Suspenders, also known as men’s braces, have been a staple in men’s attire for over a century. Initially designed to hold up trousers, they’ve evolved to become a versatile accessory that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. Before World War I, suspenders were the primary method of keeping pants up, with belts only being used as an accessory on military uniforms. The leather belt is a relatively recent innovation in men’s fashion.
Today, it’s rare to see a well-dressed man without a belt, but suspenders remain a great addition to many outfits. One of the most notable aspects of suspenders is their versatility. They can be worn in various styles, including X, Y, and H shapes, depending on personal preference and comfort. Firefighters often opt for the H-shape design, while X and Y are more universally accepted. For a more unconventional look, suspenders can be styled to fall from the shoulders to the hips.
In the past, suspenders performed the role that belts do today – keeping pants up. However, belts have since become fashion accessories as well. So, how do you wear suspenders? What outfits work best with them, and for what occasions? What shirt colors complement suspenders? We’ve gathered 20 stylish ideas to answer these questions. While some may assume that suspenders are limited to plain black designs with varying strap thicknesses, this is far from the truth.
Today, suspenders come in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it easier than ever to find a set that matches your personal style – no need to stick to traditional black. That being said, black does exude a sense of sophistication.
Tips on Wearing Suspenders
When selecting suspenders to complement your outfit, consider the following key factors: length, width, material, and leather quality. Most suit pants feature interior buttons designed for attaching braces, allowing you to easily secure them in place. For pant styles without built-in buttons, a quick sew will suffice. With various sizes available, from skinny to wide, opt for a mid-range standard width if purchasing one or two pairs.
Mixing patterns is a modern and stylish approach – combine patterned suspenders with a printed shirt, but avoid clashing by pairing finer prints with broader patterns. Ensure the fabric of your suspenders harmonizes with the rest of your outfit. For a more subtle look, start with solid-color suspenders that can be used to accentuate the best parts of your ensemble.
If you prefer bold-colored suspenders, choose neutral, complementary, or contrasting colors – just remember that suspenders should always be darker than your shirt. JJ Suspenders’ expert advice suggests selecting looser-fitting suspenders and considering button-on pairs that can be sewn into the pants’ waistband. Alternatively, opt for trousers (or shorts) with pre-attached suspender buttons.
For solid-colored shirts, any suspenders will do – but feel free to get creative with bold-colored options.
What to Avoid
When it comes to pairing suspenders with pants, there’s a fine line between stylish and awkward. Unless you have a specific body type that requires them, it’s best to avoid wearing suspenders with pants that don’t need the extra support. When you do wear them, make sure the buckles are placed thoughtfully – neither too high up on your shoulders nor too low down by your waist. Aim for a spot around mid-torso or roughly in line with the middle of your tie (if you’re wearing one).
By striking this balance, you can create a polished look that’s both functional and fashionable.
Suspender Outfits for Men
When selecting the colors for your braces, it’s essential to consider how they’ll complement your outfit. A bold or bright choice can be striking, but it’s crucial to strike a balance between self-expression and professionalism. Avoid making a fashion faux pas by pairing overly flashy accessories with everyday attire – instead, reserve them for special occasions like costume parties.
To add a touch of masculinity and attitude without breaking the bank, consider leaving top buttons undone and pairing your look with ankle boots like Timberlands. This subtle yet effective styling move can elevate your overall aesthetic.
↓ 32 – Formal Style
When incorporating suspenders into your office wardrobe, consider starting with a classic color like navy blue or black, which will effortlessly coordinate with your shoes. This timeless choice ensures that your outfit remains sharp and polished. To add an extra layer of visual interest, pair your suspenders with a vest for a stylish and unique look.
↓ 31 – With Flannel
↓ 30 – With Dress Shirts
Traditionally, white shirts have been the go-to option for pairing with braces. However, in recent years, fashion has evolved and new styles have emerged. Influential fashion bloggers have played a significant role in shaping these trends, which now permit the freedom to combine braces with casual wear of any type.
↓ 29 – With Polo Shirts
↓ 28 – With Tees
↓ 27 – With Blue Jeans
↓ 26 – With Black Pants
↓ 25 – With Chinos
↓ 24 – With Shorts
While suspenders are often paired with pants, they can be just as stylish when worn with shorts. Imagine attaching them to a pair of shorts and pairing the outfit with a casual T-shirt – it’s a unique combination that’s sure to turn heads.
