Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Men's Suit Colors: Tan - Khaki - Taupe Suits

tan khaki mens suit button holes on jacket sleeveTan - Khaki - Taupe Suit Intro
Formality of a Tan Suit
Construction of the Tan Suit
Fitting a Light Brown or Tan Suit
Matching Tan Suit with other Colors
Do you need a Tan or Khaki Suit?





Introduction to the Tan Suit

The English language has an abundance of words that all imply a light brownish-gray color.  Different designers frequently use different words for the same color, or the same word for very different colors.  For purposes of stylistic discussion they all behave about the same -- you won't find any set of circumstances where a "tan" suit would be appropriate but “khaki" wouldn't be.  In their most common usage the different styles of light coat break down as follows:

    Tan refers to light, predominantly brown shades.

    Dun refers to a darker brown than tan, sometimes with a greenish tint.

    Khaki is the most dominantly yellow shade of the related colors, with little brown or gray.

    Taupe is a darker color with gray tones as well as brown.

mens suit color shades tan taupe khaki

These are, however, only general guidelines, and every store or designer will have a slightly different take on each color.  It's not impossible to see other terms as well -- just remember that, from a stylistic standpoint, they all follow the same rules.  Which one to purchase will be a matter of taste, complexion, and budget.

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