Groom's Guide to Cowboy Wedding Attire

For grooms embracing a western aesthetic on their big day, pulling together the perfect cowboy-inspired look is key. From classic denim to authentic cowboy boots, here's everything you need to know to nail your cowboy groom style.

What Grooms Wear To A Cowboy Wedding

Outfit Options

There are several ways to incorporate western flair into your wedding ensemble:

• Denim and Vest: Pair a nice pair of jeans with a vest in leather, suede, tweed or brocade. Add a crisp western shirt, cowboy boots, and accessories like a bolo tie or turquoise jewelry.

• Sport Coat with Jeans: Elevate your look with a sport coat, blazer or suit jacket over well-fitted jeans. Choose textured fabrics like tweed or subtle plaid. Finish with cowboy boots.

• Colored Suit: Make a bold statement in a suit in shades like burgundy, sage green, or dusty blue. Pair with cowboy boots, a western hat, and bolo tie.

• Frock Coat: For a historic vibe, don a frock coat as was common in the 1800s. Wear with a vest, dress shirt, string tie and cowboy hat.

Colors

No matter your outfit, feel free to accessorize with a leather belt with a statement buckle, cowboy hat, turquoise jewelry, or custom boots.

Color Palette Stick to these classic cowboy-approved hues:

• Neutrals: Shades of tan, khaki, beige and brown evoke a rugged aesthetic.

• Denim: From light to dark washes, denim is iconic. Incorporate through jeans, shirts, jackets or vests.

• White: A crisp white western shirt is a staple for contrast.

• Black: Use black for accents like vests, ties, boots or jackets to add formality.

• Burgundy/Red: Deep red shades add a rich, bold pop.

• Turquoise/Teal: Incorporate these blue-green tones inspired by southwestern influences.

Cowboy Boots

Complete your look with the perfect cowboy boots:

• Leather Cowboy Boots: Opt for full-grain leather boots in brown, black or burgundy for a timeless, dressy vibe. Styles like ropers or traditional western silhouettes are classic.

• Exotic Skin Boots: Boots in ostrich, caiman or lizard add luxe texture.

• Dress Cowboy Boots: Formal boots feature decorative stitching, embroidery or distressed finishes. The sleek silhouettes are wedding-ready.

• Square or Round Toe: Update the classic pointed toe with a modern square or rounded shape.

Invest in quality, well-fitted boots that complement your attire. Polish before the big day.

Cowboy Hat

• Hat How-To Top off your ensemble with an iconic cowboy hat:

• Felt Cowboy Hat: A dressy felt hat in brown, tan or black is traditional. Opt for a high-quality, wider brim style.

• Straw Cowboy Hat: For summer weddings, go breathable with a straw or palm leaf hat.

• Customized Cowboy Hat: Make it personal with a custom hat featuring embroidery, a special hatband, or your name and wedding date.

• Shaped Brim: Try a modern curved or "vented" brim shape.

Ensure your hat fits well and complements your overall look. Many grooms remove the hat for the ceremony but wear it for portraits and the reception.

Where to Shop For Groom Wedding Clothes

Head to these trusted brands for authentic cowboy wedding attire:

• Lucchese: This heritage Texas brand is known for classic, high-quality boots.

• Ariat: Performance-focused Ariat offers western styles fit for weddings. As the sponsor of Professional Bull Riders, they have serious cred.

• Tecovas: Find handcrafted boots in premium leathers at reasonable prices from this popular up-and-comer.

• Justin: Dating back to 1879, Justin is an iconic name in well-made traditional and modern boots.

• Tony Lama: Another El Paso institution, Tony Lama has been making distinctive boots since 1911.

Groom Outfit Inspiration

Look to these real weddings for inspiration:

• Rustic Ranch: The groom donned a tan suit, brown boots and a bolo tie for a classic western look. (Include example photo)

• Boho Cowboy: This stylish groom rocked a burgundy suit with an embroidered cowboy hat. (Include example photo)

• Modern Western: Pair a denim jacket with a brocade vest and gray jeans for an updated take. (Include example photo)

Tips and Tricks For Groom Cowboy Clothes

Keep these expert tips in mind:

• Break in boots before the wedding day for ultimate comfort on the dance floor. Wear them around the house with thick socks.

• Consider having your last name or wedding date embroidered on your boots as a custom detail.

• Attend a few two-step or line dancing classes with your bride-to-be to prep for the reception.

• Gift your groomsmen matching western shirts, belt buckles, or custom cowboy hats to complete the theme.

With these guidelines and inspiration, you'll be set to wow your bride and embrace your inner cowboy as you say "I do."

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.