Expert Tips for Matching Your Suit, Shirt & Tie

Thu, 10 Dec 09

A process most men would rather avoid, but the art can be mastered with good practice. The good news is there are no set rules to the game, just a few limitations to avoid any serious reputation damages. Read on for our expert tips... 

1. Start with the most dominant (and expensive) item – the suit. Then match the shirt and tie. The most versatile suits are solid (plain) colours in black, navy or grey.
2. Wear pattern shirts with plain suits and vice versa or a plain shirt with a plain suit. If the shirt is patterned then the tie can also be patterned (not exactly the same replicated pattern), if the tie carries similar hues that are also seen in the suit or the shirt..
3. Pinstripe, plaid or check suits look terrific with the right styling. It’s best to keep patterns separated - a patterned suit and tie. A plaid suit is considered the fashion statement of the outfit, so stick to a plain shirt and subtle tie. Match the small details and coordinate the big ones.
4. Have lots of striped shirts? You can wear a striped shirt with a pinstriped suit, but the stripes should be thicker – remember no duplicating. A wide pinstripe suit can is more easily matched with a variety of patterned shirts.
5. If you’re wearing a black or navy suit, stick with softer hues. Grey and charcoal suits are best matched with bright colours but also go nicely with pastels. Lift a light grey suit with a bold red, yellow or purple shirt. For a brown or tan suit stick to like colours in ivory, cream, tan, or unique colours like lemon or sage. The tie can be more flexible - choose contrasting or complimenting shades, or tones that pick up a colour in another part of the outfit.
6. Having a hard time finding a tie to match? Depending on the dress culture of your workplace, you don’t always have to wear a tie. If the shirt makes a statement, then lose the tie. Or go understated with a solid or subtle pinstripe suit and a plain coloured shirt.
7. In a hurry? If you’re in a frantic morning rush then stick with a plain suit, a white shirt, and then you can just about choose any tie you   like.
8. Attending a formal event? This requires a more unique approach. Start with the tie, match the shirt and then the suit. Make the tie the most expressive part of outfit by showcasing the v-chest area at the lapels. This is a great occasion for wearing solid ties or a nice self jacquard or paisley print.

Remember dress for your shape and personality and wear colours that flatter your skin tone. There is a growing popularity for custom made suits and shirts to achieve the prefect style and fit. Shirt Studio has several years of experience with made to order quality shirts and suits. Go to http://www.shirtstudio.com.au/made-to-measure to find out more.