearing it on one of the most important days of his life. At Salters of Rugby, we have an extensive range of options for you to choose for hire or purchase. Book an appointment with us to discover more.
