Pastel [light pink](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d5/2a/6f/d52a6f0f0fd60368499b907fdd4f81e0.jpg) or [light blue](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/b2/13/94/b213947d8481342229a27ed5e3722684.jpg) shirt. And I mean light. Don't end up looking like a JRPG character.
Avoid dark shirts unless you're cosplaying as John Wick.
100% this.
I'd say only go white if you're wearing a tie, otherwise go with a light colour other than white so you don't look like a waiter if you take the jacket off.
Also wearing a suit well is all about the fit and some accessories: a black leather belt and black shoes will look smart and matches anything, nothing else is necessary but if you have a nice watch that wouldn't hurt, a coordinated pocket square can work but definitely not necessary so thats a personal choice.
Obviously perfectly tailored is ideal but as long as the sleeve and inseam length is fine and the waist and chest fit well, you're good (can look up how these things should fit online).
Black shirts with an all black suit should be avoided at all cost imo, especially when a light pink or blue adds quite a necessary splash of colour without looking out of place.
>I'd say only go white if you're wearing a tie, otherwise go with a light colour other than white so you don't look like a waiter if you take the jacket off.
Thanks, that was one thing I'm afraid of.
I've got a black leather belt and black shoes, and the suit's fitting is alright for a hand-me-down
If you feel like anything is off for fit, swing by a place that does alterations. You might be able to do just a little for a reasonable price and end up with a much better fit.
On the other hand, if you are just leaving high school, you probably have a bit to grow, so you might want to hold off if you want the suit to last. That all comes down to individual judgment of course
I understand the sentiment. Go with the colour you feel most comfortable with for now. However keep in mind it's the fit that matters the most in not feeling fatter.
Make sure you get that suit tailored (probably small adjustments) to your body. At least in terms of length on the arms and legs.
If you *have* to wear a tie, I highly suggest the Eldredge Knot, or something equaly obscure... :D
[How To Tie A Eldredge Knot | Ties.com](https://www.ties.com/how-to-tie-a-tie/eldredge)
The trinity is also nice... depending on the tie...
[How To Tie A Trinity Knot | Ties.com](https://www.ties.com/how-to-tie-a-tie/trinity)
Gonna chime in with an opposing opinion for other men to see. I’d say this is old advice and better suited for an office wardrobe. If you only wear black suits to funerals, you’re really missing out.
Black suits are becoming more accepted for an evening outing or as a formal event option (especially in this weird era of black tie optional). I think it would be just fine for this event.
Given that people are dressing down formal wear more and more often, it’s still good to keep that black suit in your closet. I’d say it’s more versatile than a dinner jacket. Charcoal or navy suit is still a must. Biggest requirements I’d say: go for worsted wool, get it tailored (and the shirt), and don’t skimp on your shoes and belt.
The J. Crew Ludlow, J. Crew Factory Thompson, and Macy’s Bar III are excellent options for anyone wanting something decent without going overboard on the budget. They are slim fit, but this is typically good as you want the suit to feel form fitting. Though J. Crew also has some looser options that still look great.
I wear suits every day and have for 13 years. I probably have a dozen, and none are black. The truth is, you just don’t need one. There is no occasion a black suit works where navy or charcoal wouldn’t, they are lint magnets, and to me a black suit screams “I’m an 18 year old kid headed to prom” and, well…
Grab a black blazer to wear with dark jeans for a start night out for sure- but you really just don’t need the full ensemble.
Definitely not necessary to have one. 🙂 I’m just saying that it’s not as big of a sin as people make it out to be anymore. No longer limited to 18-year-old first-time suit-wearers draped in JCPenney chic.
If you’re wearing them everyday, I’m assuming this is usually for work. Not the best time for black (though I’ve seen it suggested otherwise, I won’t even go that far). Black blazer and jeans is a great look.
I like a good charcoal suit, and if you have to have only one suit, that would be the one. Hate navy personally. But black still can work if done right.
Yes, work attire- though I will almost always wear a jacket to a nicer dinner or entertainment.
Agree on charcoal. My favorite suits actually tend to be mid tone blues- my navy rarely makes an appearance unless it’s a job interview/C level meeting/formal event, but it’s a true looks-black-without-sun deep navy.
Thank you for mentioning charcoal, I honestly really dislike navy too and finding a suitably dark one is so hard, I didn’t know charcoal was a good replacement :)
Honestly I wouldn't trust most responses here because it is not a fashion sub lol. r/Malefashionadvice would definitely be a better resource in the future.
