What to Wear Beneath Your Suit: A Style Guide from Italian Suit Outlet

A sharp suit may be the centerpiece of your outfit, but what you wear underneath it is what really pulls everything together. From crisp shirts to subtle accessories, knowing what to wear under a suit is essential for making the right impression. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, the office, or a night out, getting the layering right elevates your look from "well-dressed" to "best-dressed."

At Italian Suit Outlet, we offer more than just expertly crafted suits made in Italy. We also provide the layering pieces and accessories that complete the picture. Here’s your guide to building a complete, stylish look from the inside out.

Start with the Right Undershirt

An undershirt might not be visible, but it plays a crucial role. It adds comfort, helps with temperature control, and protects your suit from sweat.

• Crew Neck: Best under a fully buttoned dress shirt. Choose white or skin tone for minimal visibility.
  

• V-Neck: Perfect for open collars. Invisible under dress shirts with the top button undone.
  

• Fabric Tip: Look for breathable cotton or moisture-wicking blends that stay tucked in and don’t bulk up your layers.
  

Keep it fitted: loose undershirts can create lines and make your suit appear less tailored.

Dress Shirts: The Unsung Hero

When it comes to what to wear under a suit, few things matter more than your shirt. The best dress shirts are those that complement your suit in both color and fit.

• White Dress Shirt: A classic. Pairs with every suit color and never goes out of style.
  

• Light Blue Shirt: Professional and softens the formality of darker suits.
  

• Patterned or Textured Shirts: Subtle stripes or micro-checks add interest without being loud.
  
  

Choose shirts made from 100% cotton or fine blends for a breathable, polished feel. And always make sure it fits with no billowing fabric or tight buttons.

Layer with Confidence: Turtlenecks & More

Looking for a modern, winter-friendly alternative to a button-down? A lightweight turtleneck under your suit creates a sleek, sophisticated look that requires no tie.

• Opt for neutral colors like black, charcoal, or cream.

• Keep the knit fine, so it layers smoothly under your jacket.
  

• Perfect for evening events, creative work settings, or casual weddings.
  
  

This is especially smart when temperatures drop, allowing you to look sharp without freezing.

Tie It All Together (Literally)

Whether you’re going classic or contemporary, the right accessories complete the look. Ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks are small details that make a big impression.

• Tie Styles: Silk ties in solid colors, subtle patterns, or classic stripes pair well with most suits.
  

• Knot Matters: A half-Windsor knot works well for most collars. Don’t go oversized.
  

• Pocket Squares: Coordinate, but don’t match your tie exactly. It’s about contrast, not a perfect match.
  
  

Want to skip the tie? Ensure your shirt has structure and your collar remains crisp.

Suit Layering Tips for Comfort & Style

Layering is about more than just piling on clothes. It’s about structure, balance, and personal comfort.

• Temperature Control: Use undershirts or lightweight knit layers depending on the season.
  

• Fit is King: Layering only works when every piece fits well individually. Don’t force a thick shirt under a tailored jacket.
  

• Keep It Simple: Stick to 2–3 core pieces: an undershirt, a dress shirt (or a turtleneck), and an optional tie.
  
  

Build Your Full Look at Italian Suit Outlet

At Italian Suit Outlet, we’ve curated a complete selection of suit layering essentials: from the best dress shirts to stylish accessories and breathable undershirts.

Shop the Full Look:

• Explore Dress Shirts: Find fitted, Italian-made shirts that complement any suit.

• Browse Accessories: Finish your outfit with refined accessories, including ties, pocket squares, and more.
  
  

With fine fabrics made in Italy and outlet-level pricing all year round, there’s never been a better time to invest in your wardrobe, from the first layer to the final detail.