You've probably noticed that the trend for all things skinny has fully entered the mainstream. For example, it has never been more fashionable to wear a skinny suit. Suits are usually the last bastions of traditional cuts and styles, but the trend of new, skinnier silhouettes has brought suits to the high street. This is also partially due to the rise of cheaper suits, which means that fashion lines can offer a wider suit selection. Also, the breaking-down of formal office environments means that customers are now more willing to experiment with cut, colour and fabric.
Skinny suits are not a new idea. As with so much of fashion, they are a throwback to a bygone era. The skinny suit reached its apex in the 1960s, with the rise of mod fashion. The classic skinny suit will forever be associated with scooters, the Royal Air Force symbol, and the South Coast of England. What paved the way for the return of the skinny suit was the emergence of the skinny tie in the last decade.
This sharper, clean-cut look led designers to re-examine the fashions of the 1960s. As well as the skinny cut, many modern suits are available in a lighter colour, particularly light grey, which harks back to the era of Vespas and The Who. Though modern skinny suits unashamedly draw on the suits of this past decade, they still manage to look contemporary at the same time.
For accessories, skinny suits work best with minimalist styling, whether a classic watch or a skinny tie. For an authentic period accessory, a small pocket square will really set off the look, particularly with a dark suit. Traditional skinny suits were worn with pointed ‘winkle picker’ shoes, although in its more modern incarnation, dark boots or shoes with a small point are a better option.
As with any fashion revival, it is important to put a modern twist on retro styles to avoid looking dated. Although plain shirts and ties work best with skinny suits, feel free to experiment with light patterning, particularly on the tie. However, you should avoid the temptation to go for a more sixties haircut, which can make the overall look seem like a costume. A modern haircut, particularly a short one, will detract less from your suit, as well as work with other suits you have. Skinny suits are a bold fashion choice, although one that is challenging the more traditional cut of suit. As funny as it may seem, for a more up-to-date look, it is best to look back, not forward.
Dave MacKinder writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
