Just like how there is an outfit for every occasion, there is also a style of watch for every situation. A wrist watch is stylish, practical, eye-catching, and much more tasteful than checking the time by pulling out your phone. A trendy timepiece can really set you apart from the crowd. But just like shoes, you can’t expect to be able to wear any watch anywhere. There’s the athletic style of G-Shock, hi-tech style of the Apple Watch, and sophisticated taste of a Daniel Wellington. With so many styles in the available, how do you expect to know which timepiece is right? |
Firstly, you have to check the occasion for the watch. Is it formal? Semi-formal? Casual?
Formal: Metal Band or Leather Strap; Simple face design
When it comes down to a formal occasion such as a black tie event, you are expected to look classy and elegant. So in this case, ditch the G-Shock or colourful Apple Watch and go for something with a little more taste.
Metal and leather straps are considered the most formal when compared to alternatives such as rubber or plastic. Metal straps generally come in black, silver, or gold and leather ranges from black to tan and sometimes even white. This spectrum makes it much simpler to match with your suit or dress.
An analog face watch is also more preferred than anything digital or electronic. While at a formal event, you don’t want your flashing wristwatch to be the most eye catching part of your outfit. Rather, it is more important to have it blend in and compliment your clothes by matching certain parts of your outfit.
Metal and leather straps are considered the most formal when compared to alternatives such as rubber or plastic. Metal straps generally come in black, silver, or gold and leather ranges from black to tan and sometimes even white. This spectrum makes it much simpler to match with your suit or dress.
An analog face watch is also more preferred than anything digital or electronic. While at a formal event, you don’t want your flashing wristwatch to be the most eye catching part of your outfit. Rather, it is more important to have it blend in and compliment your clothes by matching certain parts of your outfit.
Casual: (formality in descending order) Leather, Metal, Fabric, Rubber, Plastic
A casual occasion such as going shopping, seeing a movie, or hanging out with friends allow you to start wearing some playful and creative styles of wristwatches. The more informal the situation, the more freedom you have when choosing a wristwatch. You can begin experimenting with different outfits. Maybe a gold watch goes really well with your white shirt or pants.
Digital watches and G-Shocks are perfect for an active lifestyle. Generally, these should be durable and waterproof to ensure it doesn’t get ruined during your workouts.
Digital watches and G-Shocks are perfect for an active lifestyle. Generally, these should be durable and waterproof to ensure it doesn’t get ruined during your workouts.
Common wristwatch rules:
- Consider the proportions of a watch in regards to your lifestyle. A thicker band usually aligns with a formal environment, whereas thinner bands pair nicely with casual wear. But in the end, it's up to you and what suits your style the best!
- A common matching rule is that the watch should match both the belt and shoes.
(Ex. Brown leather watch + brown leather belt + brown leather shoes) - Black watches tend to be the most formal. Brown and grey watches can be considered semi-formal to casual. Colourful watches are for the most casual occasions.
Eric Longfei Yue