Suit Up: Ways to make guys formal wear more exciting

By Sophie Hutchison, Second Year History of Art

The Croft Magazine // It seems COVID-19 has put a dampener on most end-of-term formals - but, with any luck, life will have returned to some level of normalcy by the time summer formals roll around, or failing that, by the next academic year.

When large scale social events do finally resume, it’ll only be right to go all out - basic black tuxes just won’t cut it. If you’re a guy looking to spruce up your black-tie wear, here are some top tips.

Accessorising

Wear your existing suits but make them look more exciting by adding jewellery - wear multiple rings (perfect time to whip out the ole’ signet ring) to instantly add a new element to an outfit.

Gold pairs best with black; swap the tie for a necklace - opt for pendants in place of thick chains in order to stay looking smart, and show it off by leaving the top few buttons of your shirt undone for an effortless look. Or, take a leaf out of Harry Styles’ book and borrow your nan’s pearl necklace (or pick one up from M&S’s, like this pearl effect necklace) - it’s on-trend, unexpected, and complements the monochrome black suit, white shirt combo perfectly.

1. Padlock Pendant Necklace | Chained and Able | £15.00 2. Pearl Effect Graduated Collar Necklace | M&S | £12.50

Switching it Up

Instead of the classic white shirt, try a different colour like salmon or this Zara Men textured non-iron shirt in sky blue. Or, if we really will be waiting til the autumn term for the next formals, keep warm with a roll-neck jumper under your blazer, or a crewneck jumper with a collar poking out.

Zara Men textured non-iron shirt in sky blue | £29.99

Going All. Out.

If you’re looking to invest in a whole new suit, why waste your money on the same old, same old? Prints, colours, and textures are your friend. If you want to enter into the world of non-vanilla suits with caution, try something more muted, like a brown checked suit.

Toe the line between being best-dressed and looking ridiculous (a fine line indeed) by going with a fun blazer in place of a full in-your-face matching suit. Pair your usual black trousers with an electric blue pinstripe blazer, or adorn yourself in animal print, florals, or sequins. Anything’s better than an entire table of guys wearing the exact same thing.