As a man looking to build a versatile wardrobe, the suit is an essential part of your collection. While a navy or charcoal suit is a standard go-to, having suits in a variety of colors can allow you to make bolder fashion statements when the occasion calls for it. The right colored suit paired with the perfect shirt and accessories can really make you stand out in a crowd.
But with so many color options out there, how do you know which suit hues are must-haves? Here we will discuss the top 5 colored suits that every man needs in his closet.
Navy Blue
A navy blue suit is a classic staple that every man should own. This versatile color works for both business and more formal occasions. Navy suits pair well with different colored shirts and ties and can be worn year-round.
Navy is a great choice for your first suit or if you only want to invest in one suit for now. It’s a universally flattering color that works on most men. You’ll get a lot of wear out a navy suit before needing to refresh your wardrobe.
When shopping for a navy suit, look for a darker shade rather than a light blue. Dark navy has a more sophisticated look while lighter shades can come across as dated. Aim for a shade that is clearly blue but deep enough to appear almost black in some lighting.
Charcoal Gray
Along with navy, charcoal gray is one of the most popular and versatile neutral suit colors. A charcoal suit has a similar formality to navy but provides a slightly lighter alternative.
Charcoal gray works year-round for both business meetings and special events. It’s ideal for those who work in conservative office environments but still want a stylish look. Charcoal pairs nicely with different shirt and tie combinations.
When shopping for a charcoal suit, look for a mid-range gray that is clearly gray but not too light. Stay away from shades that look more blue-gray, which come across as too casual.
Tan or Khaki
A tan or khaki suit is a great choice for spring and summer. This light neutral provides a fresh look when you want something lighter than navy or gray.
Khaki suits pair well with pastel or bright colored shirts for a sophisticated springtime wedding or event look. The color also works well for summer business meetings where you want to beat the heat in a lightweight suit.
Look for a tan or khaki suit in a light brown shade that isn’t too yellow or green toned. British khaki is a popular variation with a soft grayish-brown hue.
Light Gray
A light gray suit is another warm weather option that’s perfect for daytime spring and summer wear. While charcoal gray leans formal, a lighter gray shade offers a more laid-back look.
Try pairing a light gray suit with a blue shirt and tie for a stylish daytime event combination. Light gray also works well for outdoor weddings and business meetings where dark suits would be overly wintery.
When shopping for light gray, avoid suits that are too white or have a greenish cast. Look for a neutral light gray or a soft dove gray shade.
Medium Blue
While navy suits are a wardrobe staple, a medium blue suit can add some extra flair to your formal wear collection.
Medium blue, sometimes called a “business blue,” sits between navy and royal blue on the color spectrum. This striking shade works well for creative business environments where darker navy suits may look too staid.
Pair a medium blue suit with a white shirt and muted tie for a sharp, stylish look. Use it to make a memorable impression at a daytime job interview or important work meeting.
When choosing a medium blue, avoid shades that are too bright or jewel toned. Instead pick a blue with some grayness to it, so it’s bold but not cartoonish.
Conclusion
Navy, charcoal gray, tan, light gray, and medium blue suits should form the foundation of every man’s suit collection. Covering cool, neutral and warm shades, these five colors provide endless mix-and-match options.
Start by investing in a well-fitting navy or charcoal suit in a year-round weight. Then build up your collection with seasonal shades like light tan and light gray. Add some medium blue for when you want to stand out. With these five suit colors in rotation, you’ll always look stylish and sophisticated.
| Suit Color | Best Seasons to Wear | Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Navy | Year-round | White, blue or pink shirts, ties in any color |
| Charcoal Gray | Year-round | White or light blue shirts, muted ties |
| Tan/Khaki | Spring, Summer | Pastel or bright shirts, brown accessories |
| Light Gray | Spring, Summer | Blue or pink shirts, grenadine ties |
| Medium Blue | Year-round | White shirts, muted ties |