Suspenders or braces may seem outdated or old-school sophistication, yet if worn the right way can spell classic style and finesse. If you are unsure about this clothing accessory, go through these tips by MenWit on how to wear suspenders the right way in order to look like a perfect gentleman.
Fashion Faux Pas!
There is an old saying “He’s a belt and suspenders kind of guy” meaning a man is so paranoid that his pants will come down that he wears both which is a carnal fashion blunder. Never wear a belt with suspenders, and ask your tailor to remove the belt loops if you wish to wear suspenders as a fashion statement.
Also known as ‘braces’ in the United Kingdom, suspenders were first introduced in the men’s wardrobe by a British designer named Albert Thurston, in the 1820s, due to the fashion infusion of high waist pants. With these pants, belts was not an easy option, and hence, the use of suspenders came into being. While the original design was a ‘H’ pattern at the back, it soon changed to ‘X’ and then to ‘Y’.
Originally, they were made out of ‘boxcloth’―a woolen material―at present they are made from a variety of materials like French satin, jacquard silk, argyle or plaid, and leather.
Types of Suspenders
X and Y shape Spenders
Traditionally, there are two types of suspenders. The X shape has two separate straps across the back and can be adjusted to wider positions on the back waistband. The Y shape has two straps merging into one strap that supports the center of the back waistband.
Quick Style Tip:
Make sure your shoe color matches the color of the suspenders.
Button-on Suspenders
The buttons are on the inside of the waistband, two on each side of the center button, and one in the center of the inner waistband at the back. Face the suspenders on the right side out while buttoning them up on the waistband. Then bring it up and button up the front inner side of the pant. Once the pant is on, ease each side of the suspenders up and above the shoulders. Adjust the tightness by sliding the metal clip either up or down.
Clip-on Suspenders
The clips have to be opened and attached to each of the fly, measure about half a distance from the fly to the outer edge of the pant and attach the clip to that point. Pull on the pants to ease the suspenders over the shoulder. Adjust the tension by sliding the metal clips.
Now that we know the different types of suspenders and how to wear them correctly, here are a few looks that may inspire you. Go ahead try out these looks, just remember to wear the look that suits your personal style.
Cool Casual Look
The latest style obsession is reinventing the casual look by wearing suspenders with ripped jeans. Pair it with a well-worn T-shirt which could be mainly in light colors or subtle gray and black. The easiest way to accessorize this look is by wearing sunglasses, hat, or a scarf.
This look goes well enough for a casual trip or an outing. Choosing the right pair of shoes is also essential. Wearing a comfortable pair of chinos, chukkas, or bright sneakers would give you an edgy look.
The Corporate Look
Men who wish to make a formal impression at work can wear wide suspenders with a formal collared shirt and tie with the sleeves rolled up to give it a subtle casual look. But if you wish to make a sophisticated impression, then thin suspenders with your formal buttoned up shirt will make a distinct statement.
Pair it up with a suit jacket so that people will surely notice it whenever you take off your suit jacket. Accessorize this look with a good pair of formal footwear like oxfords, wingtip, or derby.
The Punk Look
Suspenders were originally popular with the punk community. To get this look right, wear suspenders with a formal shirt, and accessorize with earrings for a formal look. And for a more casual look, wear suspenders with a graphic or plain vest along with an informal pant. Footwear that goes well with this look are a comfy pair of boat shoes, slip-on plimsolls, driving moccasins, or canvas sneakers.
Never ever gone out of style or out of the manly wardrobe, the suspenders are here to stay, they are a very fun accessory that can give you a distinctive look and style.
