How to Choose the Right Suit for Every Occasion

Quick Answer: How Do You Choose the Right Suit for the Occasion?

  • Weddings: navy, grey or tan depending on the season and time of day.
  • Business: navy or charcoal in a solid or subtle pattern.
  • Black tie: a tuxedo.
  • Casual events and summer parties: a lighter suit, or a sport jacket or blazer with contrasting pants.

The right suit depends on where you're wearing it. Colour, pattern and style all change how formal a suit feels. Here's how to match your suit to the occasion and to your build.

Suit Styles to Know

  • Two-button suits: the modern standard for business and events.
  • Three-piece suits: a matching or contrasting vest makes a suit dressier and warmer.
  • Tuxedos: satin details for black tie. See suit or tuxedo?
  • Stretch suits: modern fabrics that move with you. See why modern suits are so much more comfortable.
  • Light-coloured suits: tan, light grey and pastels for summer.
  • Patterned suits: checks, plaids and windowpane for character, especially in fall and winter.

Choosing Colour

  • Navy: the most versatile. Business, weddings and evening events.
  • Charcoal: formal and serious. Business and evening.
  • Grey: lighter and approachable. Daytime events and business casual.
  • Black: evening and formal events.
  • Tan and light grey: summer and daytime weddings.
  • Statement colours: burgundy, green and pastels for prom and parties.

Suit Inspiration by Occasion

Wedding

Navy or grey with a light blue shirt, a silk tie and a pocket square. See our wedding dress code guide and these wedding guest do's and don'ts.

Business meeting

Charcoal or navy, white shirt, conservative tie, black oxfords.

Casual outing

A lighter suit worn with a sport shirt, no tie, and clean sneakers. Planning a night out? See what to wear on a date.

Black tie event

A tuxedo with a bow tie and black plain-toe oxfords.

Summer party

A tan or light grey stretch suit with a white shirt and cognac oxfords.

Choosing by Body Type

  • Athletic: Modern Fit for room through the chest and thighs.
  • Slim: Slim Fit, with patterns or a vest to add presence.
  • Plus-size: Modern Fit, darker colours and a two-button jacket.
  • Tall: Long lengths, and patterns like checks to break up height.
  • Shorter: Short lengths, solid colours and a no-break hem.

Jackets and pants are sold separately at Tip Top, so you can get the right size for each, and most locations offer alterations on suits bought at Tip Top. Building a full wardrobe? See how many suits a man needs.

Want something warmer than navy or grey? Learn how to wear a brown suit.

FAQ

What's the most versatile suit?

A navy or charcoal suit in a solid colour.

When should I wear a tuxedo instead of a suit?

For black tie events and formal evening weddings.

Can I wear one suit to many occasions?

Yes. Change your shirt, tie and accessories to change the look.

Find the Right Suit at Tip Top

Shop suits and tuxedos, or visit one of our 80+ locations across Canada.

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