Matching: What should match and what doesn’t matter

When coordinating an outfit it is important to consider matching certain items, or at least be aware of what color combinations you happen to be using.  In fashion, there are few golden rules and sometimes good common sense will help you prevail.  Traditional dressers over the years would probably tell us that socks should match trousers, shoes match the belt, etc.  Today we see wardrobes that are put together with obvious thought and many with none at all!  Do understand that people around you are aware of the time and effort that you put into your clothing and appearance.  The following matching and coordinating tips I propose for discussion.

• Match socks to trousers.  This does not mean that your sock color has to match the trouser perfectly, but try to bring in as much of the trouser color as possible.  Pattern socks with a contrast color background that have the trouser color in the print or design of the sock works too.  Patterns in socks like polka-dots, argyles, foulards, stripes, and other abstract designs are all fun accents that help create your own style and fashion taste.  Just use good sense if you have an important mission that day.

• Match belt to shoes.  In men’s fashion it is important to coordinate your belt and shoe color as close as possible.  Never wear a black belt with a brown or tan shoe and the reverse would also apply.  Belts on occasion will have more than one primary color that may pick up the shoe color.  Sometimes introducing this contrast accent is a nice touch to a wardrobe.  It is fine to be creative in your combinations, but do realize that others will notice a stark contrast in colors.

• Match tie to “?”.  Each one of us will have an opinion on this one.  Some may say that your neckwear should match the suit or blazer, while others may think the tie should coordinate well to your shirt, pocket square, socks, etc.  The fact is that some combination of all of the above will probably be successful.  I am a believer of adding some color to that necktie so often you will not be matching anything, but just accenting your outfit with some tasteful contrast.  However, the neckwear you chose can have multiple colors that may match the color of the suit, shirt, pocket square, socks….and it goes on and on!  Be creative and have fun developing your personal wardrobe!