Can a smartwatch be compatible with a suit? It turns out the answer is – yes. As a matter of fact, going further down the rabbit hole, these items have proven to be a really nice extension.
Over the years, they have all made it easy to figure out which watches are “suit-appropriate”. Now and then, there is a new style that challenges the format, and yet it’s still pretty clear.
But now, smartwatches have burst onto the scene, and things have become a bit complicated. It has been about a good solid year with the smartwatch market taking off.
With all of the hype still surfacing around these specially branded watches, where does that leave men wearing suits? Believe it or not – in a much better position, and here is why.
Smartwatch and Suits
Smartwatches debuted sometime around 2010. While they mostly started as mini-computers fit for the geeky population, men in suits can also join the crowd now with many options to choose from.
They function as full-blown James Bond devices that do everything. In short, smartwatches are just an extension of your phone. Without a smartphone to sync to, they are only regular watches.
The build and styling quality of these beasts is 10x that of fitness trackers. And the price keeps climbing as newer and better features keep coming out.
So how does this relate to suits? And what are the best brands? Just like smartphones, Apple and Samsung smartwatches are among the top choices. But, when it comes to suits, we have some different propositions, too.
If you are looking for style, utility, and value for money, we have the right suggestions for you. Here are our top picks in smartwatches to flaunt with your formal attire:
Best Smartwatches with Suits
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Most of these watches are entirely customizable. It means that if you have a specific style in mind, you can match it up with your smartwatch.
To top it off, they allow you to access your phone and apps without digging into your pocket. It’s the best of both worlds that is worth investing in for everyday wear. So, let’s dive into each of them one by one.
Fossil Gen 5 Smartwatch
Aiming for smart-casual style, look no further than the Fossil Gen 5 smartwatch. It runs on Google’s WearOS and boasts the Activity Tracker, Heart Rate Tracker, GPS, and swim-proof build, among other features.
The Fossil Gen 5 range is available in a variety of colors and styles. Its minimalist design, packed with useful features, makes it an excellent option for business professionals to leave a lasting impression. Apart from stainless steel straps, you also have the choice to pair them with classic leather straps to complete the sophisticated look.
The marvels of technology have surely surpassed our wildest expectations – be it a robust smartwatch that does all we expect from a smartphone.
The smartwatch industry is bound to see many more innovations in years to come, which is good news for our suited brothers. A formal getup is incomplete without a good-looking watch, and now is the time to up your dressing game by investing in a chic and durable smartwatch.
Apple Watch Series 5
For Apple aficionados, there’s nothing better suited than the latest Apple Watch Series 5 to don with any formal outfit.
Whether you are going to a professional meeting, a dinner, or even spending a regular day in the office, this trendy smartwatch is sure to turn heads everywhere.
Apple watches are a perfect mix of style, elegance, and utility with multiple vital sensors, a good OS, and extensive customizability.
The latest version also features an always-on Retina Display to check the time just like on a regular watch, anytime. Moreover, it is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about breaking out a sweat around your wrist or taking laps in the pool.
Samsung Galaxy Active 2
If you aim for a sophisticated look with a minimalist design, this is your go-to smartwatch for casual and professional wear.
The Samsung Galaxy Active2 smartwatch comes with a user-friendly Tizen operating system, making it ideal for first-time smartwatch users.
Also, it has automatic workout detection and sleep-tracking functions. So not only is it a good-looking watch, but its excellent battery life makes it a wise choice, especially for busy professionals.
Now smartwatches are not only about functionality but also focus on form and style. And this piece is a healthy combination of both.
Emporio Armani Smartwatch 3
Nothing speaks more of tastefulness and class than an understated, classic-looking watch by one of the most renowned luxury brands out there. So if you want an accessory to complete your look with a dapper suit in an elegant way, then this smartwatch is your answer.
Armani did a commendable job of assimilating technology into a classic design, and this range comes in a variety of materials.
While there is the traditional stainless steel category, those looking to add a tinge of brightness to their look can opt for the colorful aluminum-case watches.
The Armani smartwatch uses Google’s WearOS compatible with iOS and Android phones, and is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 3100 chipset. Also, there is a built-in speaker for music and taking calls, and the new battery modes allow for more extended usage.
Diesel Full Guard 2.5 Smartwatch
Available in leather and multi-color stainless steel case, customizable watch faces, and interchangeable watch straps?
Now, that’s a smartwatch you can adapt with every suit type. In addition, it has a lot of cool features, such as wireless charging and syncing.
Connect with both Apple and Android phones to display all types of notifications and receive calls and messages. Wear it with a suit and stand out from the crowd.
TAG Heuer Connected Modular
Tag Heuer’s Connected Modular is another masterpiece with all the features of a modern smartwatch, and its Swiss lineage sets it apart.
The fact that it is associated with one of the top brands is sure to leave a strong impression in any gathering. Compass, GPS, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, and Heart Rate Sensor are some of its defining features.
