Suit Wearing Etiquette

Correct Men's Etiquette for Suits and Tuxedos
by Victor B. Sancharo

Suit wearing etiquette is equally vital as design, color, and brand. Being ignorant about matching accessories or pairing the correct socks with a suit makes you very vulnerable to situations where you might appear silly or incompetent. This article will guide you through some of the most important considerations.

First, you must choose the style of dress shirt to pair with your suit. You should wear a button down dress shirt, with long sleeves, woven cloth, and a collar. The traditional colors are blue and white, since they are conservative. However, you may also chose a dress shirt with linked cuffs and cuff links.

Next comes the manner in which you button the jacket. This is determined by the button stance, which is a measure of how high the buttons are in relation to your waist. Double-breasted suits are kept buttoned. If there is more than one button to fasten, only the top need be. With single-breasted suits you have the option of leaving the jacket open or buttoning it.

When you choose a tie to go with your suit, remember that it is often a matter of taste, but it's best to stick with the conservative options. It's very important that your tie be darker than your shirt. The color should not be the same as the shirt. Try to get some hues from the shirt and the suit jacket onto the tie, so as to create harmony. Usually, simple patterns are preferred over something busy and garish.

There are four ways to tie your suit tie: Shelby, Four-in-hand, Half-Windsor, and the Full-Windsor. The last three are the most appropriate. Once you have your tie knotted, make sure the bottom of the tie stops no lower than slightly below your waistband.

The socks should match the leg of the trousers, yet darker than the trouser shade. If you cannot match the trouser color, match the shoes. They must be over the calf and made from cotton or wool.

Oxfords and Derbies are popular and conventional shoes to wear with a suit. Never wear a casual shoe. Black shoes are worn with gray or black suits. Dark brown shoes go well with navy and non-business suits. Light brown shoes are significantly less formal and are only appropriate during warm weather.

Lastly, consider the accessories worn with your suit. There are a few basic considerations here. Your belt should match your shoes. The only jewelry worn with a suit should be cuff links, tie tack, and a watch. Though not very common now, some men carry a handkerchief in their upper chest pocket.

That's all the basics for suit wear in today's day and age. Now you can avoid some common mistakes and blunders and look your best.