This one, by Buck Mason, is cut with a soft shoulder, in the style of classic Ivy League tailoring. That means it won’t look overly precious, and that its constituent parts will pair well with other things. You could have some fun with footwear here – while a derby or loafer will work just fine, just know that it’d kill with a pair of Yuketens or a heavy-soled boat shoe.
More Black Suits We Love
Yohji Yamamoto Wool Gabardine Suit
Yohji Yamamoto is the undisputed king of black clothing – he’s hardly worked outside of that palette for the last fifty years. This suit, cut in his signature shape, is the perfect choice for men who want to flex a little more on the fashion front.
Homme Plissé Issey Miyake Pleated Suit
You might already know Issey Miyake’s Homme Plissé line for its precise pleatwork. It’s a technique that rarely works better than when applied to tailoring: not only does it add visual interest, it means this is the perfect suit to travel with, as it’s virtually crease-proof.
Smock Wool Gabardine Suit
If the very thought of wearing a suit makes you feel claustrophobic, consider this route by Smock, the in-house brand of the estimable retailer Mohawk General Store. Its slouchier cut will feel just as comfortable as your favorite sweats.
COS Shawl-Collar Wool Suit
Speaking of evening suits, a great one is hard to find on a budget. This wool suit, by COS, is one of the best. It’s cut for a boxier fit, so leans a little more into ‘fashion’ territory, but it’s executed with enough restraint to work for any formal event.
Dries Van Noten Wool-Twill Suit
Though its eponymous founder departed last year, the Belgian label Dries van Noten has more than maintained its reputation for elegant, quietly romantic clothing.
Saint Laurent Wool Chiné Suit
A sensible suit is all well and good – but there are times when you’ll want to flex a little harder. Saint Laurent’s double-breasted, high-waisted version has a Silk Sonic-like energy built in: wear it with a silk shirt, and leave a few buttons open.
Factor’s Double-Breasted Cotton-Twill Suit
Made in the USA from cotton twill, this suit is harder-wearing and sturdier than a typical style – so while it’s a little pricer than an entry level option, it’s likely to be far more enduring. The relaxed double-breasted jacket will perfectly straddle smart and casual occasions.
Drake’s Shawl-Collar Tuxedo
In case you missed it, the heritage tailor Drake’s has undergone an almighty shakeup, and now produces some of the UK’s most dependably impressive menswear. If you need a suit specifically for evening dress, this handsomely cut tuxedo, finished with a shawl collar, is one to turn to.
Séfr Wool-Blend Suit
A wide-leg suit looks bold, but is remarkably easy to wear: the trick is to keep everything else simple and streamlined. This version, from the ultra-minimalist brand Séfr, balances the roomier legs with a slightly abbreviated jacket.
How to Style a Black Suit in 2025
Yes, you can wear it with a white shirt. And yes, if it’s a formal occasion, you probably should. But that’s where any “rules” stop: These days, there’s nothing wrong (and a lot right) with wearing another shade underneath. Heck, the right printed shirt can work, too, though stripes and graphics will work better than florals. (You could also consider a knitted polo shirt, or a merino sweater.) In terms of footwear, it’s best to stick to boots, lace-ups or loafers, though a pair of unobtrusive sneakers can slot in nicely too: this is where your trusty pair of Sambas will come good.
