Purple suits make a bold and stylish statement that can set you apart when done right. While it may seem unconventional compared to classic black, navy, or grey suits, a purple suit can be incredibly versatile and appropriate for a range of events when styled correctly. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about wearing a purple suit, from selecting the right shade to pairing it with the right shirts, shoes, and accessories.
Purple Suits For Men With Class
First of all, all men should own more than one suit — that goes without saying. If you want to expand from a typical grey, black, or navy suit, you might want to consider a men’s purple suit for your wardrobe.
Purple has long been associated with royalty, luxury, and sophistication. It’s a color that exudes confidence and creativity—perfect for making a memorable impression. While a purple suit may not be for everyone, it’s ideal for those who want to add a unique edge to their style without compromising elegance.
When worn with intention and paired with the right colors and accessories, a purple suit can elevate your look for a wide variety of occasions and be more versatile than you might think.
Choosing the Right Shade of Purple
When it comes to choosing a purple suit, the shade matters. Different tones of purple convey different vibes, so consider the occasion and setting when deciding on a shade. A deep, dark purple suit can feel more formal and sophisticated, while lighter shades like lavender or lilac lean toward a playful, less formal look.
- Dark Purple: Rich, deep purples, like eggplant or aubergine, are perfect for formal settings and evening events. These shades maintain a sense of sophistication and can be an excellent alternative to navy or charcoal for formal attire.
- Mid-Tone Purple: Hues like violet or royal purple strike a balance between formal and casual. They can be worn to semi-formal events and even business functions where creativity is valued, such as in media or design fields.
- Light Purple or Lavender: Light purple suits can feel less formal and are ideal for spring or summer events, such as outdoor weddings or social gatherings. However, they may be too casual or flashy for traditional office environments or conservative settings.
Choosing the right shade for your suit is essential to make sure it fits the occasion. For more on finding the perfect shade, see our guide, How to Choose the Right Shade of Purple for Your Suit.
When to Wear (and When Not to Wear) a Purple Suit
Appropriate Occasions for a Purple Suit
Purple suits work well for events that allow a bit of creative flair and personality:
- Weddings: A purple suit can be a unique yet elegant choice for a wedding, whether you’re a guest or part of the wedding party. For evening weddings, dark purple shades work best, while light purple suits are perfect for daytime or outdoor weddings.
- Social Gatherings and Parties: Social events like cocktail parties, art gallery openings, or upscale dinners are great settings for a purple suit. It’s an opportunity to show personality while still looking polished.
- Creative or Media Industry Events: If you work in a creative field, such as design, fashion, or media, a purple suit can make an excellent style statement. Just be mindful of the setting; deep purples tend to be more versatile and professional than bright or light purples.
When to Avoid a Purple Suit
While purple suits have their place, they may not be appropriate for every situation:
- Funerals and Memorials: Traditional dress codes for funerals call for somber, muted colors like black, navy, or grey. A purple suit could be seen as too colorful and might not convey the respectful tone expected at these gatherings.
- Formal Business Environments: In traditional business settings, especially those with conservative dress codes, a purple suit may stand out too much. Stick to classic colors like navy, grey, or black if you’re in a formal corporate environment.
- Job Interviews: Unless you’re interviewing in a creative field where personal expression is encouraged, it’s best to avoid a purple suit. Opt for neutral tones that convey professionalism and reliability.
Styling a Purple Suit: Shirts, Shoes, and Accessories
The key to pulling off a purple suit is balancing the color with complementary tones and accessories that enhance, rather than compete with, the suit.
Shirts That Pair Well with a Purple Suit
- White Shirt: A classic white dress shirt is a fail-safe option. It keeps the look crisp, professional, and lets the purple suit shine as the focal point. This combination is perfect for weddings, evening events, and formal settings.
- Light Blue Shirt: Light blue is another excellent choice, especially for mid-tone purples. It offers a soft contrast without overpowering the suit, making it a great option for both formal and semi-formal settings.
- Grey Shirt: A light grey or silver shirt can create a sleek, modern look when paired with a dark purple suit. It’s a sophisticated option for evening events and adds a touch of depth to the outfit.
- Black Shirt: For a bold, contemporary look, pair a dark purple suit with a black shirt. This combination creates a dramatic effect and works well for evening events or upscale settings. Just be mindful that this pairing can look overly formal, so it’s best saved for occasions that welcome creative styling.
Shoes That Complement a Purple Suit
Your choice of shoes can either dress up or tone down a purple suit. Here are some options to consider:
- Black Leather Shoes: Black is a versatile choice that pairs well with dark or mid-tone purple suits. It keeps the look grounded and professional and works especially well for formal occasions.
- Brown Leather Shoes: Dark brown shoes can add warmth to a purple suit and work particularly well with lighter shades of purple or mid-tones. For a casual or semi-formal look, consider loafers or brogues in brown leather.
- Oxblood or Burgundy Shoes: For a slightly bolder look, consider oxblood or burgundy shoes. These shades complement dark purple tones beautifully, adding a subtle contrast that remains cohesive and stylish.
Ties and Accessories
When it comes to ties, pocket squares, and other accessories, it’s best to keep things simple. Here’s what to consider:
- Tie Choices: A grey or black tie pairs well with dark purple suits, while a navy tie can add a contrasting color that complements without overpowering. For a lighter purple suit, consider a muted or pastel tie to maintain balance.
- Pocket Square: If you’re wearing a tie, choose a pocket square in a subtle, complementary shade. White, grey, or black pocket squares can work well. If you’re skipping the tie, consider adding a pocket square with a hint of color or pattern for a touch of personality.
- Minimal Jewelry: Avoid excessive jewelry, as the purple suit is already a statement piece. Opt for a simple watch or cufflinks to add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the outfit.
Final Tips for Wearing a Purple Suit
- Keep It Tailored: Fit is crucial when wearing a bold color like purple. Ensure the suit is well-tailored to your body to avoid looking unkempt or overwhelming. A streamlined, fitted silhouette helps balance the boldness of the color.
- Confidence Is Key: Wearing a purple suit requires confidence. Own your look, and wear it with assurance. When you feel comfortable and confident, it shows, and you’ll be able to carry off the bold color with ease.
- Maintain Balance: Let the suit be the star of the show. Choose understated accessories, shoes, and shirts that support the look rather than compete with it. By maintaining balance, you’ll look sophisticated, not flashy.
Styling Your Men’s Purple Suit With xSuit’s Expert Tips
A purple suit can be an incredibly stylish and unique addition to your wardrobe when worn with care. From choosing the right shade to selecting the perfect shirt, shoes, and accessories, this guide provides everything you need to make a purple suit work for a range of occasions. With the right balance of confidence and thoughtful styling, you can pull off this bold look effortlessly.
For more tips on suit styling and to explore high-performance options, check out the xSuit collection, where you’ll find versatile, comfortable suits designed to make a statement. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a special event, or simply looking to make an impression, a well-chosen purple suit is a powerful tool in any modern wardrobe.
