STOP Wearing Suits, Here’s How to Look Better in Separates

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In our video, Chris Modoo and Austin Pollak discuss how you can achieve greater versatility with your wardrobe from wearing separates over suits.
Summary
The discussion challenges the assumption that suits are inherently smarter than separates like jackets and trousers.
Separates, consisting of a jacket and odd trousers, offer versatility in fabric, color, and texture, providing a contemporary alternative to traditional suits.
While suits still hold a place in formal attire, separates offer a more modern corporate look, especially when paired with a shirt and tie, or in situations where a suit without a tie may seem too informal.
Investing in separates allows for more economical wardrobe building, as a good jacket can be paired with different trousers for varied looks.
The debate over the smartness and formality of suits versus separates is nuanced, with the conclusion that both have their merits depending on the occasion and personal style preferences.

[@JakeSmith-jy1kx]

I used to own ten suits, no blazers or sports coats. I now own a single suit that I avoid and have a full rack of separates. I don’t hate suits, but I love putting together separates in a smart way. That’s why I think it looks smarter.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Mixing and matching separates can definitely create a unique and smart look.

[@quietatse]

I've been playing with this idea for some time and now I've settled on it. I too, own one suit and now look to acquire separates. It's the way to go imo

[@ericbush6124]

Way better putting outfits together than suits

[@american_pride0]

Why not just use pieces from the other suits as separates?

[@quietatse]

@@american_pride0 it's the worse thing you can do. Because they age differently and by the time you wear the suit, you can see the difference.

[@limster710]

Just my opinion: The music in the background is a little too loud in comparison to the voices. Otherwise, great video.

[@jrooney58]

As someone who is retired now, I rely on suits more for more formal occasions, such as funerals, weddings and the like. Otherwise, I wear blazers or sports jackets with odd trousers. They allow me to be well dressed for a larger variety of occasions. I think that your distinction between being “smartly dressed” and “formally dressed” is apt. Being “smartly dressed” refers to how well you put an outfit together and how that outfit works vis a vis the occasion that you’ve dressed for. Interesting topic. Well done gentlemen!

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing your perspective! We're delighted you found the topic interesting.

[@regsantotomas]

Separates can definitely project a more interesting look but can be more challenging to those less familiar with sartorial guidelines. Exuding elegance requires thoughtful care and execution instead of simply throwing on random garments (including suits). Great discussion and advice.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment! We're glad you enjoyed the discussion and advice.

[@KlausKokholmPetersen]

This is great advice. I dont wear a suit very often but mixing and matching gives me more variety. And then use accessories such as ties/bowties and pocket squares for a splash of colour and variation.

[@RampleyandCo]

Absolutely! Mixing separates and adding accessories can elevate your style, even if you don't wear a suit often. It's all about that personal touch!

[@KlausKokholmPetersen]

@@RampleyandCo I also wear the trousers much more than the jacket, so they'll get worn out many years before the jacket.

[@stedmays2768]

Enjoyed the video --- would be interesting to see more looks that you think don't work, with analysis of why they don't work, as well as more examples of blazer looks that do work.......anyway, thanks for this youtube, with many helpful tips.

[@RampleyandCo]

Great suggestion!

[@spatel353]

You guys were having a great convo. I'd like to see you guys seated and more relaxed, sort of like a podcast. I like the perspectives of a younger and that of an experienced gentleman coming together. Thanks for the content.

[@chrismodoo6563]

Yes….I wish we could sit down! Especially at my age…😊

[@craigoswald2590]

Really interesting article. Started to stray away from suits in business meetings and moved to separates instead. This also helped to feel a little more relaxed when meeting clients. Recent debate has been tie or no tie for job interviews, just a smart shirt etc, especially when online and your interviewers are more casual themselves.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing your experience! Job interview attire can definitely be a topic of debate, especially in today's more casual environment.

[@DavidStone-h5d]

Always enjoy your videos. Great information...that said the audio is soft and difficult to understand on most of your content.

[@uglukthemedicineman5933]

Love seeing the photos of Chris and Austin. Absolutely Dapper Gentlemen.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you so much for your kind words!

[@niklaswarnken3433]

Top class advice! As a person who doesn't need to wear a suit for work, I realised that the navy Blazer with brass buttons is the perfect seperate for me. I can wear it with grey slacks, beige chinos, white pants just as as well as with dark wash jeans. Perfect for celebrations, weddings and smart casual business settings. I actually only have the need for one suit: a light beige one in a cotton-linen blend. Why not a navy one in an all season wool? Because I'm in my late 20's and summer weddings are always around the corner - and those are the perfect terrain for a suit with a light material and color.

