2018.09.07 update

Learn the basics and advanced techniques of V-zone styling and coordination for bridal guests.

In recent years, wedding styles have diversified, and the dress shirt and tie section on the 1st floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building frequently receives inquiries about bridal attire. The attire of bridal guests (attendees) varies depending on the class and size of the venue, seating arrangements, and dress code, but this time we will explain how to combine a shirt, tie, pocket square, and other accessories based on a basic suit.

  1. Guests express their celebratory feelings through their attire.
    1. [Basic Guide] The Right First Choice for Bridal Guests
    2. [Advanced Section] Formal occasions are the place to express your opinions and attire.

Guests express their celebratory feelings through their attire.


  • The person who will be teaching: Kazuki Iwami
    Image consultant at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building
    Having dedicated approximately 10 years to the business field, he possesses extensive knowledge and experience in the dress wear sector. Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 5th floor: mainly men's tailored clothing; Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 1st floor: dress shirts, ties, seasonal accessories; Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building B1F: covering everything from men's shoes.

"With weddings and receptions becoming more casual, so-called formal etiquette is also changing. Japanese people are becoming as adept at dressing for parties as people in Europe and America, but in bridal settings, they are increasingly bridging the gap between casual wear and bridal attire while carefully considering their own position."

For colleagues or friends, a safe bet is a black or navy suit, but you can change the tie to a bow tie, or use a linen pocket square folded in three peaks instead of silk... Enjoying the party by arranging the V-zone and accessories is one standard way to think about the line between casual wear and bridal attire.

This time, the main theme is attire for the guest of honor, but the biggest concern for attendees is whether they will stand out in a negative way at the venue. If you dress inappropriately, not only will you feel uncomfortable, but it may also create an awkward atmosphere for those around you. On the other hand, saying that "a black suit is acceptable for all formal occasions" is rather bland.

Dressing appropriately so as not to offend anyone is important, but in addition to the so-called TP (time, place, and occasion), you should aim for a "well-balanced outfit" that also takes into account your relationship with the bride and groom and your own position in the wedding.

[Basic Guide] The Right First Choice for Bridal Guests


"In Japan, when it comes to formal occasions like weddings and funerals, a black suit is the norm, but in Europe and America, charcoal gray is the mainstream. Formal jackets have various rules and customs, such as the formality of having no vents and no flaps, but this time we'll introduce the 'go-to semi-formal attire'."


"It's closer to casual wear than so-called semi-formal attire, but it's an easy style to follow by simply changing the V-zone of your existing suit. Remember that the tie guests wear for celebrations should be a 'silver tie that is suitable for any time of day.' For footwear, the basic choice is black, unwoven silk or wool socks paired with lace-up straight-tip oxford shoes."


Pair a trendy tab-collar shirt with a pindot tie. Even just changing the shirt can create a subtle change around the neckline.


A button-down shirt paired with a bow tie in the brand's "Americana" style. A navy blazer with gold buttons and charcoal gray trousers would create an even more traditional look.


A white shirt with double cuffs paired with a hand-tied bow tie and mother-of-pearl cufflinks creates a sophisticated, grown-up look. It exudes a polished, experienced style and adds a touch of luxury.


[Advanced Section] Formal occasions are the place to express your opinions and attire.


While you should have a go-to "semi-formal attire" that's appropriate for any occasion, here are some outfit ideas for those who want to express their individuality at parties. All of these outfits utilize your existing black or navy suits, and by changing the V-zone and using accessories, you can create a look that surpasses everyday wear in terms of elegance.


Point 1: Ensure a consistent color scheme for your shirt, tie, and pocket square.



A navy suit with a British flair is given a touch of flair while maintaining a cohesive color scheme with a pink shirt, burgundy tie, and red pocket square.


For a youthful "all-black" look, pair a black short-point shirt with a tie and add a lapel pin to the jacket collar. Adding patent leather shoes completes the solid, polished image.


Point 2 | Add variety to the V-zone with a striped shirt



A trendy cleric shirt paired with a silver bow tie creates a royal blue ensemble.


The outfit is coordinated with the navy suit by selecting colors in the same family. The effective use of red conveys a cheerful mood.

Photo & Text: ISETAN MEN'S net

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