Most wedding parties aren't made up of identical builds. You might have a tall, slim groomsman next to a broad, shorter one, and an off-the-rack or hire suit in one cut rarely suits both. The result in photos is a mix of baggy sleeves, tight jackets and different trouser lengths.
Here's how to get a party that looks matched while every suit fits the person wearing it.
Match the look, fit the person
"Matching" means the same cloth, colour and details. It doesn't mean the same pattern. When each suit is cut from each person's measurements, the jackets sit at the same proportional length, sleeves show the same amount of cuff and trousers break the same way, even though the sizes are completely different.
What should match across the party
Cloth and colour. Order from the same bolt so the shade is identical.
Lapel style and width.
Number of buttons and pocket style.
Waistcoats, if you're using them.
Accessories: ties, pocket squares and suspenders.
What should be adjusted per person
Jacket length, relative to each person's height.
Sleeve length.
Trouser rise and break.
Shape through the chest and waist.
Ideas for setting the groom apart
The groom usually wears the same family of colours with one or two differences: a contrasting waistcoat, a different lapel, a three-piece while the groomsmen wear two-piece, or a lighter cloth. That keeps the party cohesive while making the groom the focus.
Timing for a wedding party
8+ weeks before — What happens: Choose cloth and style; book everyone's measurements
6 weeks before — What happens: Latest sensible start for a full party
2–3 weeks before — What happens: Fittings
1 week before — What happens: Collection, so there's room for small adjustments
Our custom and wedding suits take 4–6 weeks from consultation, so allow buffer for groomsmen who live away or have busy schedules. The Gold Coast groom's guide covers timing and buying versus hiring in more detail.
When some groomsmen are interstate
Groomsmen who live elsewhere can be measured when they're on the Gold Coast, ideally well before the wedding. Talk to us early and we'll plan visits around everyone's availability.
Hire or tailored?
Hire can work for a one-off, but sizing is limited and you're relying on what's in stock. A tailored suit costs more upfront, fits each person properly and is theirs to keep and wear again. Our article is a custom suit worth it? weighs this up honestly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you match groomsmen suits?
Use the same cloth, colour and design details for everyone, then cut each suit to the individual's measurements.
How far in advance should groomsmen order suits?
At least six weeks, and ideally eight or more for a full party.
Should the groom wear a different suit from the groomsmen?
It's common for the groom to wear a different colour, a waistcoat or a contrasting detail so he stands out while the party still looks cohesive.
How much are groomsmen suits?
Our wedding suits start from $1,100 per suit.
Plan your party
See our wedding suits page or book a consultation at our Mermaid Beach studio, and bring the groomsmen if you can.
