MFMThe fine art of suit etiquette is dying off among modern men – with many unaware of simple rules such as wearing a contrasting colour of tie to your suit, according to a study.
Over two-thirds of men said they were likely to wear a suit to a party, and with the festive season nearly upon us, researchers found that four in 10 men regularly commit a suit faux pas, such as wearing a belt with braces and mismatching tie and suit colours.
Not wearing a light pocket square with a dark suit and removing the stitching are other common
subtle mistakes men have made when dressing to impress this winter party season.
The study was commissioned by Suit Direct, which has issued a new guide in a bid to preserve the finer details of formal dresswear, especially in the run up to Christmas.
Top stylist, Benedict Browne has teamed-up with Suit Direct – he said: “Before putting a suit on, there are many things that we need to consider.
“While many of the rules to wearing a suit might be subtle, they can really play a big part in bringing the whole look together. Unfortunately, wearing a suit isn’t as simple as throwing on a three-piece, but by considering the right elements, you will always look the part.”
The survey went on to reveal that throughout their adult life, men own six suits in total and it is at the tender age of 21 when, on average, they own their first. Almost a third (31 per cent) acknowledge they need replacing because they are ‘outdated’.
Of those that are planning on attending a party this winter, nearly seven in 10 (68 per cent) will be wearing a suit, with the slim fit and tuxedo most likely to make an appearance in the coming months.
Overall, more than half (56 per cent) say that wearing a suit plays a part in making them “feel great”.
Benedict Browne added: “Getting dressed up is a brilliant way to boost your confidence and your mood – and there’s no better time to do it when the weather is turning dark and damp.
“Wearing a well-fitted and pin-sharp suit is a guaranteed way to inject a bit of glamour and attitude to any event you might be attending.”
To see what looks Benedict Browne recommends for date nights and parties click here.
SUIT ETIQUETTE 101 – TOP TIPS FOR WEARING YOUR SUIT WITH STYLE
Fashion experts at Suit Direct know a thing or two about men’s suiting and have also pulled together their top tips for wearing your suit with style and confidence.
TO TIE OR NOT TO TIE
Up to you! In modern menswear, ties are not a necessity to create a smart suiting look.
A smart dress shirt paired with a neutral-coloured suit will give a sleek, tailored look.
But there is also a time and a place for a tie if you want to take your look to the next level.
ACCESSORISE TO BRING OUT YOUR PERSONAL STYLE
Accessories such as a bold tie or bright pair of socks can add personality to a final look.
Think of your suit as the starting point and build from there.
Choose accessories that compliment your suit and your personality.
The key thing to remember is that less is more.
Stick with one or two statement pieces or a simple piece of jewellery to complete the look
LAYERS
Adding a smart waistcoat or overcoat over a suit adds an extra level of sophistication.
A waistcoat completes a three-piece suit, but it also looks great on its own when the jacket comes off.
THE BELT AND SHOES RULE
The unspoken rule is that your belt and shoes should match.
This gives a polished and complete look and doesn’t draw unnecessary attention to either the belt or the shoe.
So, when wearing a suit, we’d recommend pairing a leather belt with a leather shoe of the same colour – typically black or brown.
BUTTON ETIQUETTE
The last button on your suit jacket should always be open giving a smart, relaxed aesthetic.
Don’t forget to unfasten the top button when you sit down so that the suit jacket will fall naturally around your waist.
And always keep the top button of a smart shirt buttoned-up when wearing a tie.
SIZE MATTERS
Make sure you find a suit that fits you well – enlist the help of a tailor to ensure that the suit matches your measurements.
For dress shirts it should have a tailored look but should never feel too tight or uncomfortable and the collar should never look or feel like its choking you.
POCKET SQUARES
Pocket squares should be a standalone look and should not match your tie.
If you’re wearing a darker suit, we’d recommend a lighter pocket square and vice versa.
The key thing to remember with pocket squares is that they are meant to add flair to the suit so it’s alright if they stand out.
LINE IT UP WITH THE BELT
Both your tie and waistcoat should line up with the top of your belt and not go any lower for a polished and slick look.