Whether you’re getting married as a man, woman, or something in between, the gender binary doesn’t have to limit your wedding attire choices. In fact, there are plenty of nonbinary-friendly options to choose from—especially when it comes to formalwear. In addition to choosing a wedding dress that feels like you, you can also have fun breaking other traditions, including having a wedding party with people who support your nonbinary identity and style, and opting for gender-neutral language in your invitations and other wedding materials.
When it comes to finding the right outfit, one place to start is by asking for recommendations from people in your community who know you well, especially if they are LGBTQIA+, says Jove Meyer of Brooklyn-based event planning company Jove Meyer Events. “This can help you find vendors that are more familiar with your needs and will hopefully be able to accommodate you better,” she says.
You can also look up gender-neutral vendors online nonbinary wedding attire to see what they have in stock. However, if you’re worried about the quality of your clothing or need to have it tailored, it may be best to shop in person. If you do decide to go shopping, it might be helpful to plan out your outfit ahead of time and have a couple of stores in mind to visit that carry the type of clothing you’re looking for.
Once you’ve decided on the clothing that best represents you, it’s important to stick with your style throughout the whole wedding day. This means not just avoiding clothes that look too sexy or overly feminine, but also wearing your hair and makeup in ways that align with your desired appearance. It’s also important to remember that your wedding day is about celebrating you and your loved ones, not about conforming to the expectations of others.
For example, if you’re attending a black-tie wedding and are worried about not being able to find a suit that suits you, try layering pieces to create your own unique look. Harry Styles, for example, wore a white button-up shirt with tiered ruffle long-sleeves over a collared undershirt and a bespoke bowtie. The result was a wedding outfit that was both classic and creative.
Another option is to buy a suit that’s specifically designed for bodies that aren’t traditional male or female. Kirrin Finch, for instance, is a Canadian brand that designs formalwear based on body shapes rather than genders. They offer a range of pants and waistcoats that can be worn together to create a tailor-made outfit for any elopement wedding, no matter your gender or size.
For a less-traditional but equally beautiful nonbinary wedding outfit, consider going for an open pinstripe two-piece suit. This elegant style is perfect for brides and grooms alike, and can be dressed up or down with the addition of a floral crown or flower bouquet. If you want to make your outfit even more glamorous, you can add in a pair of heels or boots and accessorize with a gold ring and necklace.