Accessories are an essential element of a well-coordinated suit, adding personality and refinement to a man's outfit. However, selecting and wearing them requires an understanding of etiquette. The right accessories can enhance your look, while the wrong ones may disrupt the balance of your attire.
In this guide, we explore the different accessories that pair well with suits, proper etiquette for business and formal settings, and the do’s and don’ts of accessorizing. Additionally, we highlight some of the best cufflinks to elevate your style.
Table of Contents
What Accessories Can Men Wear wear with Suits?
Proper Etiquette for Men's Suit Accessories
Which Accessories Are Acceptable with a Suit?
Recommended Cufflinks for Men's Suits
What Accessories Can Men Wear with Suits?
A well-chosen accessory can elevate a suit, adding a touch of personality and refinement. However, it's important to select pieces that enhance rather than overpower your look. Below are the key accessories that complement a suit and how to wear them correctly.
Tie Clips
A tie clip is a practical yet stylish accessory that keeps the tie in place and prevents it from shifting throughout the day. It also adds a refined touch to your overall appearance.
- Placement: The ideal position is between the third and fourth buttons of your dress shirt.
- Size: The clip should be slightly shorter than the width of your tie.
- Style Guide: For business settings, opt for a simple, metallic design. More intricate or playful styles can be worn in casual or social settings.
A tie clip is a practical item that secures the tie to the shirt to prevent movement and slippage. It also functions as an accent that enhances a suit style, adding a stylish touch to the V-zone when wearing a jacket.
When wearing a tie clip, it is generally positioned between the 3rd and 4th buttons of the shirt while wearing a jacket, or between the 4th and 5th buttons of the shirt when wearing just a dress shirt.
When choosing a tie clip, opt for a size slightly shorter than the width of the tie. In a business setting, simple and understated designs are preferred. On the other hand, in private or casual settings, you can enjoy designs that express your personality.
Cufflinks
Cufflinks add a sophisticated and personal touch to formal attire, often reserved for dress shirts with French cuffs.
- When to Wear: Ideal for formal events, business meetings, and special occasions.
- Material & Design: Classic silver or gold cufflinks with minimal embellishments are best for business. Bolder designs, such as those with gemstones or intricate detailing, suit weddings and black-tie events.
- Shirt Requirement: Must be worn with a French cuff or double-cuff dress shirt.
Cufflinks not only serve the function of fastening shirt sleeves but also add a touch of sophistication and elegance. They are rarely used in business settings but are commonly seen in formal occasions such as weddings and parties.
The usage is simple; they are inserted through the buttonholes on the cuffs of the shirt. Therefore, when putting on cufflinks, make sure to have a shirt without buttons on the cuffs.
Cufflinks come in various designs, ranging from simple and classic to extravagant and unique, allowing you to choose according to your preferences. In business settings, understated designs like silver or metallic are favored. For formal occasions, gold or embellished styles are recommended.
Lapel Pin
A lapel pin is a small decorative accessory that attaches to the lapel of a suit jacket. It can be a symbol of affiliation, a fashion statement, or an elegant addition to formalwear.
- Occasions: Ideal for weddings, formal events, and business functions.
- Styles: Simple metallic pins for subtle elegance, floral lapel pins for a touch of personality.
- Placement: Worn on the left lapel, through the lapel hole (if available).
The lapel pin is an accessory worn on the collar of a suit. The "lapel" refers to the area below the collar of a suit or jacket, and the pin is attached to the buttonhole known as the "lapel hole" located in this area.
Lapel pins come in various shapes, from small badge-like ones to stylish pin-shaped ones, and even elaborate ones with chains. They can be used to add a formal touch or as part of a stylish look in casual settings.
When choosing a lapel pin, it is important to consider the balance with the outfit and occasion. Elaborate designs can attract attention at parties or special events. For casual occasions, selecting a pin that reflects your interests can add a playful touch to your look.
Pins
Pins, also known as pinhole pins, is an accessory that lifts the knot of a tie, creating a polished and dimensional look.
- Requirement: The shirt must have small holes on either side of the collar for the pin.
- Style Guide: Simple silver or gold designs work best for formal occasions.
- Effect: Enhances the tie knot, giving the suit a more structured and elegant appearance.
To wear it, the collar must have holes on both sides, so you will need a special "pinhole shirt" for wearing it.
When attaching the pinhole pin, connect it through these holes on the left and right sides, and then tie a tie on top.
For using a pinhole pin in a business setting, opt for a silver one without decorations, while for formal occasions, a gold one with chain embellishments is also suitable. If you have a clip type or a safe pin-type pin, you can use it even on regular shirts without holes in the collar.
Suspenders
Suspenders are both a functional and stylish alternative to belts, adding a vintage or formal touch to a suit.
- Style Guide:
- Y-back or X-back designs offer better support.
- Button-on suspenders are more formal than clip-on versions.
