Image courtesy Feather & Stone

We all know our Dads aren’t the coolest guys going around; they have a fondness for lame jokes and daggy clothes, and have spent most of your life embarassing you in one way or another. As my own Dad says, it can be hard to raise parents these days!

But another thing you’ll know about your Dad is that he’s always there when you need him, especially when it comes to walking you down the aisle. So if you’re lucky enough to have a Dad who loves you, he’ll be thrilled to see his little girl saying ‘I do’.

Sentimenality aside, and returning to my original point – namely the one about daggy clothes – one of the biggest battles won’t be picking the flavour of the cake or deciding on the perfect floral arrangements, but getting dear old dad into a suit, and one that looks good.

So here are some simple things to think about in your quest to properly outfit the FoB.

What time of day and year will the ceremony be?

The former will denote formality; the latter says more about weather-appropriate attire. Full morning dress is the traditional top hat and tux combination, acceptable for weddings before 6pm. But if you want your Dad looking a little more sleek and slightly less cartoon character, then try a formal suit in blue or grey. For an evening wedding, go for a tux or dark-coloured suit. Linen is great for warmer climes, and therefore destination weddings or beach-side nuptials, while a lightweight wool is more formal. Lighter colours work better in Spring or Summer than the colder months, but if you’re unsure, dark is a great way to go all year round.

Image courtesy Ben Yew

He’s doing it for you

If he’s reluctant to get suited up, or to go as formal as you would like, gently remind him that it means a lot to you to have him there, and that it’s important to you that he dresses well. It’s not a superficial request, just another aspect of your dream day going the way you’d always imagined. Chances are, he’ll understand, and if not, try one of two things: make a compromise and meet him halfway, short and jacket without a tie, perhaps. Or number two, consult the Mother of the Bride for some solidarity and a firm hand!

Likewise, if your Dad wants to go all bells and whistles; top hat, waistcoat, big moustache and pocket watch, and that doesn’t really fit your idea of the perfect wedding, gently let him know, and tell him he needs to coordinate with the bridal party a little more. He’ll stick out like a sore thumb in photos if you don’t let him know!

Best Foot Forward

Many the years I have argued the importance of shoes with the males in my life, and so this is just as important as the rest. Shoes can make or break the aesthetic, formality and look of an outfit, and just wearing his comfy old man shoes won’t be enough. Go for classic lace-ups or Oxfords, and keep them clean and polished.

Image courtesy Jonas Peterson

Something to remember you by

While it is your day, and you’ll be the one getting all the gifts, you might want to say thanks for your parents for being there, for being them and for helping you out not just with your wedding plans, but for all the years that led up to the day. Why not gift your Dad a special pair of cufflinks to match his special outfit on the day? Or if you’re feeling generous, an engraved watch from you and your husband-to-be could be a touching gift for a Dad who has trouble seeing his little girl grow up – he can remember the day for decades to come, and treasure the memories.

Hannah x