Men's Style Blog
Section: Gentlemanly Pursuits - Blog
Black suit, black shoes, navy suit, brown shoes. Okay, you've got this fashion thing knocked - or do you? If you're satisfied with blending into the crowd of suit wearers and being labeled as the man in boring black, then carry on. However, if you prefer to channel your inner fashionista to stand out in that crowd, here’s some insider secrets you have to know.
A man’s black suit is a key wardrobe element. However, unless you’re saving the world and protecting/hunting aliens, you won’t wear it every day.
If you do own another suit, then it’s probably one of these other common colours:
As these are the four colours typically found in most men's closets, we’ll be discussing how to match them with shoe colours. We’ll leave the beach suits and purple velvet outfits for a later post (or maybe never).
What about shoe colours? Once again, we’ll ignore the fashionable yet outdated styles like blue suede and stick with the stylish gent's three top colour choices:
Have you heard that matching navy suits with black shoes is a fashion faux pas? Actually, that’s afashion myth we'd like to debunk. Are you wearing a navy or midnight navy suit? If so, those black shoes are a good match.
However, if you are wearing the brighter shades of navy/blue, you should opt for brown shoes. Take care, though, don’t buy the first pair of sandy brown oxfords you see.
You’ll want to match the darkness of your shoe to that of your suit. In short, the lighter the shade of navy, the lighter the shade of brown, and of course vice versa.
Light grey suits are less formal than their navy counterparts, so you can typically choose any of the three shoe colours mentioned above depending on your mood or the occasion's formality. We’d recommend a lighter brown shoe with a lighter grey suit, but the shoes should be a few shades darker than the suit, of course.
When it comes to medium grey suits, this colour usually looks better with medium-toned brown shoes, but if you’re wearing a tie and want to look more formal, a flat black shoe can also work. Really, it’s all up to you and your personal preferences. Light or medium grey suits are neutral colours so you have more freedom to accessorize them as you please.
Charcoal suits are less forgiving than other shades of grey. It’s rare to see anyone wearing anything other than black shoes with one. However, having said that, we favor dark burgundy shoes with charcoal suits for less serious occasions.
While we’re going to advise you that brown goes with brown, there must be a noticeable contrast in the shades. By all means, match that suit with your favourite cigar but never the shoes and the suit.
The general trend is to choose a darker brown for the shoe, but since trends don’t have to be followed, you can always go in the opposite direction, you daredevil.
Whatever suit and shoe combination you choose, do yourself a favour and have your suit tailored right. You can match colours to your heart's content, but if you are wearing pants that fit like those of famous rappers, there’s no point is there?
BOOK YOUR FITTING with us and we’ll take care of you because we care about how you look, and we want you to look damn good.
Image Credit © Viorel Sima | Dreamstime.com© Vonora | Dreamstime.com © Igor Strajin | Dreamstime.com © Fashionstock .com | Dreamstime.com
With over 20,000 satisfied clients, Montagio's distinction as the top-rated tailor in Sydney and Brisbane is no coincidence. Our success lies in our commitment to personalisation, ensuring each suit is a true reflection of the individual wearing it. Unlike others, we focus on providing unparalleled service, meticulous attention to detail, and an array of bespoke options, making every Montagio suit a testament to quality and individuality. If it lacks that personal touch, it simply isn't Montagio.
Behind every Montagio suit is a team of expert tailors dedicated to precision, craftsmanship, and personal service. Get to know the masters who bring your vision to life, ensuring every suit is as unique as the person wearing it.
James Goodchild
With over 15 years of experience in suiting and 8 years at Montagio, James Goodchild has custom-fitted over 3,000 suits, achieving $8 million in lifetime sales and earning a reputation as a trusted bespoke tailoring expert. Passionate about bold statement suits and meticulous craftsmanship, he believes true greatness lies in integrity and influence, much like a well-tailored suit that leaves a lasting impression.
Book @ Sydney
Aaron Bry
Aaron began his career in 2002 and has deep expertise in tailoring and luxury menswear, achieving multi-million-dollar sales and earning induction into MJ Bale’s Million Dollar Club... twice. Now converted to custom, he is committed to excellence in both style and service and believes in always being impeccably presented. Outside of work, he enjoys bodybuilding and films, often described as a 'gentle giant' for his approachable nature.
Book @ Sydney
Raul Rodriguez
Raul is an experienced tailor with a deep passion for bespoke suiting, combining precision, craftsmanship, and a keen eye for detail to create impeccably fitted garments. Known for his ability to blend classic tailoring with bold, modern touches, he works closely with clients to craft suits that reflect their personality and style. For Raul, a well-made suit is more than clothing - it’s a statement of confidence, sophistication, and individuality.
Book @ Brisbane
Named in GQ Magazine's "Best Tailors" list, and the highest reviewed tailor on Google, Montagio has paved the way for discerning men to get suited up with style. A truly personalised experience, we deliver perfectly fitted bespoke suits, shirts and coats for business, weddings, formal and casual events. Our showrooms are packed with designs that inspire and thousands of fabrics, making it easy for you to get the look you want. Our difference? We won't let you walk out until we've tailored your perfect garment. It's personal. To experience Montagio's red-carpet service, book your personal appointment today.
