What Shirt to Wear With a Black Suit

A tailored black suit is the ultimate staple for any gentleman. Simple but wildly effective, it’s a versatile piece that will take you from the boardroom to the bar and back again. However, pair it with the wrong shirt and suddenly things don’t look so good. Luckily, we’re here to help. Below is our definitive guide to the best black suit and shirt combinations.

White Shirt

A reliable choice for endless occasions, a monochrome outfit is always a good idea. Whether you’re heading to the office or attending a fancy formal event, nothing commands attention quite like a black suit and white shirt. To finish the job, a black silk tie will dial up the formality, whilst a more colourful tie can help add character.

Black Shirt

When teaming a black shirt with a black suit, its best to mix up textures and fabrics to help each garment stand out. Presuming your shirt is made from cotton, try finding a suit made from wool and a black tie made from silk. To add further depth, a black leather belt will subtly break up your top half from the bottom.

Patterned Shirt

Ideal for the weekend, a patterned shirt offers high-impact whilst still looking refined. To ensure a seamless combination, try to pick a pattern that includes flecks of black. For winter months, layer up with a black jumper and finish the look with black leather Derby shoes.

Pale Blue Shirt

A pale blue shirt is less dressy than white but just as smart — lending a degree of creativity for a wide range of formal occasions. Complete the pairing with a striped silk tie, or keep things simple with classic black. If your office dress code is more relaxed, we suggest leaving the tie at home. To finish things off, a pair of black brogues will bring the whole look together.

Grey Shirt

Thanks to the versatility of a black suit, you have lots of choice when it comes to wearing a grey shirt; slates, charcoals and dove greys all work equally as well. To keep the look sophisticated, simply add a black silk tie and black leather shoes. For a touch of character, add in a pocket square and invest in a classic pair of cufflinks.

Final Word

Now you know what shirt to wear with a black suit, the fun can start in creating your own ensembles. However, before rushing ahead, do your research and get to know what colours best suit your features. A shirt that works well for one person may not look so good on you.