Dressing for Your Body Type as a Groom – A Men's Style Guide

Your wedding day is one of the most photographed and memorable days of your life, and as the groom, you deserve to look and feel exceptional. While tuxedo rentals and off-the-rack suits are convenient, they don't always do justice to your unique body type. That's where this men's style guide comes into play. As a style consultant with years of experience dressing grooms of all shapes and sizes, I've seen firsthand how tailoring your look to your body type can elevate your presence and confidence on your big day.

A groom in a white tuxedo jacket stands with his groomsmen, sharing a moment before the wedding.

Why Dressing for Your Body Type Matters

Just like brides choose gowns that flatter their silhouettes, grooms should embrace style choices that enhance their frames. A well-fitted suit tailored to your proportions:

• Boosts your confidence and posture

• Photographs better under different lighting and angles

• Communicates attention to detail and personal style

• Makes your partner fall in love with you again

The key isn’t just wearing the trendiest cut, but understanding how cuts, fabrics, and colors interact with your body.

Step One: Know Your Body Type

Before diving into fabrics and fits, identify your body shape. Here are five common male body types:

1. Rectangle (straight torso, shoulders and waist aligned)

2. Triangle (narrow shoulders, wider waist)

3. Inverted Triangle (broad shoulders, narrow waist)

4. Oval (wider midsection, slimmer limbs)

5. Trapezoid (broad shoulders, tapered waist, this is considered balanced.)

Now let’s explore tailored grooming advice for each one.

A groom adjusts his tie while wearing a sharp black suit adorned with a pastel boutonniere.

1. Rectangle Body Type

The characteristics of this body shape include shoulders, waist, and hips align evenly. Think lean, athletic builds without dramatic tapering. The style goals create the illusion of broader shoulders and a more defined waist.

What Works For This Body Type:

• Structured blazers with padded shoulders

• Slim-fit or slightly tapered trousers

• Double-breasted jackets for added width at the top

• Layering (vests, pocket squares) to build dimension

What to Avoid:

• Boxy cuts or unstructured suits flatten your shape

• Vertical stripes, these elongate but don’t add breadth

Pro Tip: Opt for lighter or brighter jackets paired with darker pants. This contrast visually broadens your upper body.

A groom wearing a stylish gray suit and a striped bow tie stands outdoors, adorned with a unique boutonniere.

2. Triangle Body Type

The characteristics of this body type are sloping shoulders with a wider waist and hips. The style goals are to balance proportions by enhancing the shoulders and slimming the midsection.

What Works:

• Single-breasted jackets with structured shoulders

• Vertical pinstripes to elongate the torso

• Darker hues on top to minimize volume

What to Avoid:

• Skinny lapels or thin ties make the upper body look narrow

• Light-colored jackets that highlight the torso’s width

Pro Tip: Avoid double-breasted suits; they draw attention to the midsection. Instead, focus on streamlined single-breasted options with nipped-in waists.

3. Inverted Triangle Body Type

The characteristics of this body type are broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and a classic V-shape. The style goals for this body type are to tone down the upper body and balance with your lower half.

What Works:

• Light colors or patterns on the bottom half

• Slim, not skinny, trousers to avoid looking top-heavy

• Notch or shawl lapels for subtlety

What to Avoid:

• Overly padded shoulders because they exaggerate an already broad chest

• Extra slim blazers, they can constrict and look disproportionate

Pro Tip: Stick to single-breasted suits with wider lapels to visually balance the chest and waist. Add a waistcoat for structure without bulk.

An elegantly dressed groom stands confidently in his black suit, bow tie, and boutonniere.

4. Oval Body Type

The characteristics include fuller midsection, round shoulders, and shorter limbs. The style goals for this body type are to create a longer, leaner appearance and structure around the torso.

