What to wear at work: the business suit
What you need to know about this essential suit style.
WHAT EXACTLY IS A BUSINESS SUIT?
Heard the term business suit but not really sure what it means? We’re shedding some light on what you need to know about this more formal men’s style.
What is a business suit?
As you might have guessed, a business suit is a more formal style of workwear that can be worn every day. Usually found in the office or a professional setting, it traditionally consists of a jacket, matching trousers and smart shoes. It’s often worn with a crisp shirt in a neutral tone and an understated men’s tie.
Where should you wear a business suit?
Business suits are most often worn in corporate settings, though they also work for meetings or functions outside of the office too. That doesn’t mean that you can’t express your own personality when it comes to your workwear. There are no rules that say you can’t wear your business suit for other events or occasions outside of work either – the choice is totally yours.
Many workplaces have adopted a more relaxed dress code since returning to the office, but that definitely doesn’t mean the business suit is dead. It’s the ideal workwear for when you want to look polished, especially for more formal work occasions or meetings and presentations.
What should you wear with a business suit?
When it comes to your suit, you want to look professional, put together and stay pretty safe with your colour choices and accessories. Navy or charcoal grey suits are usually a good start for your business suit, without it feeling too formal or too much like black tie. Skip the super-shiny fabrics if you can, but if you really want a little touch of texture, keep it in moderation. Tweed is a great option – our take comes in a soft sage tone with a gentle herringbone pattern.
Wool and wool-silk blends are also a great choice for a business suit, usually with a less open weave. If you choose a patterned or printed fabric, go for something more subtle and office appropriate like pinstripes.
However, if your office is less formal (or you’re known for your personal style), there’s nothing stopping you from adding a bit more fun into your workwear. Swap your white shirt for a mock neck to tone down the look, adding a pair of chunky loafers for an easy, smart casual aesthetic.
When it comes to your accessories, keep them subtle. Go for understated cufflinks, plainer shirts and formal shoes, usually in black or brown, depending on the colour of your suit. Shoes with hole perforations, like brogues, are the go-to but wear what you’re going to be more comfortable in at the office, as long as it’s a smart style. Loafers are a great alternative, and can be worn with casualwear such as jeans or chinos too.
Tips for getting the right fit
Getting the right fit can make a big impact on how you look and feel in your suit at work. It can be the difference between feeling confident or self-conscious, which can really count when you’re in the office.
Measuring yourself, or getting professionally measured, is the most important step when it comes to getting the right fit. You can then use this to work out what your suit size should be, which means whether you order online or head into a store to try, you’re more likely to get the right fit and style for you. Trying out some different cuts and suit styles can really help you find what you’re looking for.
When you try on your suits, remember to move around in them. Even if you sit at a desk for work, if your suit doesn’t fit properly, you’ll be able to feel it when you’re moving around the office, so it’s definitely better to find out ahead of time. Take note of the length of your sleeves, how tight it feels on your shoulders and the leg length. Also, check out how the suit feels when it’s fastened and unfastened.
If you need some more fit tips, our suit fit guide will help you say on track and get the most flattering fit for your suit.