When Should A Man Buy A Pinstripe Suit? (2024)

When Should A Man Buy A Pinstripe Suit? (1)

So when should a man purchase a pinstripe suit?

I generally like the look of a man in a pinstripe suit.

I personally don't own one yet, but I find its properties attractive,but could a man buy one as a second suit?

What occasions and what professions are appropriate for a pinstripe suit?

My quick answer to that is it depends on your profession.

I don't recommend a pinstripe suit to probably a man's fifth suit at the earliest.I know that sounds cool. It's like, “Wow! You've already got to own four suits?” So what are the four in front of it?

I'll talk about that quickly, but I'm also going to explain my logic.

Your Go-To Suits

When Should A Man Buy A Pinstripe Suit? (2)

The great thing with the solid navy, the solid charcoal, the solid medium grey, the solid light grey is that you could wear those almost every day and change out your shirt, change out your tie, change your pocket square, perhaps even sometimes change your shoe style and you're going to find that people are not going to notice.

Those suits don't necessarily draw attention to themselves because they're very simple, they're very classic, and many people aren't going to notice if one day you're wearing a navy, one day you're wearing a charcoal, one day you're wearing a medium grey, so those three.

So navy and charcoal solid suits, those should be in every man's wardrobe. Those are your go-to suits. And after that, you want to maybe look at a light gray, a medium gray, or a tuxedo.

And why would you want to have black tie?

Technically, it is a suit. And if you're owning that many suits and you're wearing suits every day, then I would say that you're going to have the opportunity to wear a black tie at least once or twice a year, so it should be considered in there.

So already we've got five suits and even if you threw one out the window, that would come in at number five, the pinstripe. And even ahead of that, I may even say a Prince of Wales jacket or I've got some other ones that I would recommend.

Let's just say that you've got those, you've got the four solids, you've got the black tie, and this will be your sixth suit. And then you can go with the pinstripe.

But why do we wait until the sixth?

Because of versatility.

Professions and Pinstripes

Let's say you've got a profession and the professions that usually lean towards pinstripes are going to be in the finance industry. If you work in a larger city, let's say New York or Chicago, then you'll see these more often, but usually it's going to be in the banking, in the finance, people that deal with money –I don't know what the exact association is.

So if you're outside of that field, let's say you're a doctor or you're a plumber and you're looking for your second suit because you're trying to sell to more upscale clients and you're looking to get in the industrial type of contracting, then you don't want to have your pinstripe as your go-to suit because people are going to remember it.

You go to a networking event and it's like, “Hey, there's Mike again, the plumber in the pinstripe suit who I've seen at three different networking events in the last week. Is that the only suit he owns?” No. Go with the solids and once you have those, then look at the pinstripe as a fifth or sixth suit.

When Should A Man Buy A Pinstripe Suit? (3)

What to wear with pinstripes

If you've got the pinstripes, you then want to be careful about stripes in your tie or stripes in your shirt because you don't want to have too many stripes especially with the same distance between the stripes.

Some notable responses from Men's Style Q&A website

Geoffrey says:

“Definitely not limited to the banking sector. Pinstripe suits are a good business choice for anyone, assuming they're on a conservative color like charcoal or navy.

They're slightly less flexible in terms of what shirt/tie you can wear than a sold gray or blue, and it's harder to wear the pieces separately as an odd jacket and trousers. Otherwise they work about the same, although in the most formal and conservative settings they'd be considered slightly less formal than a solid. But for most day-to-day business purposes you should be just as fine in navy or charcoal with pinstripes as you would be without.”

Vadsamoht, says:

“I'd probably say that buying a pinstripe as a second suit is not a good idea. I'd wait until you at least have plain or very tightly patterned black, grey, and navy suits,” – exactly what I said.

And Mr. Modern Gentleman says:

“The movie that made me want a pinstripe suit, they seem to look great on anyone,” (and he brings up a movie).