- Stick to classic colors (black, navy, or dark brown) for professional settings.
- When to Wear: Best for formal and business-casual settings.
By hanging the pants with shoulder straps, they can emphasize a slim line without the need for a belt at the waist area. Additionally, they can maintain the waistline at a high position, making the legs appear longer and creating a smart silhouette.
There are various types of suspenders based on the shape of the belt and the fastener. Belt shapes include Y-shape, X-shape, H-shape, holster type, and more. Fasteners are divided into clip-on and button types.
Suspenders can be worn not only in casual or formal settings but also in business scenarios.
Belts
A belt is a necessary accessory for most suits, providing structure and continuity to an outfit.
- Color Matching: Should match your shoes (black belt with black shoes, brown belt with brown shoes).
- Width: The standard width for dress belts is 3–3.5 cm.
- Buckle Style: Simple and understated buckles are best for business and formal occasions.
Belts are important jewelry accessories for achieving overall balance in a suit style. When choosing a belt for a suit, opt for a simple and high-quality leather material. Black and brown are the mainstream colors, and coordinating them with the color of your leather shoes can create a sophisticated impression.
Furthermore, a small and shiny silver buckle is commonly preferred. By selecting a design with minimal decoration, you can maintain the elegance of your suit without compromising its sophistication.
Additionally, choose the width of the belt that matches the belt loops of your pants. A wider belt creates a more casual look, while a narrower one enhances a somewhat formal impression. In business settings, opt for a width between 3cm and 3.5cm to complement your suit style and make a statement.
Proper Etiquette for Suit Accessories
Accessories can enhance a suit, but they must be worn with consideration for the occasion. Whether in a professional setting, a formal event, or a somber occasion, understanding when and how to wear accessories is essential.
Business Settings
In professional environments, accessories should be subtle and refined, complementing rather than distracting from the suit.
- Tie Clip: A slim, silver or gold tie clip is a professional choice. Avoid flashy designs.
- Cufflinks: Stick to simple metal designs. Avoid gemstones or overly intricate patterns in corporate settings.
- Lapel Pins: Minimalist lapel pins can be appropriate but should not be too bold.
- Belts & Suspenders: Choose high-quality leather belts that match your shoes. If wearing suspenders, avoid overly bright or patterned styles.
- Jewelry: Keep rings and bracelets minimal. A wedding band and a classic watch are acceptable, while large rings or multiple bracelets can appear unprofessional.
When men incorporate jewelry accessories into their suits in a business setting, it is advisable to choose understated and simple designs. It is correct to use them as accents that emphasize the elegance of the suit, rather than as a form of self-assertion.
A commonly used jewelry accessory in business scenes is the belt. Choose colors like black or brown, similar to leather shoes and bags, to create a sense of harmony in your overall outfit. Opt for widths between 3cm and 3.5cm to avoid looking too casual or too formal.
For tie pins and cufflinks, simple and elegant designs are recommended. Metallic silver designs are common, and subtle pieces are preferred over flashy ones.
On the contrary, lapel pins, pinhole pins, and suspenders are not commonly used in business settings. If you choose to wear them, avoid flashy decorations and prioritize a relatively calm impression in business scenes.
Formal Occasions
For formal events like weddings, galas, or award ceremonies, accessories can be more elegant and expressive.
- Tie Clip & Cufflinks: Gold or silver with subtle embellishments, such as engraved patterns or small gemstones, add sophistication.
- Lapel Pins & Pinhole Pins: Decorative lapel pins or floral boutonnieres are suitable. Pinhole pins can elevate the tie knot for a refined appearance.
- Belts & Suspenders: Suspenders are often preferable to belts for formal suits and tuxedos. Stick to black or dark-colored options.
- Jewelry: A classic wristwatch and a simple bracelet can be added. Rings should be understated unless they are heirlooms or wedding bands.
When men wear accessories with suits in formal settings, it is recommended to choose designs that are elegant and sophisticated.
Etiquette for Funerals
In somber settings, accessories should be minimal and discreet to reflect the solemnity of the occasion.
- Tie Clip & Cufflinks: Simple silver or matte black designs are appropriate. Avoid anything reflective or ornate.
- Lapel Pins: If worn, a small black ribbon or a discreet silver pin is acceptable.
- Belts & Suspenders: A black belt with a matching black suit is standard. Suspenders should be kept hidden under the jacket.
- Jewelry: Minimal is best. A wedding ring and a watch are generally acceptable, but bracelets and decorative rings should be avoided.
When men wear accessories with suits in formal settings, it is recommended to opt for elegant and sophisticated designs. While avoiding excessively flashy accessories, wear decorative pieces that are appropriate for dignified and festive occasions.
For cufflinks, chic silver is a great choice as well as the dazzling gold. Accessories adorned with calm colored stones such as black or pearls are also popular choices. Lapel pins and pinhole pins similarly suit delicate chains or subtly decorative items. When adding accessories like tie pins, belts, or suspenders, opt for simple pieces considering harmony with other accessories.
