Stripes, a timeless pattern in menswear, seamlessly blend into both casual and formal attire. The versatility of stripes has solidified their position as a wardrobe essential for men. In fact, according to The Unstitched, every man should own a striped outfit that effortlessly transitions between relaxed and polished styles.
How to Wear Striped Suits for Men?
Types of Stripes
When it comes to stripe patterns on clothing, there are three main types: rope stripes, chalk stripes, and pinstripes. Rope stripes are characterized by bold, thick stripes with greater spacing between them, making them suitable for those in higher positions or seeking to make a strong impression. Chalk stripes, found typically on flannel wools, fall somewhere in between rope stripes and pinstripes in terms of thickness.
Pinstripes, which get their name from the Latin word for ‘small’, are thin, fine vertical stripes that run parallel to each other. These light-colored patterns often stand out against a darker fabric base. For those who don’t frequently wear suits, owning a pinstripe suit can be a valuable backup option.
What To Consider When Buying a Striped Suit
When selecting a suit color, consider how it complements your skin tone before making a purchase. This crucial aspect can make or break the overall appearance of your outfit. When it comes to stripes, think carefully about their width and prominence against the base fabric. A bold contrast between the stripes and the fabric will undoubtedly draw attention, whereas a narrower stripe may be more suitable for those looking to blend in.
According to The Coolist, the key is to strike a balance: wider stripes can create a statement when worn with a more relaxed silhouette, while narrower stripes are better suited to a streamlined look. A well-fitted suit can make all the difference. Rather than splurging on an expensive suit that may not fit comfortably, consider investing in a quality tailor instead. A tailored suit will always look more polished and confident than one that’s awkwardly fitted.
When it comes to styling, remember that at least one component of your outfit should feature a solid pattern. This can be achieved through the tie, shirt, or even the suit itself, creating a cohesive and stylish ensemble.
What to Avoid
When it comes to men’s fashion, there are certain pitfalls to avoid when it comes to stripes. One key mistake is incorporating neon-colored stripes into your outfit, which can be a jarring combination. Additionally, pairing striped suits with striped shirts that have the same width can create an overwhelming visual effect. Furthermore, attempting to combine different patterns, particularly stripes, can result in a look that’s more chaotic than chic.
By avoiding these common missteps and instead opting for harmonious combinations of colors and textures, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stylish and sophisticated ensemble.
How to Style Striped Suits
↓ 20 – Black And White Stripes
When it comes to accessorizing with a suit, the key is to create harmony rather than contrast. A subtle nod to complementary colors can make all the difference. Consider pairing a suit with a tie that features a touch of burgundy or maroon – and if you’re feeling bold, incorporate this same hue into your pocket square for added visual interest.
↓ 19 – Suit For Weddings
For a touch of elegance at formal occasions, a three-piece striped ensemble is an excellent choice. To avoid visual dissonance, ensure the colors are harmoniously coordinated. This timeless pattern can quickly become awkward if not matched correctly. As you explore casual wedding guest attire for men, consider the following suggestions.
↓ 18 – Chalk Stripe
When it comes to formal occasions, pinstripe suits are a safe bet – particularly those in darker shades such as navy blue. To elevate the overall appearance, opt for neutral-hued accessories and dress shoes that complement the suit’s tone.
↓ 17 – Double-Breasted
While the suit looks dashing in darker tones such as black or navy, it can also be styled up with lighter hues like pale blue or cream for a more modern look. For formal occasions, pair the suit with a classic shirt and tie featuring complementary colors that create a cohesive and stylish ensemble. Our comprehensive guide to men’s double-breasted suits will walk you through every step of incorporating this versatile piece into your wardrobe.
↓ 16 – Grey Pinstripe Suit
Instant sophistication is just a few strokes away when it comes to greys and charcoals. These versatile shades flatter every skin tone, making them an effortless addition to any event’s aesthetic. To take your look to the next level, try pairing these neutrals with complementary hues like blues and purples, which can subtly enhance their natural beauty.
↓ 15 – Best Ties For Pinstripe Suits
Elevate the overall look by pairing the dominant shade with a complementary tone that’s either one to two shades lighter or darker. This creates visual interest and adds depth to the outfit. For an extra pop of personality, consider introducing a salmon or hazel undertone into the mix, which can add a touch of whimsy and freshness to the overall aesthetic.