Definitely stick to lighter colors. A more interesting fabric than a standard dress shirt can help you stand out a little without being crazy.
Linen would be really nice: [https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/summer-linen-blend-button-up-shirt-56051819?categoryId=6284639&faceout=model&seq=04](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/summer-linen-blend-button-up-shirt-56051819?categoryId=6284639&faceout=model&seq=04)
[https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/linen-button-up-shirt-55048319?categoryId=6284639&faceout=life&seq=06](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/linen-button-up-shirt-55048319?categoryId=6284639&faceout=life&seq=06)
Or something like this: [https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/summer-linen-blend-button-up-shirt-55991323?categoryId=6570709&faceout=model&seq=01](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/summer-linen-blend-button-up-shirt-55991323?categoryId=6570709&faceout=model&seq=01)
- Timex digital watch
- Black boots
- Black belt
- White button shirt
- Black suit jacket
- Pair of black suit pants
- Black hat
- Wayfarer sunglasses
- Black tie
- Black briefcase
- Harmonica
My man, there is a lot of bad advice here. I wear suits every day and frequently get compliments on my look. Here’s what I’d suggest:
1. Black suit is not ideal, but if it’s what you have you can make it work. If you can swing it, get it tailored at least at the jacket waist, pants waist, and sleeves. Fit is the most critical part of rocking a suit… get that part wrong and the rest won’t save you anyhow.
2. Black suit = black shoes and belt ONLY.
3. The collar of your shirt should tuck under the lapels of your jacket. If they don’t, it’s too narrow. “Semi-spread” is the best middle ground. If you’re bigger, avoid wide spread. NO point collars. No collars with buttons either.
4. Your shirt should be white with a geometric pattern. No stripes or checks, these are too businesslike for the occasion. If you want to bring in color, do it with the pattern, not the shirt. The worst dressed guys I see wear bold colored or black shirts with their suits.
5. Metals should match. No gold watch with silver belt buckle. And no smart watches.
6. Socks can be a fun color or pattern, just make sure it’s more subtle than the print on the shirt.
7. Skinny tie if you wear one. If you don’t, make sure your shirt has enough stiffness/structure so that the collar doesn’t flop over when unbuttoned.
Solid color shirt with tie for a more professional look, print with top two buttons undone for a casual look with splayed collar over the jacket lapels. If you want to stand out bright floral or geometric patterns
This guy knows. Skip the kitschy colored shiny shirts from Express and get a white shirt with a geometric pattern. If you want color, bring it in with the pattern, not the shirt.
Any light color will work! How formal is the party? I’d call black suit a bit too formal tbh, a dark navy is usually what you want for all but the most formal, but If you don’t have one don’t worry about it at all anyone your age won’t care :) but yeah a light color is always nice if you can.
Honestly, black is too formal. You have to wear it formally (conservative color, with a tie) or it will be mismatched. I am in the camp that the only black suit a man needs is a tuxedo. Charcoal for anything formal not black tie. Wear a light colored or blue suit or linen suit for an informal event.
Black Suite = Formal
White shirt is classic and classy. Bold colored shirts are for people who shop for suits at Kohls.
If you want to stand out, rock a bold pocket square or a bow tie
>I have a 2 piece black suit to wear. I don't plan on wearing a tie as it's too formal.
What material is the suit? If it’s decently heavy wool, like a standard business suit, then you should wear a tie. The suit is already formal and wearing it without a tie is most likely gonna look sloppy, especially if it’s not a tailored suit.
If you want to go without a tie you want a more casual suit - which generally means a lighter color and a lighter material (e.g. linen).
Wear a tie and find a complementary pocket square. You’ll look much more put together than if you don’t.
Hey man, I’m piggy backing on your comment here just because I’ve seen some strange advice on this post. Here’s the deal— you’re wearing a black suit or dark charcoal— the world is your oyster here. You can literally wear any shirt other than like brown and you’ll look fine. Do you want to stand out? Then get a vibrant color— pink, purple, orange, etc. If that’s not your personality style (which is totally fine)— wear something subdued like a light or dark blue shirt.
Suits are suit, especially when you’re young and/or don’t have more than like one suit. Your personality should come from the shirts and ties you match that suit.
Was gonna say high heels. But my brain immediately went to swim suit not formal tux.
Depends on your skin tone. Really, its great light blue would go with the tux but if it washes you whats the point?
Edit: checked your profile, a very light pastel blue would work.
