Photograph by Brendan Creaser
In a world filled with vibrant colours and bold fashion statements, there’s a humble hero that quietly exudes timeless elegance and sophistication—the beige suit. It may not demand attention with flashy hues or eye-catching patterns, but don’t be fooled by its understated appearance. Behind that unassuming facade lies a versatile garment that deserves a spot in every fashion-savvy individual’s wardrobe.
Gone are the days when beige was associated solely with monotony or blandness. The beige suit has emerged from the shadows to make its mark as a style staple. It effortlessly bridges the gap between casual and formal attire. Whether you are planning for a wedding suit or a fancy going-out suit, the beige suit has your back—literally and figuratively.
But what makes the beige suit so special? Well, it possesses a unique charm that transcends trends and stands the test of time. Its neutral tones offer a canvas for creativity (allowing you to experiment with various accessories, shirts, and ties) while maintaining a refined look. You can effortlessly transition from attending a formal event to being the life of the party with a beige suit, all with a touch of undeniable class.
From styling tips and tricks to exploring its historical significance, join us in our quest to understand the allure of this often underestimated garment. So, whether you’re a seasoned suit aficionado or just beginning to dip your toes into the world of fashion, this article will redefine your perception of beige. It’s time to unlock its hidden potential and discover why this unassuming attire has become a true style icon.
3 Elements to Consider When Wearing a Beige Suit
The popularity of beige suits can be traced back to the mid-20th century, specifically the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, there was a shift in men’s fashion towards more relaxed and casual styles, and the beige suit emerged as a stylish alternative to traditional dark-coloured suits.
The 1960s saw the rise of the “Mad Men” era, influenced by the TV series of the same name, which showcased the fashionable styles of the time. Beige suits, often made from lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton, symbolised sophisticated yet effortless style. This trend continued into the 1970s, with the influence of the disco era and the popularity of leisure suits. Beige suits were a fashionable choice for formal and casual occasions.
Since then, the beige suit has remained a classic and versatile option in men’s fashion. Its neutral tone allows for easy pairing with a variety of colours and patterns, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a timeless and elegant look. However, achieving the perfect look requires attention to detail and consideration of the three crucial elements outlined below.
Photograph by Sorrento Weddings
Level of Formality
When it comes to the level of formality, the fabric you choose for your beige suit plays a significant role. Linen suits are perfect for more relaxed and casual occasions. They have a lightweight and breathable nature that exudes effortless elegance.
However, opt for a wool suit if you desire a more formal look. Wool’s refined and polished appearance makes it suitable for business settings and formal events, such as weddings. To add a touch of versatility, you can also consider a linen-coloured jacket made of wool, which combines the best of both worlds.
Styling Options
The styling options available for your beige suit are endless and can determine the overall impression you create. You can experiment with different accessories to strike the right balance. As for your shoes, brown shoes go best with them as other shoe colours may overwhelm the colour of your suit.
Slim-fit trousers lend a modern and tailored look, while pleated trousers with a cuff offer a more traditional vibe. A well-chosen tie (whether a textured knit or classic silk tie) can add depth and character to your ensemble. Here’s a cheat sheet on what tie to pair with a beige suit:
- Solid Colour Ties: Solid colour ties provide a timeless and versatile choice for a beige suit. Opt for classic colours like navy, burgundy, forest green, or even shades of brown. These colours create a subtle yet sophisticated contrast against the neutral backdrop of the suit. The tie will stand out without overpowering the overall look.
- Patterned Ties: Adding a touch of pattern to your tie can elevate the visual interest of your beige suit ensemble. Patterns (such as subtle stripes, small-scale dots, or geometric designs) add depth and texture to your outfit while maintaining a sense of refinement.
- Textured Ties: Texture can significantly impact when paired with a beige suit. Incorporate textured ties like knitted, woven silk, or silk ties with a subtle texture. These ties add visual interest and a tactile element to your outfit for a sophisticated look.
- Floral or Paisley Ties: For those looking to make a bolder statement, floral or paisley patterned ties can be a stylish choice. Opt for ties with intricate floral motifs or paisley designs in complementary colours. These ties can add a touch of personality and individuality to your beige suit, making it an eye-catching ensemble.
- Seasonal Ties: Another option is wearing ties that reflect the season or occasion. For spring and summer, lighter shades or pastels can work well. In contrast, for fall and winter, deeper hues, rich jewel tones, or darker shades can complement the season’s vibe.
- No-Tie/Open Collar Look: The no-tie/open collar look adds a relaxed and contemporary touch to beige suits. It creates a stylish and effortless vibe, perfect for semi-formal or casual occasions. The open collar allows for more freedom and comfort while maintaining a sophisticated and fashion-forward appearance.
