Well-tailored suits are a cornerstone of men’s essential clothing. They can make you look sharp and professional, and ooze confidence from every stitch. However, committing common men’s fashion mistakes can quickly turn a dapper ensemble into a sloppy mess. This article highlights seven key men’s fashion mistakes to avoid when wearing a suit.
1. Donning a Suit That Doesn’t Fit
The most egregious of men’s fashion mistakes is wearing a suit that simply doesn’t fit. A suit that is too large can make you appear unkempt, while one that is too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort. The shoulders of the jacket should align with your own, the sleeves should end just above your wrists, and the trousers should break slightly above your shoes.
2. Neglecting the Services of a Tailor
Even the best off-the-rack suits often require minor adjustments to achieve that bespoke suits look. A skilled tailor can modify the jacket’s shoulders, sleeves, and waist, as well as the length and waist of the trousers. Don’t underestimate the power of tailoring in men’s fashion; it can elevate your ensemble to new sartorial heights.
3. Over-Accessorising or Choosing Inappropriate Accessories
Accessories can enhance your suit, but they can also sabotage your look if not chosen wisely. When it comes to accessories, consider the formality of the event. For instance, a black tie event necessitates a bow tie, while a cocktail event allows for a wider range of neckties. Also, ensure that your accessories are in harmony with your outfit. Over-accessorising is one of the common men’s fashion mistakes to avoid; stick to a few key pieces like a watch, tie, and pocket square.
4. Poor Suit Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of your suit are vital to prolong its lifespan and keep it looking its best. Common mistakes in this area include infrequent cleaning and improper storage, which can lead to the suit losing shape or acquiring unwanted creases. Regularly dry-clean your suit and store it correctly to maintain its crisp appearance.
5. Wearing Inappropriate Shoes
The right shoes complement a suit and complete the look. Formal occasions call for black oxford shoes or loafers, while brown brogues or loafers are suitable for less formal settings. Regardless of the style, ensure your shoes are clean and polished.
6. Overlooking the Details
Small details can make or break your suit ensemble. Unclipped loose threads, forgotten suit vent stitches, or ignoring the ‘sometimes-always-never’ rule for three-button suits can detract from your overall look. Attention to detail is crucial in men’s fashion, and a meticulously presented suit speaks volumes about your personal style.
7. Misinterpreting Formality Levels
Understanding the formality level of an event is key when it comes to matching your men’s wardrobe essentials. Wearing a tuxedo to a business meeting or a business suit to a black-tie event can leave you feeling out of place. Learning to distinguish between business casual and formal attire is essential to avoid these common men’s fashion mistakes.
Conclusion
Avoiding these seven common men’s fashion mistakes will ensure that you always put your best foot forward when wearing a suit. Remember, a well-fitted suit is one of the men’s wardrobe essentials, but it must be tailored correctly, accessorised appropriately, and cared for properly.
Whether you’re in London, known as menswear’s global capital, or anywhere else in the world, remember that good style starts with understanding the basics and avoiding common men’s fashion mistakes. If you’re ready to take your style to the next level, consider investing in a bespoke suit from the Hidalgo Brothers, where every stitch is a promise of excellence. Get in touch with us for more information.
Common Questions
1. Why is the fit of a suit so important?
The fit of a suit is paramount because it directly influences the wearer’s presentation and comfort. A well-fitted suit not only enhances the wearer’s silhouette but also exudes confidence, professionalism, and sophistication. Conversely, an ill-fitted suit can detract from the overall appearance, making the wearer look unkempt or careless.
2. How often should I get my suit tailored?
Ideally, you should have your suit tailored when you first purchase it to ensure a perfect fit. After that, if you experience significant weight gain or loss, or if the suit shows signs of wear and needs adjustments, a visit to the tailor is recommended. Regular wearers might also need occasional touch-ups to maintain the suit’s optimal shape and condition.
3. Can I pair trainers with a suit?
Pairing trainers with a suit has become a popular trend in modern men’s fashion, especially for more casual or fashion-forward settings. However, it’s crucial to choose the right type of trainers—ones that are sleek, clean, and not overly sporty. For traditional or formal events, classic footwear like oxfords or loafers is still the preferred choice.
4. What’s the significance of the ‘sometimes-always-never’ rule for three-button suits?
The ‘sometimes-always-never’ rule is a traditional guideline for buttoning a three-button suit jacket. The top button may ‘sometimes’ be fastened, the middle button should ‘always’ be fastened, and the bottom button should ‘never’ be fastened. Adhering to this rule ensures that the suit jacket drapes and moves properly, offering the best visual appeal.
5. How can I determine the formality level of an event and dress my suit accordingly?
Typically, the event’s invitation or guidelines will specify the dress code, be it black-tie, cocktail attire, business formal, or casual. If unsure, it’s always a good idea to ask the host or refer to the event’s official communication. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed, as a suit can be made less formal by removing a tie or opting for a more casual shirt.