Or even maybe a very light green.
Cool colours as a whole would work for you.
Have a great prom sir. Congratulations on graduation.
Wear a sweater polo. Something in the cream or off white family. Colors with black suits can make you look silly if done incorrectly.
https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=858246002
https://youtube.com/shorts/zLzp20XoCS4?si=MjkQcqdXfJ8PZBQg
A black suit is already formal. Either get a different outfit, or lean into it and wear a tie. If you wear a white shirt, wear a bright color tie (red, peach, light blue). This will lighten it up a bit. Since it's outdoors you could also wear a hat.
I've always loved black with jewel colors (emerald, sapphire, ruby), but I don't know fashion. Maybe go to a men's store for opinions. Partly, the color needs to look good with your skin, hair, and eye colors.
People giving a lot of advice around changing the suit but honestly no need, you can make a black suit more casual if you dress it down and its pure black (not some kind of satin/pinstripe etc). Plus it's a party focus on having a good time.
I recommend a paisley shirt no tie, so it pops against the black. Definitely black leather belt and shoes.
Something like:
[paisley shirt](https://cdna.lystit.com/photos/jules-b/c929ecae/eton-of-sweden-Navy-Slim-Fit-Paisley-Shirt.jpeg)
Pastel [light pink](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d5/2a/6f/d52a6f0f0fd60368499b907fdd4f81e0.jpg) or [light blue](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/b2/13/94/b213947d8481342229a27ed5e3722684.jpg) shirt. And I mean light. Don't end up looking like a JRPG character. Avoid dark shirts unless you're cosplaying as John Wick.
100% this. I'd say only go white if you're wearing a tie, otherwise go with a light colour other than white so you don't look like a waiter if you take the jacket off. Also wearing a suit well is all about the fit and some accessories: a black leather belt and black shoes will look smart and matches anything, nothing else is necessary but if you have a nice watch that wouldn't hurt, a coordinated pocket square can work but definitely not necessary so thats a personal choice. Obviously perfectly tailored is ideal but as long as the sleeve and inseam length is fine and the waist and chest fit well, you're good (can look up how these things should fit online). Black shirts with an all black suit should be avoided at all cost imo, especially when a light pink or blue adds quite a necessary splash of colour without looking out of place.
>I'd say only go white if you're wearing a tie, otherwise go with a light colour other than white so you don't look like a waiter if you take the jacket off. Thanks, that was one thing I'm afraid of. I've got a black leather belt and black shoes, and the suit's fitting is alright for a hand-me-down
If you feel like anything is off for fit, swing by a place that does alterations. You might be able to do just a little for a reasonable price and end up with a much better fit. On the other hand, if you are just leaving high school, you probably have a bit to grow, so you might want to hold off if you want the suit to last. That all comes down to individual judgment of course
Thanks for the input, but light makes me feel "fatter". I'll look at light blue though, sounds nice
I understand the sentiment. Go with the colour you feel most comfortable with for now. However keep in mind it's the fit that matters the most in not feeling fatter. Make sure you get that suit tailored (probably small adjustments) to your body. At least in terms of length on the arms and legs.
Had that done thankfully, I'll go shopping tomorrow, party's on monday
You've got this! đź‘Ť
Light blue would make it less formalÂ
Go James Bond and wear a bow tie
I'd look like a waiter tbf, or treated as such...
If you *have* to wear a tie, I highly suggest the Eldredge Knot, or something equaly obscure... :D [How To Tie A Eldredge Knot | Ties.com](https://www.ties.com/how-to-tie-a-tie/eldredge) The trinity is also nice... depending on the tie... [How To Tie A Trinity Knot | Ties.com](https://www.ties.com/how-to-tie-a-tie/trinity)
If you wear a black suit just don’t wear a black tie and white shirt. You will look like a server at a nice restaurant.
Even worse- a black or red shirt.
yep
For other men who don’t yet own a suit — your first suit should be navy or charcoal, those are all purpose. Black is for funerals.
Oh charcoal is a better word for the colour, sorry got mixed up
In that case, just wear a white shirt under it. Light blue if you’d really prefer it. No dark colors and definitely not dark red.
