What to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner as the Groom

A rehearsal dinner is generally known as a "pre-wedding event," one that brings together the couple's close friends and family members ahead of the big day. If you're a groom, this is also an event where you can show off your special wedding day fashions and make a long-lasting impression on all of your guests.

If fashion isn't really your thing, however, we know that figuring out what to wear to a rehearsal dinner can oftentimes feel a little confusing. And while this celebratory affair is generally more casual than the actual wedding itself, dressing for this dinner mandates a bit more energy than just throwing on a simple suit, as you'll need to find attire that aligns with the dress code, venue, season, and overall wedding theme.

With all this in mind, we consulted with a personal stylist to help you figure out what to wear to a rehearsal dinner as a groom. Plus, a few expert tips on how to pick the best outfit for this special occasion.

Understanding Rehearsal Dinner Dress Codes

The dress code of your event is one of the most important factors to consider when determining your outfit, as you want your attire to fit the level of formality you and your partner have established. And though being overdressed is always better than being underdressed, understanding the main rehearsal dinner dress codes will allow you to look sharp and dapper for your pre-wedding debut.

Casual

A casual dress code likely means your rehearsal dinner is being held at a house, outside, or in a more casual setting. However, don't assume this means you should be in jeans and sneakers (unless that's what you and your partner want). Look for laid-back options like dress pants, khakis, and collared shirts, and if you need a layering piece, a nice cardigan or sports jacket can work. "I recommend leaning towards a more refined casual look, rather than a leisure one, as the latter can come off as lazy, homely, or trendy," adds Jasie Style, an LA-based stylist.

Basically, you want to be comfortable and relaxed, but you don't want to look like you're heading out to grab beers with some friends. "One of my favorite, easy, and distinguished casual looks for menswear that would look great for a rehearsal dinner is a vintage style, Italian knit, short-sleeved polo shirt. Full button front options are a chef's kiss," Jasie says. "Find a color or design that feels good to you. Pair with a tailored fit chino pant, stopping at or above the ankle, that coordinates or compliments the color of the top, and [add a] sleek white sneaker or boat shoe."

Semi-Formal

Though semi-formal can be a confusing dress code, it's basically the sweet spot between formal and casual. (Simply think of it as an elevated, stylish outfit that also infuses some of your personality.) "This dress code calls for quiet confidence and elevated style elements," Jasie explains. "While there are clearly defined lines expected with this dress code, it leaves plenty of room for you to inject some of your own style preferences into your look and have a little fun."

More specifically, she recommends a suit in a non-traditional color, like black, blue, sage green, or rustic orange. If you want to keep the suit more casual, she advises swapping the traditional dress shirt for a Pima cotton t-shirt. "The key here is fit," Jasie shares. "Whatever way you let your personality show through, make sure your outfit is tailored to fit your frame."

If you're opting for a more traditional look, however, go for a "less is more" approach. A go-to outfit that Jasie recommends is a light gray button-down shirt, tucked into slightly darker gray tapered trousers with dark loafers. "Don't forget to add in a nice watch, a hat, or dark sunglasses—of course, depending on the venue and atmosphere," she adds.

Formal

A formal dress code leaves you with basically two options: a suit or a tuxedo. As Jasie notes, it's the most restrictive dress code for menswear, and "has to be taken very seriously, or you will look and feel out of place." She also adds, "To differentiate yourself among the sea of black tux, you may want to consider the details of the lapel, dress shirt style, pocket square, cuff link, bow tie, and shoes." For a full suit, make sure you get something that fits perfectly, which will probably involve visiting a tailor. "My favorite outfit for this look is a brilliant blue, sharkskin, tailored suit," Jasie shares.

How to Choose a Rehearsal Dinner Outfit

Once you know the dress code, you should also consider the vibe and ambiance of the venue and the season, in addition to the details of your partner's attire and wedding theme. "Think about how you want to look and feel surrounded by some of the closest people in your life before the wedding," Jasie adds.

Based on the Wedding Theme

A wedding theme doesn't have to transfer to the rehearsal dinner, but if you and your partner decide you want it to, then be sure to follow it. "It is the groom's role to be the most elevated version of that theme," Jasie shares. "See what elements you can amplify in your look, while still making it cohesive and keeping it sophisticated."

Based on the Venue

According to Jasie, "Considering the venue can give you a heads up to take precautionary measures if you tend to get hot easily or sweat often—allowing you to wear appropriate undergarments, or opt for fabrics that are more breathable or perhaps not as fitted." She also shares that grooms can take cues from the décor when selecting their attire and day-of fashion hues. "Say if there is a lot of white in the venue, it may be a great idea to wear a different color so you don't blend in too much, or risk looking like one of the servers," the stylist explains.

Based on the Season

The weather will also have a big impact on your outfit. For the warmer months in the spring and summer, you want to be comfortable and cool, so lean into light, breathable fabrics (Jasie recommends silk, linen, and cotton), muted and lighter colors, and a classic silhouette. For the fall and winter months, Jasie recommends heavier fabrics like wool, high thread count cotton, tweed, and velvet. This is also a good time to wear darker, more rich colors that align with the season.

Based on Your Partner's Attire

Since you'll want your outfit to look nice next to your partner, coordinating outfits, or at least wearing outfits that complement each other, is a must. "It's a great visual representation of commitment and union—plus, it's aesthetically pleasing to the eye and helps you two look like a lovely couple in all the photos that will be taken and shared by the wedding party," Jasie says.

What Not to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner

You really want to dress to impress for your rehearsal dinner, so the biggest thing you want to avoid is anything too casual. Jasie recommends staying away from denim jeans, torn or distressed pants, and dirty shoes. "Anything that looks worn in is a big faux pax for this level of milestone," she adds. However, if you're really in doubt, ask your partner for their advice.