Whatever the occasion, you can’t go wrong with a black suit. It’s a style classic, whether you keep it smart-casual with a T-shirt or go all out with a razor sharp tuxedo.
Black suits are perfect for weddings (for both grooms and guests), as well as for work functions, formal evening events and other black tie occasions.
But the key to nailing the look is getting the styling just right. This means the right shoes, accessories and finishing touches to match the occasion. Otherwise, there’s a risk of looking out of place – or like you’re going to a funeral.
Read on for tips on how to style a black suit like a pro.
What Colour Tie To Wear With a Black Suit?
Let’s start with a small and simple accessory, but one that can make a big difference to your overall look – the tie.
Which colour and pattern you choose all depends on the type of event and how formal it is, as well as the time of year and any stated dress code. Here are some ideas:
- Black – an obvious one, to be worn with a beautifully tailored black suit for formal events. Paired with a crisp white shirt, it’s a timeless formalwear look.
- White or light grey – white ties aren’t really common outside of designated ‘white tie’ highly formal events, but light grey is far more versatile. Choose a silk or subtly textured fabric for extra interest.
- Dark grey – charcoals and other dark grey tones are the ideal choice for work, business meetings and other formal work events. It’s polished and professional, but less stark than solid black.
- Blue – it depends on the shade, but a blue tie is one of the most versatile companions for a black suit. It lets you add colour, but without being too bold.
- Pastels – lavenders, powder blues and blush pinks are perfect for spring weddings, softening the contrast of a black suit.
Colours to be careful of: red is a bold statement, but there’s a risk of coming across as over-aggressive or intimidating, especially in business environments. Yellow is another one to use with caution, as the wrong shade can leave you looking washed out.
What Colour Shirt To Wear With a Black Suit?
A crisp white shirt is arguably the very best partner for a well-tailored black suit. It’s a classic, so you can’t really go wrong.
But if you want to try something different, light grey is a sophisticated choice. Light blue works well for professional settings, and soft pinks are ideal for warming up and softening a black suit.
The thing to aim for is contrast. Go too dark with the shirt colour and you’ll lose the contrast between it and the black suit, which creates a visual mis-match. So, opt for a lighter colour and you can highlight the clean lines and cut of your suit.
What Colour Shoes To Wear With a Black Suit?
With shirt and tie sorted, it’s time to think about footwear. The obvious choice is black – again, you can’t go wrong.
The options are quite limited here, as most menswear stylists will tell you that only black shoes will suffice.
If you do want to try something a little different, or with a touch more personality, you can choose black shoes with more elaborate detailing or texture. For casual events, you may even be able to get away with a pair of crisp white sneakers.
Can You Wear a Black Suit With Brown Shoes?
This is a common question when considering how to style a black suit – can brown shoes work?
Brown shoes with a black suit is controversial. Many people think it’s a fashion faux pas, while there is a camp that considers it acceptable if you match the shoes with a belt. Lighter tans are best avoided, in favour of darker, richer browns.
If in doubt, stick to classic black.
Does Black Tie Mean Black Suit?
Black tie does mean black suit, but not usually a standard black suit. If you see the term ‘black tie’ on an invitation, it usually means that male guests are expected to wear a tuxedo.
Unless you’re someone who regularly attends black tie events, you may want to consider hiring a tuxedo. It can be a cost-effective way to get a high end look, without buying a suit that you’ll hardly ever wear.
How To Style a Black Suit For a Wedding
Black suits for weddings are a popular choice, especially if it’s a glamorous evening affair or the couple have specified ‘black tie’ on the invitation.
Before thinking about what to wear and how to style it, check the invitation carefully. You don’t want to choose a bold tie or a pair of trainers, only to discover that other male guests have stuck to classic black and white tuxedos with formal shoes.
If you have free rein on styling your wedding suit, here are some ideas for adding personality to your look:
- Stick to a crisp white shirt, or choose a pale colour (i.e. pastels for spring weddings, to match the wedding colours or theme) that creates contrast with your suit
- For a different look, try a crisp white t-shirt or a black polo neck sweater. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s good quality or it could spoil the look.
- Add pattern or colour with your tie or pocket square – this is your opportunity to add personality and break up the black and white.
- Match your metals – from your cufflinks to your watch, stick to the same palette.
Key Takeaways
- A black suit with a white or light-coloured shirt offers the best contrast
- Grey and blue ties are the most versatile colours, working well for most occasions
- Black shoes are the safest option; brown shoes are more divisive
- A black tie dress code usually means a tuxedo
- If in doubt, stick to classic black and white styling – it never fails.
Need more tips on styling your suit? Get in touch with our friendly team here at Groom Hire to book an appointment – we’ll help you put together the perfect look.