As always, donning a three-piece ensemble can elevate your look. It introduces an element of formality and refinement to the inherent casualness of the beige suit. Thus, this strikes a perfect balance between relaxed elegance and distinguished style. A waistcoat adds depth and structure, turning a simple beige suit into a statement of sartorial confidence, making it a great wedding suit option too.
Texture
Worsted wool, or flat wool, refers to fabrics with a smoother surface and a more refined texture. This type of wool lends itself well to a sleek and classic appearance, making it an excellent choice for formal or professional settings. They are well-suited for beige suits, particularly when worn as a complete suit.
The smoothness of worsted wool allows the beige suit to exude an air of elegance and sophistication. It creates a clean and polished look, emphasising the timeless appeal of the suit’s neutral colour. Whether in a business meeting or attending a formal event, a flat wool beige suit can help you make a confident and stylish statement.
On the other hand, tweed is a textured fabric traditionally made from wool, known for its durability and warmth. It often features a combination of different-coloured yarns, creating a distinctive pattern. A tweed jacket in beige is suited to be worn as separates rather than as part of a full suit.
While tweed jackets can be found in various colours, a beige tweed jacket brings a touch of versatility to your wardrobe. By wearing it separately, you can incorporate it into your outfits for more casual or smart-casual occasions. Pairing a beige tweed jacket with contrasting trousers (such as navy or charcoal grey) creates an interesting visual contrast and adds a rustic, heritage-inspired touch to your ensemble. A pair of chinos is also a good option to go with your beige jacket.
When to Wear a Beige Suit?
Photograph by Briggins Clothiers
Not only is the beige suit a master of versatility, but it also knows how to keep you cool, calm, and collected. It’s light, breathable fabric ensures comfort even on the hottest summer days, making it a go-to choice for those seeking both style and practicality. No more compromising between looking sharp and feeling at ease—this sartorial gem offers the best of both worlds.
The beige suit carries a natural affinity for the summer season, exuding a light and breezy vibe that perfectly complements warmer weather. The neutral tone of a beige suit harmonises effortlessly with the sunny ambience of summer, making it a popular choice for various occasions during this time of year.
Its colour aligns with the earthy and natural palette often associated with summer. The neutral tones resemble sandy beaches, sun-kissed landscapes, and warm breezes. These evoke a sense of tranquillity and a vacation-like atmosphere. Embrace the summer spirit by choosing a lightweight beige suit and styling it with confidence.
How Should Groomsmen Wear a Beige Suit?
Aside from the styling elements mentioned above, the type of wedding will also influence how grooms and groomsmen should wear a beige suit. Linen will always look more casual while wearing a tux or bowtie will make it more formal. If you must wear loafers, ensure they’re the same colour and fabric as your suit. Below are other styling guidelines according to the wedding theme.
Beach Wedding
- Prioritise lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton to combat the heat.
- Opt for a slightly lighter shade of beige to complement the natural surroundings.
- Keep the styling casual by skipping the tie and opting for an open collar or a colourful pocket square.
- Choose appropriate footwear (such as loafers or boat shoes) that are comfortable for the sandy beach terrain.
Summer Wedding
- Go for a well-tailored beige suit in a classic fit.
- Light-coloured shirts like light blue or pastel pink will keep the look fresh.
- Add playful accessories like a patterned tie or a vibrant pocket square to express your style.
- Opt for breathable footwear (such as leather loafers or suede shoes) to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Rustic and Country Weddings
- Embrace earthy tones and textured fabrics.
- Pair your beige suit with shirts in colours (like olive green, burnt orange, or deep burgundy) to create a cohesive look.
- Consider incorporating rustic details, such as wooden or leather accessories (like bowties or suspenders).
- A beige tweed suit jacket worn as separates with chinos can add a stylish touch to the outfit.
- Adopt a more rustic style with a button-down shirt and a knitted tie (or a bowtie).
Always consider the dress code specified by the couple and the event’s formality. These guidelines provide a starting point. Feel free to personalise your outfit to align with the wedding setting and the couple’s vision. With these tips, you’ll confidently rock your beige suit at any event, ensuring you look stylish and appropriate.
Experience the difference of a suit designed exclusively for you at Briggins. Our skilled tailors will bring your vision to life using the finest fabrics and precise craftsmanship. Visit our shop at Level 1/156 Maroondah Hwy, Ringwood VIC 3134, to explore our range of options and receive personalised guidance. You may also book your consultation by calling 1300 452 251 or emailing info@briggins.com.au.
