The Dos and Don’ts of Wearing a Men’s Suit: A Guide to Perfecting Your Look

The Dos and Don’ts of Wearing a Men’s Suit: A Guide to Perfecting Your Look

When it comes to men’s fashion, there’s one item that stands the test of time – the mens suit. Whether you're attending a wedding, a business meeting, or a formal dinner, a well-fitted suit can make all the difference in how you're perceived. But how do you get it right? There are certain dos and don’ts to keep in mind when wearing a suit, and following these guidelines will not only elevate your style but also ensure you look sharp and confident.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of wearing a men’s suit, from fit to accessories, to help you avoid common pitfalls and make the right fashion choices.

Dos of Wearing a Men’s Suit

Ensure a Proper Fit

 

The first and most important rule when it comes to wearing a suit is getting the fit right. A suit that fits properly will enhance your posture, provide comfort, and give you a sleek, modern look. It’s crucial to remember that a suit should never be too tight or too loose.

A well-fitting suit should sit comfortably on your shoulders, with the jacket sleeves reaching just above the wrist bone. Your trousers should break gently on top of your shoes, with a slight crease down the front. If you’re unsure, always opt for a tailor. Tailoring is the secret to making even a budget suit look high-end.

Choose Season-Appropriate Fabric

Fabric plays a major role in your suit’s look and feel. A heavy wool suit is perfect for winter, providing warmth and structure, while lighter fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal for warmer months, keeping you cool and comfortable.

For formal business meetings, a mid-weight wool blend is often the best option as it’s versatile enough for year-round wear. Be mindful of the fabric’s breathability and texture depending on the season to stay comfortable and look put-together.

Match Shoes with the Suit Colour

The colour of your shoes should complement your suit. A classic black suit pairs well with black leather shoes, while a navy or grey suit often looks best with brown or oxblood shoes. Keep the overall tone of your outfit in mind to ensure a harmonious look.

Avoid wearing shoes that clash with your suit colour. For instance, never wear brown shoes with a black suit, as it can make the outfit look mismatched. Stick to traditional colour combinations for a more polished appearance.

Pay Attention to Accessories

Accessories can elevate your suit, but they need to be chosen carefully. A well-chosen tie, pocket square, cufflinks, or belt can add personality and flair to your look. However, it’s important not to go overboard.

For a formal look, keep your accessories minimal. A crisp tie, a silk pocket square, and classic cufflinks should suffice. If you're going for a more casual vibe, you can add some personal touches with a watch or bracelet, but don’t let your accessories overwhelm your outfit.

Opt for a Tailored Suit

A tailored suit isn’t just about the fit – it’s about personalisation. A suit made to your exact measurements will ensure that you’re not only comfortable but also looking your best.

Investing in a tailored suit might cost a little more, but it’s worth it. It allows for small adjustments to the cut, the length of the sleeves, and the fit of the trousers, making it truly yours. Plus, a tailored suit will last longer and hold its shape better than an off-the-rack option.

Keep Shirt and Tie Neat

A well-dressed man always looks after his shirt and tie. A wrinkled shirt or an untidy tie can ruin the polished look of a suit. Always make sure your shirt is freshly pressed and your tie is tied neatly. The tie should ideally reach just above the waistband of your trousers, and the knot should be firm and symmetrical.

Remember, a tie isn’t just an accessory; it’s a key part of your overall suit ensemble. Choose a tie that complements your suit and shirt colour without being too bold or distracting.

Don’ts of Wearing a Men’s Suit

Avoid Oversized or Too-Tight Suits

As tempting as it might be to follow the latest trends, never wear a suit that’s too oversized or too tight. While a slim-fit suit might be fashionable, it shouldn’t leave you feeling uncomfortable. Likewise, a suit that’s too big can make you look swamped and out of proportion.

A good suit should allow for movement, but still follow the natural shape of your body. It’s better to go for a suit that’s slightly on the fitted side, as tailoring can fix most minor fitting issues.

Unbutton Your Jacket When Sitting

A common mistake many men make is unbuttoning their suit jacket when they sit down. While it might feel more comfortable, it disrupts the sharp, structured look of the suit. Always keep your jacket buttoned when standing, and unbutton it only when sitting down.

When sitting, the jacket will naturally wrinkle a little, but leaving it unbuttoned for the sake of comfort is a mistake. Keeping it buttoned creates a cleaner silhouette and shows you’ve made the effort to dress well.

Don’t Mix Too Many Patterns

A patterned suit can be a statement piece, but it’s essential to strike the right balance when combining it with other patterns. Mixing stripes, checks, and other bold patterns can make the look chaotic rather than stylish.

If you’re wearing a patterned suit, go for a solid-coloured shirt and tie to balance out the look. Alternatively, if you have a plain suit, you can add some flair with a patterned tie or pocket square. But be careful not to overdo it.

Don’t Leave Your Shirt Untucked

A tucked-in shirt is the only option when wearing a suit. An untucked shirt not only looks sloppy but also ruins the overall sharpness of your outfit.

Ensure your shirt stays tucked into your trousers at all times, unless you're going for a more casual look with a blazer and chinos. Even then, it’s better to keep things neat and tailored rather than untidy.

Keep Accessories Minimal

It’s easy to get carried away with accessories, but too many can easily detract from your overall look. Keep your accessories minimal and in harmony with your outfit. A flashy tie, chunky bracelet, or oversized watch may distract from the sophistication of your suit.

For formal occasions, stick to the basics – a classic watch, cufflinks, and a pocket square. You can always add more personality for more casual or creative settings, but remember, less is often more.

Avoid Flashy Suits for Casual Settings

A flashy suit might grab attention, but it can come across as out of place in more casual or relaxed settings. Opt for classic colours like navy, grey, or charcoal for everyday wear and leave the bold, bright colours and extravagant patterns for special occasions.

Wearing a flashy suit to a casual gathering can give the wrong impression. Stick to more understated styles for events that don’t require a formal dress code.

Conclusion

Wearing a men’s suit isn’t just about dressing up; it’s about making an impression. By following these simple dos and don’ts, you’ll ensure that your suit is always on point, whether you're attending a wedding, a business meeting, or a formal evening event.

Remember, it’s the small details that make the biggest difference. From choosing the right fit and fabric to paying attention to accessories and ensuring your suit is always neat, each element plays a part in creating a look that’s both stylish and confident. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of wearing a men’s suit.