↓ 23 – For Weddings
Traditionally, suspenders have held a special place in the attire of a wedding groom, evolving over time from classic and formal to more whimsical and personalized expressions. This subtle yet significant change reflects the growing trend towards individuality and self-expression on one’s big day.
↓ 22 – With White Pants
↓ 21 – With Plaids
↓ 20 – Casual Wear
When it comes to accessorizing your outfit, incorporating subtle yet thoughtful touches can make all the difference. Consider pairing a pale blue shirt with dark jeans and brogues, and use thin bracing elements in a matching shade to create a sense of harmony. The thinness of the bracing will provide a nice visual contrast to the other bold components of your ensemble, while still tying everything together nicely.
↓ 19 – Braces With White Shirts And Dark Blue Jeans
When it comes to styling, some combinations are guaranteed winners. For instance, pairing burgundy stripe braces with ankle boots creates a visually appealing outfit. The key to making this work is finding a pattern that complements the rest of your ensemble – in this case, the blue stripes on the braces harmonize perfectly with the jeans. To complete this look, add a pair of shades for a polished finish.
↓ 18 – With Check Shirt
To complete this outfit, consider adding a simple accessory that complements the color scheme of the shirt. A pair of matching or complementary-colored braces can add a touch of sophistication. Meanwhile, opt for skinny jeans in a contrasting hue to create visual interest. Finally, style your hair neatly to one side, allowing it to subtly draw attention away from the bold top and towards the rest of the outfit.
↓ 17 – Smart Casual
A classic ensemble can be achieved by pairing a simple white long-sleeve top with blue denim jeans, complemented by the earthy tones of brown brogues. To add a touch of sophistication, consider incorporating dark-colored braces into the outfit, and complete the look with a rugged hairstyle that adds to its effortless charm.
↓ 16 – Street Style Look
The effortlessly stylish ensemble comprises a white dress shirt left open at the collar, paired with sleek black suit trousers. The addition of thin brown braces adds a touch of elegance, while the brown trainers bring a relaxed vibe to the overall look. The flat cap completes the outfit, giving it a charmingly casual feel.
↓ 15 – Fashion Blogger Style
A stylish ensemble is achieved by pairing rolled-up trousers with Timberland boots, creating a fantastic look that’s perfect for students. The blue shirt layered over a plain white T-shirt adds a touch of sophistication, while the dark blue braces bring everything together in harmony. This simple yet effective style exudes confidence and makes for a great impression.
↓ 14 – Yes, You Can Wear It On Beach
While many women may find this styling approach to be particularly alluring, the simplicity of pairing a white vest with black trousers and accessorizing with black slit braces is undoubtedly its greatest appeal.
↓ 13 – The Braces And Bow Tie
A closer examination reveals that it’s the subtle yet striking details that truly elevate this trousers and shirt combination. Specifically, the tartan bow tie adds a pop of color and texture, while the intricately woven plaited braces with ornate buckles bring a touch of sophistication and whimsy to the overall look.
↓ 12- White Half-Buttoned Shirt
Combine the outfit with black rolled-up jeans for a chic pairing. To add some visual interest, incorporate pale grey braces that subtly introduce a contrasting hue. For added flair, opt for brown leather and suede brogues, and complement them with matching driving gloves to create a unique and eye-catching look.
↓ 11- Barbershop Style
Elevate your style game by combining a classic checkered shirt with distressed denim jeans and a sleek black waistcoat. The bold addition of red accents through a statement hat, bow tie, and patterned braces injects a pop of personality into this outfit, setting it apart from the rest.
↓ 10 – MDV Italian Men Style
When it comes to styling, one often overlooked combination is pairing braces with a jumper. However, when executed correctly, this unexpected duo can create a stylish and eye-catching look. By incorporating the contrasting colors of the jumper and the brightness of the ankle boots, you can add a touch of attitude to your overall ensemble.
↓ 9 – Formal Style
For formal events like weddings, a pinstripe suit paired with a crisp white shirt makes for a stylish combination that doesn’t require a tie. The added touch of braces creates a unique feature that can hold its own without the need for a necktie – unless you plan on keeping your jacket on throughout the evening, in which case a tie could be a nice finishing touch.
↓ 8 – Plaited Braces and Bow Tie in Full
A well-coordinated ensemble is achieved by combining the flat cap, bow tie, and oxford shoes with the subtle contrast provided by the blue jeans. The monochromatic scheme creates a refined and sophisticated city look that exudes effortless elegance.
