Jonathan Lopez Reyes

Where to get wedding suits in Chile? What color should the outfit be? How to dress for an evening wedding? How much budget to invest? These are just some of the questions you will ask yourself when you start thinking about the outfit for your big day.

And while some will have a clearer idea of what they are looking for, others won't even know where to start. If this is your case and you feel confused between the different options in men's wedding attire, clear all your doubts below.

How to choose the groom's suit

Matteo Bride and Groom

The first step to choose the groom's suit is to define the type of wedding you are going to celebrate. That is, if it will be a celebration in the countryside, in the city or on the beach; in the daytime or at night. But it is not only important to know where the wedding will take place, but also in what season, and also if it will be a church ceremony or just a civil ceremony.

With these data resolved, you will already know where to focus your search and you will not waste time trying on a tailcoat, for example, if your marriage will be casual.

However, it is also essential to consider your partner's look If the bride, for example, will opt for a classic princess cut dress, you should ideally choose an elegant gown to ensure synchronicity, but if your fiancée will opt for a bohemian-inspired design, then you will have more freedom to choose between different fabrics, cuts or colors.

Now, if you are both men, then you will have to decide whether you will wear the same or different suits. If you have similar tastes, choosing the same suits will be a good option, perhaps, changing only the color of the accessories. For example, both wearing black jackets, but with gray and burgundy ties. However, if you prefer different suits, you will have to make sure that they are the same color.If you like vintage fashion for example, you can choose; one, a suit with a waistcoat and suspenders, while the other, a suit with a checkered jacket. You can choose your suits in different colors, within the same range or in totally opposite tones.

Of course, whether you have to coordinate with your girlfriend or boyfriend, it is essential that you keep your essence and do not wear a tuxedo, for example, if it does not suit you and you will feel disguised.

Next, it is essential that set a budget to invest in your wardrobe, as you will find very different prices in wedding suits for men, depending on whether it is ready-to-wear, made-to-measure, second-hand or rented.

And another step is to go online and identify the different options, especially if you are not familiar with formal attire. Then, with some ideas already cleared, view wedding dresses catalogues If you're looking for a wedding, compare prices, check reviews from other brides and grooms, and make a note of the suppliers that offer what you're looking for.

Ideally, you should start this process at least six months in advance, as you will probably contact and visit more than one supplier until you find the right one.

How to choose the best supplier? In addition to the quality that must be guaranteed in your wedding clothes, it is important to choose a supplier, whether it is a large store, boutique, designer or tailor shop in Chile, that offers punctuality, experience and personalized advice.

Types of groom suits

Tailoring Ibarra

What are the names of the models of groom's suits? According to the degree of formality we distinguish between four types of groom's suits .

• Frac

On the one hand the tailcoat This suit, which corresponds to the dress of maximum elegance, so it is only possible to wear in evening marriages and with a dress code of strict etiquette. This suit consists of a frock coat that is short in front to the waist, while behind presents a skirt that reaches to the knees, which can be open or closed.

It also includes a waistcoat, shirt, humita and pocket handkerchief, while the trousers have a satin band on the sides and black patent leather shoes with laces.

• Jacket

Next in formality in groom's suits is the morning suit. This garment is usually worn for daytime ceremonies, either outdoors or indoors in a salon. This garment is characterized by a frock coat with semi-circular pointed skirts that reach to the knees at the back. It also includes a straight or double-breasted waistcoat, vertical striped trousers, a double cuffed shirt, a silk tie and a pocket handkerchief.

The high top hat and gloves are optional, and the morning coat is accompanied by black shoes with matte-finish laces.

• Tuxedo

The tuxedo The tuxedo, on the other hand, ideal for formal evening events, consists of a straight jacket that closes at the front with one or two buttons, with silk or satin lapels. And over the shirt, in addition to the humita, a sash or waistcoat is worn (never both pieces), while the trousers include a side stripe. The tuxedo is accompanied by black shoes with patent leather laces.

• The suit

Last but not least, the terno is perfect for more informal weddings or civil ceremonies. It corresponds to a suit that consists of three pieces: trousers, jacket and matching waistcoat. In addition, wedding suits are worn with a tie and shoes without laces.

Fabrics

Along with identifying the different types of wedding groom suits, it is essential to know the fabrics with which they are made.

Wool, for example, is ideal for making sophisticated outfits, such as a tailcoat or a tuxedo, as it is a high quality, comfortable and non-wrinkling fibre. It also provides breathability, an impeccable fit and can be used in both cold and warm seasons.

And, although it is cheaper than wool, another material widely demanded in men's wedding suits is viscose polyester, which is also elegant, comfortable, soft to the touch and timeless.

For shirts, cotton poplin tends to be used, while silk is the most commonly used material for waistcoats, ties and pocket handkerchiefs, whether plain or printed.

Now, if you are getting married in the middle of summer, for example in a beach ceremony, linen is a fabric that will make you feel comfortable, fresh and light, without losing formality at all. Or on the contrary, if you are saying "yes" in winter season, you will be right with a distinguished and enveloping velvet suit.

