Men’s formalwear is constantly evolving, with trends that mix tradition and modern style. As we head into 2024, new trends are emerging that bring fresh ideas to the classic staples of men’s formal fashion.
From cuts and fabrics to colors and accessories, this year’s styles are all about combining elegance with individuality. In this guide, we’ll break down what’s in and what’s out in men’s formalwear to help you stay sharp, stylish, and on-trend.
Classic Suits with a Modern Twist
What’s Hot: Slim-Fit and Tailored Suits
The demand for tailored suits continues to grow, with slim-fit and custom-tailored options remaining popular. A well-fitted suit paired with men’s shirts enhances the wearer’s natural shape, creating a sleek and polished look that exudes confidence. This year, designers are blending classic tailoring with subtle modern touches, like softer shoulder pads and slightly shorter jacket lengths, to create a contemporary silhouette that flatters almost any body type.
What’s Not: Oversized Suits
Oversized suits were a trend a few years back, but in 2024, they’re taking a backseat to tailored styles. Large, boxy jackets and wide trousers can overwhelm the frame, and while they offer comfort, they lack the sharp elegance that slim-fit suits provide. Today’s style leans towards a cleaner, more refined cut that looks intentional and put-together.
Colors and Fabrics in Focus
What’s Hot: Earthy Tones and Subtle Patterns
Earthy tones like olive green, deep browns, and charcoal gray are gaining traction in formalwear. These colors are more versatile than black, allowing for a touch of personality without straying too far from classic style. Subtle patterns, such as faint checks or herringbone, add texture to a suit while maintaining sophistication. These details make the suit more visually interesting without being overpowering.
What’s Not: Bright Colors and Loud Patterns
Bright colors and bold patterns are fun, but they don’t always fit into the formalwear category. This year, formalwear is shifting back to understated elegance, so loud colors like bright orange or neon green, as well as bold, oversized patterns, are out. If you want to make a statement, consider doing it with a unique accessory rather than an overly bright suit.
The Return of the Three-Piece Suit
What’s Hot: Three-Piece Suits for a Vintage Touch
The three-piece suit has made a comeback this year, offering a vintage-inspired option that feels both classic and modern. The addition of a waistcoat instantly elevates a look, bringing depth and a touch of nostalgia to the traditional two-piece suit. A well-fitted waistcoat creates a more defined silhouette and provides added warmth, making it a great choice for formal winter events.
What’s Not: The Casual Approach to Formalwear
With the resurgence of the three-piece suit comes a departure from overly casual formalwear looks. Previously, many men opted for unbuttoned shirts or skipped the tie to give formal outfits a laid-back vibe. However, in 2024, the focus is back on well-put-together outfits that adhere more closely to traditional formalwear rules. The clean, layered look of a three-piece suit fits right into this trend.
Formal Footwear: Elevating the Basics
What’s Hot: Leather Loafers and Classic Oxfords
In men’s formal footwear, timeless styles are reigning supreme in 2024. Leather loafers and classic Oxford shoes offer the perfect balance of elegance and functionality. Loafers have become a popular choice due to their versatility—they pair well with both suits and less formal trousers, while offering comfort. Oxfords, with their sleek design and minimal detailing, are ideal for high-formality events.
What’s Not: Casual Sneakers with Formalwear
Although sneakers with suits were a trend for several years, the look has fallen out of favor in formal settings. Casual sneakers, while comfortable, can diminish the polished appearance that formalwear aims to achieve. As a result, formal footwear options like loafers and Oxfords have regained their spot as the go-to choice for classic elegance.
The Role of Accessories in Formalwear
What’s Hot: Minimalist Watches and Pocket Squares
Accessories are a subtle yet powerful way to enhance a formal look. In 2024, minimalist watches with clean, simple faces are trending. Pocket squares have also made a return as a popular accessory, offering a splash of color and personality. With pocket squares, men can experiment with fabrics and subtle patterns that add flair to their outfit without overpowering it.
What’s Not: Overly Flashy Accessories
Large, flashy watches and heavily decorated belts or cufflinks are out this year. These pieces can detract from a suit’s sophisticated look, shifting attention away from the overall outfit. Instead, men are choosing accessories that complement rather than compete with their attire, focusing on a cohesive and polished appearance.
New Takes on Formal Shirts
What’s Hot: High-Quality Cotton and Linen Blends
In 2024, formal shirts are all about quality fabrics that provide both comfort and style. High-quality cotton and linen blends are popular, as they are breathable, soft, and lend a refined texture to any outfit. These fabrics also work well with a variety of suit styles, making them ideal for capsule wardrobes. Light blues, whites, and subtle pinstripes are classic color choices that continue to dominate in formal shirt trends.
What’s Not: Shiny or Boldly Printed Shirts
Shiny fabrics and loud prints, such as animal patterns or graphic designs, are losing ground in formalwear. While these looks can be fun for casual or party attire, they often clash with the clean, classic feel of a well-tailored suit. In 2024, formal shirts are leaning toward simplicity and quality over boldness.
Final Thoughts on 2024 Formalwear Trends
In 2024, men’s formalwear is all about clean lines, timeless pieces, and sustainable choices. The return to classic suits with a modern twist, the emphasis on neutral colors, and the focus on high-quality materials all reflect a desire for enduring style over fleeting trends. When selecting formalwear, focus on fit, quality, and subtle details to create an elegant, versatile look.
