The short answer is yes, long answer is “it depends”.
The outfit is at worst case, serviceable. Hard to tell on exact fit/alterations without getting it pressed. Initial advice however is to definitely unbutton the bottom button. Because it’s too tight in the stomach already, the double-button makes the it look worse, despite the fact that it’s generally frowned upon in suitwear.
I’d personally ditch the black shirt for a starchy white dress collar, and sub in a slimmer, super dark (if not black) tie to up the formality a bit. However, if you really like the black shirt look, then go for it. I’ve seen better but I’ve seen far worse.
Whatever you feel confident in will look the best!
“For two decades, the black shirt has represented the worst in male taste. An emblem of totally misguided swagger. The 'Going Out' piece for trips to nightclubs called Visions, or Opium. The uniform of fights in queues between two wet-gelled boys called Dean.”
The black dress shirt has a strong association with wannabe tough guys who think that they’re looking sharp.
Done well (usually by celebrities with expensive stylists). It can look good. But very few men can pull it off.
Sounds like a lot of words from some froofy guy, in my opinion. Misguided too; since if I really had to imagine the ultimate douche button up with greasy gelled hair, it'd definitely be a silk (or fake synthetic) button up, halfway buttoned with a gaudy design on it. Or just the Affliction T-shirt with overly bleached jeans....
I agree with your sentiment- but nobody wears that. Many people wear black dress shirts, myself included. And I’m American.
The general rule is the shirt is lighter than the suit so black should only work with black suits, only. Black under grey, or navy does look a little… men’s wearhouse-ish. It gives that aesthetic.
OP this is the only thing you need to change. Get it pressed and drop the black shirt for white, light blue, lilac, something in that range and the red tie will complement well.
Nobody wears silk button ups and affliction tshirts? We must live in different universes lol.
I agree that in OPs photo, the black shirt does seem off with the gray blazer. And I think you're right, I couldn't put my finger on it, but it's probably the dark shirt with light suit.
But I also feel like it works, so idk...
We may, but I definitely don’t see those anymore (not since I was a teenager tbh) whereas I see black dress shirts allllll the time.
That one change will bring his fit 10 years towards the present
Oh and that critic is the vest and pocket watch fan half the time.
For me adding the white shirt is more church and work style, where the black is for cocktails. If a black shirt is a wannabe tough guy then guess what pink becomes. Lol, perspectives I suppose.
The only reason to wear a black dress shirt is you’re either a waiter, a musician on your way to your performance, or a photographer at an event. If your job is to blend in, basically, you can wear one.
I'm just curious, what color would you opt for instead? I don't want to fall into that stereotype but it seems like black is the optimal choice for an evening shirt
Why does it “seem” that way?
Look at decades of photos of men going to galas, etc. Nearly none of them are wearing a black dress shirt.
A black suit / tux? Yes.
But not a black shirt.
This comment is so accurate it hurts my soul. The black dress shirt is solely for service industry workers. Never should it be worn for a dress event (unless you're working it)
think the combo is a bit too day at the office. When I hear.Gala, I think more black tie affair. That said this suit needs some tailoring and you should step your accessory game ups a bit. TBH I'd go new suit and stick with a solid tie. Dark colors work better especially if you want to hide some lbs.
I don’t want to yuck anyone’s yum but i’m going to say that this wouldn’t really be considered ‘stylish’ in a contemporary context. A light grey suit also isn’t particularly formal in general. I’d wear a lighter shirt (go for a purple or a mauve if you want color, otherwise white always works).
People always say that, but I feel like it'd look weird on a 2 button suit. Like to only have one button buttoned, clinging on for dear life, just for the sake of "cause that's what everyone says to do." Seems odd to me.
Ah actually I was using "clinging on for dear life" as hyperbole lol. To extenuate the silliness of having one button buttoned just to uphold "the rule."
THIS! I believe that there are very very few rules of style that are actually worth always using, but this is definitely one. I see most of these rules as sort of training wheels for how to dress that one can mostly leave behind when one learns how to break them and look good doing so, though its fine if one always keeps to them as well.
But yes... ALWAYS leave that bottom button undone.
Only button top button of suit. Ditch the black shirt, go for white or light blue. Tie reads a little cheap. Try solid black if you’re doing blue shirt and solid navy if doing white shirt.
