Are you serious about mastering the art of looking your most dapper in a suit?

Well, accessorizing is the secret weapon you’re looking for.

The right accessories can transform an ordinary suit into an extraordinary outfit.

Whether you’re new to suit accessorizing or looking to up your game, this guide on how to accessorize your suits is your (inexpensive) ticket to success.

I have put together a list of 10 awesome -yet simple- tips to help you accessorize your suit like a pro.

This should be fun, so grab your favorite beverage and keep on reading.

1. The Power of a Well-Chosen Tie

Your tie is not just an accessory; it’s often the centerpiece of your suit combo.

It can make or break your entire look.

To choose the perfect tie, first consider the color and pattern of your suit.

If you’re wearing a patterned suit, opt for a solid tie that complements the suit’s color palette.

Wondering which necktie you should wear with a plaid suit? Try this.

Conversely, if your suit is solid, you have more freedom to experiment with cool patterned ties.

When it comes to tie length, a general rule of thumb is that it should reach your belt buckle – if you’re wearing one; otherwise, same rule applies but based it on where your trousers waistband begins.

A tie that’s too short or too long can throw off the balance of your outfit.

Unless you’re adding some doses of sprezzatura to your style, but that’s been covered in this article: What is Sprezzatura?.

As for materials, silk ties are the classic choice and can add a touch of elegance to your look.

You’ll hardly go wrong with a nice silk tie.

In colder seasons, I would suggest you to consider wool ties for added warmth and texture.

Hey, by the way, I got an article on how many neckties a man should have, you may want to give it a read.

2. Pocket Squares: Small But Mighty

A pocket square is a subtle yet powerful accessory that can make a significant impact on your overall appearance.

It’s one of those accessories that many may overlook, but when it’s properly executed can take a suit and tie combo to new heights.

It’s no wonder a pocket square is one of the must-have accessories for the dapper man.

The pocket square sits in your jacket’s chest pocket and can add a pretty cool touch of sophistication and personality to your suit.

Yes, we love pocket squares a lot in this corner of the interwebs.

Experiment with various pocket square folds to find the one that suits your style and the occasion.

The classic square fold offers a clean, traditional look, and it’s without a doubt one of my own favorites.

While the puff fold provides a more relaxed and casual appearance – yup, another favorite here.

Finally, when selecting you pocket square, you can match its color or pattern with your tie or shirt, but please (by all costs) avoid the matching sets of tie and pocket squares.

We don’t like those.

A bit of interesting, well-thought out coordination is key to achieving a harmonious look.

3. The Perfect Tie Clip

Different to many other accessories usually worn with a suit, a tie clip, also known as a tie bar, serves both a functional and decorative purpose.

It keeps your tie neatly in place (perfect for those who like a little jut or adding extra personality to their ties) while adding a touch of sophistication and originality to your outfit.

Wearing a tie bar is simple.

Position it between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt for the ideal placement.

Choosing the right tie clip is essential.

It should complement your other accessories, such as your cufflinks or belt buckle, creating a cohesive look.

The old rule applies: silver with silver, gold with gold, etc.

The key here is to maintain a clean, sharp appearance while adding a subtle touch of style.

Yes, I have no doubt whatsoever that every dapper man needs to give tie clips/tie bars a try.

4. Dress Watches: Timeless Elegance

A dress watch is an essential accessory that not only adds elegance to your suit but also serves a practical purpose.

I guess in that sense it’s similar to the tie clip we just talked about, but I digress…

A dress watch keeps you punctual while enhancing your overall look.

I mean, sure, the watch needs to actually work and have a batteries to deliver on that practical purpose…

Confession time: I have occasionally worn a watch with no battery just because I liked how it looked with my outfit. #ShameOnMe

When selecting a dress watch, opt for a classic design with a leather or metal band, depending on what’s your preference or the type of look you’re going for.

One important detail is to ensure that the watch face isn’t too bulky, as it should comfortably fit under your cuff.

I mean, you can technically wear bulkier watches, but they just won’t look as clean and elegant, so you should ideally avoid those.

It’s clear, a well-chosen dress watch can be the perfect complement to your suit, adding an extra layer of class to your ensemble.

5. Cufflinks: A Subtle Statement

Cufflinks are an often-overlooked accessory and that’s a real, real shame.

How about we change that?

I have been known to say cufflinks are also a must-have.

These small, decorative fasteners hold your shirt cuffs together and are available in a wide variety of styles.

Cufflinks can be both functional and decorative, so you have the flexibility to choose the ones that best match your style and the occasion.

That’s a bit of the magic of cufflinks.

Whether you opt for classic, minimalist cufflinks or more intricate and unique designs, make sure they complement your overall look.

I feel cufflinks allow a lot of room for expression and having fun… that is with its limits.

I would personally recommend you to avoid very flashy or cartoons-related cufflinks (I’m sure you know the type I’m talking about), but if they really fit the style you’re going for, who am I to say no? 🙂

Ultimately, the key with cufflinks is to ensure that they enhance your outfit without overpowering it.

