Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- Wearing a red shirt with a black suit can create a stunning aesthetic.
- The right shade of red and fabric choice is vital for pulling off the look.
- Avoid patterns on the shirt and prefer solid colors.
- Choose your tie carefully, remembering that sometimes no tie is the best choice.
- Select shoes that complement the overall attire, typically black lace-ups.
Creating a Memorable Look with a Red Shirt
The black suit is a timeless staple in men’s wardrobes, exuding sophistication and sharpness. For those who wish to break away from the norm and make a distinctive statement, pairing a black suit with a red shirt offers an exciting prospect. While not the traditional choice, if executed with care, this color combination can result in an outfit that is both daring and elegant.
Choosing the Perfect Shade of Red
The foundation of the ensemble lies in the selection of the right red shirt. The color red, in its purest form, is vibrant and bold – qualities that might clash with the sober aura of a black suit. However, the secret is to choose the right shade of red.
Wine, burgundy, and maroon are all subdued variants of red that have a rich, deep tone. These colors have the ability to contrast beautifully with a black suit, without creating an overwhelming visual effect. Avoid bright red shades, as they can seem out of place in the context of a black suit. Instead, focus on colors that add a sophisticated pop without undermining the overall elegance of the ensemble.
Selecting the Ideal Fabric and Pattern
Once the color is decided, the next factor to consider is the fabric. Fabrics with a slight sheen are preferable as they add a subtle glow to the attire, making it more compatible with the glossy texture of the black suit. Linen, being matte, is not recommended for this particular pairing.
In terms of patterns, simplicity is the key. The attention-grabbing element of this ensemble is the red shirt itself, hence, adding an additional pattern might result in an overly busy look. Choose a solid red shirt for a clean, classy aesthetic that allows the color to be the star of the show.
Collars and Cuffs: Getting the Details Right
The collar and cuffs of the shirt are minor details that have a major impact on the overall outfit. Opt for a button-down or spread collar that stays upright, adding structure to the look. To maintain the collar’s neat appearance, consider using collar stays.
As for the cuffs, stick with regular ones instead of French cuffs. The latter, while elegant, may over-complicate the aesthetic. Remember, the aim is to keep the look simple yet effective.
Tying the Look Together: The Tie Debate
Given the vibrant color of the shirt, it might be best to skip the tie altogether. The absence of a tie allows the red shirt to shine without distractions, thus reinforcing the simplicity of the ensemble.
However, if you do wish to wear a tie, a black one is your best bet. It would match the suit and subtly balance out the brightness of the shirt. It’s advised to avoid a white tie, as it adds an additional color to the mix, creating a potentially cluttered appearance.
Final Touch: Choosing the Right Shoes
The shoe selection for a black suit and red shirt combo follows the classic rule – black lace-ups. Black oxford or derby shoes are the ideal choices for this outfit, maintaining harmony with the black suit. Opting for extra shiny ones can add a trendy, polished finish to the overall look.
Pulling off the Black Suit, Red Shirt, Black Tie Ensemble
Creating a cohesive ensemble with a black suit and red shirt is not the easiest task, but it is far from impossible. With careful selection of the shirt color, fabric, and pattern, along with smart accessory choices, you can craft an outfit that stands out in its bold elegance. So, don’t shy away from experimenting with this unexpected color palette. Instead, embrace the opportunity to make a memorable sartorial statement with your black suit, red shirt, and black tie ensemble.