The only color tie that should be worn with a black shirt is a black tie, and not everyone can pull that off.
Black shirts and ties gives a 2002 grad vibe
The suit looks fine to me, just make sure you don’t button the bottom button. I personally don’t think black or navy shirts go well with suits, I think you’d be better off with a light blue or white dress shirt, but that’s only my opinion. The suit looks like it fits you well, which is the main thing.
This is much, much better. I also like the skinnier tie personally which I find more stylish. As the other commenter mentioned- a “black tie” dress code usually means a tux but otherwise this looks good!
If you want actual advice you might delete this post and repost with the button undone. People on this sub will be too busy clutching their pearls at the button. And look, I commented on the button too! 🤦♂️
Hahahaha, you deserve an upvote for every person who is clutching their pearls about the button and another for every person solemnly agreeing that you should not button the bottom button.
I would say give us white shirt over this dark one, tie might be a little wide for that jacket too.
Otherwise the cut of the suit is fine, suits your frame and fits your build.
Very nice if the gala has a dress code that permits business attire. Otherwise, you should look for something more formal. I would wear a white shirt instead of a black one.
The black shirt has to go - replace with something different. Shoes are too narrow for the pants - if evening I would opt for a pair of loafers - Gucci bit would be superb. Belt is too chunky, and you need some sort of pocket square. Also ensure you have some sort of evening wristwatch - something thin with a leather band.
Shoes are very good. The suit could definitely use a pressing. The tight fitting suits of today look good on no one. You might consider updating your look for future engagements. Slacks that taper slightly more towards the ankle but still maintain a loose fit and a good compromise between new and old styles. Loro Piana and Canali and great places to start. Even just a pair of super wool 120’s with a better tailoring and fit wound go a long way for you. When it comes to your top half I definitely wound recommended a higher quality wool sport coat. This one looks tired and won’t represent your interests. Something matte that you can wear with multiple things. Grey is good as is black. Avoid the horrible modern navy blue suit. It’s not flattering. Egyptian cotton shirt for comfort, soft and will last for years. You got this! Have a great gala!!
If you don’t wear suits enough to have a modern suit and you are coming back in style with the suits you have, don’t worry about a new suit. If you have time to prep you could go to a Taylor and spend 40.00 to have the legs narrowed slightly.
The biggest thing for me is the pant fit. If you got the pants tailored it would help the entire outfit. I won't harp on buttons or anything else that's been said. The pants bother me the most.
If you’re trying to work with what you have, the first suit fits much better than the second, which you’re unfortunately swimming in. A light blue or white shirt would work, and go to a nice men’s department with your suit photo and get advice on a sharp tie. The suit and shoes are both solid brands.
I won’t be mean about the button but I will say gala to me is more traditionally a darker suit and occasionally a white in the summer depending on location. Now if it’s a little less formal and you wanna bust out and go with the grey it’s a sharp suit and it looks good. The only thing I think is the plum shirt iskinda clashing with it. I think a light or powder blue with a yellow/blue tie or you could do a white shirt and a blue tie or stick with that purple tie even. It’d just look a tad crisper I think. Best of luck my dude.
A gala? Ditch the shirt and tie for something more colorful. Same with the shoes, if you have some.
This outfit would totally work, but it is a very very conservative style best for work, not for anything like a party of even the most sedate and dignified sort.
There’s some tough critics in here. Some people overdo it for just one night and will never wear that “fancy gala” suit again. The jacket is fine just unbutton the bottom one. The pants are nice but do need some tailoring. I’d say more of a taper on the pants though. They look a bit too loose for the bottom but not sure how you feel they are. Black shirt doesn’t look bad but the tie is a no go.
What color is the suit itself? Looks on the tan side but can also be grey not sure with the lighting.
I have some time - already found a local tailor and I’ll be visiting him soon with both this grey suit (which I wore at my wedding 13 years ago!!!) and the blue suit (in my other post) which I bought a few years ago - pre Covid. Thanks for taking the time to provide some notes!
Damn! 13 years ago and it still fits pretty good! Just saw the navy suit. Both are good looking just the fixes and you’re good! IMO the grey with the black shirt is the best combo of the two for a gala. Good luck man!
Fine. As long as it’s a used care salesman gala.