↓ 7 – Office Wear
Imagine a timeless ensemble where pale blue shirt harmoniously coexists with dark gunmetal grey trousers and matching square-end tie. To avoid overwhelming the color palette, opt for pale striped braces that strike a perfect balance. Elevate this classic look by adding a trilby or fedora style hat and complement it with brown polished buckled shoes. The overall effect is sophisticated and understated.
↓ 6 – Classy Style
This outfit combines a black patterned shirt with blue jeans, creating a classic and timeless combination. To add an extra layer of sophistication, pair it with stunning brown ankle boot brogues that elevate the overall look. The white stripe braces subtly tie in with the white top under the shirt, providing a thoughtful touch that breaks up the predominantly dark colour palette.
↓ 5 – Stunning Summer Style
In this ensemble, the bold red braces seize attention and harmonize with the color scheme. Yet, in my opinion, they could be slightly more subtle. A slimmer version would strike a perfect balance for this delightful summer outfit. The timeless shoes expertly bring the look to a satisfying close.
↓ 4 – Button Features
The ensemble is characterized by a harmonious blend of colors, with the lovely blue shirt serving as the focal point. The addition of a dark blue bow tie and matching pinstripe trousers creates a striking visual effect, while the brown braces provide a subtle yet thoughtful touch that cleverly complements the shirt’s buttons.
↓ 3 – Simple Casual Look
To create a stylish outfit, consider pairing a long-sleeved top with straight-fit blue jeans. For added sophistication, add a touch of earthy charm by combining the ensemble with brown ankle boots. Finally, bring everything together with tan-colored suspenders that add a pop of color and texture.
↓ 2 – Unique Way!
Instead of relegating your braces to the top shelf or hiding them from view, consider embracing their functionality while also flaunting their fashion potential. Your orthodontic accessories can be more than just a means to an end – they can also be a statement piece that complements your outfit and personal style. By wearing your braces down, you’re not only showcasing your newfound confidence but also expressing your individuality.
↓ 1 – Stripes
To pull off suspenders without appearing like a caricature, consider pairing bold stripes with a tailored suit. The red and blue stripes complement the paisley tie and create a harmonious ensemble when paired with a white shirt and black accessories such as shades and a watch. This stylish combination showcases the suspenders in a sophisticated manner.
When it comes to wearing suspenders, it’s essential to ensure they align with your personality and style to avoid feeling uncomfortable or giving off the wrong impression. Interestingly, punk and skinhead cultures have already popularized many suspenders, prompting some men to exercise caution when considering this accessory.
Frequently Asked Questions
The fundamental difference between clip-on and button suspenders lies in their aesthetic appeal. While some may argue that both clips and buttons have their place, The Gentle Manual suggests that suspenders with buttons exude a cleaner and more refined look, whereas clips are often used for a more playful or trendy effect. However, it’s essential to note that repeated use of clips can potentially damage the waistband of your garments over time.
When it comes to suspender straps, there is a range of options available. For those who want to make a bold statement, straps measuring 0.5-1 inch in width are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and sartorial flair to an outfit. Standard widths, typically ranging from 1.25 to 1.5 inches, provide a more classic look that is suitable for everyday wear.
For those who prioritize functionality over fashion, heavy-duty straps measuring 2 inches or more can be used to add support and stability to trousers. While suspenders are often associated with formal attire, they can also be worn in a business casual setting without the need for a jacket. In fact, suspenders can be a stylish alternative to a belt when paired with dress pants. However, it’s crucial to avoid wearing suspenders with clips if you’re dressing up for a suit.
Instead, opt for button suspenders that are designed specifically for formal wear. When it comes to combining suspenders with ties, the key is to create visual contrast between the two accessories. Avoid matching your tie and suspenders in terms of color or print, as this can result in an overly formal or matchy-matchy look. In fact, suspenders and ties are often used together to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to an outfit.
However, there is one occasion where you should never wear both suspenders and a belt: when dressing up for a special event or formal affair. Instead, choose one or the other based on the comfort, fit, and style of your trousers, as well as the dress code of the event. Ultimately, whether or not it’s worth investing in suspenders depends on your personal style and preferences.
While they may not be as sturdy or functional as a belt, suspenders can be a comfortable and stylish alternative for those who prioritize fashion over function.
