If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to get the perfect fit or style with a suit, you’re not alone.
In fact, a lot of guys make simple but common mistakes when it comes to wearing suits—whether it’s mismatched accessories, the wrong fit, or even forgetting to remove those pesky tags.
This video dives into the 21 mistakes men make when wearing suits and offering tips on how to avoid them, so you can always look sharp, polished, and confident.
Summary of the vieeo:
Proportions Matter
- Ensure your tie, shirt, and accessories match the proportions of your suit.
- Slim lapels require a slim tie and a smaller knot; wider lapels need larger accessories.
- A rule of thumb is to match the tie blade width to the lapel width for a cohesive look.
Shirt and Tie Combinations
- The shirt should always be lighter than the suit, with the tie being darker than the shirt.
- Avoid light ties on dark shirts—it can appear outdated or overly flashy.
- Matching a tie and pocket square is a no-go. Instead, coordinate complementary colors to avoid looking like a gift set.
Proper Suit Fit
- A suit should not fit like a second skin. It must have enough room to accommodate essentials without pulling at the seams.
- Watch for “bowing” at the buttons or creasing at the front—it’s a sign the suit is too tight.
Tie Details
Take time to tie the tie properly:
- Ensure a dimple forms at the top for a polished appearance.
- The tie length doesn’t have to meet the belt perfectly but should avoid extremes.
- Avoid loose ties—they look unkempt.
Mixing Suit Jackets with Casual Pieces
- Not all suit jackets work with jeans. Avoid pairing business suits (super 100s or herringbone) with denim.
- Opt for jackets made of linen, cotton, or flannel for a smarter casual look.
Attention to Sleeve Length and Shoulders
- Sleeves should be tailored to show a sliver of shirt cuff—about a finger’s width.
- The shoulder fit is the most critical aspect of a jacket, as altering it is difficult. A well-fitting shoulder ensures a smooth drape.
Layering with Knitwear
- Layering knitwear with a suit can look elegant, but:
- Avoid high V-neck sweaters—they can disrupt the visual balance.
- Choose lower V-neck sweaters or knitted cardigans for a refined look.
Accessories and Watches
- Avoid wearing smartwatches with suits, as they clash with the classic tailored aesthetic.
- Socks should be long enough to prevent showing skin when seated.
Removing Tags and Stitching
Always remove:
- Brand tags on suit sleeves—they’re only for store identification.
- Basting stitches on vents and shoulders, which are for shipping purposes only.
Buttoning Rules
For single-breasted suits:
- Only button the top button on two-button suits.
- Leave the bottom button undone for proper drape.
For double-breasted suits:
- Follow specific rules based on the number of buttons (e.g., leave the lowest button undone).
Outerwear Considerations
- Overcoats and raincoats worn with suits should cover the jacket length entirely for a polished appearance.
Pocket Usage
Avoid overloading suit pockets:
- Heavy items (like phones) should go in coat pockets.
- Distribute small items like keys or cards evenly to prevent bulges.
- Button back-pocket flaps on trousers to maintain a clean look.
Maintaining Suit Creases
- Always maintain the front and back crease of trousers. Hang them properly to avoid wrinkling.
- Creases enhance the polished appearance of your look.
Shoe Selection and Care
Shoes should complement the suit:
- Darker shoes (black, dark brown) are more versatile and formal.
- Avoid overly bright or orange-toned shoes.
- Clean and polish shoes regularly—dirty shoes ruin an otherwise great suit.
Backpacks and Tailoring
- Avoid carrying backpacks over a tailored suit. Shoulder straps can damage shoulder pads and disrupt the suit’s structure.
*Summary created by AI and edited by author
