How to Wear Suspenders: A Gentleman’s Guide to Style, Fit, and Function

There was a time when a gentleman wouldn’t dream of wearing trousers without suspenders. Wearing them today keeps alive a tradition of elegance and purpose.

Words: Roberto Udegbunam

Suspenders (or braces, as the British call them) were once a standard part of a man’s wardrobe. Before belts became the norm, they were the go-to method for keeping trousers in place. Today, they’re a statement of style, a mark of sartorial confidence, and a functional alternative to belts, when worn correctly.

Why Suspenders Deserve a Place in Your Wardrobe

Belts break the visual line of your outfit and often cause trousers to bunch up at the waist. Suspenders avoid that. They hold your trousers at the right height without sagging or needing constant adjustment. They let your trousers hang naturally, which gives a cleaner, sharper silhouette. They also show you care about traditional menswear and craftsmanship. A well-dressed gentleman doesn’t just wear suspenders, he understands their role in tailoring and classic style.

If you take classic menswear seriously, button suspenders are the only option. Clip-on suspenders damage trousers and look cheap. Traditional suspenders attach to buttons inside the waistband, keeping the look refined.

If your trousers don’t have buttons, a tailor can add them in minutes. And if your trousers have belt loops, consider going for high-waisted, suspender-ready trousers instead.

Clip-On vs. Button Suspenders: The Only Choice That Matters

Styles and Materials: Choosing the Right Suspenders

Suspenders come in different widths, materials, and patterns. Each choice reflects your style. A 3–4 cm width is standard for tailoring, while anything thinner leans more fashion-forward. Silk, wool, or boxcloth work well for formalwear, while cotton or leather fits casual looks. Solid colors are the safest option, but stripes or paisley can add personality. Leather-loop suspenders suit casual tailoring, and silk suspenders are best for eveningwear.

How to Wear Suspenders with Confidence

If you’re new to suspenders, start by pairing them with high-waisted trousers. Low-rise trousers don’t work well because they sit too low on the waist. Match your suspenders to the rest of your outfit, leather loops should match your shoes, and fabric suspenders should complement your suit. Don’t wear a belt with suspenders. It’s redundant and looks sloppy.

Suspenders in Modern Style

Suspenders aren’t just for formalwear. They can add character to smart-casual and vintage-inspired outfits when styled correctly. Pair them with high-waisted pleated trousers and a knit polo for a relaxed yet refined look. For business casual, wear them with wool trousers and an oxford shirt, keeping the colors muted. In casual settings, heavier fabrics like denim or canvas work best with leather or cotton suspenders, adding a vintage touch. The key is confidence, suspenders should feel like an intentional choice, not a costume.

"I don't wear belts. I suspend my pants with good, old-fashioned braces. Belts are for amateurs."
— Gordon Gekko, Wall Street (1987)