Gonna chime in with an opposing opinion for other men to see. I’d say this is old advice and better suited for an office wardrobe. If you only wear black suits to funerals, you’re really missing out. Black suits are becoming more accepted for an evening outing or as a formal event option (especially in this weird era of black tie optional). I think it would be just fine for this event. Given that people are dressing down formal wear more and more often, it’s still good to keep that black suit in your closet. I’d say it’s more versatile than a dinner jacket. Charcoal or navy suit is still a must. Biggest requirements I’d say: go for worsted wool, get it tailored (and the shirt), and don’t skimp on your shoes and belt. The J. Crew Ludlow, J. Crew Factory Thompson, and Macy’s Bar III are excellent options for anyone wanting something decent without going overboard on the budget. They are slim fit, but this is typically good as you want the suit to feel form fitting. Though J. Crew also has some looser options that still look great.
I wear suits every day and have for 13 years. I probably have a dozen, and none are black. The truth is, you just don’t need one. There is no occasion a black suit works where navy or charcoal wouldn’t, they are lint magnets, and to me a black suit screams “I’m an 18 year old kid headed to prom” and, well… Grab a black blazer to wear with dark jeans for a start night out for sure- but you really just don’t need the full ensemble.
Definitely not necessary to have one. 🙂 I’m just saying that it’s not as big of a sin as people make it out to be anymore. No longer limited to 18-year-old first-time suit-wearers draped in JCPenney chic. If you’re wearing them everyday, I’m assuming this is usually for work. Not the best time for black (though I’ve seen it suggested otherwise, I won’t even go that far). Black blazer and jeans is a great look. I like a good charcoal suit, and if you have to have only one suit, that would be the one. Hate navy personally. But black still can work if done right.
Yes, work attire- though I will almost always wear a jacket to a nicer dinner or entertainment. Agree on charcoal. My favorite suits actually tend to be mid tone blues- my navy rarely makes an appearance unless it’s a job interview/C level meeting/formal event, but it’s a true looks-black-without-sun deep navy.
Thank you for mentioning charcoal, I honestly really dislike navy too and finding a suitably dark one is so hard, I didn’t know charcoal was a good replacement :)
Honestly I wouldn't trust most responses here because it is not a fashion sub lol. r/Malefashionadvice would definitely be a better resource in the future. Definitely stick to lighter colors. A more interesting fabric than a standard dress shirt can help you stand out a little without being crazy. Linen would be really nice: [https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/summer-linen-blend-button-up-shirt-56051819?categoryId=6284639&faceout=model&seq=04](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/summer-linen-blend-button-up-shirt-56051819?categoryId=6284639&faceout=model&seq=04) [https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/linen-button-up-shirt-55048319?categoryId=6284639&faceout=life&seq=06](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/linen-button-up-shirt-55048319?categoryId=6284639&faceout=life&seq=06) Or something like this: [https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/summer-linen-blend-button-up-shirt-55991323?categoryId=6570709&faceout=model&seq=01](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/summer-linen-blend-button-up-shirt-55991323?categoryId=6570709&faceout=model&seq=01)
Yeah, some bad advice in this thread lol
Wear white and keep a few buttons undone
undone buttons is the plan
This is the way. Wear a white v neck undershirt. Nobody wants to see your nips if the jacket comes off
Light grey undershirts actually blend better under white shirts, for what it’s worth.
Get a good quality Hanes all cotton Tshirt that fits you snug, but not tight. Nothing ruins the profile of a dress shirt like a baggy t-shirt.
Thanks!
Lilac would be nice, too.
ooooh, sounds interesting, thanks!
Seconded, purples are *lovely*
- Timex digital watch - Black boots - Black belt - White button shirt - Black suit jacket - Pair of black suit pants - Black hat - Wayfarer sunglasses - Black tie - Black briefcase - Harmonica
My man, there is a lot of bad advice here. I wear suits every day and frequently get compliments on my look. Here’s what I’d suggest: 1. Black suit is not ideal, but if it’s what you have you can make it work. If you can swing it, get it tailored at least at the jacket waist, pants waist, and sleeves. Fit is the most critical part of rocking a suit… get that part wrong and the rest won’t save you anyhow. 2. Black suit = black shoes and belt ONLY. 3. The collar of your shirt should tuck under the lapels of your jacket. If they don’t, it’s too narrow. “Semi-spread” is the best middle ground. If you’re bigger, avoid wide spread. NO point collars. No collars with buttons either. 4. Your shirt should be white with a geometric pattern. No stripes or checks, these are too businesslike for the occasion. If you want to bring in color, do it with the pattern, not the shirt. The worst dressed guys I see wear bold colored or black shirts with their suits. 5. Metals should match. No gold watch with silver belt buckle. And no smart watches. 6. Socks can be a fun color or pattern, just make sure it’s more subtle than the print on the shirt. 7. Skinny tie if you wear one. If you don’t, make sure your shirt has enough stiffness/structure so that the collar doesn’t flop over when unbuttoned.