Colors

Another decision you will have to make is the color you will choose for your wardrobe and the truth is that the palette is becoming more and more extensive. For example, the tailcoat in its original version is black and white, although today it is possible to find tailcoats in other combinations, such as navy blue and ivory.

As well as jackets and tuxedos, which you can find in gray, burgundy, moss green and different types of blue groom suits. If the wedding is at night and gala, privilege a dark color suit. But.., how to go to a daytime wedding? In that case, play around with different shades, including pastels. In fact, if you're going for a gown for a daytime ceremony, you'll find plenty of alternatives in pale pink, light blue or vanilla.

For country, bohemian and vintage weddings, suits in brown and greenish colors are an excellent choice, while for a beach wedding, you will be 100 percent right with a beige suit.

But on the contrary, if your wedding will be full glamour, then do not give up wearing a satin outfit, like a purple or silver gray tuxedo. Whatever color you choose for your wedding suit for men, try to combine it with any accessory that your partner wears, whether it is the bouquet of flowers, jewelry or shoes.

And regarding the shirt, white is required for the most sophisticated outfits, while for the less formal ones you can explore different colors, such as cream or light blue.

According to the style of the marriage

Raúl Mujica Tailoring

What does a groom's suit have to be like? If you are planning a very sophisticated wedding, the ideal choice is a tailcoat for the evening and a morning suit for the day, while if your wedding will be black tie, then the tuxedo will be the ideal attire.

But there are many more options for men's suits in Chile depending on the style of each particular groom.

For example, if you are looking for wedding suits for modern men, go for a pair of slim fit trousers with a Mao collar shirt and a plain blazer, or opt for a brocade suit if you want to add an extra touch of extravagance to your style.

But on the contrary, if you are getting married in a rural setting, you may want to do without the jacket and give prominence to other accessories, such as a waistcoat or suspenders. In fact, you can always complement your style with an element that identifies you, for example a leather jacket, if you are a rocker groom, or a beret, if your inspiration is vintage, or if you are getting married on the beach,you can eliminate the tie and give prominence to your espadrilles or your guayabera.

And watch out that printed wedding suits are also on trend this season, whether it's plaid, stripes, dots, geometric motifs, floral patterns or abstract designs - on trousers, jackets, shirts and even socks.

Millennial grooms, for example, will fall in love with these modern wedding suits or with the possibility of mixing, for example, a mustard suit with humita and green printed socks.

Pricing: made to measure, buy or lease

Constanza Miranda Photographs

How much does a wedding suit cost in Chile? The truth is that you will find very varied prices, depending on the alternative for which you are inclined.

For example, if you want an exclusive suit that fits you, you should ideally have it made by an independent tailor or designer, and in that case you will have to pay between $500,000 and $1,200,000, depending on the fabric used, the tailoring (handmade or machine-made) and the accessories included. But the location will also have an influence, since a tailor in Santiago centermay offer you cheaper prices than one in the eastern sector of the capital.

On the other hand, if you prefer a ready-to-wear suit, made from a standard pattern, the value will depend on the label, for example, in national brands you will find groom's suits in Santiago and regions between $200.000 and $600.000; while in prestigious international firms the prices can go up to a million.

Of course, suits with elaborate pieces such as tailcoats or tuxedos will always be more expensive than a traditional suit. Now, if you don't plan to invest too much money, there are more options you can turn to, for example, quote groom's suits at Patronato, Santiago, where you will find new suits starting at $100.00.

Another alternative is to buy a second-hand wedding suit in Chile, either in physical stores or on Internet sites. In fact, if you buy it directly from its owner, it's possible that the suit has only one outfit, so it will look as good as new.

But another very practical option is to rent, especially if you want to wear a morning suit, which you know you will never wear again. Depending on the type of dress, you will find wedding suits for rent in Santiago starting at $70,000, leaving an equivalent guarantee.

Finally, if this is what suits you best, you can always buy or rent a wedding suit in pieces (half a suit) or just the accessories.

An excellent proposal for those who already have a suit that they want to reuse, which they can give a different look with a vest in a colorful tone to match the tie. You can buy or rent all the pieces separately, which will also allow you to save. A set with vest, humita and lapel scarf, for example, will cost about $ 50,000.

Either way, regardless of whether you're buying or leasing, the men's wedding suit fitting is a critical step. Don't make a decision without first seeing yourself in the suit.

Accessories

Manuel Beltran

But your look will not be complete without the right accessories, which will depend directly on the type of suit you are going to wear. Of course, so that they are all in harmony, choose preferably a wedding suit shop where you can also buy your accessories. Remember that they will be the finishing touch of your styling.

1. Humita

The bow tie is a compulsory accessory in formal suits such as tailcoats and tuxedos. In the first case, if the frock coat is black, the tie must be white; while in the second case, if the frock coat is black, the tie must be white.

