Can You Mix a Pinstripe Jacket with Plain Suit Pants? (2024)

Not to put too fine a point on it, but: NO.

Here's one way to look at it. If there's a blazer or sport coat version of your suit jacket, there's a good chance it'll pair well with non-suit pants (like jeans, chinos or trousers). Solid suit jackets are usually a safe bet, but once you get into patterns, proceed with caution. There are windowpane or plaid sport coats, so taking the top half of one of these suits and mixing it with a different pant can work. But in almost every situation, pinstriped jackets have matching pants. While you might get some attention wearing yours with trousers, it won't be the kind you're after.

Here's more information on pairing sport coats and trousers.

Since we're on the subject, another thing men should avoid is attempting to create a suit out of two similar fabrics. For example, it's impossible to match a navy blazer to navy trousers. One will have more sheen or a wider weave. While they may look passable in the relative darkness of your closet, once you see the light of day, everyone else will see you're mismatched. Stick with a pant of a different color, texture, or fabric and you'll be on the right path to looking sharp.

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