The English language has an abundance
of words that all imply a light brownish-gray color. Different designers
commonly use different words for the same color, or the same word for
very different colors. For purposes of stylistic discussion they all
perform about the same -- you won't find any set of circumstances where a
"tan" tailored 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.
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?
Formality of the Tan Suit
Light colors similar to tan are
not as formal as their darker counterparts. Brown suits in general have
been a historically informal choice, and have only recently been
embraced as business-wear by men looking to break-up the monotony of
dark color in their wardrobe. The lighter versions are still considered
purely social wear or seasonal wear by those who adhere to strict dress
rules.
Lighter color suits are also
associated with spring and summer, their lighter shades signifying the
lightness of the season. Trying to wear a light colored suit in New
York City during December not only invites odd looks but opens a man up
to the impracticality of keeping it clean from muddy slush. Light
colored suits are best for dry & warm weather.
As a result, tan suits are
usually considered business-casual wear. They may well be appropriate
attire for daily work at more relaxed offices, but will not serve at
formal meetings or serious occasions. These lighter suits shine best
when worn for social and relaxed occasions -- as poisonous as the term
"leisure suit" has become, with its brightly-colored polyester
associations, that's exactly what most light brown/yellow/gray suits are
made for.
They're a relaxed choice for men
who prefer to appear well-dressed even during their personal time.
Patterning may be used to make the bespoke suit still more casual. Both stripes
and checks are common in light brown suits, including subdued plaids of
varying earth-tones.