Tailoring has had a dressing down – here's what you need to know
In today’s post-pandemic world, the rules of menswear are more fluid than ever. Once a strict line between formal and casual attire, tailoring has undergone a transformation. Enter the casual suit – designed to bridge the gap between sharp tailoring and off-duty style. Whether you're heading to a laid-back dinner, a fall wedding, or just want to elevate your day-to-day look, the best casual suits for men offer versatility without sacrificing style. These suits blend comfort, practicality, and sophistication, making them a must-have in any modern man’s wardrobe.
But what exactly is a casual suit, and how does it differ from its more formal cousins? In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes a suit casual, the brands you should have on your radar, and the dos and don’ts of styling this relaxed yet refined type of tailoring.
What is a casual suit?
A casual suit is, in essence, a more relaxed take on the traditional two-piece. While a formal suit is designed for boardrooms and black-tie events, a casual suit is intended for informal settings where you still want to look put-together. The casual suit ditches the rigid tailoring, opting instead for a softer, more comfortable approach.
Think of it as a hybrid between smart and laid-back. You can wear it to brunch, an outdoor party, or even on a casual Friday at the office. It’s this versatility that has made the casual suit a wardrobe staple for men who want to look sharp without being overdressed.
What makes a suit ‘casual’?
Several elements distinguish a casual suit from the formal variety, from the materials used to the overall silhouette. Here’s a closer look at what defines a casual suit.
Materials
One of the key factors that make a suit casual is the fabric. A casual suit for men often features textured materials like corduroy, tweed, and twill, which lend a relaxed, tactile feel. Linen is another popular choice, especially in warmer months, thanks to its breathability and lightweight structure. These fabrics soften the traditional sharpness of a suit, offering a more laid-back vibe.
Cut/silhouette
The cut and silhouette are also crucial in defining a casual suit. Unlike formal suits that often feature padded shoulders and structured lines, a casual suit leans towards unstructured designs. The jacket might have a more relaxed fit, with minimal lining and padding, giving it a softer, less rigid shape. This unstructured approach makes the suit feel more comfortable and approachable.
Colour
While formal suits tend to stick to classic tones like navy, black, and grey, a casual suit allows for more experimentation. Earthy tones like olive, tan, and brown work well, as do softer shades like pastel blues or even muted burgundy. Don’t be afraid to step outside the traditional colour palette—this is one of the easiest ways to make a suit feel more casual.
The best casual suit brands
When it comes to casual suits, certain brands excel in creating laid-back tailoring with style. Here’s a rundown of ten names that should be on your radar.
Luca Faloni
Luca Faloni is known for its commitment to quality craftsmanship, using fine Italian fabrics like brushed cotton and linen. The brand’s casual suits are luxurious yet laid-back, making them perfect for anything from a summer party to a smart-casual dinner.
J.Crew
J.Crew is a staple in American menswear, offering effortlessly stylish tailoring. A J.Crew casual suit blends timeless design with modern touches, offering a range of lightweight fabrics and relaxed fits that make dressing up feel easy.
Uniqlo
For men who appreciate minimalist design (and wallet-friendly prices), Uniqlo offers casual suits that are clean, simple, and highly functional. Known for its affordability, a Uniqlo suit features unstructured silhouettes and neutral colours, making it a versatile piece for everyday wear.
COS
COS is a go-to for modern minimalism, offering clean-cut, unstructured suits. The label focuses on simple silhouettes and high-quality fabrics, with an emphasis on functionality and understated style, making it ideal for casual suiting.
Velasca
Primarily known for its footwear, Velasca also offers well-made casual suits that marry craftsmanship with a relaxed, contemporary aesthetic. Velasca offers soft shoulders, breathable fabrics, and timeless Italian style in its designs.
Universal Works
If you’re after a blend of workwear-inspired design and relaxed tailoring, Universal Works is the brand for you. A Universal Works casual suit often features textured fabrics and utilitarian details, creating a look that feels both practical and stylish.
Engineered Garments
Engineered Garments is perfect for those who want to add a bit of edge to their suiting. Known for its avant-garde approach, Engineered Garments offers casual suits with unconventional details and military-inspired silhouettes.
Wax London
Wax London has made a name for itself with casual suits that combine British tailoring with a modern twist. The British brand is known for bold patterns and colours, making its suits ideal for those looking to stand out without sacrificing comfort.
Oliver Spencer
For a quintessentially British take on the casual suit, Oliver Spencer is hard to beat. Oliver Spencer specialises in relaxed tailoring, using unstructured cuts and luxurious fabrics to create suits that are both stylish and comfortable.
Casual suits for men dos and don’ts
Once you’ve picked out the perfect casual suit, it’s all about how you wear it. Follow these styling dos and don’ts to ensure you’re hitting all the right notes.
Do venture away from dressy fabrics
Casual suits for men are meant to feel more relaxed, so don’t be afraid to opt for materials like linen, corduroy, or tweed. These fabrics will instantly make your suit feel less formal and more comfortable.
Don’t go too far in the opposite direction
While casual suits are meant to be laid-back, there’s still a line to be drawn. Avoid overly slouchy or oversized fits that can make you look underdressed. Balance is key.
Do ditch the dress shoes for something more laid back
Casual suits pair well with more relaxed footwear. Swap out your dress shoes for loafers, minimal leather trainers, or desert boots for a smart-casual finish.
Don’t wear your battered old sneakers
While you can ditch the dress shoes, don’t go too casual with your footwear. Battered or overly sporty sneakers can ruin the polished vibe of a casual suit.
Do experiment with knitwear in place of shirting
One of the benefits of casual suits is that they pair well with knitwear. Swap out a traditional shirt for a lightweight crewneck or turtleneck for a modern take.
Don’t wear a dress shirt
Leave the crisp, starched dress shirts to formal occasions. A casual suit looks best with something softer and more relaxed underneath, like a t-shirt or a fine-knit jumper.
Do ditch structured silhouettes
The casual suit is all about comfort, so don’t be afraid to opt for unstructured designs. Soft shoulders and minimal lining create a more relaxed look that feels effortless.
Don’t forget the importance of a good fit
Even though the suit is casual, fit still matters. Avoid anything too tight or too loose – aim for a fit that flatters your body while maintaining a sense of ease.
