In the minefield of groomswear etiquette it's easier to get it wrong than get it right, so learn from the mistakes of others with our top tips
Do make sure that any teenage/student-age ushers understand the meaning of the word ‘smart', if you are not hiring outfits. Make it clear that putting a tie with a pair of jeans or ironing a crease in a pair of chinos is not going to cut it. Don't wear a shirt with short sleeves, however brightly the sun is shining. When the jacket comes off later, the look will be too informal for such a special occasion. Avoid shirts with pockets, too. Do ask your best man to carry a spare pair of plain cufflinks. Someone is bound to turn up without any. Don't wear your Homer Simpson socks. You may be the joker at work, but this is a day to leave the sartorial sense of humour at home. Do go for a subtle pinstripe if you are short in the leg. It was long thought that pinstripes were out for weddings because they were too associated with the City, but relaxed attitudes mean guys can disguise their figure flaws too. Don't wear a new shirt straight from the packaging. Launder and iron it first to lose any stiffness. Do scuff the soles of your new shoes slightly to give them some grip on polished floors and take off the price labels! Don't pin your buttonhole on the wrong side. Men should wear their buttonhole on the left lapel, the same side as the handkerchief, if your suit calls for one.
