Selecting Accessories That Complement Your Outfit

Begin with Belts and Shoes: The Grounding Rule

The quickest way to look well turned out is to get your belt and shoes working together. A black leather belt should pair with black leather shoes; a brown belt with brown shoes. But you do not need an exact colour match. A dark chocolate belt works with mid-brown brogues, and a tan belt sits comfortably with lighter suede loafers. Stay within the same leather family. If your shoes are burgundy, a deep brown or oxblood belt will feel intentional.

Consider formality too. Slim, polished Oxfords call for a slim dress belt, around 2.5cm to 3cm wide. Chunky boots can take a wider belt, up to 4cm. Keep the buckle simple: a plain silver or brass frame. Avoid a black belt with brown shoes – it rarely looks better than the alternative.

Ties That Work Within Your Shirt's Palette

When choosing a tie, think of it as a guest in your shirt's house. It should not arrive with a completely different set of colours. Pull a shade that already exists in your shirt – even a solid one. A pale blue shirt welcomes navy, burgundy, grey or olive ties. A pink shirt pairs beautifully with charcoal or deep green. If your shirt has a pattern, pick out one of its minor colours for the tie.

Texture matters too. A knitted tie adds a relaxed edge to a casual shirt and tweed jacket. A smooth silk tie is better for business. Match the tie's width to your jacket's lapels: a slim lapel needs a slim tie, while a wider lapel takes a classic 8cm to 9cm tie. If your shirt has a bold stripe, choose a solid tie. If the shirt is plain, you can afford a tie with more character.

The Unassuming Power of a Simple Watch

A watch is the one accessory almost every man wears, yet it is often overlooked. A clean, uncluttered watch can lift a plain outfit without shouting. A three-hand watch with a date window, a case size between 36mm and 40mm, and a simple dial is ideal. Black, white or silver dials are the most versatile.

Your strap should tie in with the rest of your leather. A brown leather strap works when your belt and shoes are also brown. A black leather strap does the same for black leather. A steel or titanium bracelet is an excellent neutral that suits grey, navy and black. You do not need a complicated chronograph for everyday wear. One watch is enough – resist stacking bracelets on the same wrist.

Pocket Squares: A Small Square with a Big Voice

If you want to make a plain suit look considered, add a pocket square. The simplest choice is a white linen or cotton square, folded in a flat "TV fold" so only a neat horizontal line shows. That detail works with a navy suit, a grey suit, or a blazer and flannels. For less formal settings, a puff fold – gathered loosely – adds relaxed charm.

With a patterned pocket square, follow the same logic as ties. It should share a colour with your shirt, tie or jacket, but never match your tie exactly. A white shirt, navy tie and a pocket square with hints of navy, red and cream is a classic combination. If your tie is patterned, keep the pocket square plain. If your tie is solid, the pocket square can carry the pattern.

Socks, Bags and Other Finishing Touches

Socks are a chance to blend in or add subtle interest. For business and formal wear, match your socks to your trousers – this lengthens the leg line. For smart casual, pick a colour that echoes your shirt or pocket square. Avoid white sports socks with tailored clothing. Over-the-calf socks stay up and look tidier than ankle socks with a suit.

Leather bags should ideally sit in the same colour family as your shoes and belt. A dark brown briefcase with black shoes is a minor mismatch; a black bag with brown shoes is more jarring. For casual days, a canvas holdall is fine. Cufflinks for French cuffs should be small and metallic. A single lapel pin can add a point of difference. A silk scarf or woollen hat in winter should coordinate with your coat.

Balancing Accessories for Everyday Wear

The final skill is restraint. Pick two or three accessories at most for any outfit. If you wear a statement watch, keep your pocket square plain and your tie understated. If you have chosen a bold tie, let the pocket square be white and the watch simple. Belt and shoes should always be in harmony, but everything else can step back.

Remember that grooming is part of the picture. Neat, clean hair, a trimmed beard or fresh shave, and tidy nails matter more than any pocket square. Accessories should complement a well-fitted outfit, not rescue a poor one. A crisp white shirt that fits your shoulders and trousers that sit at the right height will always beat expensive extras on a badly fitting suit. Get the basics right, then let a simple watch, a matching belt, and perhaps a discreet pocket square do the rest.