[@chrismodoo6563]

Thanks for sharing. Your beige linen blend suit will serve you well as separates for many years.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing! Your choice of a light beige cotton-linen suit sounds perfect for summer weddings and celebrations. Having a suit in a lighter material and colour can indeed be ideal for warmer climates and outdoor events.

[@sc1]

A suit of matching cloth looks smoother, more elegant, more sophisticated.

[@RampleyandCo]

Absolutely! Matching suits do have a classic elegance to them.

[@KomradeKrusher]

Valuable and informed advice. As you said, suits have their place, but they also discourage many men from trying to look "smart" as they come with a much bigger load of self-consciousness. You will always need to go "all in" with the suit, adhering to some very strict rules (missing neck wear being the biggest offender, but so are "dressy" sneakers these days). You get a lot more leeway and room to experiment with separates, and even just two coats/jackets with 3-4 trousers and a couple of shirts almost guarantee that people will "never" see you in the same outfit. It also sharpens your style game, as it forces you to think about what you put together.

[@chrismodoo6563]

Very well put-thank you

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! You've made some excellent points about the versatility and creativity that come with wearing separates. It's true that experimenting with different combinations allows for a more personalised and confident style without the strict guidelines of a suit.

[@sholemepstein]

I was born and lived most of my life in South Florida which is far more informal than my current home in Boston Massachusetts. In Florida I rarely wore a suit and only owned 4 or 5. Sports coats and slacks were my go to look, even for the office. In Boston I only wear a suit and tie in the office but this summer I went back to sports coats and seperate for casual wear. Currently I wear a tie even with a sports coat but that could easily change.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@Nick.Brough]

Really good video guys & I enjoy the banter between you two!

[@RampleyandCo]

Much appreciated!

[@DQ_Style]

Learning how to be a great dressed man, is absolutely fantastic in practice. 🎉

[@RampleyandCo]

Absolutely! Thanks for the comment.

[@johnparnell8571]

Great content, gents and worth it for the chemistry between you alone. Who said: `The suit is dead?' Well, you gents did - the thumbnail at any rate - in your video of 1st Sept 2023 titled: `The Suit Is Dead. Modern Men Wear This.' As you freely acknowledge, in broad agreement with a lot of the comments here, the suit most definitely has its place. Before I retired I was always fully suited and booted at work as if I was going to a job interview, right down to the mirror-shined shoes. I always bought a second pair of trousers with each suit. By dressing the part, I felt the part, and that helped me to perform to the part. I still love wearing a suit today even though the more recent `working from home' (WFH) culture has sent many men's general dress codes to a depressing nadir. Sports jackets offer the opportunity to be more colourful and I have fully embraced the variety of outfits that now brighten my wardrobe. However, I still have two throwbacks I refuse to let go of: Every jacket must have an appropriately chosen pocket square, and if I am wearing a tie - which I still frequently do - the shirt has to be double / French cuff. I enjoy wearing antique enamel cufflinks to add interest and a finishing touch. Whether we wear a suit or a sports jacket, there is something empowering about always striving to be the best presented man in the room. Dressing up is a mark of respect for the occasion, your hosts, and towards those you are with. It is also a fun thing to do... and what's not to like about that?

[@chrismodoo6563]

…you had me at “antique enamel cufflinks”…thank you.

[@RampleyandCo]

Your commitment to suits and the attention to detail you describe truly highlight the significance of dressing well beyond mere appearance. We appreciate you taking the time to share your perspective with us!

[@kenneth7826]

Good afternoon..do both....my 2 cents Past Sunday at church my suit was a mustard double breasted suit This past monday...doctors appointment..seersucker jacket both with pocket squares...ties

[@RampleyandCo]

Thanks for sharing your outfit choices with us! Your mustard double-breasted suit and seersucker jacket sound like great looks. We love that you're incorporating pocket squares and ties-those details make all the difference.

[@LeonardoMallard]

Okay, I’ve always scratched my head about the obsession around the *LVGUCI* book totes and their practicality, but this one is adorable!! Congratulations

[@RampleyandCo]

Thanks for sharing!

[@sugarraybow]

I love you guys and I do appreciate everything you do to help us having a better style and understanding of dressing up. But I do have a very important information to tell you. Please in any video longer than 5 minutes, you must use multiple background musics. Or reduce it's loudness, or just let it fade in and out sometimes, I don't know exactly what you should do since I'm no producer, but I can tell that this background music is after a while slightly madening. Looking forward for more content and thank you for time and effort ❤

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you so much for your kind words and valuable feedback! We truly appreciate your support and are thrilled to hear that you enjoy our content. Your suggestion about the background music in longer videos is noted.

