Suits are a permanent fixture of men’s wardrobes. However, how you accessorize them is evolving. New concepts and ideas arrive regularly, changing expectations.
Accessorizing well can turn a simple, plain suit into a statement of confidence and sophistication. Getting it right allows you to tailor it to specific situations, creating the best impression possible.
Therefore, don’t just think of accessories as finishing touches. Instead, see them as something malleable you can use to your advantage, regardless of the situation.
So, what accessories are out there? Which should you try?
Ties And Bow Ties
Ties and bow ties are at the top of the list. These have been around for centuries and immediately complete a suit.
Ties are more work-focused and professional. These exude an air of authority, especially if you occupy a management position or are part of a senior team.
Bow ties have a more playful vibe and bridge the gap between formality and joviality beautifully. Many have a cheeky edge to them, offering a touch of flair.
Both approaches also have vintage appeal, making them ideal for themed events. Ties and bow ties immediately turn back the clock, taking your outfit back decades to a simpler time.
Lapel Pins
Another option is lapel pins. Adding these can refine your suit further and personalize your look.
Lapel pins are ideal when representing a company, movement, or idea at an event. These help signal information about yourself to others, making introductions go more smoothly.
Lapel pins are also highly decorative and formal. Metal versions give some heft to your suit’s aesthetics, allowing you to stand out in a crowded room.
Sometimes, you see lapel pins referred to as “enamel pins.” Don’t worry: they essentially mean the same thing. Many early lapel pins were made from enamel, hence the name!
Tie Bars
You could also consider accessorizing your suit jackets with tie bars. These help to make your tie look neater and more formal.
Whether you opt for a tie bar depends on your goal. Sometimes, looking more formal makes sense, for example, when applying for a job at a top company. Other times, you don’t need it.
Tie bars generally make suits look more formal. Most are metallic, offering a structured, geometric, and masculine look. Many men wear them at weddings, galas, and business events where formality matters more. However, they are optional.
Pocket Squares
Finally, you could accessorize your suit with a pocket square. These add a pop of color and visual interest to the whole ensemble.
Pocket squares evolved from handkerchiefs. However, today you wouldn’t want to blow your nose on them. Many have a sophisticated, sharp look whereas others have a more relaxed feel (with a puffier section that sticks out of the blazer pocket).
So there you have it: how to accessorize your suit like a pro.
Accesorizing Your Suit
Suits are a permanent fixture of men’s wardrobes. However, how you accessorize them is evolving. New concepts and ideas arrive regularly, changing expectations.
Accessorizing well can turn a simple, plain suit into a statement of confidence and sophistication. Getting it right allows you to tailor it to specific situations, creating the best impression possible.
Therefore, don’t just think of accessories as finishing touches. Instead, see them as something malleable you can use to your advantage, regardless of the situation.
So, what accessories are out there? Which should you try?
Ties And Bow Ties
Ties and bow ties are at the top of the list. These have been around for centuries and immediately complete a suit.
Ties are more work-focused and professional. These exude an air of authority, especially if you occupy a management position or are part of a senior team.
Bow ties have a more playful vibe and bridge the gap between formality and joviality beautifully. Many have a cheeky edge to them, offering a touch of flair.
Both approaches also have vintage appeal, making them ideal for themed events. Ties and bow ties immediately turn back the clock, taking your outfit back decades to a simpler time.
Lapel Pins
Another option is lapel pins. Adding these can refine your suit further and personalize your look.
Lapel pins are ideal when representing a company, movement, or idea at an event. These help signal information about yourself to others, making introductions go more smoothly.
Lapel pins are also highly decorative and formal. Metal versions give some heft to your suit’s aesthetics, allowing you to stand out in a crowded room.
Sometimes, you see lapel pins referred to as “enamel pins.” Don’t worry: they essentially mean the same thing. Many early lapel pins were made from enamel, hence the name!
Tie Bars
You could also consider accessorizing your suit jackets with tie bars. These help to make your tie look neater and more formal.
Whether you opt for a tie bar depends on your goal. Sometimes, looking more formal makes sense, for example, when applying for a job at a top company. Other times, you don’t need it.
Tie bars generally make suits look more formal. Most are metallic, offering a structured, geometric, and masculine look. Many men wear them at weddings, galas, and business events where formality matters more. However, they are optional.
Pocket Squares
Finally, you could accessorize your suit with a pocket square. These add a pop of color and visual interest to the whole ensemble.
Pocket squares evolved from handkerchiefs. However, today you wouldn’t want to blow your nose on them. Many have a sophisticated, sharp look whereas others have a more relaxed feel (with a puffier section that sticks out of the blazer pocket).
So there you have it: how to accessorize your suit like a pro.