But this accessory also goes well with wedding suits or more casual outfits, giving character and style. For example, hipster grooms often opt for colorful, plain or patterned humitas, which they combine with other accessories of their wedding clothes for men.

2. Tie

Another key accessory for the groom is the tie, which is a must if you opt for a wedding suit or tailored suit. A tie should measure between 142 and 148 centimeters, with the tip always reaching the waist. In addition, the knot should be firm and centered, covering the buttons on the collar of the shirt.

As for designs, you will find them plain and printed, either with stripes, dots, floral motifs or paisley. And regarding the color, you can combine it with the jacket, with the waistcoat or with the boutonniere, depending on each case. Just make sure that the tie is a darker shade than the shirt.

3. Tie

Also known as plastron, the cravat is more elegant and tends to be worn with a morning suit or with a wedding suit for men that necessarily includes a waistcoat, being able to choose it in the same color or in contrast.

On the other hand, the necktie has wider blades than a conventional necktie, approximately twice as wide, so it is more striking to the eye. It can be plain, printed or even have an additional detail, such as a discreet shiny detail.

4. Handkerchief and boutonniere

Both elements are decorative and although the protocol indicates that they should not be worn together, the truth is that it does not look bad. Of course, whether it is the scarf, the boutonniere or both, they should be worn on the left side.

The pocket square is used with formal suits, such as tailcoats, but also with men's suits for traditional weddings. And although the classic white pocket square is always a good choice, you can also choose it in the same colours as the jacket, waistcoat, shirt or humita/tie.

The boutonniere, meanwhile, is a discreet floral arrangement, natural or artificial, which is worn over the lapel buttonhole and is usually combined with the rest of the accessories. It is often chosen as a mini replica of the bouquet that the bride will carry.

5. Collars

Also called cufflinks or cufflinks give a touch of distinction to the wedding suits they accompany. The only requirement to wear them is that the shirt is double cuffed or French style, that is to say, that it has two buttonholes instead of one.

You will find necklaces made of steel, silver, gold, titanium or precious stones, among other materials, either in simple or personalized designs. For example, if you want necklaces specially made for the big day, you can order them with the date of the wedding engraved on them.

6. Clock

You can choose between classic or avant-garde watches, even a pocket watch if your style is vintage or a wooden one, if the wedding will be eco-friendly. And above its practical function, the watch is used as another element to elevate the man's wedding suit. Among the favorites are the discreet and timeless watches, ideally with leather straps and in dark colors such asblack or brown.

7. Suspensors

Vintage, bohemian, country or rockabilly brides and grooms are just a few who could incorporate jockstraps to their wedding outfits. It is a striking garment that is worn without a jacket and is usually accompanied by a humita, in the same color or a different one, but always highlighting over the shirt. You will find plain or patterned jockstraps, Y-shaped or X-shaped, depending on the figure you are wearing.form between the straps at the back.

8. Shoes

Finally, footwear is as relevant an accessory as it is for the bride, which you should select according to the etiquette of your outfit. For example, if your celebration will be elegant, go for classic models with laces, such as the Oxford or the Legate, in black or dark brown.

However, if you opt for a casual wedding suit, the Monk is a good alternative, as it has a buckle closure, as well as the Derby, which, although it has laces, has a wider and more open last.

But you can also choose a pair of sneakers if you are a millennial groom or if your style is urban. Or, if you are getting married on the beach and your wedding clothes will be even more casual, then you can wear moccasins or espadrilles without socks and in light colors.

Trends in wedding suits 2022

Raúl Mujica Tailoring

What are the most popular outfits this year? Without losing the elegance, the bride and groom are opting for comfortable, unstructured and functional outfits The latter, in the sense of reusing them.

Tailored suits with simple lines, few shoulder pads, trousers without darts and slightly wide lapels are some of the characteristics that can be seen in the new collections, as well as slim-fit trousers, which are more tailored than straight ones, and half-tailed trousers, inspired by the traditional morning coat, but shorter and without tails.

And as for the fabrics, combinations that bring a more casual air to wedding suits dominate, such as wool, silk and linen, or linen, polyester and viscose.

On the other hand, colours and prints are bursting with strength this 2022, allowing to create original and more risky compositions. Mixing, for example, plain trousers with a striped jacket, or grey trousers with a green jacket, that is, betting on outfits in which both garments do not match.

In terms of prints, the most popular are plaids, stripes, geometric motifs, floral patterns and abstract designs, while when it comes to colors, the range of blues, greens and purples are among the most popular, such as cobalt blue, bondi blue, moss green, mint green, light purple and purple, ideal for day and evening weddings.

But although the casual suits are the most popular, they coexist in harmony with another trend that is totally opposite: satin suits, brocade prints and velvet attires are also among the novelties in bridal fashion for men.

From having it made at a tailor's shop in Santiago, to buying it online, there are many options when it comes to getting men's wedding suits, so it will only depend on your taste, as well as the time and budget you have available for this item.