Best black suits for unparalleled tailoring versatility (2024)

Skip to main content

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories

Get 3 issues of GQ for £1SUBSCRIBE NOW

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best black suits for unparalleled tailoring versatility (4)

Fashion

By Heidi Quill, Jessie Atkinson and Adam Cheung

    A seemingly simple menswear staple that’s wildly effective at turning its wearer into a slicker, suaver version of himself, herewith the best black suits a man can own in 2024

    From graduation, job interviews and the nine-to-five to weddings, dinner parties, funerals and plenty more, few of the best suits boast quite the same versatility as black suits. If a man is only going to have one trusty two-piece in his wardrobe, black is surely the most sensible colourway he can opt for. And yet, with a smorgasbord of more adventurous sartorial options to choose from, the black suit is so often considered boring.

    Naturally, we find this aversion to monochromatic suiting somewhat bizarre. The spectrum of looks that can be achieved with a black suit range from the rock’n’roll (worn with a T-shirt and your chunkiest boots) to the out-and-out formal (crisp white shirt, bow tie and the shiniest of patent leather shoes).

    Of course, not all black suits are created equal. The men’s style icons who consistently pull off this kind of tailoring (see Rami Malek, Nicholas Hoult and Richard Madden for some prime examples) don suits with razor-sharp silhouettes with smart, slim-cut, neat lapels and perfectly padded shoulders. Every major label has its take, but a select few stand out for ticking all the right boxes. Shop GQ’s pick below…

    For more fashion, grooming, and technology releases delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our GQ Recommends newsletter.

    • Best black suits for unparalleled tailoring versatility (5)

    Most Popular

    • Shopping

      Where to buy the England Euro 2024 kit

      By Robert Leedham

    • Culture

      Who will be the next James Bond?

      By Conrad Quilty-Harper

    • Culture

      Murderbot, starring Alexander Skarsgård as a self-hacking android, is your next sci-fi TV obsession

      By Jack King

    Most Popular

    • Shopping

      Where to buy the England Euro 2024 kit

      By Robert Leedham

    • Culture

      Who will be the next James Bond?

      By Conrad Quilty-Harper

    • Culture

      Murderbot, starring Alexander Skarsgård as a self-hacking android, is your next sci-fi TV obsession

      By Jack King

    Most Popular

    • Shopping

      Where to buy the England Euro 2024 kit

      By Robert Leedham

    • Culture

      Who will be the next James Bond?

      By Conrad Quilty-Harper

    • Culture

      Murderbot, starring Alexander Skarsgård as a self-hacking android, is your next sci-fi TV obsession

      By Jack King

    Most Popular

    • Shopping

      Where to buy the England Euro 2024 kit

      By Robert Leedham

    • Culture

      Who will be the next James Bond?

      By Conrad Quilty-Harper

    • Culture

      Murderbot, starring Alexander Skarsgård as a self-hacking android, is your next sci-fi TV obsession

      By Jack King

    Most Popular

    • Shopping

      Where to buy the England Euro 2024 kit

      By Robert Leedham

    • Culture

      Who will be the next James Bond?

      By Conrad Quilty-Harper

    • Culture

      Murderbot, starring Alexander Skarsgård as a self-hacking android, is your next sci-fi TV obsession

      By Jack King

    KeywordsFashionSuitsStyle Buyers GuidesGQ Recommends

    Read More

    Shopping

    The best trousers for men to carry any 'fit in your stride

    You can dress up a pair of jeans or chinos, but nothing quite compares to well-tailored trousers for men. Here’s GQ’s pick of the best

    By Jessie Atkinson

    Shopping

    The best men's overshirts for peak seasonal layering

    Layer up like a pro with one of these insulating (but not too insulating) overshirts and shirt jackets

    By Heidi Quill

    Fashion

    The best formal shoes to smarten up your footwear

    Get the shoeshine out, clear some space in the closet and smarten up with GQ's edit of the best formal shoes

    By Heidi Quill

    Shopping

    The best men's knitwear for elevated winter layering

    Our edit of the best jumpers, vests, and cardigans is a lovingly-compiled list of prime layering pieces, proving that just because the British weather can be unpredictable, the quality of your outfits can still be reliably strong

    By Heidi Quill

    Fashion

    The best men's polo shirts for piqué-ing your interest

    Convert to the collared cause with GQ's pick of the best polo shirts for men

    By Heidi Quill

    Shopping

    The best linen shirts to make summer styling a breeze

    Easier and breezier than anything else in your wardrobe, a good linen shirt will keep things casual, cool and comfortable while the sun’s out

    By Heidi Quill

    Fashion

    Ryan Gosling is attempting to one-up that infamous Drive jacket

    Hollywood's king of merch menswear is directing eBay hunters to a brand new source

    By Adam Cheung

    Fashion

    Cillian Murphy’s Oscars tux featured a subtle nod to Ireland

    According to Donatella Versace, the best actor winner “understands and appreciates every stitch”

    By Eileen Cartter

    Best black suits for unparalleled tailoring versatility (2024)

    FAQs

    Best black suits for unparalleled tailoring versatility? ›

    However, if you intend to wear your suit beyond rare occasions, then charcoal grey and navy blue are the superior choices. Why? They are the most versatile and useful suit colours that provide a great value for those who have to wear formal suits regularly and look for a classic and timeless option.

