Just Ask Leslie: Jewelry Tips

Dear Leslie,
My fiancé and I are getting married on March 25th. While I have gifts for my bridesmaids all picked out, my fiancé has gotten nothing for the groomsmen. I think that they deserve a gift as well. What is the etiquette with groomsmen, and what sort of gift should we get for them? I would like to get jewelry, as that is what the bridesmaids are getting, and then they could both wear their gifts to the wedding.
Theresa in Hoboken

Although still not as popular as the bridesmaids’ gifts, gifts for groomsmen are becoming more popular, and more expected. As with bridesmaids, a nice piece of jewelry makes the best gift for a groomsman, it shows your appreciation, is practical and can be worn to the wedding. Even when the last piece of wedding cake has been eaten and the bride and groom have left on their honeymoon, the gift will remain a souvenir of the wedding and the groomsman’s role in it.

If your fiancé does agree to buy jewelry for the groomsmen, you should be aware that the most popular gift choices for groomsmen are cuff-links and watches, though some give necklaces and bracelets, depending on the groom and the groomsmen. This pair of gold round onyx cufflinks will match almost any tuxedos or fancy suit, and are perfect for a traditional wedding, while this sterling silver and red enamel pair adds a flash of color and a touch of pizzazz. If the groomsmen are true fashionistas, this fantastic pair of sterling silver bar cufflinks striped with black rubber makes a stylish addition to the required wedding attire.

If watches are more your style, there are, once again, many options to choose from. My personal favorites are this handsome Croton two tone stainless steel watch and this stylish Michel Renee slimline steel case with silver dial and black strap. The good thing about watches is that they can be worn even with shirts that don’t require cufflinks to close, making them more practical for everyday use, though less directly connected to the wedding.

If your groomsmen prefer bracelets or necklaces, there are a number of styles out there which manage to look elegant and classy without sacrificing their masculine appeal. This men’s sterling silver necklace would look wonderful during dancing, when the groomsmen are finally allowed to remove their coats and ties and let loose on the dance floor. This polished silver bracelet with a lobster clasp also has a strong appeal, and its versatile look makes it perfect for both black tie and casual weddings.

Congratulations, and best of luck choosing gifts for the groomsmen!