Don’t fall for this trap. While it may sound like lounge suits are garments you’d see Steve Harvey wear on his now years-long expedition to become Willy Wonka, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

A lounge suit is a specific type of business attire, consisting of a dark suit and a necktie, and it’s vital to know how to wear it properly.

So, what’s the standard lounge suit dress code?

Well, gents, let’s find out!

What Defines A Lounge Suit?

Alright, I might’ve given it away in the intro, but the definition of a lounge suit is pretty simple.

A lounge suit is just a specific type of business attire that consists of:

  • Dark tailored suit
  • Necktie

That’s it! No need to get all fancypants with your pocket square or anything like that, it’s not a formal suit for a special occasion.

I’d actually discourage it. A subdued smart casual look is what you’re going for here, so there’s no need for an ornate silk handkerchief. A muted white pocket square should suffice.

With all that I’ve said, I can feel your gears turning and you wondering – wait, isn’t that just a good ol’ business suit?

Well, yes and no.

While a lounge suit is technically a business suit, it’s important to understand that there are certain nuances that make it different from your standard go to.

So, how ’bout this? I’ll break down each element of the lounge suit so you can understand what makes it tick.

man in grey lounge suit

Grey does not mean boring.

Colour

When it comes to picking out the colour for your lounge suit ensemble, you’ve got a few different options that should suit your personal style.

The two most common tones you’ll see people wear as part of their lounge suit attire are:

  • Navy
  • Charcoal

These are all perfectly acceptable choices, and will make up the vast majority of lounge suits you see out in the wild.

With that said, there are a few other hues that can be suitable for a lounge suit, depending on the context.

For example, if you’re attending a summer wedding or another daytime formal event where it’s not appropriate (or just too damn hot) to wear black, you could go with a:

  • Charcoal brown
  • Cream
Navy is the colour of choice in the lounge suit dress code

Two button single breast is typically worn by men

Types

You have a little bit of freedom in this department, as long as you stick to a few key guidelines.

The most important rule of thumb is to make sure that your suit is well-tailored and fits you like a glove.

This isn’t the time to be wearing an ill-fitting blazer. Invest in something that’s going to look good on you and make you feel confident.

As for the style of the suit jacket itself, there are a few different directions you can go in.

The most popular choices are:

  • A two-button, two-piece suit
  • A double-breasted suit
  • A three piece lounge suit

As long as you stay away from anything too flashy or trendy, you’ll be in good shape. Personally, I prefer the two side vents look.

Patterns

We’ll keep this brief. When it comes to patterns – consider them faux pas.

This isn’t the time to be busting out your pinstripes or checks. Keep it solid, pair with a plain button down shirt for the win.

businessman in lounge suit

Fabrics

The fabric of your suit is just as important as the cut and style.

The most common fabrics you’ll see for lounge suits are:

  • Wool
  • Cotton

These are all great choices that will keep you comfortable and looking sharp. And, yes, there are for both the suit and the shirt.

With that said, there are a few other options that can be suitable for the suit itself, but if you have the means for it – just go with the wool.

Shirts

You really don’t have many options here, but I’d say that’s a good thing.

A simple dress shirt with a classic turndown collar is all you need.

As for the colour, it should be a shade that compliments your suit. White is always a safe bet, but you could also go with:

  • Powder blue
  • Light pink

Now, I guess you could work in a few other light shades, but I really wouldn’t advise straying too far from these three. There’s just something about them that looks great with a lounge suit.

man in sharp suit

White shirts and plain tie always look super smart with a three piece suit

Neckwear

Here’s another rule you have to follow – necktie only.

Lounge suits don’t really mix with ascots or bowties. It just looks out of place.

As for the style of the tie itself, you’ve got a few different options. The most popular choices are:

  • A four-in-hand tie
  • A half Windsor knot

Both of these will look great and give you that classic lounge suit vibe. Avoid the full Windsor or other bulky or intricate knots as they aren’t exactly in line with the formal nature of the lounge suit dress code.

Now, style-wise, there aren’t really any restrictions, so I’m counting on your common sense (and fashion sense) to choose an appealing cravat. Make it stand out from the rest, but don’t let it steal the show.

Shoes

Once again, I’m here to crush your dreams and tell you that you only have a few options when it comes to shoes. But you know this, as you’ve read my ultimate guide on picking shoes with a suit. If you haven’t yet, do it, as it took me hours to write it.

Anyway, there are really only two choices here:

  • Oxfords
  • Derbies

Both of these are perfectly acceptable, and truth be told – I don’t really have a preference and quite frankly, neither should you. Either one will do the trick.

Just make sure they’re well-polished and in good condition. You wouldn’t want to be caught with scuffed-up shoes when you’re all dressed up, now, wouldn’t you?

As for the colour of the shoes, I’ll refer you again to the painstaking effort I went to covering this in the shoe guide, I’d go with classics:

  • Black
  • Brown

Although, if you’re feeling fancy and brave – a dark burgundy or oxblood shoe could also seal the deal.

Accessories

Let’s see, if you’ve been paying attention. Pocket square, yes or no?

If you guessed “Yes, but keep it simple”, then congratulations – you’ve been paying attention!

A white linen pocket square is a welcome addition to any lounge suit.

Another accessory you might want to consider is a lapel pin. It’s not a must, but it can really add a touch of class and refinement to your overall look.

Other than that, just keep it simple and make sure your accessories don’t clash.

I wouldn’t mind a wristwatch or low-key cuff links, but any more than that is considered too much.

Even the socks. Keep them muted and match them with your suit.

The Final Words

So, there you have it ; a bunch of rules to help you master the lounge suit dress code. But, I think you’ll agree with me when I say these aren’t exactly rules, but rather strict guidelines for looking dapper.

So, use these guidelines as a starting point, and try and figure out what works best for you. After all, fashion is all about experimentation.

And, last but not least, don’t be afraid to have a little fun with it! No one said anything about colourful underwear, so…