↓ 14 – Royal Blue
↓ 13 – Vintage Blazer
Opting for a smart-casual ensemble, consider pairing knitwear with horizontal striped T-shirts for a versatile look that effortlessly blends formality and relaxation. The timeless Breton stripe pattern is an excellent choice to strike a balance between sophistication and casual flair.
↓ 12 – Navy
Elevate your formal attire by pairing this versatile pinstripe ensemble with a button-down shirt and tie for a polished look, or shake things up with sneakers, a dress shirt, and a turtleneck for a more modern twist. Neutral hues like white, grey, and light blue provide a sophisticated backdrop, while bold options like dark orange or mustard add a touch of personality to your outfit. For added flair, experiment with different combinations that blend classic and contemporary elements.
↓ 11 – With Chinos
To create a cohesive outfit when pairing with chinos, focus on a limited palette of white, khaki, and black hues. This restriction allows for a streamlined look that effortlessly transitions from smart casual to business appropriate attire. For an added touch of sophistication, draw inspiration from the stripes of your blazer to inform the color of your chinos, resulting in a harmonious and stylish ensemble.
↓ 10 – With Jeans
While often thought of as a laid-back, everyday staple, jeans have the remarkable ability to effortlessly blend with nearly any essential item in your wardrobe. In fact, when combined with a more formal piece, the result is nothing short of stunning. A particularly striking combination can be achieved by pairing blue jeans with a blue striped blazer, creating a look that’s both chic and unexpected.
↓ 9 – With White Sneakers
To elevate the look of your outfit, consider pairing your suit with a crisp white button-down shirt. This classic combination is always a winner. Take it up a notch by adding a pair of sleek white sneakers that harmonize perfectly with the rest of the ensemble.
↓ 8 – Classic
This timeless piece is challenging to style due to its rich history. To create a sharp and sophisticated look, consider pairing it with a crisp white button-down shirt and a charcoal or grey tie. For a more contemporary twist, try combining it with brown shoes and a matching belt, which adds a modern flair to its classic design.
↓ 7 – For Travels
When it comes to dressing up for travel or leisure activities, suits can be a stylish and practical choice. Whether you’re headed out of town for work or just want to elevate your weekend attire, a well-fitted suit can make a great impression. For a versatile option that’s suitable for both business and casual settings, consider a navy blue striped suit – it’s a timeless classic that’s hard to go wrong with.
↓ 6 – For Parties
↓ 5 – With Turtle Neck
As the colder months approach, consider pairing a rich, dark-colored suit with a turtle-neck sweater – a stylish alternative to a traditional dress shirt that’s both understated and sophisticated.
↓ 4 – Business Casual
In the office setting, a pinstripe suit paired with a button-down shirt and contrasting tie is a timeless and versatile combination that has transcended its corporate origins. While it remains an integral part of many professionals’ wardrobes, the pinstripe suit’s influence extends beyond the traditional 9-to-5 realm. Today, this classic ensemble has evolved into a stylish and adventurous look that effortlessly blends modernity with sophistication.
↓ 3 – Casual Striped Blazer
While blazers are often reserved for more formal events, they can also be styled down for everyday wear. To achieve a casual look, pair your blazer with a simple white T-shirt that doesn’t cover up its texture and design. Leave the buttons open and let the undershirt peek through – this will add some visual interest to your outfit. For bottoms, opt for chinos in a neutral shade like khaki, which provides a nice contrast to the blazer’s boldness.
↓ 2 – Pink Perfection
To elevate the overall look, consider pairing your pink suit with a complementary shade that creates a harmonious contrast. A pair of blue chinos can add a nice touch to the outfit, bringing a sense of calm and serenity to the bold pink hue. Alternatively, for a more subtle approach, try combining the pink suit with muted tones like dove grey or sky blue, which will help tone down the brightness while still allowing the pink to remain the focal point.
↓ 1 – Red Summer Suit
While it’s tempting to stick with traditional outfits, injecting some flair into your wardrobe can be just what you need to spice things up. Consider wearing a bold striped suit that deviates from the norm – think bright colors like blue and black paired together in unexpected ways. This eye-catching ensemble is perfect for summer celebrations or any occasion where you want to make a statement.
