Classy Navy Suit Alternatives and Ways to Differentiate a Navy Suit
A navy suit is a staple in any man's wardrobe, however you also need an alternative or a simple way to diversify the navy. Now in the post-pandemic world, we find our customers asking for business casual alternatives more than ever before. The good news is there are options out there if you are after business like look without wearing a navy suit. There are a variety of colors that can be just as versatile as your trusty navy suit.
Grey - Careful on the Shade
Quite obviously swapping out your navy suit for a charcoal grey option is the simplest one. Be careful with lighter shades of grey as they can wash out lighter skin tones and make your complexion look dull, which is the reason why so many men lean towards navy as a safer option.
Fall in Love With Flannel
If you're looking for something a little bit different whilst staying classy, consider a navy or grey flannel suit. The common belief is that flannel is a winter season cloth, the truth is that it depends on the weight (thickness) of the cloth. 280-320gr flannel is a great weight to be worn all year round. Make sure to choose a darker colour palette to avoid looking too rustic.
Wear Your Flannel As Seperates
What we at Artefact London love about flannel suits is how easy it is to break the jacket & trousers up and wear as separates. Team up your flannel jacket with denim or smart chinos for a business casual look. Or take the flannel trousers and wear a well fitting shirt and a sweater for a smart casual feel. Make sure to keep the rest of the look clean and sharp to avoid looking sloppy.
Dark Green & Brown
Grey is a rather obvious alternative to navy, what else is there in terms of colours if we are speaking of keeping it business like? Consider wearing dark denim jeans or smart dark chinos with dark green or dark brown casual jacket. Keep accessories to a minimum: dark brown belt, oxford shoes (not trainers), and a watch.
Checked Jackets
Are checks appropriate in the workplace? Some checks are, some not quite. It also depends on your work environment of course. Better be safe than sorry. Don't wear a full on checked suit to the office. Checked suits work well if you are going to an event or a summer party. If you do love a checked jacket go for a faint pattern on a darker colour cloth for a business casual look.
Waistcoat Waistcoat Waistcoat!
If you are a big fan of navy suits and need to differentiate the look from a business suit, for example for a wedding day or other special event, consider adding a waistcoat. Want to take it a step further? Make it a double breasted waistcoat! Want to add even more panache? Make it a contrasting colour waistcoat.
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