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How to Pair a Patterned Shirt with a Suit
Pairing a patterned shirt with a suit can elevate your style and add a touch of personality, but it requires a careful eye to avoid a chaotic look. The key lies in balancing patterns and considering the overall harmony of your outfit.
Start with Subtle Patterns: If you're new to patterned shirts, begin with more subtle and smaller patterns like fine pinstripes or a micro-check. These patterns add visual interest without being overwhelming. A thinly striped shirt in a classic color like blue or pink can pair seamlessly with a solid navy or charcoal suit. The key is that the pattern on the shirt should be less dominant than the suit fabric if the suit has any texture at all.
Consider Scale and Contrast: When combining a patterned shirt with a suit (especially a patterned suit), the scale of the patterns is crucial. The general rule of thumb is to pair patterns of different sizes. For example, a shirt with a narrow stripe can work well with a suit that has a wider stripe or a more prominent check. The contrast in pattern size creates visual separation and prevents the outfit from looking too busy. Also, consider the contrast in color. A patterned shirt with colors that complement or subtly contrast with the suit will create a more cohesive look.
Don't Forget the Tie: Adding a tie to a patterned shirt and suit combination requires even more thought. The safest bet is often a solid-colored tie that picks up one of the colors in the shirt or the suit. 1 If you're feeling more adventurous, you can introduce a third pattern with your tie, but ensure the scale of the tie pattern is different from both the shirt and the suit patterns. For instance, a polka dot tie could work with a subtly striped shirt and a solid suit. Remember, the goal is a balanced and intentional look, not a clash of competing patterns