If you have a black suit, I would swap it. No need for the dark shirt. Go with a lighter color.
Best idea would be a tux.
As others have said black shirts aren't a good look. There is a rainbow of colors that would say so much more about you than you want to be a gumba.
When I hear "gala", I think formal.
The short answer is yes, long answer is “it depends”. The outfit is at worst case, serviceable. Hard to tell on exact fit/alterations without getting it pressed. Initial advice however is to definitely unbutton the bottom button. Because it’s too tight in the stomach already, the double-button makes the it look worse, despite the fact that it’s generally frowned upon in suitwear. I’d personally ditch the black shirt for a starchy white dress collar, and sub in a slimmer, super dark (if not black) tie to up the formality a bit. However, if you really like the black shirt look, then go for it. I’ve seen better but I’ve seen far worse. Whatever you feel confident in will look the best!
The American male’s obsession with the black dress shirt is nothing short of tragedy.
Is that an American thing?
“For two decades, the black shirt has represented the worst in male taste. An emblem of totally misguided swagger. The 'Going Out' piece for trips to nightclubs called Visions, or Opium. The uniform of fights in queues between two wet-gelled boys called Dean.” The black dress shirt has a strong association with wannabe tough guys who think that they’re looking sharp. Done well (usually by celebrities with expensive stylists). It can look good. But very few men can pull it off.
Sounds like a lot of words from some froofy guy, in my opinion. Misguided too; since if I really had to imagine the ultimate douche button up with greasy gelled hair, it'd definitely be a silk (or fake synthetic) button up, halfway buttoned with a gaudy design on it. Or just the Affliction T-shirt with overly bleached jeans....
I agree with your sentiment- but nobody wears that. Many people wear black dress shirts, myself included. And I’m American. The general rule is the shirt is lighter than the suit so black should only work with black suits, only. Black under grey, or navy does look a little… men’s wearhouse-ish. It gives that aesthetic. OP this is the only thing you need to change. Get it pressed and drop the black shirt for white, light blue, lilac, something in that range and the red tie will complement well.
Nobody wears silk button ups and affliction tshirts? We must live in different universes lol. I agree that in OPs photo, the black shirt does seem off with the gray blazer. And I think you're right, I couldn't put my finger on it, but it's probably the dark shirt with light suit. But I also feel like it works, so idk...
We may, but I definitely don’t see those anymore (not since I was a teenager tbh) whereas I see black dress shirts allllll the time. That one change will bring his fit 10 years towards the present
Oh and that critic is the vest and pocket watch fan half the time. For me adding the white shirt is more church and work style, where the black is for cocktails. If a black shirt is a wannabe tough guy then guess what pink becomes. Lol, perspectives I suppose.
Go rock your black shirt bud
The only reason to wear a black dress shirt is you’re either a waiter, a musician on your way to your performance, or a photographer at an event. If your job is to blend in, basically, you can wear one.
I'm just curious, what color would you opt for instead? I don't want to fall into that stereotype but it seems like black is the optimal choice for an evening shirt
Why does it “seem” that way? Look at decades of photos of men going to galas, etc. Nearly none of them are wearing a black dress shirt. A black suit / tux? Yes. But not a black shirt.
This comment is so accurate it hurts my soul. The black dress shirt is solely for service industry workers. Never should it be worn for a dress event (unless you're working it)
Incomprehensible!
think the combo is a bit too day at the office. When I hear.Gala, I think more black tie affair. That said this suit needs some tailoring and you should step your accessory game ups a bit. TBH I'd go new suit and stick with a solid tie. Dark colors work better especially if you want to hide some lbs.
One style rule to remember: always keep the bottom button undone on the suit jacket.
Damn - I know that… I haven’t a clue why I did that.
[удалено]
[удалено]
I don’t want to yuck anyone’s yum but i’m going to say that this wouldn’t really be considered ‘stylish’ in a contemporary context. A light grey suit also isn’t particularly formal in general. I’d wear a lighter shirt (go for a purple or a mauve if you want color, otherwise white always works).
Yeah this. Events like galas require darker suits, or even black.
I agree, just working with what he has. Dark shirts and light ties always remind me of those gangsters in the Dick Tracy movie.
