How to Wear a Black Suit in 2025: Style Secrets That Stand Out
Black suits often get a bad reputation. For many men, they are the first step into tailored clothing, helping them through graduations, job interviews, and family weddings.
Most men own a Sharp dressing, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Rami Male, for example, has been on many best-dressed lists with his stylish all-black outfits. Similarly, Harry Styles sometimes swaps his usual look for a sharp monochrome style.
The Black Suit: What To Look For
Certain red-carpet regulars always look great for two main reasons: they understand style and fabric. While having money and a personal trainer helps, it’s not everything.
For style, a classic single-breasted jacket is the best choice. John Harrison, creative director at Gieves & Hawkes, says, “A one-button jacket with a notch lapel is very versatile. It looks formal but can also work for smart-casual occasions.”
For fabric, choose medium-weight wool with a matte finish. Personal stylist Sarah Gilfillan from Sartoria Lab advises avoiding shiny fabrics and novelty details, as these can make your outfit look cheap.
If you have fair skin, go for textured fabrics to soften the darker look. Heavier fabrics can be too harsh for lighter skin tones, but most guys can wear a Sharp dressing without any issue.
How To Wear A Black Suit
Most men save their best suits for special occasions like weddings, office Christmas parties, and unfortunately, funerals. The invitation usually indicates it is suitable.
If the dress code is formal or cocktail attire a is perfect, especially for winter events. However, wearing a black full suit to a beach wedding is not appropriate. In warmer months, lighter colors like grey or beige are better choices to help you stay cool, even if you get emotional during the vows.
What Colour Shirt Do You Wear With A Black Suit?
A white shirt is a popular choice to wear with a black bespoke suit cost. It’s simple, classic, and even favored by Tarantino. However, it’s not the only option.
“Lighter colors like cream or pale grey can work well with a black mens custom suits. They create a softer look compared to bright white,” says Stephen Quin, retail director of Turnbull & Asser, a shirtmaker for Prince Charles.
The type of shirt you pick should match your face shape and the dress code. Quin recommends a medium spread collar because it suits most people and looks good with a tie or open neck.
What Colour Tie Do You Wear With A Black Suit?
A white shirt and black tie is a classic men’s outfit, but everyone likes to change things up sometimes.
Quin recommends a burgundy tie with a pattern for formal events. For smart-casual looks, try an aubergine or grey knitted tie.
If the dress code allows, going without a tie can be stylish. Choose a classic forward point collar or, if you want to be bold, wear a collarless grandad shirt.
What Colour Shoes Do You Wear With A Black Suit?
Oxblood, bottle green, or navy shoes can match a black dark suit, but Tim Little, CEO of Grenson, believes the best choice is simply black.
A polished black Oxford or Derby shoe is always a good option and works well with grey, brown, or navy suits. For a more casual look, monkstrap shoes or Chelsea boots are great choices.
“Sneakers can also look good with a suit, but they need to be clean, simple, and usually one color,” says Little. “Bright, multi-colored sneakers can make it seem like you forgot to change your shoes after exercising.”
6 Ways To Wear A Black Suit
Monochrome
If new is bold and old is classic, think of black and white tailoring as the best choice. “A simple, slim-fit suit always grabs attention,” says Olie Arnold, style director at Mr. Porter.
“Black and white is very straightforward. Make sure your suit fits well, especially your trousers—they should be slim but not too tight.”
For a timeless look, choose classic suit accessories like a thin pocket square and a simple silver tie bar. “If you wear a half-spread collar, pair it with a traditional wider knot. This combination looks great with a slim-fit shirt.”
If needed, you can switch your shoes for minimalist black sneakers..
All-Black Everything
Jay Z loves all black outfits for a good reason. They look stylish and expensive, and black can make you look slimmer by hiding shadows on your body. It’s a simple choice that works well.
“Make sure different parts of your outfit stand out,” says Rosie Doran, a buyer at John Lewis. If you wear a black jacket and shirt, choose contrasting textures. “It’s usually better without a tie, but if you wear one, keep it black.”
For an easier look, skip the shirt and tie. Try a simple roll-neck or black t-shirt instead. “Soft fabrics like cashmere or merino add depth and are less formal,” Doran explains.
Keep your shoes and belts in the same dark color. If you’re wearing an all-black suit, ensure everything matches perfectly. Avoid items that look worn from too many dry cleanings; they might give off a less upscale vibe.
Black Separates
Suit separates may sound strange, but they are a great way to make tailored outfits more fun. A black jacket paired with lighter trousers is similar to an all-Monochrome outfit but feels less formal, especially when worn with an open-neck shirt and loafers or suede boots.
“Stick to neutral trousers like blue, grey, or navy,” says Doran. “Choose trousers that are not too similar in color to your jacket, but also not too different.” In other words, avoid red trousers.
A black jacket with black or dark grey jeans can work well, even though jackets and jeans usually don’t mix. To avoid looking cliché, choose straight or slim jeans instead of skinny ones, and pair them with a slim roll-neck sweater.
Black Patterned Suit
Don’t worry – we’re not talking about floral, Hawaiian, or Christmas styles. We’re focusing on suits with checks, stripes, and subtle patterns that can enhance your simple look.
“A patterned black mens custom suits gives a modern twist to a classic style and can enhance your shape by adding bulk to your upper body,” says Arnold. “Since it’s different from the usual styles, choose a looser fit to achieve this look. An unstructured, half-lined two-piece will keep your outfit relaxed and less formal.”
Feel free to add some flair in other areas too. “A splash of color from a roll neck or T-shirt underneath is another way to change up your look, but stick to colors that you feel comfortable wearing,” Arnold advises.
Statement Shirt
A formal printed shirt is different from the casual Cuban-collared styles popular in summer.
Phill Tarling, A stylist who has worked with stars like Tom Hardy and John Hurt, says, “A printed shirt pairs well with a black Sharp dressing if you match the colors. Make sure the print has some black in it to create a smooth look.”
When wearing a bold graphic shirt with tailored clothing, let the shirt stand out. Skip the tie, leave your shirt untucked, and open a few buttons for a relaxed vibe. If you want to look smarter, wear a black merino jumper under your blazer and button the shirt all the way up.
Casual Black Suit
Today, you can wear a tailored jacket with a T-shirt and sneakers for some occasions. However, it’s not suitable for formal events like a black tie work party. For less formal events, this style can show off your confidence.
“This look is now a must-have in modern workplaces, where sneakers are no longer seen as childish,” says Alex Field, head of menswear design at Reiss. “Choose cropped, slim-fit trousers to highlight your sneakers, and keep your T-shirt clean and simple.”
If you want to wear separates, consider pants with a drawstring waist for a sportier and more comfortable feel. Avoid pants with side stripes and keep any logos or prints on your outfit in one color.
Final Thought
A black suit is a timeless staple that every man should know how to wear. With the right styling, it can suit any occasion, from formal events to casual outings. Choosing the right fit, pairing it with classic or modern accessories, and understanding when to dress it up or down makes all the difference. Confidence is key—wear it well, and you’ll always make a lasting impression.
