8 Most Common Suit Style Mistakes

Last Updated on October 24, 2023 by Alterations Express Staff

There are two BIG misconceptions about suits.

Misconception #1. Expensive does NOT equal better.

Suits can range widely in terms of cost. From off-the-rack to bespoke custom suits, purchasing the right suit can be confusing, and you might not know which option is right for you. Definitely do some research before purchasing to understand which option fits your needs best. But, please remember: Expensive does not always equal better. Check out rule #2 to find out WHY?

Misconception #2. The most important quality of a suit is FIT.

FIT is essential to get right. And unfortunately, this doesn’t just mean knowing your measurements and buying the right size; it also means the added investment of tailoring. And this is where most guys get it wrong. If you need to brush up on suit tailoring guidelines, check out our recent blog post about the essentials of suit tailoring. Once you understand the finer points of suit tailoring, it is extremely easy to spot when a suit does not fit someone. 

Now, chances are you already own a suit. But do you know if that suit fits you properly? Do you understand the finer points of suit style or tailoring? What suit-style faux pas have you been committing? Read more to learn the 8 most common suit style mistakes you’re making. 

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1. Not Getting Your Suit Tailored
2. Neglecting to Press or Dry Clean Your Suit
3. Buttoning the Bottom Button of Your Suit
4. Too Many Accessories
5. Forgetting Collar Stays
6. Bad Shoes & Socks
7. Choosing a Black Suit
8. Not Removing Tacking & Stitching

#1 Not Getting Your Suit Tailored

You 👏  Must 👏  Get 👏   Your 👏  Suit 👏  Tailored👏  . If we didn’t already make it clear enough, this point is absolutely essential. And unfortunately, most people do not make the added investment of tailoring. Suits today are manufactured to fit a wide range of sizes. And, let’s face it, no one has an off-the-rack body type. So, to get a suit to fit your body correctly, tailoring is a must. 

#2 Neglecting to Press or Dry Clean Your Suit

Nothing says fashion faux pas more than a wrinkled suit jacket. It is extremely easy to spot a wrinkled suit. And unfortunately, even if you have invested in a high-end suit and professional tailoring, it won’t matter if you wear a wrinkled suit. Make sure to get your suit dry-cleaned or freshly pressed before a big event or when you know, you’ll be wearing your suit. 

Pro Tip: Take off your sport coat/suit jacket in the car to avoid wrinkles when you’re driving to your final destination. 

#3 Buttoning the Bottom Button of Your Suit Jacket

Whether you’re wearing a two-button or three-button suit, you should NEVER button the bottom button of your suit. Buttoning the bottom button will change the shape of your suit and alter the intended cut, ensuring an unflattering silhouette. 

Image via Business Insider via Real Men Real Style

#4 Too Many Accessories

#4 Too Many Accessories

Adding too many accessories to your suit can make you look tacky. Instead, opt for understated accessories that accentuate the finer points of your suit. Pick colors that complement your suit’s palette and stick with one or two classic accessories (tie clip and pocket square, maybe?) to elevate your look.

#5 Forgetting Collar Stays

Collar stays are plastic (or metal) inserts placed in the shirt’s collar to maintain the shape and point of a collar. They are used to prevent the collar from flipping up or losing its’ silhouette. We know this one seems less important, but check out the graphic below to see what a difference they make!

Image via The Dark Knot

#6 Bad Shoes & Socks

Avoid square-toe shoes or casual shoes like boat shoes. This type of footwear will make your suit look cheap and kill your style. Instead, opt for a classic Oxford and find a belt that complements your footwear. 

Image via Pinterest

#7 Choosing a Black Suit

We have nothing against black suits. On the contrary, they are an essential part of any wardrobe. However, they are too formal to be worn on certain occasions, and sometimes, a tuxedo would be more appropriate. Instead, for an everyday look or even a special occasion suit, elect for a heather gray or navy blue option. These colors are classic and allow ease when pulling together a complete look. 

Image via Pinterest

#8 Not Removing Tacking & Stitching

Ever seen designer tags on a sport coat or suit jacket? Please understand that these are NOT meant to be kept on after a suit is purchased. Make sure to remove them before you wear your suit.

Men’s formalwear can be complex if you don’t know the ins and outs. But keep these 8 Common Suit Style Mistakes in mind when you’re shopping for your next look, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming the style icon you are!