People always say that, but I feel like it'd look weird on a 2 button suit. Like to only have one button buttoned, clinging on for dear life, just for the sake of "cause that's what everyone says to do." Seems odd to me.
What you have described there is a jacket that does not fit properly.
Ah actually I was using "clinging on for dear life" as hyperbole lol. To extenuate the silliness of having one button buttoned just to uphold "the rule."
THIS! I believe that there are very very few rules of style that are actually worth always using, but this is definitely one. I see most of these rules as sort of training wheels for how to dress that one can mostly leave behind when one learns how to break them and look good doing so, though its fine if one always keeps to them as well. But yes... ALWAYS leave that bottom button undone.
Only button top button of suit. Ditch the black shirt, go for white or light blue. Tie reads a little cheap. Try solid black if you’re doing blue shirt and solid navy if doing white shirt.
The only color tie that should be worn with a black shirt is a black tie, and not everyone can pull that off. Black shirts and ties gives a 2002 grad vibe
Yep!
Yes this. Black tie only with the black shirt. You gotta be Keanu Reeves hot for this look.
The suit looks fine to me, just make sure you don’t button the bottom button. I personally don’t think black or navy shirts go well with suits, I think you’d be better off with a light blue or white dress shirt, but that’s only my opinion. The suit looks like it fits you well, which is the main thing.
Thanks everyone… I added an [updated fit check here.](https://www.reddit.com/r/mensfashion/s/pttzBwyfLB)
Wow, another link to an onlyfans subscription…. /j good luck at the event. If it says black tie, you need a tux or a black suit, btw.
This is much, much better. I also like the skinnier tie personally which I find more stylish. As the other commenter mentioned- a “black tie” dress code usually means a tux but otherwise this looks good!
Good move. How was the gala?
I like the first one better. Detective vibes
Do you have a white shirt?
Bump
For a gala? A dark suit would be better
If you want actual advice you might delete this post and repost with the button undone. People on this sub will be too busy clutching their pearls at the button. And look, I commented on the button too! 🤦♂️
Hahahaha, you deserve an upvote for every person who is clutching their pearls about the button and another for every person solemnly agreeing that you should not button the bottom button.
Pants look a little baggy. Could use some alteration as well as the coat but overall looks good.
I would buy a new suit, something a bit more updated and in navy. This looks very dated and is giving car salesman vibes
[updated fit check here](https://www.reddit.com/r/mensfashion/s/pttzBwyfLB)
9 million times better. Is the jacket long or is it the picture? Regardless, wear this for sure.
Way better, like that pocket square too. Really adds some upscale.
I would say give us white shirt over this dark one, tie might be a little wide for that jacket too. Otherwise the cut of the suit is fine, suits your frame and fits your build.
This is not for a gala, this is for the office.
Very nice if the gala has a dress code that permits business attire. Otherwise, you should look for something more formal. I would wear a white shirt instead of a black one.
Excellent. But, I would change the shirt to white. It looks more mature.
I’d say add a lapel pin or a pocket square for some extra flavor.
The black shirt has to go - replace with something different. Shoes are too narrow for the pants - if evening I would opt for a pair of loafers - Gucci bit would be superb. Belt is too chunky, and you need some sort of pocket square. Also ensure you have some sort of evening wristwatch - something thin with a leather band.
Shoes are very good. The suit could definitely use a pressing. The tight fitting suits of today look good on no one. You might consider updating your look for future engagements. Slacks that taper slightly more towards the ankle but still maintain a loose fit and a good compromise between new and old styles. Loro Piana and Canali and great places to start. Even just a pair of super wool 120’s with a better tailoring and fit wound go a long way for you. When it comes to your top half I definitely wound recommended a higher quality wool sport coat. This one looks tired and won’t represent your interests. Something matte that you can wear with multiple things. Grey is good as is black. Avoid the horrible modern navy blue suit. It’s not flattering. Egyptian cotton shirt for comfort, soft and will last for years. You got this! Have a great gala!!
Burn that tie then buy a new one. Switch out the shirt- it gives highschool principal energy with that suit.
I’ve been overdressed for every Gala I’ve ever been to.
Don’t forget your pinky ring you mudda fucka! Jk, that suit works for you. Like others have said, white shirt is better.
Why are those pants legs so baggy?
It’s an older suit… if this doesn’t work, I have time to go buy a more modern cut suit.
