Wearing a black suit and black tie together can seem like a controversial choice for some. Black suits fell out of fashion after the 19th century when they were associated with funerals and formal day wear. However, black suits have made a comeback in recent decades as a stylish and versatile option for both daytime and evening wear. While some style traditionalists maintain that black suits should be reserved for formal evening events, others argue that they can work for daytime business and social occasions if done right. Here is a look at the key considerations around wearing black suits and ties together in order to help determine if it’s OK for different settings and dress codes.
The History and Symbolism of Black Suits
Black suits have a long history that gives some insight into their symbolism and traditional conventions around when they are worn:
| Era | Black Suit Use and Symbolism |
|---|---|
| 1700s | Black suits emerge as all day formal wear for gentlemen. |
| 1800s | Black suits become standard formal daywear for Victorian gentlemen. |
| Late 1800s | Black suits take on somber associations with grief and funerals. |
| Early 1900s | Black suits fall out of fashion as mourning attire. |
| 1920s-40s | Black suits are rare outside of formal evening wear. |
| 1950s | Black suits regain popularity paired with black ties for evening events. |
| 1960s-70s | Black suits transition into stylish daywear in countercultures. |
| 1980s | Black suits become mainstream business attire. |
| Today | Black suits widely accepted for daytime and evening wear. |
As we can see, black suits have gone from being standard formal daywear in the 19th century to being reserved for somber occasions and evenings by the early 20th century. Their association with grief and funerals led to them falling out of fashion for daytime. However, black suits regained popularity in the 1950s and have since made a full comeback into stylish mainstream business and formal attire over the past few decades. But some of the historical symbolism and formality still influences conventions around when and how black suits are worn today.
Modern Guidelines on Wearing Black Suits
When it comes to modern guidelines around wearing black suits, there are a few key considerations:
Daytime vs Evening Wear
Most style experts agree that black suits work well for evening events. The black tie and suit combo evokes a sophistication and formality that is well-suited for black tie, creative black tie, and formal evening weddings and events after 6pm.
For daytime wear, traditionalists still view black suits as too formal and somber for business while contemporary guides say they can work for modern office environments, especially in urban settings. Black suits can offer stylish versatility when worn properly with lighter colored shirts and accessories to balance out the darkness.
Formality of the Event
Black suits are considered appropriate for formal events in the evening, ranging from black tie galas to awards ceremonies. They also work for semi-formal daytime events like luncheons and daytime weddings, though tan, gray or navy suits are often viewed as more versatile choices for such occasions.
For less formal daytime business and social events, black suits may be seen as overly formal in more conservative environments, though fashion-forward industries and circles tend to embrace them for daily workplace attire.
Industry and Location
Black suits for daytime wear are broadly accepted and even the norm in urban centers and for roles in creative industries like media, tech, fashion and the arts. For banking, law, and traditional corporate jobs, standards still lean conservative in most regions.
Location also plays a role, with black being embraced in fashion-forward cities like New York, Milan, and Los Angeles while more traditional areas like London or the American south may prefer navy, gray or tan for daytime suits.
How to Wear a Black Suit and Tie
Assuming black suits work for the occasion, industry and setting, there are some tips for wearing them stylishly:
Add Lighter Shirts and Ties
Wearing a white or light colored shirt and tie helps brighten up an all black suit and tie combo. Black suits worn with black shirts and ties can look like waiter uniforms or appear overly dour.
Select Non-Shiny Fabric
Avoid shiny synthetic fabric for black suits. Opt for high quality wool blends that provide subtle texture and drape smoothly. Matte finish black suits look most refined and versatile.
Accessorize Thoughtfully
Leather dress belts and shoes that match the black suit can pull the look together. Pick shoes in leather or suede, not patent leather, for daytime wear. Add character with socks, watches, lapel pins and pocket squares.
Check Fit and Tailoring
A black suit’s flawless, sharp tailoring stands out, so get the right fit. Sleeves and pants should hit at the perfect length and drape smoothly without pulling or sagging.
Pick Contemporary Styles
Traditional business suits with single button jackets, notch lapels and flap pockets can appear stodgy. Opt for two button jackets, peak lapels and side vents for a current vibe.
Black Suit Dos and Don’ts
To summarize black suit style tips:
DO:
- Wear for evening events and weddings
- Pair with light colored shirts
- Choose wool fabric with subtle texture
- Add accessories for personality
- Get properly tailored fit
DON’T:
- Wear head-to-toe black without color contrast
- Choose a shiny synthetic fabric
- Wear patent leather shoes during the day
- Go for an oversized or baggy fit
- Stick to very traditional/old-fashioned styles
Conclusion
In summary, wearing a black suit and tie can work well for formal evening events as well as some daytime occasions depending on the environment. The key is choosing high quality fabric and a fitted, polished style that suits your industry and location. Pair it with lighter colored shirts, thoughtful accessories, and contemporary jacket and lapel styles to come across as stylish rather than stuffy. While some style traditionalists still see it as overly formal, black suits have regained mainstream acceptance as versatile, professional attire for modern men when worn appropriately.