Actually, I didn't know what it was, so go check out the Men's Style Q&A website. I would love to hear on the comments what movie he's referring to, but he basically brings up a picture of four gentlemen all wearing these pinstripe suits.

I don't know if I'd necessarily agree that you can wear them all the time, but I see how he would like that photo.

When Should A Man Buy A Pinstripe Suit? (2024)

FAQs

When should you wear a pinstripe suit? ›

Usually, Pinstripe Suits were reserved for the workplace and the most formal occasions. However the aforementioned casual nature of the (new) 20's means that not only you can wear them anywhere, but you can even pop a turtleneck or sneakers under.

Are pinstripes in style 2023? ›

Yes, this is the classic cool era of pinstripes. And below, we have some easy and edgy pinstripe-dominated looks by the influencer and celebrity set to inspire and evoke the ideal mix of formal and casual in your 2023 style.

Who should wear pinstripes? ›

Pinstripe suits are a good business choice for anyone, assuming they're on a conservative color like charcoal or navy. They're slightly less flexible in terms of what shirt/tie you can wear than a sold gray or blue, and it's harder to wear the pieces separately as an odd jacket and trousers.

Is pinstripe suit OK for wedding? ›

The simple answer is yes. With its ever growing popularity, the pinstripe suit has become something of amainstay of formal wear. Head out to a wedding and as sure as the bride will toss the bouquet; therewill be a plethora of pinstriped men hoping their partners mistime their catch.

What does a pinstripe suit represent? ›

Traditionally a sartorial by-word for power, the pinstripe has its origins in the banking world, worn as a way of distinguishing workers at different Victorian banks based on the distance between the thin white lines on their suits.

How formal is a pinstripe suit? ›

Pinstripe suits are unmistakably formal and typically not great for a casual experience or event. However, some are disregarding this convention these days. If you're one of those contrarians, we advise that you wear a pinstripe suit when you wish to stand out in a crowd.

What is out of style for 2023? ›

Are high waisted pants out of style 2023? High waist pants are out of fashion for spring 2023 – especially the carrot pants, paper bag pants and palazzo pants. And high waisted pants will be out of style for fall winter 2023/24, too. In fact, the high waist pants were not seen on the fall winter 2023/24 runways.

What tie goes with a pinstripe suit? ›

3. Choose your shirt to complement – Patterned shirts and ties work well and refreshes the pinstripe suit style. Prints in combinations of blue, white, and maroon are fail-safe options under navy or grey suits. When it comes to the tie, pick one that either coordinates with the suit.

What man is known for pinstripe suit? ›

After Prohibition the suit became even more mainstream when huge stars such as Clark Gable and Cary Grant continued to popularise it. It is said that the pinstripe suit that Clark Gable' wore in Gone with the Wind influenced the emergence of the flamboyant, flared-trousers, padded-shouldered zoot suit.

What color shirt goes with a pinstripe suit? ›

Another simple but effective way of ensuring a great pinstripe look is to wear a shirt that's the same color as the stripe of your suit. A black pinstripe suit typically comes with white stripes, so a white shirt is the most common, natural choice with a pinstripe suit.

Can a man wear a pinstripe jacket with solid pants? ›

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.

What is stripe vs pinstripe suit? ›

Pinstripes are finer and more structured than chalk stripes. This is mainly because they're woven on top of the background fabric, which prevents the blurring effect from occurring. Often viewed as more conservative than chalk stripes, the pinstripe is best for formal settings.

Can you wear a check shirt with a pinstripe suit? ›

If you wear stripes with stripes or checks with checks, you should have a difference in amplitude. A pin-striped shirt is generally better with a chalk-striped suit than with a pin-striped suit; a big check would complement a small check. Like that.

What is the best color suit for a wedding? ›

Formal Wedding Attire

The most appropriate suit colors for a formal wedding include charcoal grey, black, and midnight blue. A good rule of thumb, a dark suit is always the safest choice. If you're looking to add a bit of personality to your formal suit, consider your accessories.