6. The Magic of Belts, Suspenders and Shoes

While belts, suspenders and shoes may not be some the first accessories that come to mind when thinking about your dapper combos, they play a vital role in completing your suit ensemble.

First, let’s cover belts and shoes.

These two items should not only match each other but also harmonize with the rest of your suit combo.

Opt for classic colors like black or brown for both your belt and shoes, depending on the color for your suit (the topic of matching shoes and suits deserves its own dedicated article, which I will be working on soon, so stay tuned).

Yes, you can feel free to go a bit crazier and wear more original colors on your shoes and belts, just make sure you go back to the main rule: they should work together and enhance your overall suit look.

Of course, investing in high-quality leather for both items is a wise choice, as they are durable and versatile.

These two accessories really show their quality, so dedicate time to investigating how you will invest.

And now, my good friends, the suspenders.

Usually hidden underneath the suit jacket, but they can make a fun appearance every now and then.

If you really want to rock the suspenders like the best, you should favor good-quality button suspenders over their clip-on counterparts.

As a matter of fact, I have good reasons to believe suspenders are better with suits than belts.

My personal approach is to go for colors that will complement the entire suit and tie look I’m going for, just because I like to keep things cohesive.

But I would say you can feel free to experiment a little bit with your choice of suspenders.

Oh, and dont’ forget: belts and suspenders never go together.

Doesn’t hurt to reinforce this last point, right?

7. Lapel Pins: A Dash of Individuality

Granted, not the most common suit accessory, but lapel pins offer an excellent opportunity to showcase your individuality and add a unique touch to your jacket.

From classic flower boutonnieres to more distinctive pins, they provide a personalized aspect to your lapel.

Read also: The Importance of Lapel Width in Suits

Simiarly to other accessories we have listed so far, when choosing lapel pins, consider the occasion and your overall style.

But please, don’t overcomplicate it.

You can coordinate them with your tie or pocket square to create a harmonious look.

The cool thing I’ve found about lapel pins is that, being quite an uncommon suit accessory, they are a conversation starter (yes, even if small, they do get a lot of attention) and allow you to express your personality while adding an extra layer of originality to your suits.

So yeah, often overlooked… how about we change this too?

8. Socks: A Hidden Surprise

Socks, often seen as a minor detail or approached as an afterthought, can add a delightful element of surprise to your suit ensemble.

The straight-forward rule is to match the color of your socks to the color of your suit or trousers if you’re wearing a mix-and-match jacket/trousers combo.

Read also: Can a Suit Jacket Double as A Casual Blazer?

While this is wise advice, socks don’t necessarily have to match your suit’s color, but they should definitely harmonize with your overall look.

If you’re itching to go for something original, experiment with different sock colors and patterns to infuse a bit of personality into your outfit.

When you sit down or cross your legs, your socks can peek out and show your extra attention to those hidden details.

Yup, socks can also be great conversation starters.

They’re an excellent way to add a pop of color or pattern to your otherwise formal attire.

Or to simply make a fun look even more fun.

9. Glasses: A Stylish Accessory

If you wear glasses, don’t overlook their potential as a stylish accessory.

Glasses can elevate your overall look and add some personality to your outfit.

When choosing glasses frames, consider your face shape and select a style that complements it.

Glasses can also frame your eyes and enhance your facial features – choose your glasses carefully and seek some expert advice, it won’t hurt.

Whether you opt for classic frames for a professional and intellectual look or modern and bold designs, glasses can make a statement while enhancing your appearance.

They’re an accessory that reflects your style and individuality.

Don’t need glasses?

Well, I’ve known a few men that wear glasses just as an accessory, without any real need for vision aid.

Hell, I’ve done it myself for some photoshoots.

There you go, another confession because I like you and feel comfortable with you.

10. Keep It Balanced: Less Is More

While it’s important to experiment and accessorize, it’s equally crucial to maintain balance in your outfit.

I know, I know.

I just talked about 9 different accessories you can wear with your suit and tie outfits, but that should not be read as if you have to wear all those 9 accessories simultaneously.

Please dont.

I’ll be clear: less is often more when it comes to accessories.

Suits can be expensive and you want to make the most out of them and the enhanced personal style they offer.

Overloading your suit with too many items can disrupt the harmony that you’re going for.

Balance is the key to accessorizing your suit and tie like a pro.

Choose accessories that complement your outfit rather than overpower it.

Ensure that each item plays a role in enhancing your overall style without creating a cluttered or chaotic appearance.

When in doubt, remember that the strongest statement comes from a clean and well-balanced look.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the art of suit accessorizing is all about balance and personal expression.

These 10 tips will help you confidently wear suit accessories like a pro.

By choosing the right ties, pocket squares, and other pieces, you’ll create a look that’s truly uniquely yours.

Experiment, have fun, and as usual, let your style shine through.

I hope you have enjoyed reading this quick guide on how to accessorize your suit combos.

And of course, I hope you found it helpful.

Stay dapper and proud, gents.

Thank you,

Ed.