[@LukasAdolfsson]

Lovely video with a lot of things to think about. I had one comment about the "garment formality scale" that Mr. Modoo presented. I found the Stroller suit or Stresemann (I've also seen it referred to as a black lounge suit) missing. It would be the daytime equivalent to black tie and is constructed by replacing the morning coat from a morning dress ensemble with a formal black jacket (peaked lapels, preferrably no flap pockets, etc.) The top hat is switched for a Humburg hat and button boots, if worn, are replaced with black oxfords. It's quite an unusual combination but one I enjoy greatly and would love to see mentioned on the channel.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment and for sharing your insights on the garment formality scale. We appreciate your perspective and the detailed explanation of the black lounge suit/Stresemann ensemble. We'll take note of this suggestion for future discussions on our channel. We're glad you're enjoying the content and hope to continue offering insights that resonate with you.

[@GavinDingwall]

Austin - you have convinced me about combining denim and jackets. I wear mid blue denim with a grey Harris tweed jacket. Can denim work with light weight jackets like linen in the summer? Top work guys.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you so much for your kind words. To answer your question, denim can definitely work well with lightweight jackets like linen during the summer months. The key is to opt for lighter-wash denim and a breathable linen jacket to keep things cool and comfortable.

[@zorankojcic]

Great video, as always with the two of you going back and forth. In my view, the suit is boring, but I like to be noticed in my clothing, so for me it's almost always a loud patterned sport coat and separate trousers or jeans. I especially like wearing jeans with heavy fabrics during the winter & fall + a tie, while during the warmer months it's lighter wool or linen trousers with unlined sport coat. Bottoms always plain while sport coats as loud as possible for me :)

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment and kind words! Loud sport coats paired with plain bottoms definitely make a statement.

[@Molach101]

I really enjoyed this video. When I first started dressing better in my early 20s it was suggested to me that I experiment with separates, but the main issue I had was with the trousers beyond e.g. grey flannels or grey high twist wool so examples from Chris like checked trousers etc were helpful. I noticed he mentioned worsted trousers a few times but I was warned off them by people who thought they could look "too much like half of a suit"

[@chrismodoo6563]

Thank you. That is a good point re worsteds…you should consider houndstooths or glen checks with plain jackets.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thanks for sharing! It's great to hear that Chris's examples were helpful for you in exploring different trouser options.

[@ericbush6124]

Late 80s thru 90s love sport coats especially pairing with Dressy polo nice high waisted pleated pants even when i went out started wearing suits when i started attending Church thru early mid 2000s and 3 4 buttons like the peekaboo tie look never was crazy about 2 button suits for my body

[@paulhawelka285]

I tend to wear sports coats with odd trousers more often, in my free time as well as in University. However, I eventually will have to step up my suit game, as lawyers are required to wear them. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to balance my suit collection and smart casual ensembles without practically buying "two wardrobes"?

[@chrismodoo6563]

Perhaps stick to a limited colour palette or purchase suits that can be worn as separates. A few of my private clients are lawyers and they actually prefer to have a capsule wardrobe of work cloths they never wear socially.

[@paulhawelka285]

@@chrismodoo6563 i will take your advice to heart, thank you Mr. Modoo.

[@faranji]

Excellent analysis! The point about jeans aging in unflattering ways is interesting. I’d have to agree. Any thoughts on threading the needle with suit purchases where you order the jacket in a less formal style (ie with patch pockets, not too structured, soft shoulders, etc) with the aim of the coat being able to be worn as an odd jacket as well as a suit with its matching trousers? Is that approach savvy and versatile, or would it be better to keep suits and sport coats / blazers entirely separate?

[@chrismodoo6563]

I am an advocate of buying suits that can be worn as separate. Tweed, linen and corduroy come to mind.

[@Kennybooy9]

What an excellent vid. Bravo 🥂

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled that you enjoyed the video.

[@TeslaRules1856]

I am still new to suit and jackets. However I find it difficult to identify some suit jackets worn as sports jacket. I bought a Navy Nail-head suit, very subtle, not very shinny, soft shoulder, notch lapel, etc. From just from a few feet away I have difficulty seeing the difference (button types aside) in the overall look of this jacket from an old navy hopsack blazer I have.

[@Bailiol]

I'm not so keen on separates. It looks great on other people, but I just don't have the time to think about combinations - I much rather traditional coloured suits as one looks smart and they are comfortable and effortless.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thanks for sharing your perspective!