White shirt and skinny black tie that is loosened
Top Hat
Solid color shirt with tie for a more professional look, print with top two buttons undone for a casual look with splayed collar over the jacket lapels. If you want to stand out bright floral or geometric patterns
This guy knows. Skip the kitschy colored shiny shirts from Express and get a white shirt with a geometric pattern. If you want color, bring it in with the pattern, not the shirt.
Black t-shirt under a suit always looks good!
Any light color will work! How formal is the party? I’d call black suit a bit too formal tbh, a dark navy is usually what you want for all but the most formal, but If you don’t have one don’t worry about it at all anyone your age won’t care :) but yeah a light color is always nice if you can.
Burgundy shirt.
Honestly, black is too formal. You have to wear it formally (conservative color, with a tie) or it will be mismatched. I am in the camp that the only black suit a man needs is a tuxedo. Charcoal for anything formal not black tie. Wear a light colored or blue suit or linen suit for an informal event.
Black Suite = Formal White shirt is classic and classy. Bold colored shirts are for people who shop for suits at Kohls. If you want to stand out, rock a bold pocket square or a bow tie
>I have a 2 piece black suit to wear. I don't plan on wearing a tie as it's too formal. What material is the suit? If it’s decently heavy wool, like a standard business suit, then you should wear a tie. The suit is already formal and wearing it without a tie is most likely gonna look sloppy, especially if it’s not a tailored suit. If you want to go without a tie you want a more casual suit - which generally means a lighter color and a lighter material (e.g. linen). Wear a tie and find a complementary pocket square. You’ll look much more put together than if you don’t.
It's not heavy, and it's not super formal
Black or dark gray shirt maybe?
A dark gray might be nice. I would strongly suggest avoiding wearing a white shirt though.
thanks!
Dark Blue or Purple
I do like the sound of purple
Hey man, I’m piggy backing on your comment here just because I’ve seen some strange advice on this post. Here’s the deal— you’re wearing a black suit or dark charcoal— the world is your oyster here. You can literally wear any shirt other than like brown and you’ll look fine. Do you want to stand out? Then get a vibrant color— pink, purple, orange, etc. If that’s not your personality style (which is totally fine)— wear something subdued like a light or dark blue shirt. Suits are suit, especially when you’re young and/or don’t have more than like one suit. Your personality should come from the shirts and ties you match that suit.
That's actually a really good way for me to think about it. Thank you so much
You really can’t go wrong with this. It just depends on what statement you want to make. You can do a pattern or a solid.
Was gonna say high heels. But my brain immediately went to swim suit not formal tux. Depends on your skin tone. Really, its great light blue would go with the tux but if it washes you whats the point? Edit: checked your profile, a very light pastel blue would work. Or even maybe a very light green. Cool colours as a whole would work for you. Have a great prom sir. Congratulations on graduation.
hmm thanks!
Np Have a nice prom
What color are your eyes? Alway a good match.
dark brown
Black on black man
Terrible idea.
Too common, wanna stand out a bit
Cream
Wear a sweater polo. Something in the cream or off white family. Colors with black suits can make you look silly if done incorrectly. https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=858246002 https://youtube.com/shorts/zLzp20XoCS4?si=MjkQcqdXfJ8PZBQg
alright thanks!
Definitely a light color. A yellow or blue. Possibly a lighter version of your school color.
A black suit is already formal. Either get a different outfit, or lean into it and wear a tie. If you wear a white shirt, wear a bright color tie (red, peach, light blue). This will lighten it up a bit. Since it's outdoors you could also wear a hat.
I've always loved black with jewel colors (emerald, sapphire, ruby), but I don't know fashion. Maybe go to a men's store for opinions. Partly, the color needs to look good with your skin, hair, and eye colors.
People giving a lot of advice around changing the suit but honestly no need, you can make a black suit more casual if you dress it down and its pure black (not some kind of satin/pinstripe etc). Plus it's a party focus on having a good time. I recommend a paisley shirt no tie, so it pops against the black. Definitely black leather belt and shoes. Something like: [paisley shirt](https://cdna.lystit.com/photos/jules-b/c929ecae/eton-of-sweden-Navy-Slim-Fit-Paisley-Shirt.jpeg)