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How to Get More Out of Your Suits: Mixing and Matching for Any Occasion

Many of us are guilty of not wearing our clothes as much as we could. Studies show that, on average, each piece in a wardrobe is only worn about seven times before it’s pushed to the back of the closet or forgotten. This habit is not just tough on our wallets but also contributes to a cycle of waste in the fashion industry. The good news? There’s a simple and creative way to break this pattern—by mixing and matching the suits we already own.

When it comes to suits, people often think they need a brand-new outfit for every wedding, party, or formal event. But there’s no need to stick to the idea that suits must always be worn as a complete matching set. Instead, try switching things up by combining different suit pieces. A navy blazer with grey trousers or a charcoal jacket with tan pants can create fresh, stylish looks without ever stepping foot in a store. This way, it’s possible to create multiple unique outfits with just a few pieces.

How to Mix Suit Colors

Mixing suit colors isn’t as complicated as it might seem. Start by taking a good look at the suits already hanging in the wardrobe. Chances are, there’s a solid color or two—a navy, a grey, maybe even a beige or charcoal. These are the perfect starting points for mixing. For example, pairing a navy blazer with light grey trousers can create a classic and polished look. Or, for a more modern twist, try a charcoal jacket with tan or beige pants.

The key is to experiment and see what works. Mixing suits isn’t about following strict rules but rather finding combinations that feel fresh and comfortable. When feeling unsure, consider using a color wheel. This handy tool shows which colors naturally complement each other, providing a useful guide for mixing and matching without overthinking it.

Mixing suggestions

  1. Analogue Mixing: Pair a brown jacket with tan pants. Both are in the same color family but have different shades, creating a warm and cohesive look that's easy on the eyes.
  2. Tonal Mixing: Try a blue jacket with light grey pants. Blue and grey are always a safe bet together—grey is neutral and goes with just about everything, making this combo simple yet sharp.
  3. Complementary Mix: Go bold with a red jacket and green pants. These colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel, making the outfit pop while still feeling balanced and stylish.

Make the Most of Accessories

Accessories like ties, pocket squares, and even shoes play a big role in pulling together a mixed suit look. A bold tie or a patterned pocket square can instantly add a touch of personality to an otherwise simple outfit. Again, the color wheel comes in handy here, making it easy to pick out accessories that complement or add contrast to the suit pieces.

Mixing suggestions

  1. Analogue Mixing: For a brown jacket and tan pants combo, go for a red tie and a yellow pocket square. Red and yellow sit next to brown on the color wheel, staying in the same family but adding a bit more depth and making the outfit feel more put-together.
  2. Triadic Mixing: With a blue jacket and light grey pants, spice things up with a red tie and yellow pocket square for a triadic look. This combo is a bit tricky to master, but when done right, it really makes a statement.
  3. Complementary Mix: If you're rocking a red jacket and green pants, try adding a brown tie and a blue pocket square. This creates a double complementary effect—brown and blue balance each other out, and since the pants and pocket square are in similar shades, it works. It’s a bold choice and not easy to pull off, but definitely eye-catching.
analogue outfit triadic outfit complementary outfit

Get inspired

To take the guesswork out of mixing and matching, consider using the Outfit Generator. This clever tool helps visualize different suit combinations and suggests outfit ideas based on the pieces already in the wardrobe. It’s like having a digital stylist, ready to offer inspiration and new ways to wear those classic suit pieces.

A Simple Step Toward Sustainable Style

Reusing and restyling clothes may not be a solution to all the world’s problems, but it is a step in the right direction. Choosing to mix and match suits instead of buying new ones encourages creativity, saves money, and is a more sustainable way to approach fashion. It’s about making the most of what’s already there and finding new ways to wear and appreciate those well-loved pieces.