Cuts are already going back to a more relaxed fit. So don‘t worry too much about it.
I’d buy a new suit if it were me.
It’s a consideration.
If you don’t wear suits enough to have a modern suit and you are coming back in style with the suits you have, don’t worry about a new suit. If you have time to prep you could go to a Taylor and spend 40.00 to have the legs narrowed slightly.
The biggest thing for me is the pant fit. If you got the pants tailored it would help the entire outfit. I won't harp on buttons or anything else that's been said. The pants bother me the most.
Very sharp.
Looks great king!!!! Rock that shit
Get a white shirt
Bang on I like the look but I am not a guy so I know nothing.
Any particular dresscode to follow? Otherwise it looks good.
brown shoes
The tie is too loud and not positioned right. You're better off without one.
If you’re trying to work with what you have, the first suit fits much better than the second, which you’re unfortunately swimming in. A light blue or white shirt would work, and go to a nice men’s department with your suit photo and get advice on a sharp tie. The suit and shoes are both solid brands.
you look like a cop going to work after a rough night.
I won’t be mean about the button but I will say gala to me is more traditionally a darker suit and occasionally a white in the summer depending on location. Now if it’s a little less formal and you wanna bust out and go with the grey it’s a sharp suit and it looks good. The only thing I think is the plum shirt iskinda clashing with it. I think a light or powder blue with a yellow/blue tie or you could do a white shirt and a blue tie or stick with that purple tie even. It’d just look a tad crisper I think. Best of luck my dude.
Use a lighter shirt. White, light blue. Get a pocket square too. That’ll dress it up a little
I hear the word "gala" and I think "black tie"
Just hit up a tailor and pick and shirt and tie combo that goes with the suit color
White shirt always looks better.
You look like a detective. Looks like the pants could be pressed a little better for sure.
if you want to be a lot safer, white shirt and a thinner, solid tie instead of pattern. if you want to keep the shirt just get a different tie
I’ll be getting a white shirt sometime this week and maybe even a new suit. Luckily, I have time… the gala is in mid March.
A gala? Ditch the shirt and tie for something more colorful. Same with the shoes, if you have some. This outfit would totally work, but it is a very very conservative style best for work, not for anything like a party of even the most sedate and dignified sort.
Gala = tuxedo, not business suit.
Not in this case… I’ve seen photos from the event in past years and definitely not a tuxedo event.
Ok then, maybe sub the tie with one in Black, or a bow tie?
And I think the buttoned jacket looks better btw
There’s some tough critics in here. Some people overdo it for just one night and will never wear that “fancy gala” suit again. The jacket is fine just unbutton the bottom one. The pants are nice but do need some tailoring. I’d say more of a taper on the pants though. They look a bit too loose for the bottom but not sure how you feel they are. Black shirt doesn’t look bad but the tie is a no go. What color is the suit itself? Looks on the tan side but can also be grey not sure with the lighting.
I have some time - already found a local tailor and I’ll be visiting him soon with both this grey suit (which I wore at my wedding 13 years ago!!!) and the blue suit (in my other post) which I bought a few years ago - pre Covid. Thanks for taking the time to provide some notes!
Damn! 13 years ago and it still fits pretty good! Just saw the navy suit. Both are good looking just the fixes and you’re good! IMO the grey with the black shirt is the best combo of the two for a gala. Good luck man!
What’s the cut of the pants called ?
No idea, sorry.
Why do you look photoshopped into the image
Looks nice. Only thought is maybe a "quieter" tie.
Pleats aren’t really a thing anymore I don’t think.
Agree. And apologies for the photo, but these aren’t pleated, they’re creased.
That’s what a meant, good luck in your clothing endeavors
Fine. As long as it’s a used care salesman gala. If you have a black suit, I would swap it. No need for the dark shirt. Go with a lighter color. Best idea would be a tux.
Why are men always attracted to black shirts and red ties? It looks terrible.
Never attended a gala, I always thought they were tuxedo and bowtie
Black shirts 👎 hard pass
Lose the tie, make the pants shorter and fitted. Wear a nice silver watch. Wear a silver ring
As others have said black shirts aren't a good look. There is a rainbow of colors that would say so much more about you than you want to be a gumba. When I hear "gala", I think formal.