The decline of men’s formalwear, particularly suits, in everyday life has been a noticeable trend over the last several decades. While the suit once symbolized sophistication, power, and a commitment to personal presentation, the rise of more casual clothing in both professional and social settings has led to the decline of the suit's prominence. Today, many men only wear suits for special occasions or formal events. However, there is a growing movement calling for a return to this timeless garment, both for its fashion and professional benefits. Here’s why men stopped wearing suits and why they should consider getting back into wearing them.
The Decline of Suits: A Historical Perspective
The widespread decline of suits can be traced back to several cultural and societal shifts. One of the most notable factors was the casualization of dress codes in the workplace. In the mid-20th century, a suit was often seen as essential for professional success, particularly in corporate environments. However, as companies adopted more relaxed dress codes and tech and creative industries grew in influence, more men began opting for business-casual attire—think khakis, button-down shirts, and polos.
The advent of athleisure and the general shift towards comfort also played a role in this cultural transformation. Today, many young professionals and even older generations favor the flexibility and comfort of casual wear over the formality of a suit. Additionally, the rise of tech giants and the "startup culture" in Silicon Valley, which champions creativity and individuality over formal dress codes, has further accelerated the move toward casual wear.
The Statistics: How Suit Wearing Has Changed
Several studies highlight this shift away from formalwear:
According to a 2019 survey by the Hart Schaffner Marx, 85% of millennials and Gen Z respondents said they prefer to wear casual clothing on a day-to-day basis. Only a small fraction of respondents admitted to wearing suits regularly outside of formal occasions.
The Global Dress Code Survey conducted by Korn Ferry revealed that 69% of men no longer wear suits regularly in the workplace, with only 23% of respondents saying they wear them once a week or more.
In contrast, a 2020 report by The Gentleman's Journal showed that bespoke tailoring has seen a resurgence, particularly among younger men, with tailored suits being considered a premium investment for those who want to convey sophistication and success.
These statistics underscore the massive cultural shift that has occurred in the workplace and social environments.
Why Men Should Get Back Into Wearing Suits
Despite the decline in everyday suit-wearing, there are many compelling reasons for men to return to the suit as a core part of their wardrobe.
1. A Suit Instantly Elevates Your Look
One of the most obvious benefits of wearing a suit is the immediate upgrade it gives your appearance. A well-fitted suit transforms how people perceive you, adding an aura of authority, professionalism, and confidence. Whether you’re heading to a job interview, attending a wedding, or simply meeting someone for coffee, a suit can set you apart from the crowd and leave a lasting impression.
A well-tailored suit isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good. The sense of elegance and power that comes with wearing a suit is unmatched, and it’s proven that men who dress well often carry themselves with more confidence and self-assurance.
2. The Return to Professionalism in the Workplace
While casual dress codes have become more common in many industries, a suit remains the gold standard in professional attire. Wearing a suit can make you appear more serious about your work and highlight your commitment to success. In many cases, this could translate into greater career opportunities.
According to a study from Forbes, people who dress professionally are often viewed as more competent and capable, which could influence hiring decisions, promotions, or professional networking. A suit conveys a level of seriousness and respect for the occasion, particularly in environments like finance, law, and formal business meetings.
3. Suits as a Statement of Personal Style
Men today are finding ways to infuse more personality into their suit choices. From custom designs to unique fabric choices, suits offer a canvas for expression. With a well-designed suit, you can merge both style and practicality, from patterned linings to cufflinks that reflect your personality.
Fashionable accessories like pocket squares, ties, or even brooches allow you to make your suit look different each time you wear it, while still retaining the sophistication that comes with formalwear.
4. The Versatility of Suits
Wearing a suit doesn't mean you're limited to strictly formal occasions. A suit can be adapted for more casual or even semi-casual settings with a few adjustments:
Pair with sneakers: A modern twist on wearing a suit includes pairing it with sneakers, especially during the spring or summer. This is an easy way to make the suit feel less formal.
No tie: Leave the tie at home for a more relaxed look. A shirt and a suit jacket combo with an open collar is perfect for informal settings.
Layering with sweaters or turtlenecks: During colder months, wearing a sweater under a suit jacket can offer a stylish yet relaxed look without losing the suit’s structure.
5. Timelessness and Sustainability
Suits are, quite literally, timeless. While trends come and go, a good suit endures, making it a sound investment. In today’s age of fast fashion, where many people are discarding cheaply made, poorly constructed clothing, buying a well-made suit offers a sustainable alternative. A well-maintained suit can last for decades, making it not only a stylish choice but an eco-conscious one.
Fashionable Reasons to Wear a Suit: The Modern Twist
For fashion-forward men, a suit isn’t just about formality—it's an opportunity to showcase creativity and individuality. Here are a few modern ways to elevate your suit-wearing game:
Bold Colors & Patterns: Don’t be afraid to experiment with bolder colors and patterns. Pastel shades for spring, jewel tones for winter, or even plaid and checkered designs can add a fun and fashionable twist to the classic suit.
Slim-Fit Silhouettes: The modern suit is all about sleek, clean lines. A slim-fit suit will give you a contemporary look, which pairs well with a variety of accessories and footwear options.
Mixing Textures: Combining different textures—like a wool-blend jacket with a velvet or silk tie—can add depth and sophistication to your overall look, making it more intriguing and stylish.
Conclusion: Why Men Should Re-embrace Suits
The suit is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a statement of professionalism, confidence, and personal style. While the world has shifted toward casual wear, men should recognize the value of returning to this timeless garment. By wearing a suit, men don’t just look good—they make a statement that they’re serious about their careers, their appearances, and their futures. Whether worn for work or play, a suit remains an essential part of a well-rounded wardrobe, offering endless opportunities for self-expression while ensuring lasting style.
Comments