There’s something heart warming about a father and son stepping out in coordinated suits. It’s more than just a fashion statement and a photo op – it’s a coming of age moment, a celebration of the bond between father and son. Whether it’s a wedding, a christening or another formal event, this guide will ensure you both look delightfully coordinated.
Understanding the occasion
Before you even look at a fabric swatch or try on a jacket, take a moment to understand the nature of the event. Is it a black-tie gala or a relaxed garden wedding? Just like when you’re buying a suit for yourself, the level of formality should drive your choices. For black-tie events, traditional tuxedos with bow ties are de rigueur, whereas semi-formal affairs have room for more creative expression with colour and cut.
It’s always worth finding out if there’s a dress code, too, especially if it’s an invitation-only event. The code will of course apply to both or all of you, and in some ways will make things easier by narrowing your options.
Suit styles and cuts
The choice between classic and contemporary styles depends on body type and age. For the father, a timeless cut like a single-breasted, notch-lapel suit offers impeccable versatility. Sons, especially those of a younger age, normally look better in a slim-fit suit, which provides a modern edge without compromising on smartness.
Double-breasted suits certainly have a vintage flair that can look great on both father and son, particularly when tailored to perfection. However, on smaller frames, such as those of boys under six years old, the suit needs to be light, as the thickness of the fabric can look out of proportion with the size, and also make the suit uncomfortable and restrictive.
Colour coordination
When it comes to colours, you’ve got two options: go identical, or find complementary colours.
If you’re opting for complementary shades rather than identical hues, try a rich navy suit for the father, paired with a lighter shade of blue for the son. Grey offers another versatile palette, with a whole range of depths to choose from. That allows both you and your kid to look aligned but separate, with your own personalities.
Spring and summer weddings call for lighter tones like pastels, while autumn and winter events let you explore darker, richer shades such as burgundy or forest green. If you have more than one son, it’s usually best to keep all the children in the same colour as each other, even if you’re dressed in complementary shades.
The other option is to simply choose the same colour. Remember – if you’re doing this, they have to be exactly the same, not a close match. The coordinating colours mentioned above have a discernible difference, but if they’re too similar, it can just look like one suit has been washed more, so it can just look older. Buy them from the same retailer, ideally at the same time.
Fabric selection
The right fabric is as important as the colour. The season and venue should guide this decision. A winter wedding in a stately home demands the warmth and texture of wool or tweed, while a summer garden event is best served by breathable fabrics such as linen or light-weight cotton. High-quality fabrics add to the aesthetic appeal and also ensure comfort throughout what can be a long day.
Accessories and finishing touches
Ties, pocket squares, cufflinks and shoes can either show harmony or provide those subtle distinctions between father and son. Coordinated accessories like matching ties can look just perfect, but there’s nothing wrong with adding a dash of personality with the tie, cufflinks or pocket square.
Putting the wheels in motion
When considering where to shop, look for reputable men’s fashion retailers that specialise in dressing fathers and sons for formal events. Start your selection process well in advance. This gives you both plenty of time for adjustments and avoids last-minute catastrophes.
Whatever the occasion, it’s going to be a memorable day spent with your beloved son. He’ll no doubt feel like a million dollars in his smart suit just like dad, so savour each moment in each other’s company. Whether you’re dressed identically or subtly co-ordinated, shop for quality and you won’t go wrong.