Your wedding look is almost ready — now let’s polish it to perfection. So you picked up your freshly tailored suit — it fits great, the pants break just right, and the jacket hugs your shoulders like it was made for you (because it was). But before you hang it up and call it good, there are a few important finishing touches to check off. This groom suit prep checklist covers everything you need to do to look polished, feel confident, and show up photo-ready on your wedding day.

As a wedding photographer who has photographed hundreds of getting ready moments, trust me — these little details matter. And they show up in your photos.

Ready to look your best? Here’s your full groom suit prep checklist — everything you’ll want to double-check after your tailoring appointment to make sure you’re photo-ready:

1. Remove the basting stitches (they’re not supposed to stay!)

Those little “X” stitches on the jacket vent? The brand tag on the sleeve? They’re meant to come off.

🧵 Pro tip:
Remove:

• The “X” stitch on the back vents of the jacket
• The sleeve label/tag (usually sewn on one cuff)

Leaving them on is a super common mistake, but it can instantly make your suit look unfinished.

2. Open up the pockets — carefully

Suit pockets often come sewn shut. That’s not a mistake — it’s to help the suit hold its shape in transport. But they’re totally usable (especially the inside pocket).

✂️ Use a small seam ripper or sharp scissors to gently open them. Only do this if you plan to use the pockets — if not, leave them closed to avoid sagging.

3. Steam it — don’t iron it

Wrinkles happen, especially when transporting your suit. But a hot iron can scorch or flatten delicate fabric. A steamer is the safest way to freshen up your look without damaging the suit’s texture.

📸 Why it matters in photos:
Wrinkled pants and a crumpled jacket show up big time in close-ups and detail shots. A well-steamed suit looks crisp, clean, and intentional.

Need help choosing a steamer or brush? This Oliver Wicks guide has great tips for caring for your suit at home.

4. Polish your shoes (yes, even new ones)

New doesn’t always mean clean. Give your shoes a light polish the night before the wedding — even just a quick wipe with a cloth and leather conditioner can make them photo-ready.

👞 Bonus tip:
Break them in a little before the big day! Wear them around the house with thick socks to avoid blisters.

5. Plan your underlayers intentionally

What’s under your suit matters more than you’d think.

👔 Tips:

• Avoid undershirts with visible collars or logos
• Choose fitted boxer briefs (loose boxers bunch under dress pants!)
• Consider a thin, moisture-wicking undershirt if it’s a summer wedding

Comfort = confidence. And confidence photographs really well.

6. Prep a flatlay moment

This one’s for the photographers — and the memory-keepers. Set aside the following for detail photos:

• Tie or bowtie
• Cufflinks
• Watch
• Cologne bottle
• Shoes
• Socks
• Any family heirlooms (tie pin, handkerchief, etc.)

💡 Place them all in one box or garment bag pocket so they’re easy to hand over on the day of- or even better- put them with your partner’s details so they can be photographed all together & at once

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Just a Groom — You’re the Main Character

These little finishing touches help you look polished and feel confident — and that energy carries through the entire wedding day. Whether you’re a groom reading this yourself or passing it along to your partner, this groom suit prep checklist is your go-to guide for nailing the look without missing a single detail.

And trust me — your future self will thank you when you see those photos.

Want more wedding day prep tips? Check out my Engagement Session Planning Guide for what to wear, how to prep, and how to feel confident in front of the camera.