Men's formalwear trends for 2023

Grant Durrell, the senior menswear designer, and Mike Dobell, CEO, of Dobell, shared their predictions for the next big formalwear trends for 2023 weddings.

Grant Durrell commented: “Classic tuxedo and morning suit will continue to be staples, but we’ll see slimmer fit versions of these modern classics come in for 2023. Formal dressing is also on the rise, with inspiration coming from The Crown on Netflix and with the Royal family in the spotlight, and a double-breasted dove grey or gold buff waistcoat is at the top of the list for this trend.

“The most popular colours for men’s wedding suits are blue, grey, and black, however, relaxed tailoring with bold and bright colours is also expected to come through in spring/summer 2023. In particular, pastels – including pinks, blues, and greens – will be trending.

“Google search volume suggests searches for linen are up 25 per cent year on year, so linen with softer shoulder and buggy lined jackets will be the order of the day for mid-summer weddings, and (with the hot summer last year and forecasters saying we are in for a repeat this year) cotton linen blend breathable suits will be in."

Mike Dobell added: “Our sales show grooms prefer a more traditional look for winter weddings. A black wedding suit jacket followed by a black top hat and grey striped trousers, paired with a grey waistcoat is the basic items for a traditional morning suit wedding. Waistcoats for weddings are almost compulsory if you wear a morning suit, but you can add an air of modernity and personality beyond the usual silver and cream men’s waistcoats for weddings. Blue, red, green, or patterns are more and more common nowadays.

“If the big day is close to Christmas, what could be more uplifting and seasonal than adding a dash of crimson red, gold, or silver to your groom’s attire? Dark greens – reminiscent of Christmas trees and holly – are also festive and flattering and will team beautifully with on-trend tweeds or checks. Navy is excellent as a base colour for a late autumn or winter wedding suit and can be combined with a red and deep burgundy for a touch of passion and warmth. We are seeing aubergine used in this way too – a fabulous deep purple that works wonderfully when coordinated with elements of the bridal scheme.

“Go for the dashing ‘Lord of the Manor’ look with an English heritage brown suit, worn with a country-style earth-green tweed waistcoat and matching bow tie. Or, mix between vintage and fashion with a ‘hipster’ velvet suit, which is perfect for winter weddings!”

For more information, visit: www.dobell.co.uk