Master the art of suit accessories with Paul Andrew

A well-chosen suit is the foundation of a stylish look, but it's the accessories that truly set you apart. Ties, pocket squares, cufflinks, and other small details offer endless opportunities to inject personal flair into your ensemble. Whether you're heading to the office, attending a wedding, or going to a formal event, the right accessories can elevate your look from good to exceptional. Here’s a guide on how to accessorize your suit with confidence and style.

1. Ties: The centrepiece of your look

A tie can completely transform the tone of your outfit. It’s often the first thing people notice, so choosing the right one is essential.

• Classic plain ties: For a formal look, nothing beats a high-quality plain tie. Solid colours like navy, burgundy, or deep green work well for most occasions. If you're aiming for a timeless look, a simple, classic tie in a rich shade will add depth to your suit without overwhelming it.
• Patterns: For a bit more personality, opt for patterned ties like textured, polka dots, or paisleys. Just make sure the pattern doesn’t clash with the suit or shirt. A striped tie can be a great addition to a pinstripe suit, while a bold paisley tie adds character to a solid-coloured suit.
• Width: The width of the tie should complement the cut of your suit. Slim ties work best with more modern, slimmer suits, while broader ties are better suited to classic cuts.

2. Pocket squares: small touches that speak volumes

A pocket square is the perfect way to inject a touch of individuality into your suit. It’s a small accessory that makes a big impact, adding personality and charm.

• Colour coordination: While it doesn’t need to match the tie exactly, it’s important that the pocket square complements the rest of your outfit. If your tie is solid, feel free to experiment with a bolder pattern in your pocket square. If your tie has a pattern, choose a simple, solid colour for your pocket square to keep the look balanced.
• Folds: There are several ways to fold a pocket square, from the simple straight fold to the more intricate puff fold. The straight fold gives a sharp, structured look, while the puff fold adds a relaxed and elegant touch.
• Fabric: The material of the pocket square should match the formality of your suit. A linen pocket square works well for summer or more casual looks, while silk or satin gives a polished, formal finish.

3. Cufflinks: Subtle elegance

Cufflinks add a sophisticated touch to any suit, especially when your shirt requires French cuffs. They offer a small yet noticeable statement of style.

• Classic cufflinks: A simple pair of silver or gold cufflinks is timeless and appropriate for most events. Monogrammed cufflinks or subtle designs add a personal touch without being too flashy.
• Bold cufflinks: For a more daring look, you can choose cufflinks with unique shapes or colours. Think geometric designs, coloured gemstones, or vintage-inspired pieces. These are especially great for weddings or special events where you want to stand out.
• Match with other accessories: Keep your cufflinks in harmony with the rest of your accessories. For example, gold cufflinks pair well with a gold tie bar or watch, while silver cufflinks work well with silver jewellery.

4. Tie bars: The finishing touch

A tie bar or tie clip is both a functional and stylish accessory. It keeps your tie in place while adding an extra element of polish to your outfit.

• Placement: The tie bar should be placed between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt. This ensures that your tie stays in place without looking too forced.
• Material: Choose a tie bar that matches your cufflinks, watch, or other metal accessories. Silver and gold are classic options, but black or matte finishes can add a modern, sleek touch.

5. Belts: Match with shoes

The belt you choose can make a significant difference in your overall look. Aim for a belt that complements your shoes in both colour and style.

• Leather Belts: A well-crafted leather belt is a must-have for any suit wearer. Black leather belts are ideal for formal events, while brown belts can be worn with more casual or earth-toned suits.
• Width: The width of the belt should be in proportion to your suit. Slim belts work well with slimmer suits, while a wider belt is better suited to classic-cut suits.

6. Shoes: Complete the look

Shoes are the foundation of any suit and getting them right is essential. The right pair of shoes pulls the entire look together.

• Oxfords: For formal events or business settings, a classic pair of black or brown Oxfords will always be appropriate.
• Loafers or Derbies: For a more relaxed yet stylish look, loafers or derby shoes work well, especially with lighter or casual suits.
• Shoes & Socks Coordination: Make sure your socks match your trousers in colour. For a fun, playful look, you can incorporate subtle patterns or colours into your socks but be sure they don’t clash with your suit.

Accessorizing your suit is all about balance. Each accessory should complement your look without overwhelming it. The key is to choose pieces that reflect your personality while maintaining a cohesive, stylish appearance. Whether you're attending a formal event or a casual gathering, the right accessories can turn a great suit into a standout ensemble.