[@RockTo11]

I mostly wear separates... but definitely not as smart as a suit. Suits also give off a more confident look.

[@rudimussrodeln]

I disagree. Suit is the basic and standard choice. It is used by people who are required to wear a suit. By client servants like bankers or lawyers. Separates are for people who like to dress and do not need to impress anyone. It also requires more skill to produce a good separate outfit. I feel a lot more confident in separates. It makes me feel special.

[@RockTo11]

@@rudimussrodeln Nope: Don Draper, James Bond, Ethan Hunt, Gordon Gekko, etc... the suave characters all wear (mostly) suits.

[@rudimussrodeln]

@@RockTo11 0.1% of suit weares are these type of persons. 99.9% of them are wagies. Plus James Bond and many other icons wore separates too?

[@RockTo11]

@@rudimussrodeln "0.1% of suit weares are these type of persons".... citation?

[@coachcleats13]

Chris is killin' me hahahaha!

[@rebeccaf4414]

I have zero experience buying suits but I’m trying to buy a suit for my son who will have a finance job starting in January. He need corporate clothes including suits. Where do I start? I love your videos can you suggest a video for beginners? Help? I have a 1500 to spend and don’t want to make a mistake.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you so much for your kind words about our videos! For a great starting point on buying a suit, I’d recommend checking out this video: How to Measure a Suit Jacket or Blazer - Online Buying Guide. For your son's business wardrobe, a navy or charcoal suit would be a versatile choice. We also have plenty of videos on this topic if you need more guidance. Another option to consider is buying separates - getting a single jacket and multiple trousers that can be mixed and matched. Best of luck with the suit shopping!

[@jimreece7615]

I prefer separates, more character.

[@thespian44]

Love watching this channel! I think Chris does better by himself. His arrogance and dismissiveness comes through too much in conversation with the other host.

[@THEDISAFFECTED]

Shouldn't a stroller or Stresemann or "black lounge suit" fit between morning dress and any other lounge suit on the scale of daytime formality? It's sunshine black tie, no? What components, features, and details do you fellas reckon might embody a just-sufficiently-current stroller? (I suppose we don't want to appear to be masquerading as Churchill.)

[@KomradeKrusher]

I fear a stroller/Stresemann is inadvertently "dated" and something that is not likely to ever make a comeback outside of 1950s themed wedding receptions. It belongs to a different era, just as Victorian dress did when the Stresemann became popular.

[@Molach101]

You have to be careful with it in the UK so you don't look like an undertaker. In America I think they wear black or dark suits, but here they wear a black jacket with cashmere stripe trousers. To avoid this look I'd suggest wearing a grey or buff or other coloured waistcoat (undertakers do not) and perhaps wearing checked trousers, or houndstooth, POW check etc. My Dad wore black lounge with a grey waistcoat when my parents got married in the 80s and he didn't look like an undertaker at all. If you want to look especially 1930s you can wear a black double breasted jacket with checked trousers - you can see guests at weddings in illustrations wearing that

[@oskarek57]

Hello everyone, there is some truth in this video, that odd jacket with different slacks is more interesting, because you show, that you can be creative in a more casual way, which is still ellegant, but as for me, I feel better in a suit, because I feel more complete since I prefer this classic uniform look, which feels structured and nothing is broken like in odd jacket case. It also depends on an occasion. Since suit is more formal, I prefer it to luxury establishments like 5 star hotels, bars, restaurants and other places. Seperates are great, if you only run some errands or take a stroll outside and the weather is just sunny, beautiful, but in general, suit is suit. It can´t be replaced and if you want to feel complete like a soldier in an uniform, suit is best. I will always prefer it in luxury enviroments. Just few days ago, I visited 5 star hotel called Bachleda in Poland and wore classic navy chalk stripe double breasted suit, which felt awesome. Pin collar shirt, suspenders, tie, black oxford shoes and you feel like million dollars. No seperates can beat that, so please, just don´t stop wearing suits!!! That would be mistake.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us! It's wonderful to hear how passionate you are about wearing suits and the classic elegance they bring to certain occasions.

[@oskarek57]

@@RampleyandCo Hello, Yes, I love wearing suits and you know, how it is nowadays. There is nowhere any formal dress code, but I just follow this based on the settings, where it feels appropriate. In every settings, people wear casual clothing, but doesn´t matter. If the place is really nice, nice clothing is a way to go no matter, what others wear. Somebody has to stick to old good tradition.

[@TomTom-sj3bn]

Sorry I prefer suits.I have a couple of sports coats ,navy blazer. And a tweed jacket but the rest is suits.I just like the more.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing your preference! It's great to hear that you have a versatile wardrobe.

