Introduction
The menswear industry has been growing bolder and bolder over recent years. From subtle pops of colour to the current fixation with statement prints and patterns, modern men have become much braver with their wardrobe choices. Not only that, designers and high street brands alike continue to push boundaries and present new style possibilities to an ever-accepting audience. Make no mistake, introducing new colours to your wardrobe and incorporating them within everyday outfits takes a certain amount of confidence to pull off. However, that shouldn’t put you off, as with the correct knowledge, coloured clothing is surprisingly accessible and wearable.
A Modern Spring/Summer Essential: Coloured Tailoring
You should already be aware that tailoring forms the backbone of any great capsule wardrobe. These days, the suit is a stylish and fail-safe option that has become acceptable daily attire – especially for those wanting to appear well dressed and generically on-point even when they are not in a formal environment. As this renewed love of tailoring continues to take hold, designers and the high street are continually looking for ways to make the suit more appealing and increase its versatility for the everyday male. Dressing down the most traditional of menswear pieces is something that has been covered on FashionBeans. Techniques such as pairing your tailoring with a t-shirt/trainers or mixing and matching separates are tried and tested methods that enable you to put a casual spin on this formal classic. The relatively new trend for bold, block-coloured tailoring has become a great way to push the suit in a more smart-casual direction. The overall aim is to remove some of the corporate stiffness that is so inherently ingrained into its makeup.
Street Style/Celebrity Influence
From street style icons to celebrities and their stylists, here is a selection of snaps illustrating how the trend for bold coloured suiting is already beginning to take shape:
How To Wear: Coloured Tailoring
Look One: Smart
While coloured tailoring delivers a slightly more casual approach to the suit than a timeless navy or grey version, that shouldn’t rule it out entirely for when the occasion is a little dressier. A purple suit isn’t too dissimilar to the burgundy sort that is currently having a menswear moment. The darker and more sombre tone of the purple means it is much more versatile and less in your face than one in, say, bright orange or red. By pairing it with a collection of neutral accessories, the suit does all of the talking. A step away from the expected is perfect for making a statement at an event that calls for a sense of formality without over-stepping the dress code.
- Asos Smart Shirt
- Burton Purple Slim Fit Jacket
- Burton Purple Slim Fit Trouser
- Topman Black Textured Bow Tie
- Alexander Olch Polka-dot Silk Pocket Round
- Topman Hudson Tyskatu Loafers
Look Two: Smart-Casual
A suit is always going to maintain a certain level of smartness, even when it’s been expertly dressed down. That being said, you can certainly err more on the casual side of the smart-casual divide. A teal suit is a great option for when a more casual approach to tailoring is called upon. Rock the suit with a simple, white v-neck t-shirt and a rakishly stuffed pocket square. Finish off with a pair of mature, minimalistic trainers or loafers for a real off duty approach to your tailoring.
- Asos V-neck T-shirt
- Teal Skinny Fit Suit
- Reiss Pritchard 2 Button Peak Blazer Purple
Conclusion
Coloured tailoring offers the wearer a bold spin on a timeless classic. While it may be something that won’t be welcomed with open arms by all, for those willing to take the risk, a bold-coloured suit could be the statement piece your current capsule wardrobe is missing. By approaching the coloured suit without prejudgement, and a bit of flexibility, you open yourself up to a host of new wardrobe options across the smart-casual spectrum. Not to mention, it’s sometimes OK – and dare I say fun – to approach your style with a bit of joviality and whimsicality. Let us know your thoughts on coloured tailoring in the comments section below…
