The Ultimate Guide to Suit Colour Combinations

Consider this your guide to getting suiting right, including the ties, socks and finishing touches that pull every look together, whatever the occasion

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Nabeela Saghir

Man wearing black suit, with a white shirt and black tie

How to get the black suit and tie colour combination right

A black suit is always a timeless option, but the key is knowing how to style it for the occasion. For formal events, keep things cohesive with a crisp white shirt, black tie and polished black shoes. Want to soften the look slightly? Swap the black tie for a rich, jewel-toned option: emerald, navy or deep burgundy add a hint of colour while still feeling refined.

Stick to darker socks for a cohesive finish, and avoid anything too bright unless the occasion calls for it.

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Man wearing light grey suit with white shirt, blue tie and loafers

Classic grey suit colour combinations

A grey suit is one of the most adaptable pieces you can own. Charcoal grey sits on the more formal end so it works best in business settings, while light grey feels much softer, perfect for weddings and summer events.

Light grey suit colour combinations work especially well with shirts in a more muted tone, such as a light blue shirt and grey suit pairing. If you’re deciding on what colour tie to wear with a grey suit, consider navy, soft plum or subtle patterns that add interest without overpowering.

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Man wearing light-toned suit with a white shirt, black tie and suede loafers

Lighter colour combinations with a beige suit

The key to mastering beige suit colour combinations is keeping everything light. We love pairing crisp white or pale blue shirts with ties in earthy tones – think olive, taupe or navy. For a sharper contrast, black is always a safe bet.

Brown loafers or tan leather shoes keep things classic, while suede styles make a beige suit feel more relaxed and warm-weather friendly. If the occasion allows, skipping the tie altogether can work just as well with lighter suits, especially when paired with an open-collar linen shirt for an effortless summer feel.

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Man wearing navy suit with white shirt and patterned tie

What colour tie and socks to wear with a blue suit

A blue suit is one of the most versatile items you can own. Navy feels timeless and polished, while brighter blue tones can feel a little more relaxed depending on the occasion. A white shirt is the obvious classic, but softer colours like light pink or subtle stripes also work well if you want to switch things up without going too bold.

When it comes to pairing a tie with a blue suit, navy-on-navy always looks sharp, while burgundy, forest green and patterned ties add more personality. Matching your socks to your trousers keeps things seamless, while deeper contrasting tones work well for less formal settings. Finish with black or brown leather shoes depending on the shade of blue, and the whole outfit will instantly feel pulled together.

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