Here’s how to dress for the day before the big day – from the alternative suit to the quirky accessories.

Picking an outfit for a wedding can be a somewhat stressful affair in itself, whether you’re the groom or a guest. So let’s all just pause a moment to thank the universe for whoever it was that came up with the idea of the rehearsal dinner – a pre-wedding event that requires (as well as extra time spent with all one’s wayward relatives and family members) a whole other ensemble. And what exactly should that ensemble be? As you might have suspected, we at MR PORTER have a few suggestions on this front. Scroll down for demystification.

Given that you’ll probably be wearing a suit of the grey or black variety at the main ceremony, it makes sense to go for something in a contrasting colour for the rehearsal dinner. You can also afford to be slightly more adventurous on this occasion – after all your mother/aunt/weird cousin will love you whatever you wear – but that doesn’t mean you need to forego or sacrifice smartness. This brown suit jacket from MR PORTER exclusive brand Kingsman is both sharp, eye-catching and something a little bit different. Keep the rest of your colour scheme simple (as this is a somewhat non-standard hue) by wearing it with a white shirt from Canali.

The loafer is a perfect shoe for a smart casual situation, but also looks rather good dressed up with a suit. Use the rehearsal dinner as an excuse to break out this pair from Tom Ford, which, with their chocolatey colour and slightly burnished effect over the toe, will nicely complement the brown hue of your trousers. Avoid socks if possible – a flash of ankle is perfectly acceptable in this earthy, natural palette.

You probably don’t strictly need an extra watch for your rehearsal dinner. But as we at MR PORTER know well, acquiring these things can become rather addictive, so if you’re looking for a reason to purchase, say, a Zenith El Primero Chronomaster 1969, then here it is. The rose gold case of this particular model will look especially good with your brown suit, while the sporty styling of the watch overall has a more casual feel that’s appropriate for the occasion. The final touch? A patterned pocket square from Brunello Cucinelli. It’ll be great for wiping away those rehearsal tears.