The Groom's Suit Checklist: Everything Before the Big Day
A timeline-based guide so that on the morning of your wedding, every single thing is handled, and your only job is to show up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should a groom order his wedding suit?
Four to six months ahead for made-to-measure, and at least six to eight weeks for off-the-rack with alterations. Ordering early leaves room to review the fit and make corrections without any pressure.
What should I check when my wedding suit arrives?
Try it on immediately. Check that the shoulder seam sits at the edge of your shoulder, the jacket buttons without pulling, a quarter inch of shirt cuff shows, the trousers sit at your natural waist, and the break is clean.
When should I do my final suit fitting before the wedding?
Two to four weeks before the wedding, try on the complete outfit with every accessory and photograph it in good light. This full-dress rehearsal leaves comfortable time to fix anything that does not look right.
How far in advance should I break in my wedding shoes?
Buy them two to three months out and wear them around the house for two to three sessions. Never wear them for the first time on the day itself, and make sure the sole suits your venue surface.
When should a groom get his wedding haircut?
Book it four to six weeks before the wedding, not the week before. That gives the style time to settle and leaves room for a trial if you are trying something new.
Should I steam or iron my wedding suit?
Either works, as long as it is done the week before. Steam or press the suit, then hang it in a garment bag somewhere it will not be disturbed, so there is no last-minute ironing on the morning.
What should be in a groom's wedding day emergency kit?
A lint roller, needle and thread in a neutral color, double-sided tape for pocket squares, spare collar stays, clear nail polish for small fabric pulls, and small safety pins. Pack it the week before.
What order should a groom get dressed in?
Trousers, then shirt, tie, and jacket, with the pocket square added last once the jacket is on. Finish with a lint roller, pin the boutonniere through the lapel buttonhole, and do a final mirror check.
How early should a groom get dressed on the wedding day?
Earlier than you think. Add thirty minutes to whatever you estimated, so you can dress unhurried, in good light, with everything already laid out in the same room.
What does a groom need to do the day before the wedding?
Lay out the complete outfit one final time, confirm the suit is pressed and shoes are polished, and check the emergency kit is packed. Put the rings somewhere visible and secure, then get a proper night's sleep.