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THE JACAMO GUIDE TO SHIRT, TIE AND SUIT COMBINATIONS
Prepping for a formal event, business meeting, or smart-casual get-together? Forget just throwing a look together - knowing how to mix and match suit pieces is key to enhancing your style and boosting your confidence. That’s why we’ve packed this guide with need-to-know tips from colour theory, to picking the ultimate shirt-tie combo, and finding the suit to match. We’ll even share the classic styles that never go out of fashion, so you’ll have all you need to refine your wardrobe and build a sharp look for any event.
UNDERSTANDING COLOUR THEORY IN MEN’S FASHION
To master the art of men’s dressing, it helps to start with the colour wheel. Remember the primary colours are red, blue and yellow; secondary colours come from mixing primary colours; and tertiary colours come from mixing primary and secondary colours.
When it comes to pairing a shirt and tie, a perfect combo comes from understanding complementary and contrasting colours. Check out our colour wheel and you’ll notice that complementary colours are sat opposite each other (like red and green) - styling these shades together is great for making a statement. Contrasting colours sit next to each other and create a softer look that’ll still catch the eye.
Let’s use this theory to build an outfit. Say you have a classic navy suit, team it with a light blue shirt for a sophisticated monochromatic look, then add a tie in a complementary colour for a refined pop of personality - try vibrant orange, for example. If you prefer a patterned shirt, pick a tie in one solid colour from the same palette for a balanced look.
When you’re next getting suited and booted, consider colour theory and you’ll effortlessly build a polished look that still reflects your unique style.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SHIRT
A dapper look starts with the right shirt. Heading to a formal event? You can’t go wrong with a crisp white dress shirt. Dressing for a more relaxed get-together? Go for a casual button-down shirt instead. Don’t forget to think about the setting - a business meeting might call for a more tailored fit, but something like a garden party can offer more flexibility.
Whatever the style, a good fit is crucial for complementing your build and offering all-day comfort. Look for collections with a range of fits, from slim to regular and relaxed, then experiment to find which suits your shape best. Remember to look at the shoulder seams, collar size, and overall length to ensure a polished look.
Next, think about colour and patterns. Classic shades like navy, grey and white are so versatile, they can easily be paired with a whole range of ties and suits. For those looking to make a statement, don’t be afraid of bold colours and patterns like checks and stripes, but make sure to balance them with softer elements in your outfit.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TIE
The right tie can really pull your look together. Consider a classic silk tie if you’re dressing for a formal event, a knitted tie for a more relaxed occasion, or a sophisticated bow tie to nail the black-tie dress code.
It’s important to match the design with your shirt, too. If you’re pairing patterns, a general rule of thumb is to mix different scales. For example, if your shirt has fine checks or stripes, opt for a bolder pattern on your tie. Or, if your shirt has the statement print, pick a more subtle tie to create balance.
Remember to make sure the colours complement each other - that’s where our colour wheel comes in! If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate a pop of colour that matches or contrasts with your shirt - a bright tie can add flair to a classic white shirt, while a deep, rich colour can enhance a patterned number.
CLASSIC SHIRT AND TIE COMBINATIONS
The perfect shirt and tie combo will always make a lasting impression, and these timeless pairings will keep you looking sharp.
White Shirt Combinations: The ultimate in versatility: the white shirt is a staple in any wardrobe. Pair it with a bold navy tie for a sophisticated look, add personality with a patterned tie, or go with a deep burgundy tie for a rich contrast that’s perfect for formal events.
Blue Shirt Combinations: For professional or casual occasions, you can’t go wrong with a light blue shirt. Pair it with a charcoal or dark blue tie for a monochromatic style that exudes confidence. For more vibrant flair, a tie with subtle stripes or checks in complementary colours creates a polished, work-appropriate look.
Pink Shirt Combinations: Pink shirts are in. Offering a stylish, modern look, a darker tie in deep grey or black adds a striking contrast that’s fashionable and authoritative. For something more eye-catching, try a patterned tie with hints of pink.
MATCHING SUITS WITH SHIRTS AND TIES
The last piece of the puzzle - matching the suit to your shirt and tie.
Let’s start with the classic white shirt. A versatile canvas that teams with a whole range of hues, a navy suit offers a timeless look for both formal and semi-formal occasions. If you prefer a more modern twist, consider choosing a light grey suit and a bold tie for a splash of colour.
Blue shirts are all about adding refreshing vibrancy, and they work perfectly with a charcoal suit to strike the right balance between smart and approachable. For relaxed sophistication, try a light beige suit for daytime events, especially in the warmer months.
The pink shirt is a fantastic way to inject personality into your look, and a dark navy suit offers a striking contrast that’s ideal for weddings and festive gatherings. Alternatively, a mid-grey suit allows the pink shirt to pop, perfect for work and social settings.
Choosing the right combo is key to enhancing your smart style. At Jacamo, we have these pairings, and more, to make sure you look sharp and feel confident for any occasion. Explore our selection of suits and ties to find your perfect match.
STYLING TIPS FOR DIFFERENT OCCASIONS
When it comes to smart styling, understanding the occasion is crucial.
For the office, a crisp white or light blue shirt pairs perfectly with a navy or charcoal suit for a sharp, professional style. Add a subtle patterned tie - think stripes or small dots - for a polished yet approachable look.
Dressing for a formal event? Show your personality with a bolder combination. A black or dark grey suit with a white shirt sets a timeless foundation. Choose a tie in a rich colour like burgundy or deep green for a touch of sophistication. Don’t forget to accessorise with a pocket square that matches or complements your tie to complete your refined look.
In a more casual setting, take the opportunity to experiment. Try a pale pink or soft green shirt with a lighter suit - maybe beige or light grey. A patterned or textured tie can add a fun twist, or maybe in warmer weather you’ll even ditch the tie for a more relaxed vibe.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What are the essential shirt colours every man should have?
A: The essential shirt colours include white, light blue, and pink. These colours are versatile and can be paired with various suits and ties for different occasions.
Q: How do I choose the right tie for my shirt?
A: When choosing a tie, consider the colour and pattern of your shirt. Opt for contrasting scales in patterns and complementary or matching colours to create a cohesive look.
Q: Can I wear a patterned shirt with a patterned tie?
A: Yes, you can wear a patterned shirt with a patterned tie. The key is to ensure that the patterns are of different scales and that the colours complement each other to maintain balance in your outfit. For example, if you’re wondering what ties go with pink shirts, consider patterns that incorporate similar colour tones.
Q: What suits should I invest in for versatility?
A: Invest in classic colours like navy, grey, and black suits. These colours are versatile and can be paired with a variety of shirts and ties for different occasions. A well-chosen mix and match suit can cover a wide range of events.
Q: How do I match my tie with my pocket square?
A: Your pocket square should complement your tie rather than match it exactly. Choose a pocket square that shares a colour with your tie or shirt to create a coordinated look without being overly matchy.