Are pinstripe suits slimming? ›

Strip Down with Pinstripes

Most suits are naturally slimming, because the monochromatic color and texture create an unbroken vertical line from neck to toe. But pinstripes do the job even more efficiently: That's why Giambi looks leaner in his Yankee uni than he did as an Oaklander.

Who wears a striped suit? ›

Striped suits are considered appropriate for official and formal events, especially if they are darker in color i.e. navy or black. However, the versatility of the suit is unquestioned, the way you accessorize your suit defines the kind of setting you plan to wear it to.

Are pinstripes flattering? ›

A horizontal line shortens and widens, while a vertical line lengthens and slims. As you're petite, wearing a suit in a fine pinstripe will make you appear taller and slimmer.

Can you wear a pinstripe suit to a co*cktail party? ›

What are the things to avoid in co*cktail attire? Wearing flashy things such as a pinstripe suit and vibrant ties. If it is a wedding, you don't want the attention all to yourself. Wearing casual bottoms, such as shorts, chinos, ripped jeans, and khakis.

Why did mobsters wear pinstripe suits? ›

Pinstripes have long been a symbol of power dressing. Years before Mr. Wolfe's Masters of the Universe, gangsters like Al Capone wore the pattern to convey bravado and a sense of orderliness.

What color suit is more formal? ›

The occasion/dress code

We recommend sticking with dark-colored suits, like black, navy, or charcoal gray for a formal event. For a day at the office, an all black men's suit is way too formal. Instead, we recommend wearing a gray or navy blue men's suit to work.

Are skinny jeans out of style 2023? ›

Skinny Jeans, Skinny Pants & Leggings Are Back in For Fall 2023.

What design is in for 2023? ›

Arcs and curvy shapes have been making their way into interiors for a while now. First, crescent sofas, tulip and egg chairs, and round rugs took centerstage bit by bit. Now, 2023 home décor trends are moving further than curved furniture. Say hello to oblong mirrors, architectural details, and mushroom lighting.

What's new in design in 2023? ›

Some of the most popular interior design trends for 2023 include the return of bold color, natural stone surfaces, closed floor plans, mixed metal finishes, luxe living, statement lighting, and 60s and 70s influences — particularly in furniture design.

What will be the color of 2023? ›

Pantone recently announced its 2023 Color of the Year: Viva Magenta.

What is the color for 2023 in fashion? ›

Digital Lavender, Luscious Red, Sundial, Tranquil Blue and Verdigris are the color names for 2023. Who chooses the names of the new colors?

What are consumers looking for in 2023? ›

One report shows 82% of shoppers want brands to embrace sustainable and “people-first” practices. Another survey even found 75% of Gen-Z shoppers felt sustainability was more important than brand names.

What goes well with pinstripe? ›

Standard winter insulation, three to four layers that include a knitted piece, can be the perfect accompaniment to your pinstripe trousers. Above the belt, take the approach that the lower the layer, the lighter the tone. Go with a white shirt under a cream knitted jumper for a neat, relaxed start.

Can you wear a pinstripe suit jacket with jeans? ›

The first thing to be aware of is to avoid wearing an more formal looking jacket such as a pinstripe with jeans. The solid black or black and white pinstripes which appear so well-defined when featured in a full suit can dilute the essential nonchalance of this style.

What color shirt goes with grey pinstripe suit? ›

A grey suit and navy shirt, or a grey suit and blue shirt, are great options for formal and semi-formal events. Blue is certainly one of the best choices when it comes to deciding what shirt to wear with a grey suit. Blue perfectly complements grey and helps to add a clean and fresh look.

Who always wears pinstripe suits? ›

Pinstripe suits have been the unofficial uniform of bankers since the 1980s, serving as silver screen shorthand for avarice and sociopathy in Wall Street, American Psycho and The Wolf of Wall Street.

When did pinstripe suits start? ›

Pinstripes have been found on suits since the early 19th century. They were used by banks in London to identify their employees.

