The Power of the Pinstripe

The pinstripe suit is the consummate symbol of power and professionalism. The almighty stripe is evolving and becoming a style statement out of the office as well. However, there is a trick to getting the stripe right; not too formal, not too casual, but in the right situation, it’s the perfect option. Stripes create an elongating effect, so it works well for short and/or stocky guys: taller and slimmer is usually the desired look of anyone. Here are some suggestions on how to make the stripe work for you.

The Pinstripe Suit

The pinstripe suit is a bold fashion choice for men. It’s a very grown-up suit, dawned by businessmen, executives, and was formally the suit of choice of gangsters everywhere. No matter the man, the message is the same: Power. A pinstripe suit is a dapper option, right for board meetings, power lunches, and high power situations where you need that extra edge of assurance to get the job done.

The Pinstripe Shirt

The pinstripe shirt works great to accent a social outing outfit. Matched with the right jeans and good dress shoes, it’s a very sexy look for a night out. This option is especially beneficial to tall, lanky men, who might be overwhelming in a full suit. A pinstripe shirt also adds character to a solid colored suit, when matched with a monochromatic (one color) tie.

The Pinstripe Tie

For those boys, who aren’t ready to take the leap into a full suit of stripes, there is an alternative. The pinstripe tie is a perfect piece of flair for a simple shirt and suit. It can give just the right amount of pop needed to catch the eye, without going overboard. It can also be complimented with a matching accent hanky.

Some things to remember when wearing the pinstripe suits, everything in moderation. Too many stripes can clash, so simplify the other pieces and let your suit stripes speak for themselves. When wearing a pinstripe shirt, stay with darker colors for a dressier night look. Neutral and light colored stripes work better during the day. A striped tie can work wonders for a boring outfit, so feel free to use a little more color when choosing the right one. Whatever you chose, remember to love the stripe, be the stripe, own the stripe, and you’ll be very well suited.