The suit, the perfect dress code for the quintessential smart man or woman. We’re all familiar with the almost uniform coat and pants combination that has been a mainstay for about four hundred years. Throughout history the suit has been in and out of fashion, going from strictly formal wear to an occasional wear for certain special occasions such as weddings and funerals to now when it is worn as both a leisure or formal garment.
The suit has always been accompanied by certain accessories that help accentuate the look and feel of the suit. In 2025 these accessories have become more and more important due to this generation’s need to feel and look unique. Hence, certain trends are emerging that have come as a result of this. Some of these trends include:
1. Pocket squares
A pocket square is a small piece of cloth placed in the breast pocket of a suit. The cloth is normally made from silk, lightweight cotton or linen and should be small enough to fold without bulging the breast pocket. The history of the pocket square is that it transitioned from men carrying handkerchiefs in their trouser pockets to their breast pockets since their trouser pockets would also carry bills and coins and this is not the most convenient place for a cloth that is used on sensitive areas such as the face and nose. The popularity of the pocket square has increased in 2025 due to the fact that it is a highly customizable item which allows the wearer to choose anything from color to material.
2. Watches
Certainly not a new gadget to accompany the suit, in 2025 it is almost criminal to wear a suit without accompanying it with a watch. Historically, it was the pocket watch that was part of the ensemble but nowadays a good wristwatch goes a long way towards making a dress code distinct to the wearer. Certain materials such as stainless steel or leather are great for a more formal setting or certain occasions such as weddings and funerals. The emerging trend though is the emergence of removable watch straps meaning that they can be interchanged to fit the outfit.
3. Tie bars
A small metal clip meant to keep your tie fastened to the placket of your shirt. It serves the dual purpose of being both functional as well as fashionable. This is an accessory that has enjoyed a growth in popularity due to the resurgence of the classic men’s style. Unlike previously when it was used mainly for its functional uses, it has now become a fashion statement. This is because the tie bar is a customizable accessory allowing the wearer to play with its design.
4. Seasonal Scarves
Another emerging trend and one that I am a fan of is the pairing of suits and scarves. Scarves have been a part of our wardrobes for years but they have largely been kept separate from suits until lately. An essential piece of clothing especially in the colder areas, it’s a wonder the two stayed apart as long as they did. Scarves are a great accessory because they serve the dual purpose of being both functional and fashionable. A colorful scarf can be used to add color to a dark-colored suit. Scarves can be used to add a touch of personality to an otherwise mundane suit.
5. Colorful Socks
A fun and quirky emerging trend is the popularity of colorful socks, otherwise known as “fun socks”. These are socks with bright patterns or bright colors. Traditionally suits came accompanied or worn with bland colored socks (black or grey) while the colorful socks were saved for the more casual outings. In 2025 colorful socks are seen as a way of adding more personality to an outfit that would otherwise look uniform. It helps the wearer to stand out.
6. Suspenders
Suspenders, unlike things like colorful socks, are not a new accessory to suits rather a retro look making a comeback. Worn as an alternative to belts, suspenders are fabric or leather straps worn over shoulders to hold up trousers. They have grown in popularity since you can mix and match with any suit. They can look very dapper especially when paired with the correct combination.
7. Handcrafted Belts
The belt is not a new trend when it comes to suits but in 2025 it is not uncommon to have unique handcrafted belts. Traditionally the suits were only accompanied by leather belts but in 2025 other materials and designs have come up as society looks to differentiate and stand out.