In cases where there is a strict dress code, it is advisable to keep accessories to a minimum. Apart from bow ties, suspenders, or handkerchiefs, limit yourself to items like wedding rings or watches. By selecting accessories while considering the overall balance, you can maintain a certain level of elegance at formal events.
Avoid extravagance and choose modest accessories for funerals.
Which Accessories Are Acceptable with a Suit?
While accessories can elevate a suit, not all are appropriate for every occasion. Here’s a breakdown of which accessories are generally acceptable and when they should be worn.
Wedding Rings
A wedding ring is always acceptable and is one of the few accessories that can be worn in any professional or formal setting without concern.
- Best for: Business, formal, and casual settings.
- Design: Simple gold, silver, or platinum bands are most common.
Wedding rings are a typical jewelry accessory chosen by men when wearing suits. They symbolize significant life events and are commonly worn as everyday accessories.
They seamlessly blend into any occasion, from business to formal settings.
Fashion Rings
Unlike wedding rings, fashion rings are more of a statement piece and should be worn with care.
- Best for: Casual and social settings.
- Avoid in: Business or highly formal environments.
- Tip: If wearing a fashion ring with a suit, opt for a subtle design in silver or gold to maintain an elegant look.
Wearing fashion rings with a suit style is only appropriate for casual scenes. Men's fashion rings tend to be large and flashy, making them unsuitable for business or formal settings.
From now on, it is recommended to wear fashion rings in private settings to express your individuality. Carefully choose one that harmonizes with the overall balance and atmosphere of your suit.
Bracelet
Bracelets can complement a suit, but they must be chosen wisely to avoid clashing with a formal look.
- Best for: Business-casual, evening outings, or stylish events.
- Avoid in: Strict corporate settings or funerals.
- Tip: A thin metal or leather bracelet can subtly enhance a suit without appearing excessive.
When it comes to accessories that you want to coordinate with your suit, bracelets are also a good choice. While it's generally not recommended for business settings, you can wear them if your workplace allows casual attire. Additionally, understated and simple designs can be suitable even for formal occasions.
Men's bracelets are also perfect for casual settings. You can opt for ones made of leather to give off a relaxed vibe, or experiment with layering them with other accessories such as watches.
Recommended Cufflinks for Men's Suits
Cufflinks are one of the most refined accessories a man can wear with a suit. They add a subtle yet powerful touch of elegance, making them perfect for business, formal events, and special occasions. Here are three recommended cufflinks that can elevate your suit style.
As an accessory that elevates the suit style, cufflinks are charming. Since not many people wear them, by wearing them you can stand out from the crowd in a subtle way.
Furthermore, cufflinks excel in terms of functionality as well, securely fastening the cuffs to beautifully complement the shirt's shape. By incorporating them into your daily style, your regular suits will begin to appear more sophisticated.
Damier Cufflinks
For those who appreciate understated elegance, the Damier Cufflinks are an excellent choice.
- Design: Features a modern silver bar design with a checkered engraving that adds depth and texture.
- Highlight: The subtle black diamond inlay provides a refined contrast, enhancing its sophistication.
- Best for: Business meetings, formal events, and evening outings.
Product page here
Raphael Cufflinks
A fusion of simplicity and elegance. The Raphael Cufflinks are a perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication.
- Design: A polished silver finish with an intricate yet subtle pattern resembling a checkerboard.
- Highlight: Small yet impactful, these cufflinks reflect light beautifully, adding a touch of refinement to any suit.
- Best for: Business attire, formal dinners, and professional networking events.
Product page here
Leon Cufflinks
For a bold yet refined statement, the Leon Cufflinks are an exceptional choice.
- Design: Gold frame with an elegant black center, creating a striking yet sophisticated contrast.
- Highlight: The smooth finish and geometric detailing add a contemporary yet timeless appeal.
- Best for: High-profile business meetings, black-tie events, and formal celebrations.
Featuring meticulously crafted regular wave patterns on a silver face, these cufflinks display different expressions through the reflection of light. They serve as an accent piece for your ensemble while maintaining a simple design that doesn't overpower.
Product page here
Summary
Accessories are essential in refining a man's suit style, providing an opportunity for personal expression while maintaining an elegant and sophisticated appearance. However, selecting and wearing them appropriately is key to achieving a polished look.
Tie clips, cufflinks, lapel pins, and belts are classic accessories that complement a suit. For business and formal occasions, understated choices are best, whereas casual settings allow for more creativity and personal flair. Among these, cufflinks stand out as a must-have accessory, instantly elevating a suit with a touch of refinement.
Whether dressing for business, formal events, or special occasions, the right accessories enhance both confidence and style. By understanding proper etiquette and choosing accessories that suit the occasion, any man can master the art of accessorizing with elegance.