Avoid the new uniform of white shirts with navy chinos and the common pitfalls for separates looks by following our simple guide, and create a wardrobe system that is versatile, timeless, and makes you dress your best effortlessly.
PART 1: OUR 4 GOLDEN "RULES" FOR JACKETS / TROUSER COMBINATIONS
Disclaimer: The following guidelines represent the style opinion of Edit Suits Co. They are meant to simplify the creation of great separates looks They are guidelines only and by no means rules that are set in stone.
1. ALWAYS USE TEXTURED FABRICS
- Worsted fabrics don’t look good as separates – Using worsted wool as separates will look as if someone mixed and matched his suits
- Textured fabrics give a separates look intent
- Linen / linen-blend, cotton, high-twist, hopsack, brushed cotton, and flannel are some of the most suitable textured fabrics for separates looks
2. USE A SOFT SILOUHETTE
- Separates looks are generally for less formal settings than full suits
- Using a soft shoulder and a softer construction (even unconstructed) gives a jacket intent when worn as a separates piece
3. KEEP SEASONS CONSISTENT WHEN MIXING FABRICS
Anything can be mixed with all year fabrics, but avoid mixing Spring / Summer with Autumn / Winter fabrics
4. FOLLOW OUR COLOUR GUIDE FOR COLOUR PAIRINGS
- For basic wardrobe building, try to stay within our 4 basic color groups: Blues, greys, browns, and greens
- These color groups allow us to create a wide range of elegant, versatile, and modern yet timeless outfits
- Once a basic wardrobe is built, these color groups can be appended by further colors to account for seasonal trends or personal style preferences
- Follow our color guide for color pairings -prioritise items with high versatility (such as midnight blue jackets and charcoal trousers) over items with lower versatility (such as charcoal jackets and midnight blue trousers).
 Read Part 2 of our Guide to Wearing Separates outfits: Our Guide to Color Combinations