Comfortable Yet Fashionable Formalwear
Formalwear for men is pretty much synonymous with close-cut and fitted clothing, which provides a fantastic silhouette showing off your frame and the cut of the garments. However, sometimes (even when in the office), we would love to be able to rock an outfit that looks stylish but is also comfortable to wear during those long hours—in my latest article, I aim to do just that. Carry on reading to find out more.
If you are a fashionable guy, you will know only too well the benefits of slim cuts, especially when it comes to formal wear such as shirts, trousers and suits. There is something undeniably spectacular when you don that three-piece number where the cloth has been cut accurately around every bend and curve of your body shape. Even so, clothes created in this manner very rarely offer a comfy ride – as such, I will be sharing a number of formalwear alternatives (for those days when we just want to wear a more relaxed fit) in the following points.
Relaxed Cut Suit
Until recently, I have only considered wearing a slim (if not skinny) fit suit, which is undoubtedly a hard-find off the rack! Instead, I would choose a made-to-measure (or, if you can afford it), a bespoke suit (in which every unique dimension is catered for) to ensure you get a flawless cut.
However, these constricting ensembles can be hard to wear for long hours each day – and this is where the relaxed style comes into play. Ignoring the baggy suits from the 90s and selecting something that still has shape, a relaxed suit can still look fashionably on-point if you choose correctly.
Look for a type that drapes elegantly for both the blazer and the trousers, and you will be onto a winner—just remember to coordinate your tie/pocket square and accessories correctly, and your fashionista prowess will shine through the extra layers of fabric!
Regular Fit Shirt
Forgo your standard slim-fit button-up and instead choose a regular fit. This allows you to move your body around much more easily (especially your arms and around the middle), making for a vastly more enjoyable day at the office. Roll up the sleeves for that casual vibe, adding an extra level of personality to the look (with the added benefit of limiting the amount of loose material visible around the arms).
Oversized knitwear
Premium knitwear is a great way to mix things up (when you want a change from a suit, shirt and tie) as it toes the line between formal and business casual – again, you can always select fitted jumpers and cardigans, but in keeping with the theme of this article I suggest investing in knitwear that is oversized. These pieces are cut with a flowing style, often allowing the middle to billow out, and the arms are looser for ease of manoeuvrability (some pieces even feature extended arm lengths so the hem flows over the hands).
Wide-cut Trousers
If you are a regular reader of my fashion blog, you will already know that I am a massive fan of skinny-cut trousers and jeans (especially as I have very slim legs!). It is one aspect of fashion that I will mostly stick by, no matter what trends come and go. However, that said, wide-cut trousers certainly have their place (I have even worn some on occasion), and that relaxed touch is ideal when you want a restful day either at work or play.
Casual Footwear
Footwear can be critical for comfort – quite often, that stylish pair you just had to have will destroy your feet after a few hours (even worse if you need to suffer through the pain of a long working day!). Fortunately, many brands offer their own particular take on shoes and boots options, offering different styles that will keep your feet happy and comfy all day long.
Consider cushioned loafers (rather than tight-fitting lace-up brogues) or even Chelsea boots, which are typically more spacious and kinder to your toes! For those who suffer from problem feet, it can be even more difficult, yet a number of retailers offer orthopedic shoes for men that tick those style boxes, too!
Alternatively, you could grab a pair of minimalist low-profile sneakers that can easily coordinate with your formalwear ensemble.
Summary
Even though it is commonplace for formalwear clothing to conform to slim-fitting and typically uncomfortable standards, you can mix up this belief (on occasion) and blend looser, relaxed fits into your tailored wardrobe. Following the tips in my latest fashion article will guide you on the path to styles that are less constrictive but still fashionably on-point.
What are your thoughts on my latest article? Please let me know in the comments below.