What Works:

• Vertical pinstripes or subtle textures

• Longline blazers with a slight taper at the waist

• Monochromatic or tonal looks streamline the body

What to Avoid:

• Tight-fitting suits accentuate curves rather than flatter them

• Thick fabrics that add bulk

Pro Tip: A well-fitted waistcoat can elongate your midsection and create a polished look to ensure it doesn’t pull or gap at the buttons.

5. Trapezoid Body Type

The characteristics of this body type include broad shoulders with a narrow waist, a proportionate build. The style goal is to highlight your natural shape with tailored elegance.

What Works:

• Almost anything tailored, slim or modern fits

• Shawl lapels or peak lapels to emphasize V-taper

• Contrasting textures or accessories for style expression

What to Avoid:

• Baggy suits, they hide your balanced frame

• Over-accessorizing your shape does the talking

Pro Tip: This is the ideal body type for trying bold colors or patterns, like a burgundy velvet tux or houndstooth blazer.

A man in a stylish navy suit with a vibrant orange tie and pocket square shares a laugh outdoors.

Choosing the Right Suit Style: A Men's Style Guide

Let’s talk cuts and styles, each with its benefits.

Single-Breasted vs. Double-Breasted

• Single-breasted is universally flattering and works for all body types.

• Double-breasted styles add volume to slimmer or rectangular frames but can overwhelm those with broader or oval-shaped bodies.

A stylish individual in a sleek, double-breasted red suit and statement sunglasses stands confidently.

Lapel Styles

• Notch lapel: Safe, versatile, great for slim and oval frames

• Peak lapel: Bold and broadening—perfect for triangle or rectangular types

• Shawl lapel: Elegant and rounded, best suited for formal eveningwear

Trousers

• Flat-front trousers elongate the legs and look modern.

• Pleated trousers offer comfort for larger frames.

• Avoid cuffs if you’re shorter; they cut off visual height.

A groom adjusts his floral tie, exuding elegance in a burgundy suit, as he prepares for his wedding day.

Colors, Patterns, and Fabrics: What to Consider

Color Theory for Grooms:

• Navy and charcoal flatter nearly all body types.

• Deep jewel tones (emerald, burgundy) suit cooler skin tones and photoshoot settings.

• Lighter hues (ivory, dove grey, dusty rose) work for spring/summer weddings and warmer skin tones, but show stains more easily.

Patterns to Use Strategically:

• Vertical pinstripes = elongate and slim

• Windowpane checks = add volume, great for slim men

• Solids = timeless and slimming

Fabrics That Flatter:

• Wool: Ideal for structure, breathability, and year-round wear

• Linen: Lightweight but wrinkles easily, best for casual or beach weddings

• Velvet or Brocade: Luxe statement textures for bold grooms

Wedding guests make a stylish statement with distinctive suits and elegant watches, adding flair to their attire.

Footwear and Accessories

• Choose shoes based on the formality of your suit. Oxfords or double monks for classic tuxes; loafers or brogues for semi-formal.

• Don’t underestimate the power of:

  • A well-chosen pocket square

  • A complementary tie or bow tie (consider width and color)

  • Cufflinks and a sleek watch

Keep accessories balanced, too many and it looks busy, too few and it lacks personality.

Fit Over Fashion

If there’s one rule every groom should follow, it’s this: fit is everything. A mid-range suit that’s perfectly tailored will always look better than an expensive designer one that’s too tight or baggy.

Tailoring Tips:

• Jacket shoulders should lie flat

• Sleeves should show a half-inch of shirt cuff

• Pants should lightly break at the shoes

• The waistcoat should lie flat with no gaping

Invest in a skilled tailor or consider going bespoke if your budget allows.

The groom gets expertly fitted by the tailor, ensuring every detail is perfect for the big day.

Final Thoughts

Dressing for your body type ensures you don’t just look good, you feel unstoppable. If you’re unsure about where to start, consult with a menswear stylist or book a fitting with a tailor who understands body diversity. This is your moment, and you deserve to look like the best version of yourself, one that your future spouse, family, and friends will always remember. Smile widely. Stand tall. And wear your confidence like the finest accessory.