Style Guide
Complete guide to suit accessories. How to choose and wear ties, pocket squares, cufflinks, watches, and other details that complete your look.
Accessories Complete the Picture
A well-fitted suit is the canvas. Accessories are the finishing touches that show you understand style at a deeper level. They're what take you from "wearing a suit" to "having style."
The good news: you don't need to buy everything at once. Start with the essentials and build your collection over time. Each piece multiplies your outfit options.
"Accessories are how men who wear suits express personality. The suit is the foundation; accessories are the signature."
— Style Philosophy
The Tie
The tie is the most visible accessory. It draws the eye upward toward your face and can completely change the character of an outfit.
Tie Basics
Width
Match your lapel width. Wide lapels need wider ties (3-3.5"). Slim lapels need slimmer ties (2.5-3").
Length
The tip should reach your belt buckle. Not above, not below. This is non-negotiable.
Material
Silk for formal, woven for texture, knit for casual. Wool and linen for seasonal variety.
Pattern
Solid or subtle pattern if your shirt is patterned. Bolder patterns if your shirt is solid.
Essential Tie Colors
Navy
Universal
Burgundy
Power
Gray
Neutral
Forest
Distinction
The Pocket Square
A pocket square is the easiest way to elevate a suit. It adds color, texture, and personality without requiring a new outfit.
The Golden Rule
Complement, don't match. Your pocket square should relate to your tie's colors but not be identical. If your tie is burgundy, your pocket square might have burgundy accents, but shouldn't be solid burgundy.
Classic Folds
Presidential (Flat)
Clean horizontal line. Most formal. Works with white or solid colors.
Puff
Casual and relaxed. Great for patterned squares. Shows more personality.
One-Point
Single peak showing. Balance between formal and casual. Versatile choice.
Essential Pocket Squares
- White cotton — Goes with everything. Your first buy.
- White silk — Same idea, dressier sheen.
- Navy pattern — Works with most suits.
- Burgundy pattern — Adds warmth to gray/navy suits.
Cufflinks & Studs
Cufflinks transform a dress shirt and add sophistication. They're required for French cuff shirts and formal events.
Silver — Classic and Versatile
Works with any suit color. Modern, clean appearance. Your first pair should be silver.
Gold — Warm and Traditional
Pairs beautifully with navy, brown, and earth tones. More traditional feel.
Colored / Novelty — Personality
Blue enamel, mother of pearl, or themed designs. Express personality within reason.
The Watch
A watch is often a man's only jewelry. It should complement your overall style without demanding attention.
Formal Events
Thin dress watch with leather band. Match the leather to your shoes. Silver or gold case matching your cufflinks.
Business Casual
More flexibility here. Metal bracelet works. Avoid sporty or oversized diver watches with suits.
Belt & Shoes
The cardinal rule: belt and shoes match. Brown with brown, black with black. This is fundamental.
Brown Leather — Modern Versatile
Works with navy, gray, tan, earth tones. More contemporary feel. Better for daytime.
Black Leather — Formal Traditional
Essential for black-tie and very formal settings. Works with charcoal and navy. Evening events.
Other Accessories
Tie Bar / Tie Clip
Holds your tie in place, keeps it from swinging. Should be 2/3 to 3/4 width of your tie. Position between 3rd and 4th button.
Suspenders / Braces
Alternative to belts. More comfortable for some. Button-on style is more traditional. Never wear with a belt.
Lapel Pin
Small touch of personality. Should complement, not compete with, pocket square. Popular for weddings.
Boutonniere
Fresh flower for weddings and formal occasions. Stem goes through the lapel buttonhole. Left lapel only.
Accessory FAQs
Can I skip the tie?
For business casual and many modern events, yes. When skipping the tie, add a pocket square for visual interest. Ensure the shirt collar looks good open.
How many ties do I need?
Start with 5-6 versatile ties in different colors and patterns. Navy, burgundy, gray, and two patterns give you plenty of options. Build from there based on your wardrobe.
Should my metals match?
Generally yes—watch, cufflinks, belt buckle, and tie bar should be the same metal (silver or gold). Some mixing is acceptable for casual looks, but matching reads as more polished.
Complete Your Look
Visit KCT Menswear for ties, pocket squares, and accessories that elevate any suit.
The Finishing Layer
Accessories finish the sentence: browse the accessory wall, and let the Color Matcher pick the tie that actually matches.