5 Tips For Choosing The Perfect Pair of Men's Braces

Essential Tips When Buying Trouser Braces For Men.

When it comes to men’s fashion, trouser braces (also known as suspenders) have made a stylish comeback in recent years. Once seen as an accessory worn with formal attire, braces have now become a versatile addition to casual, business, and formal outfits alike. If you’re looking to add an individual touch to your wardrobe, choosing the right pair of braces is essential. Here are five important tips to consider when buying men’s braces that will help you find the perfect pair.

1. Choose the Right Type of Fastening: Clips vs. Buttons

The first thing to consider when purchasing braces is the type of fastening they use. Men’s braces typically come with either clip fastenings or button fastenings. Each has its own style, comfort level, and functionality.

Clip-On Braces: These are perfect for a quick and easy way to attach your suspenders to any pair of trousers. Simply clip them onto your waistband, and you’re ready to go. Clip-on braces are ideal if you want to use them with different types of pants.

It is worth spending money on good quality braces, because in turn you will have good quality clips. Many budget braces are designed for limited wear and can have poor quality clips.

Button-On Braces: This classic style is often favoured for a more formal look. Button-on suspenders require trousers with buttons on the inside of the waistband. If you’re looking to invest in high-quality braces, consider tailoring your trousers to accommodate this style for a sleek and timeless look.

Your choice between clip-on and button-on suspenders will depend on your style preferences and whether you value convenience over traditionality.

2. Select the Right Width for Your Braces

The width of your braces plays a significant role in both comfort and aesthetics. Braces available in stores are most commonly 25 mm (approximately 1 inch) to 38 mm (approximately 1.5 inches).

At Mens Braces Australia we stock a variety of widths to cater to both casual and formal settings, helping you find the best match for your outfit.

Skinny Braces: available in 18 mm and 25 mm widths.
Slim suspenders give a more modern and casual look. These are great for adding a touch of flair to casual outfits or lighter suits. They are particularly suited for men with a slimmer build.

Wide Braces: available in 35 mm and 38 mm widths
Wider braces provide more support and a traditional aesthetic. This width is often seen as the classic choice for formal attire or business wear.

Extra Wide Braces: available in 40 mm and 50 mm widths.
Extra wide braces are particularly suited for men with a larger build. The wider straps provide comfort and strength. They are also ideal for physical activity and are popular with tradies, truck drivers and gardeners.

3. Consider the Material for Style and Durability

Braces come in a variety of materials, each offering a different look, feel, and level of durability. We offer an extensive selection of materials to suit every need, from sturdy leather braces to comfortable elastic options. Choosing the right material is crucial for ensuring your braces last and maintain their style

Leather Braces

Braces made from top grain leather are lauded for their durability and high-end appearance. They continue to develop a patina with age and ooze style. 

Braces made from split leather are more of a fashion item and are popular for wedding parties and hospitality uniforms. They are not designed to be rugged work braces.

Mens Braces Australia has a selection of styles including full leather braces for that authentic look and braces with leather straps to the front and elastic to the back (and vice versa!).

Elastic Braces

Elastic suspenders are popular due to their comfort and flexibility. They are suitable for casual, everyday wear, and are also a practical choice for those who are on the move.

Woven Fabric Braces

Woven braces offer a textured and sophisticated look, often seen in patterns like herringbone. These are versatile and look stylish with business suits or smart-casual ensembles. The ribbons – or straps – of woven braces are non-stretchy. Y-back braces in woven fabric normally have the benefit of elastic at the back for fit and comfort.

4. Pick a Colour and Pattern That Complements Your Wardrobe

With endless options available, the colour and pattern of your suspenders should complement your existing wardrobe. Neutral colours like black, navy, and grey are versatile and pair well with most outfits, while brighter colours and bold patterns can add a splash of personality.

Solid Colours: Classic solid colours such as navy, black, and grey are versatile and ideal for professional settings.

Stripes and Patterns: Striped or patterned braces add a dash of character and are great for more adventurous dressers. Patterns like polka dots, checks, or subtle stripes offer a unique touch that’s perfect for semi-formal events or casual gatherings.

For a balanced look, consider how the suspenders will work with your ties, shirts, and jackets. Mens Braces Australia carries a wide range of colours and patterns, allowing you to experiment and find the perfect match for any occasion.

5. Understand the Importance of Size and Adjustability for a Comfortable Fit

For a practical and comfortable experience, it’s essential to choose braces that are the correct size and offer adjustability. Most men’s braces come with adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit, which is key for both comfort and style. A proper fit will prevent the braces from slipping, or the clips popping off, and will ensure that your trousers are held up at the right height.

Check your size: Most braces you will find in stores are a size 48. Even in Australia, braces are typically sized in inches. A size 48 is 48 inches or 122 cm long when fully extended.

At Mens Braces Australia we offer a selection of braces in larger sizes, including Australian made braces that are made in sizes up to 7XL which are 60 / 152.5 cm.

For more information check our braces size guide

Adjustable Straps: Look for suspenders with adjustable sliders or studs to easily alter the length. Size adjusters allow you to find the perfect length. Elastic can also stretch with age and use, so being able to shorten the braces is important.

X-Back vs. Y-Back Braces: The shape of your suspenders also matters. X-back braces (with two straps crossing in the back) offer extra support, while Y-back suspenders create a more streamlined look.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect pair of men’s braces doesn’t have to be difficult. By considering factors such as fastening type, width, material, colour, and size, you can find the ideal pair to elevate your wardrobe. If you’re looking for high-quality braces or suspenders, we offer an extensive range of options for all tastes, ensuring you will find braces that not only look great but feel comfortable all day long.

Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event, adding an individual touch to a casual outfit, or simply keeping your pants up, investing in quality suspenders is a decision you won’t regret.