I've worn a suit and tie for most of my life. And I believe (for me), it makes me more confident navigating the world.
The right jacket on top of a suit: what's the choice of outerwear?
Fashion-conscious men often wonder which type of jacket should be worn on top of a suit. Especially if they don't like plain-coloured suits, the jacket and the suit jacket colours should match. Here's an overview of easy and stylish men's outerwear designs suitable for wearing on top of a suit jacket.
Fit and length: What you should pay attention to when choosing your outerwear
One important rule is to refrain from wearing an ordinary jacket with a suit. Outerwear that is normally worn with a jumper or a T-shirt is often too close-fitting to be worn on top of a suit. Instead, you should opt for other jackets that already fit comfortably when trying them on. To find out whether a jacket can be worn on top of a suit, you should first of all try it on. You should then move around as you would during everyday activities. If the jacket feels comfortable on top of the suit, it has the right fit.
The following applies with regard to the length: The jacket can be short, but should overall be cut longer than the suit jacket. You don't necessarily have to opt for a short jacket but could also choose a stylish coat instead. Such an elegant coat has the right length, provided it reaches down to at least the top of your thighs.
A super side effect of this choice: a coat will also keep you beautifully warm in colder weather.
Choose a jacket in a colour that matches the colour of the suit
In terms of the outerwear colour, basically anything goes. However, universal or dark colours that match the style of the respective suit should be the preferred choice. This could be a navy blue, black or grey jacket, for example, although the slightly lighter trendy colour camel is also an alternative to be considered. If you are wearing a waistcoat, though, a muted colour is a better choice for a more business-like image.
Small overcoat guide: which coats can be worn on top of a suit?
Coats are literally predestined to be worn on top of a suit. You just need to find the right design for a successful, well-balanced combination:
Quilted jacket or trench coat? Other garments that look fashionable with a suit
Classic trench coats for men are usually not worn together with a suit, except elegant business trench coats in beige, mid-blue or black. This mid-length type of coat can be combined with a slim fit suit, for example. However, be careful: a trench coat is not a good idea for extremely formal events. The same applies to the popular basic quilted jacket: it is only suitable outerwear for relaxed occasions. Worn on top of a suit, a casual and relaxed quilted jacket simply looks too reminiscent of sportswear.
A raincoat also does not actually go with a suit jacket, although it can be a practical choice in inclement weather. A waxed version can protect the suit from getting wet in the rain. To ensure that this combination looks striking, you should definitely choose a design that is suitable business wear, for example a short jacket with covered buttons and elegantly cut pockets. If you want to achieve the typical British look, you should preferably choose a waterproof cotton jacket with a checked lining. This kind of raincoat should be tailored but not restrict your movements.
You can never be overdressed or overeducated.
Our conclusion: The best outerwear choices on top of a suit for men
For evening occasions of all kinds, the focus should always be on the suit. To ensure that the jacket does not look too domineering, choose an understated, timeless colour. Thanks to their elegant finish, tailored overcoats look great on top of a suit. On the other hand, you should definitely not choose a casual quilted jacket that looks too sportswear-inspired. Opting for a raincoat is only recommended in exceptional circumstances and if the weather is really bad.