    What color suits are most versatile? ›

    However, if you intend to wear your suit beyond rare occasions, then charcoal grey and navy blue are the superior choices. Why? They are the most versatile and useful suit colours that provide a great value for those who have to wear formal suits regularly and look for a classic and timeless option.

    How do you make a black suit stand out? ›

    A vest patterned in plaid, gingham, or houndstooth will create a welcome sense of depth when worn with a black suit. Avoid crayon-bright hues and pick a tie in a color or pattern that doesn't compete with your vest for attention. A silk pocket square in a shade that complements the vest is a sophisticated final touch.

    Can you wear a black suit to a business meeting? ›

    A black suit is a versatile wardrobe essential suitable for various occasions. It can be worn to weddings, formal events, business meetings, and funerals. A black suit exudes elegance and sophistication for formal weddings and black-tie events.

    Is a black suit versatile? ›

    Here are some reasons why people like black suits best: Versatile for Formal Events: Perfect for weddings, funerals, interviews, or high-end business events. Black is easily the most versitile suit color. Symbol of Confidence and Authority: A sharp black suit commands attention.

    Which color suits with everything? ›

    One color that is often considered to go well with everything is black. Black is versatile and can be paired with almost any other color, creating a sophisticated and timeless look. Additionally, white is another color that can be paired with a wide range of other colors, making it a versatile option as well.

    How can I make my black suit more interesting? ›

    “Lighter colours make a great background for a black suit – a cream or pale grey shirt with a darker tie can give a softer look than a bright white,” says Stephen Quin, retail director of Turnbull & Asser, shirtmaker to Prince Charles. The style of shirt you choose will depend on your face shape and on the dress code.

    Is a black suit too formal? ›

    Black suits are the quintessential choice for formal evening events, where elegance is paramount. Think galas, charity balls, opera nights, and other upscale occasions. The rich black fabric exudes a sense of grandeur, creating an air of refinement that aligns perfectly with the opulence of the setting.

    How can I make my suit unique? ›

    1. Get to a tailor and get your suit custom fitted for your body.
    2. Don't be limited to brown or black shoes. Look for a shoe that dazzles, maybe a Cuban heel. Think about burgundy or dark blue.
    3. Cuff links add class and bling.
    4. Wear your best dress watch.
    5. Add in a bracelet or two.
    Nov 5, 2022

    How do you make a suit look classy? ›

    16 Tips for Wearing a Suit
    1. Find the Right Shoulder Fit First. ...
    2. Tailor Your Suit. ...
    3. Invest in a Quality Dress Shirt, Belt and Shoes. ...
    4. Opt for Wool or Wool Blends. ...
    5. Be Intentional About the Color of Your Suit. ...
    6. Save Your Suit With a Quality Undershirt. ...
    7. Choose the Right Tie for Your Suit. ...
    8. Perfect the Tie Dimple.

    When not to wear a black suit? ›

    Black Suits Are FORMAL

    While not necessary to wear to religious services, a black suit can achieve the level of formality that you need in that setting. It is too stark and high-contrast to wear in business settings – wearing a black suit to the office, a job interview, or court room is a fashion faux pas.

    Where not to wear a black suit? ›

    The problem is: Nowadays there are almost no occasions for black suits except funerals. You don't wear a black suit in the evening, because this is what dinner suits are for. And you certainly do not wear black at work, unless you are an undertaker.

    What does a black suit symbolize? ›

    This formal tone is certainly one to impress onlookers and assert dominance. However, the power that a black suit possesses makes it more fitting for formal events. Black is the perfect suit colour to express style, success, and authority.

    What is the most attractive suit color? ›

    Navy suits

    Navy is the most popular men's suit color, hands down, making up 50% of all suits. It makes sense, as the colour navy represents power and authority — both traits one wants to feel when they wear a suit. That's why navy is known as the presidential suit color.

    What is the most versatile suit type? ›

    While there isn't a universally flattering suit color, navy and charcoal grey are generally considered versatile and suitable for most men, regardless of their complexion or hair color.

    What color suit should every man own? ›

    Every man should consider owning five essential suit colors: dark blue, charcoal gray, black suit, medium gray, and a versatile shade of dark brown suits.

    What are the most versatile colors for men? ›

    Most Versatile Shirt Colors

    Consider these shades: Charcoal Grey: This muted tone pairs well with both light and dark suits, making it an excellent choice for versatility. Classic White: Again, the white shirt is unbeatable. Dress it up with a black tie or keep it casual with jeans.

    References

    Top Articles
    Latest Posts
    Article information

    Author: Trent Wehner

    Last Updated:

    Views: 5772

    Rating: 4.6 / 5 (56 voted)

    Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

    Author information

    Name: Trent Wehner

    Birthday: 1993-03-14

    Address: 872 Kevin Squares, New Codyville, AK 01785-0416

    Phone: +18698800304764

    Job: Senior Farming Developer

    Hobby: Paintball, Calligraphy, Hunting, Flying disc, Lapidary, Rafting, Inline skating

    Introduction: My name is Trent Wehner, I am a talented, brainy, zealous, light, funny, gleaming, attractive person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.