Autumn in the City
How to Style a Double-Breasted Suit: Wearing Mauve This Autumn
By GENTS Stylist
Styling a double-breasted suit calls for restraint. The cut already has character thanks to its double row of buttons, and in mauve with a fine stripe, it commands attention at once. That is precisely the intention. The suit needs no embellishment; let it do the talking.
In this article, we show you how to approach it in autumn. Think of an afternoon at the market, drinks in town or a dinner in December. You will read how to wear the suit, which shirt suits it, which shoes bring warmth to the colour and for which occasions this look works.
How Do You Style a Mauve Double-Breasted Suit?
Start from the principle that the suit takes centre stage. Mauve with a red-purple undertone is a colour that draws attention, so keep everything around it understated. Choose neutral colours, avoid busy patterns and skip any particularly eye-catching accessories.
The stripe in the suit adds length to your silhouette, while the double-breasted front creates a straight, polished line. The suit has a modern fit, so it sits smoothly without being too tight. When trying it on, check above all that the shoulders sit well and that the sleeves reveal just a touch of shirt cuff.
If you want to wear the full suit, the jacket and trousers from the same look are all you need. There is no need to look for a separate blazer or different trousers to go with it.
How Should You Wear a Double-Breasted Jacket?
Wear a double-breasted jacket buttoned. That is the strength of this style: the overlap and the two rows of buttons together form a sleek, straight line. Worn open, the jacket loses its shape and looks somewhat untidy.
Button the jacket before you stand or walk. When you sit down, you may unbutton it so the fabric doesn't pull. When you rise, fasten it again.
It is a small habit, but it makes the difference between a suit that fits neatly and one that looks careless. It will look right from the first drinks of the season to the last Christmas dinner, and on every day in between.
Which Shirt Goes With a Mauve Suit?
Choose a white shirt. White sits calmly alongside the red-purple colour and lets the suit do its work. A light blue shirt is also an option, but white is the clearest choice here and gives the most contrast with the stripe.
The shirt in this look is white with a subtle texture and has a slim fit. This means it follows your shape without pulling, so there is little excess fabric bunching up under the double-breasted jacket. That is welcome, because the jacket itself already has volume from the overlap.
Wear the shirt open-necked, without a tie. This keeps the look light and suits a day in the city. Leave the top button undone and make sure the collar sits neatly over the lapels. For a more formal occasion, you can always add a tie in a muted, dark colour.
Which Shoes Go With a Mauve Suit?
A warm or coloured suit calls for cognac or brown shoes. Mauve with a reddish-purple tone falls into that category, and brown warms the colour and softens its coolness. Black shoes would feel harsher here.
The brown suede lace-ups in this look do exactly that. Suede has a soft appearance that suits autumn weather and a stroll over wet cobblestones. A lace-up keeps the whole look polished, even when the suit is a striking colour.
Pay attention to how the trouser leg meets the shoe. It should rest just on the shoe or end a little above it, so the shoe stays clearly visible. Wear dark socks that match the suit or the shoe, so the leg keeps a calm, uninterrupted line.
When Should You Wear This Look in Autumn?
This look suits many occasions in autumn. By day, it works well for a trip into town, a lunch or an appointment where you want to look polished without appearing stiff. The white open-collar shirt keeps things relaxed.
In the evening, you can wear the same look to drinks, dinner or a festive gathering. If you would like to make it slightly more formal, add a tie. Nothing more is needed, as the suit itself already makes the impression.
Unsure about the fit or about what suits your occasion? In one of our stores, we would be glad to advise you personally. That way, you will find a style that fits well and matches your dress code.
The look from this piece
Mauve red-purple pinstripe double-breasted suit
Dress with style for daytime this autumn.
View and shop the complete lookUnsure about your size? Use our sizing guide or consult our stylists in one of the 19 stores.
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