Patterned fabrics help bring a breath of fresh air into what can otherwise be a somewhat stilted selection of suits.

As one might expect, patterns are a bit more difficult than solid colors, and require more thought in their selection. As a general rule, patterns are less formal than solid colors, and so should be reserved for more relaxed occasions.

The exception to this rule is the pinstripe , which in all but the most formal cases is on par with any other dark colored suit, and indeed forms an integral part of certain kinds of formal wear.

The same is true of scale and constituent colors; large scale patterns are less formal than small scale ones, and bold, multicolored patterns are less formal than reserved, monochromatic ones.