A groom in Ghana may wear kente at his engagement, but for the white wedding most men choose a suit or tuxedo. That suit has to look sharp at the altar, hold up through photographs in the afternoon sun and still let him dance at the reception. Here is how to choose one.
Colours for the groom
Black and navy are the classic choices. A black suit or tuxedo is formal and suits an evening reception; navy is slightly softer and works well in daylight. Charcoal grey is a safe choice that suits most skin tones.
Lighter colours suit Ghana’s climate. Cream, ivory, beige and light grey suits are cooler under the sun and look elegant at garden and beach weddings. All-white suits have become popular for grooms who want to match the bride, though they need careful handling to stay clean.
Many grooms coordinate with the wedding colours through the tie, bow tie, pocket square or waistcoat rather than the suit itself. A navy suit with a wine tie, or a grey suit with a gold pocket square, links the groom to the theme without looking costumed.
Fit is everything
A well-fitted suit looks better than an expensive one that fits badly. The shoulders should sit flat without padding hanging past the shoulder. The jacket should button without pulling across the chest, and the sleeves should show a little of the shirt cuff. Trousers should sit cleanly on the shoe with little or no break.
Slim fits are fashionable, but grooms should be able to raise their arms, sit, kneel at the altar and dance. Ask the tailor to leave enough room to move.
Fabrics for the heat
Lightweight wool is the best all-round suit fabric. It breathes better than synthetic blends and holds its shape. Linen is cool and relaxed but creases easily, so it suits informal and outdoor weddings more than formal church ceremonies. Cotton suits sit between the two.
Avoid heavy fabrics and polyester-heavy blends if you will be outdoors. A fully lined jacket is warmer; a half-lined jacket is cooler. Ask your tailor about both.
Buy, rent or tailor?
Grooms in Ghana usually choose between three options. Buying off the rack is quick, but the suit will almost always need alterations. Renting is cheaper and common for tuxedos, but the fit is limited. Having a suit made by a tailor gives the best fit and allows you to choose the fabric and details, and many Ghanaian tailors make excellent suits.
If you go to a tailor, start at least two months before the wedding and book two or three fittings. Tailors are busiest in December and around Easter.
The groomsmen and male guests
Groomsmen usually wear matching or coordinated suits. They can match the groom in colour with a different tie, or wear a contrasting colour so the groom stands out. Male guests should wear a suit or smart traditional attire for a church wedding, and avoid white if the groom is wearing it.
Finish the look with polished shoes, a belt that matches them, and a fresh haircut a few days before the wedding. Keep a handkerchief in your pocket. In a Ghanaian church in the afternoon, you will need it.
