The navy suit is the most versatile friend in a man’s wardrobe. It is ideal by day and of an evening alike. If a man could keep only one suit, the navy one should be it. Many men sense intuitively that navy is a jack of all trades, yet few find the best combinations for each occasion. And that is precisely where it costs them dearly. This article therefore presents the top 5 ways to wear a navy suit.
1. Evening business formal: how to wear the suit at events
An invitation to an evening event does not necessarily call for a black suit. In a room full of black suits, a navy one can be the ideal answer. A crisply pressed white shirt, well-polished black shoes and socks to match the trousers form the base. Add a plain tie, preferably navy, and the indispensable silk pocket square, matching the shirt. Cufflinks are preferable, though not obligatory.
2. Daytime business formal: how to wear the suit at the office
What separates a daytime business suit from an evening one? The pieces it is paired with. However formal a daytime event, it admits more colour than an evening one. A pale blue shirt, the same black shoes, but with the daring touch of a striped tie and a pocket square with small dots. Remarkably, the difference is colossal precisely because it is so discreet. What more could a man in business, finance or the corporate world ask for?
3. Business casual at work: how to bring ease to the office
Business casual usually brings to mind a sport jacket with contrasting trousers. For a man who cannot part with his suit but wants to give it a relaxed note, however, here is what to do. A grey polo neck, brown suede shoes, beige (or green) socks and a colourful pocket square. Proof of how versatile a suit can be that once seemed so serious.
4. Weekend business casual: how to wear the suit for a stroll
Some men, as is well known, like to impress with their bearing. Not only at the office, in front of their staff, but also on leisurely weekend strolls. Here is an idea. A pale pink shirt and a playful pocket square. On the feet, brown suede shoes or, depending on the weather, Chukka boots. Not bad, is it?
5. Summer travel: how to wear the suit on holiday
It sounds novel, but it is not. It is simply the moment when the suit jacket suddenly becomes a chic blazer, a pleasure to wear in the warm season. How? With white chinos, a fine-striped shirt (or perhaps a T-shirt), a pale blue scarf at the neck, a woven belt and loafers. Bound for the Mediterranean or the tropics? Then espadrilles are all it takes. And a Panama hat.
As this shows, with a dash of imagination, there are countless creative ways to wear a navy suit. Above are 5 tried-and-tested combinations that never fail. Others, no doubt, are waiting to be discovered.