Can you wear brown shoes with a grey pinstripe suit? ›

Can I wear a grey suit with brown shoes? Yes, of course. It will be a little bit less formal than if you wear your grey suit with black shoes but it will work perfectly. The darker the shade of grey your suit is, the darker your brown shoes should be.

Can you wear brown shoes with a blue pinstripe suit? ›

Light blue suits can be worn with brown shoes in either a dark or lighter tone, including tan or cognac colors, as well as more casual shoe styles. For professional settings, it's always safe to stick to the dark blue suit and dark brown oxford shoe combination.

What shoes go best with black pinstripe suit? ›

Black suits, including pinstripe, look best with black shoes. However, a dark burgundy colored shoe is also a great complement to this traditional suit. Brown or linen suits can be worn with all different shades of brown and black shoes.

What is the most versatile jacket color for men? ›

While most blazers can be styled for any occasion, grey and navy are the most versatile colors, with brown and tan better suited for more casual settings.

When should you not button a suit jacket? ›

As a general rule of formal wear etiquette, a jacket should be buttoned when standing and unbuttoned when seated. Of course, there are additional rules too. On a two-button jacket, only use the top one when it's time to button up.

What stripe is flattering? ›

According to scientists, horizontal stripes can make you look thinner. This is because they seem to fill space more than vertical stripes do. BUT on the contrary, vertical stripes can elongate your figure and make you look taller.

What do you wear with a black pinstripe suit? ›

A black pinstripe suit is a great way to look professional and stylish. It can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. For a more formal look, pair the suit with a white dress shirt and a red tie. To create a more casual look, wear a light blue dress shirt and brown shoes.

What is a chalk stripe suit? ›

A chalk-stripe is a fabric with a plain background and equidistant vertical stripes which are traditionally white and reminiscent of a line drawn with chalk.

What should a man wear to a wedding evening? ›

Dressing casual for a wedding is really just a nice way for the bride and groom to give permission to wear your suit or blazer without needing to buy anything new or something you don't already own… like a tux with tails. It typically calls for a suit and dress shirt, but you can get by with a blazer or sports coat.

What color shirt should a man wear to a wedding? ›

Charcoal, grey, or navy suit. Button-down dress shirt. Smart tie or bow tie (not black) Elegant accessories including cufflinks and an elegant watch.

Is a dark blue suit OK for a wedding? ›

If it is a day/early afternoon wedding feel free to wear a medium grey or blue suit. If the wedding is an evening or nighttime event it is best to stay in the darker realm of suit colors like black or charcoal.

Can you wear pinstripes in summer? ›

For a more formal look, pair the suit with a white dress shirt and a red tie. To create a more casual look, wear a light blue dress shirt and brown shoes. Be sure to pay attention to fit, and choose the suit that best compliments your body type. Pinstripe suits can be worn year-round.

What type of suit makes you look thinner? ›

A three-piece suit can be very slimming because the waistcoat gives you the illusion of having a smaller waist. If you love how you look in a double-breasted jacket, by all means, go for it, however, if your goal is to look slimmer, wear a one or two buttoned ,single-breasted jacket instead.

What Colour suit makes you look slimmer? ›

Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame.

What is smart dress code for men? ›

Formal smart casual attire is “a jacket or blazer, flannels, needlecord trousers, or chinos (not jeans), a shirt with a collar (not a T-shirt) and smart shoes (not necessarily lace-ups, but not trainers or sandals)”.

What is the after 5 dress code for men? ›

Sometimes also called the after 5 attire, men would change their clothes from their daily work suit to a pre-dinner dress to wear while having a drink with canapés (or many drinks on some occasions). The after 5 drink tradition continued long after the 1920s, and the men's co*cktail attire with it.

What is the co*cktail code for men? ›

As a general guide, 'co*cktail' means no jeans and no sneakers. You want dress chinos or suit pants, a button-up shirt or suit shirt, and probably a blazer or suit jacket. Ties are optional, but recommended, and your footwear should look sharp and polished.

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