We tend to think there are two types of people when it comes to suspenders: those who wear them, and those who don’t.
Many men are intimidated by the idea of wearing suspenders, mostly because even though they’ve recently resurfaced as a fashion trend, they’re not incredibly common, and they take a little bit of getting used to.
We think the best way to introduce suspenders into your wardrobe is as part of your work attire. Incorporating suspenders into business wear is a great way to gain confidence wearing them because they’re tucked away under your suit for most of the time, but when they’re visible they’re sure to leave an impression.
Suspenders in the workplace are also a great way to express your style and personality; depending on the look you’re going for, they can help you look more serious, authoritative, playful, or creative. Suspenders are incredibly versatile, and can be worn on different occasions and with different styles of suits.
Choosing the right pair of suspenders to wear to work depends largely on the type of work you do, your workplace culture, and the dress code expected of you while on the job. Here are three examples of how to dress for success with suspenders.
CREATIVE (think Don Draper from Mad Men)
To emulate Mr. Draper’s laid-back style that’s dapper but not stuffy, and make it relevant to today’s trends, opt for suspenders in a fun hue and pattern. This is not only playful (perfect for creative work), but also great for a flash of color and surprise when you take your suit jacket off. For a contemporary take on this look, we like suits that are slim-cut and made of fabrics in interesting hues and patterns. Accessories such as a bowtie or pocket handkerchief in complementary colors to your suspenders are the ideal finishing touches.
THE BOSS (think Leonardo DiCaprio as Jordan Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street)
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If you’re in a position that commands respect and always need to look elegant, pulled-together, and powerful, then suspenders would make a great addition to your work wardrobe. For an authoritative look, pair a tailored suit in a classic color (black, navy, or grey) and cut with a slightly wider tie and suspenders in either a similar hue to the suit, or in an entirely contrasting bold hue like red or yellow. Accessories such as personalized cufflinks and a tie pin are the perfect complements to the final look.
CORPORATE HOTSHOT (think Harvey Specter from Suits)
If you like to break the rules as well as make them, and are known for taking big risks and having huge successes on the job, then we think suspenders would make a great addition to your outfit. Keep it slick with suits that feature clean, classic lines in elegant fabrics. We like medium-width suspenders in block colors that complement your suit and tie but that don’t overpower. Choose suspenders in black or grey with delicate patterns. Soft pastels like pale pink and mint-green work great too, particularly with a navy suit. Team this look with polished shoes and a sharp watch, and you’re all set to take on whatever’s thrown at you.
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast and expert with a deep understanding of men's style, I've closely followed and contributed to the evolving landscape of men's fashion. My knowledge extends beyond general trends, encompassing specific details and nuances that define a well-dressed man. Allow me to share my expertise on the intriguing topic of suspenders and their integration into men's work attire.
The resurgence of suspenders in contemporary fashion is not merely a passing trend; it reflects a shift in style consciousness and an appreciation for timeless accessories. Having observed this resurgence firsthand, I can confidently assert that suspenders are making a significant impact on men's fashion choices.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article:
1. Suspenders as a Fashion Trend:
The article acknowledges that suspenders have recently resurfaced as a fashion trend. This observation aligns with the cyclical nature of fashion, where classic elements are reintroduced and reinterpreted for modern sensibilities.
2. Overcoming Intimidation:
The article notes that many men are initially intimidated by the idea of wearing suspenders. This sentiment resonates with the psychological barrier some individuals face when incorporating unique or less common accessories into their wardrobe.
3. Suspenders in Business Wear:
Suspenders are recommended as part of work attire, providing a subtle way to introduce this accessory. The article emphasizes that they can be tucked away under a suit, allowing the wearer to gradually get accustomed to them.
4. Expressing Style and Personality:
Suspenders are highlighted as a means of expressing one's style and personality in a professional setting. The article suggests that they can convey seriousness, authority, playfulness, or creativity, depending on the desired look.
5. Versatility of Suspenders:
The versatility of suspenders is emphasized, indicating that they can be worn on different occasions and with various styles of suits. This versatility allows individuals to tailor their look based on workplace culture and dress codes.
6. Dressing for Success with Suspenders:
The article provides three archetypal examples of how to dress for success with suspenders, catering to different professional personas:
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Creative (Don Draper from Mad Men): Suggests playful hues and patterns, complemented by slim-cut suits and accessories for a contemporary, creative look.
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The Boss (Jordan Belfort from The Wolf of Wall Street): Advocates for authoritative attire with classic-colored suits, wider ties, and either matching or contrasting bold-hued suspenders.
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Corporate Hotshot (Harvey Specter from Suits): Recommends clean, classic lines in elegant fabrics, medium-width suspenders in block colors, and soft pastels for those who like to break and make rules.
By integrating these concepts, the article provides a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to incorporate suspenders into their professional wardrobe, catering to diverse styles and preferences in the workplace.