[@Alex55455]

Separates are the way to go as it allows way more style options in creating in great looking stylish outfits. The Italians have known this for a very long time.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for your comment. Separates indeed offer incredible versatility and allow for endless combinations to create unique, stylish outfits.

[@durmazon6963]

Please, a bit more attention to sound quality😃

[@jicalzad]

I do think “the suit is dead” in the traditional sense and typically only necessary for a small group of professions. For the majority of lower, middle, and upper-middle class folks, the complete suit & tie look isn’t required or needed very often. But I do agree that separates are more of the modern way for men to dress up. Having said that, I do prefer to wear a tailored suit significantly more so than my peers/colleagues

[@chrismodoo6563]

Thank you. Very good point. I find myself choosing to wear suits a lot more often.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thanks for sharing your perspective! It's interesting to hear your take on the evolution of men's fashion and the shift away from traditional suits for everyday wear. You make a great point about how separates offer a more modern approach to dressing up.

[@ndzi_karl]

Suits and blazers certainly it’s a place and a time thing (situation)

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing! You're absolutely right - choosing between suits and separates does depend on the occasion and setting.

[@ahwhite2022]

There are more examples of what they appear to be discussing in the thumbnail than in the video.

[@DavidGalbraith-mn9ht]

Suits are very easy to put together with a proper shirt and tie. Jackets and pants take much more thought and consideration.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! You make a great point about the different considerations for putting together suits versus separates. It's all about finding that perfect balance and style that works best for each individual.

[@KlausKokholmPetersen]

Depends on what colours you have in your wardrobe.

[@seansimmons73]

Can you wear hole cut oxfords with separates or does it look weird?

[@legoresources]

Depends - definitely with more casual variations, think lighters brown leather versions, brogued versions, and suede versions. However, it usually looks bad with black wholecuts with no brogueing

[@swinginsteel8519]

Oxfords for suits only imo.

[@RampleyandCo]

Wholecut Oxfords can indeed be a versatile choice for wearing with separates. They offer a sleek and sophisticated look that can elevate your outfit, whether you're going for a formal or semi-formal style. The key is to match the colour and style appropriately based on the occasion.

[@chrismodoo6563]

@@RampleyandCo+1

[@Molach101]

@@swinginsteel8519 I hear this a lot from people in the States but in the UK you see oxford brogues worn with separates a lot more

[@King_Harrold]

In an age where 99% of the population wear athleisure to everything from the gym, to work and a meal out... Chris let us wear our suits sans tie 😉

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for your comment!

[@don_kandon6006]

Suit and no tie, i have an amazing quote. It is from Your Honor tv show, from character of the head of the mafia. "Most men wear ties because they have to, right? The absence of a tie lets people know that you answer no one". One of the coldest lines ever dropped.

[@RampleyandCo]

Thank you for sharing.

[@don_kandon6006]

@@RampleyandCo No problem, hopefully you learn something about style :)

[@williamkazak469]

Suits are more elegant. I don't see any scruffy man wearing a suit.

[@chrismodoo6563]

Google “Boris Johnson”…

[@timhammonds2382]

You Lost me when you debated the Jeans….Forget about the infusion of JEANS in our wardrobe……

[@chrismodoo6563]

Thanks for commenting. Both myself and Austin are fans of jeans. I know they are very old-fashioned but we love mixing them with more contemporary pieces. You can always substitute mid-grey flannels. Thanks again.

[@ABC-rh7zc]

Both can look great so I definitely wouldn't say "STOP Wearing Suits", as is written in the title of the video. Click bait?

[@chrismodoo6563]

🙄

[@ashleygordon3467]

Hmmm. Yes, separates can be worn for some events but I’ll still wear a suit when it’s the better option. Nothing new about this topic either, business dress has been progressively becoming more casual for decades. As for wearing a suit without a tie…..not for me😂

[@mikekelly8261]

Usually a great help, this episode took too long to get to the point

[@bryanhunnicutt7811]

I'm NOT going to stop wearing suits.

[@chrismodoo6563]

GOOD for you

[@w.adammandelbaum1805]

The one suit a man does not want to fit him is a paternity suit.

[@lucianasalles7272]

👒👔🎩

[@kfung4]

Well, it takes some fashion sense to put them together, more often you see fashion disasters when people try to pair them separately And to be honest, your face is your fate

[@alexrad9570]

Older guy is so boring🎉

[@chrismodoo6563]

🎉

[@ndzi_karl]

I thought I was the only one noticing.thank you for your courage to put that out there 🤜🤛