Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

Getting dressed up in a suit isn’t just about getting dressed, but it’s more about those small details that bring everything together. 

Through years of working with clients and studying menswear, I’ve learned that mastering formal accessories makes the difference between looking put-together and truly standing out.

Starting with the basics

Let’s talk about building your look from the ground up. Your choice between a classic suit and a tuxedo suit sets the stage for everything else. 

Just last week, I helped a client prepare for a black-tie wedding. He was surprised to learn that his regular suit accessories wouldn’t work with his new tuxedo. The rules change depending on your foundation piece.

The real deal with formal accessories

Here’s what nobody tells you about neckties: Everything else follows their lead. 

The width matters more than most guys realize. I’ve seen too many men wearing skinny ties with wide lapels – it throws off the whole look. Your tie should end right at your belt buckle. Trust me, an inch too long or short makes a noticeable difference.

Pocket squares are tricky. Most men make the mistake of matching their tie exactly. In reality, you want them to complement each other without looking like they came from the same gift set. I once saw a banker pull off a burgundy tie with a cream pocket square that had subtle burgundy details – that’s the level of sophistication you’re aiming for.

Speaking of sophistication, let’s talk about watches. A dress watch doesn’t need to be expensive, but it needs to fit properly. The other day, I noticed a CEO wearing a massive sports watch with his suit. Even his expensive suit couldn’t save that combination. A simple leather-strapped watch with a reasonable case size does the job perfectly.

Real talk about colors and seasons

Colors aren’t just about matching – they’re about creating harmony. Think about it like cooking: you wouldn’t use every spice in your cabinet. The same goes for accessories. Dark navy suit? Try a burgundy tie with subtle texture. Grey suit? The world’s your oyster, but don’t go overboard.

The seasons matter more than you’d think. I learned this the hard way after wearing a heavy wool tie in the middle of summer. Silk ties and lighter metal colours work better in warm months. Save the rich textures and darker metals for winter. Your body temperature will thank you.

The office factor

Every workplace has its own unwritten rules. I’ve worked with lawyers who can’t venture beyond navy and red ties, and tech executives who wear polka dot bow ties to board meetings. 

Know your environment. The finance guy in a wild tie stands out for all the wrong reasons, while the creative director in a boring tie misses an opportunity to show personality.

The Bottom Line

Getting formal accessories right isn’t rocket science, but it does take attention to detail. Start with the basics, understand your environment, and build your collection thoughtfully. The goal isn’t to look like you’re trying too hard – it’s to look like you naturally know what you’re doing.

Remember, these aren’t just random pieces of fabric. They’re the tools that help you tell your story. Use them wisely, and they’ll serve you well in any formal situation you encounter.