With scratch-resistant sapphire protection for the screen, it comes in black or PVD metal with a ceramic bezel. Match straps and dials with your suit to adopt this hot accessory for a chic, sporty, or casual look.
Fitbit Versa 2
Fitbit Versa 2, unlike other smartwatches, is not here to replace your phone. It’s more like a fitness watch with smartwatch capabilities. You’ll still have to carry your phone wherever you go. And that isn’t a bad thing at all.
The price is fair for such a compelling smartwatch. Besides, it does contain a lot of useful features, like contactless payments and other popular apps. Definitely a good choice! Besides, it looks tremendous with suits.
Samsung Galaxy Watch
Samsung Galaxy is a rock-solid quality smartwatch. It has a gorgeous display. Also, Samsung smartwatches have an elegant look, which makes them desirable for many suit wearers. It has a customizable design, making it a lovely accessory.
The latest version, simply known as Galaxy Watch, is the successor of the famous Gear S3. As such, the Galaxy Watch has improved a lot in terms of battery, functionality, and software. And the price is fair and affordable for such a cool smartwatch. Such glamour!
Letsfit ID205L Smartwatch
It comes at an affordable price. Looks very good behind a suit. This smartwatch will be a good choice if you don’t want to get very technical.
It does provide notification alerts such as calendar events, texts, emails, and stuff. It even has a built-in microphone so you can receive calls. Definitely the best smartwatch for the price. What a bargain!
Smartwatch vs. Fitness Watches
Smartwatches are not the same as fitness watches, which provide an entirely different function.
Fitness watches are hard to define as an okay accessory in the current climate since they are more about being a tracker for your health than an accessory.
These watches are for dieters, gym rats, and people who want to keep up with nutrition. They are even worn while sleeping, constantly sending health information to a built-in app.
There is no wrong answer when it comes to which one is better. Wear what works best for you, as anything less than that is wrong. Smartwatches are great for not having to take your phone out every time it beeps.
They are also perfect for maintaining a clean look throughout. The average phone goes off more times than you want per day. So, merely tapping your wrist rather than looking at your phone is boss.
Fitness Watches You Can Consider
There are a lot of fitness watch options you can start with. Oftentimes, you will come across one that doesn’t look like cheap plastic.
Now, this is where things start to look more promising, with a huge caveat. With a little bit of research, there are specific brands that people recommend. But when compared to smartwatches, it seems like slim pickings.
Fitbit
One of the biggest brands out right now in the market is the Fitbit. They make up the majority of the fitness watches on the market.
For me, Fitbit is the best option for anyone looking to pair a fitness watch with a suit. They are the only major manufacturer that has taken into consideration the styling of their watches for suit wearers.
One of Fitbit’s most sold models, the Versa, is an excellent combination with a suit. Keep in mind this doesn’t mean it is going to look like a Rolex! But it will still fit a lot better than an off-brand.
For the minimalist, the Fitbit Alta seems to be the general all-around choice for most people. With the Alta, clashing styles become less of a concern.
If you want the full-on fitness tracker experience, Fitbit allows full customizing of your tracker. That includes fully interchangeable bands and faceplates.
Garmin
Buyers who aren’t satisfied with the Fitbit aesthetics can try other brands, which are hit or miss in certain areas. A good example would be Garmin and their fitness watches, which are perfect for suits.
Garmin has the styling, looks, and even the colors down. If you like leather, their leather bands feel great and are stylized. But with all of the great looks, there is some functionality lost with the actual fitness tracker.
Garmin has been both praised and lauded for its integration into the fitness watch market. And since the most important thing is tracking fitness, that’s a bad thing.
Buyers can purchase a Garmin and get the correct styling for a suit. Or they can stick with a Fitbit and its hit-or-miss design. It’s the classic case of looks over functionality, one of the deadliest phrases for any suit wearer.
Wrapping It Up
Accessories like smartwatches find their uses with suits, and it has been that way for years. That means there are watches whose styles define the type of suit the wearer has on.
But, just like many things in life, smartwatches are overpriced toys. They are not a necessity and are nowhere near being mainstream. Consider them a nice option to have but not a priority. So, what is the priority?
How about spending the same amount of money on a nice dress shirt to match your suit? A lot of suit fanatics collect more than just ties and cufflinks.
They also keep on hand a collection of watches. If styling is more your thing, then shift focus to dress watches.
Don’t get me wrong; smartwatches are great to have. They enhance the overall design and appeal of what you’re wearing. But if adding something to your wrist undoes all of the hard work of the suit, then don’t wear it.
Remember, accessories are supposed to enhance the overall outfit. If the star isn’t the suit, then what’s the point?
Hi, I’m Alex, and I’ve studied and specialized in styling in Rome. Through my writing, I want to help men dress well and learn the purpose and significance of suits and other formal attire. My final goal is to make men more confident in their wardrobe choice and life in general.
What about samsung galaxy active watch?