Formal Suit Rules Every Man Needs To Follow

Imagine an outfit that makes you feel confident, capable, and completely put-together. That’s the power of a great suit on important days. Yet, that power can be lost if the details are wrong. The fit, the length, the little choices they all matter.

To ensure you always get it right, follow these simple rules for styling formal suits for men.

The perfect fit is king:

The most important rule is all about fit. A suit should feel comfortable, not tight or baggy. The shoulders of the jacket must lie flat. Your shirt cuff should show about half an inch at the sleeves. The trousers should have a slight break, or a small fold, at the top of your shoes. A well-fitted suit always looks better than an expensive one that does not fit.

Buttoning your jacket:

This is a simple one to remember. A two-button suit: always fasten the top button and leave the bottom one open. A three-button suit: sometimes fasten the middle button, and always leave the top and bottom buttons open. When you sit down, undo all the buttons on your jacket. This keeps the suit from pulling and looking strained.

Your shirt and tie:

Your dress shirt should have long sleeves that extend past the jacket sleeve. The collar should be snug but allow two fingers to fit inside when buttoned. For the tie, the tip should just reach the top of your belt. A dimple in the center of the knot adds a nice touch of style.

The right socks and shoes:

Do not let your socks let you down. Choose long socks that cover your calves, so no skin shows when you sit down. Your shoes are also a focus. Black leather shoes are a safe and smart choice for most formal events. Ensure they are clean and polished.

The final touch: The pocket square:

A pocket square is a small piece of fabric for your jacket’s chest pocket. It is not meant to match your tie exactly. A simple white linen one folded neatly is a classic look. It adds a pop of style and shows you pay attention to the finishing touches.

Know when to take it off:

Your suit jacket is meant to be worn standing up. When you sit down to eat, or are in a casual setting, it is fine to take it off. This prevents it from getting wrinkled and is more comfortable. Just remember to hang it up properly afterwards.