How to Wear a Watch for the Right Fit & Style

Watches often indicate one's wealth and taste levels. How loose or snug your timepiece fits on the wrist is a matter of preference. However, you don't want your timepiece to be so loose-fitting that it spins around the arm or so tight-fitting that it restricts the movement of your wrist. So how do you wear a watch for the right fit?

When looking for the right size to buy, consider the shape and size of your wrist, along with the shape, lug width, and case size of the model you're considering. Larger watches are bulkier and heavier but stay in place compared to smaller timepieces.

Regardless of the size you choose, the lugs shouldn't hang over the wrist. If the lugs are too wide, they won't fit right. Consider starting with a small watch and gradually increase the watch size as you become more confident in your choices. But if you want to go big from the start, then go ahead and get a large watch.

Tips on Measuring Your Wrist Size

Use a tailor's tape to get your wrist's exact width and diameter. If you don't have a tailor's tape, you can improvise with an ordinary ruler and string. Since most straps are measured in millimeters, you have to use the ruler or measuring tape's centimeter side to make your measurements then convert it to millimeters.

There are some things that you have to remember when measuring your wrist. For example, your wrist will be a bit bigger when you open your palm and hand due to the movement of your wrist bone. It would help if you also considered where you'd wear your watch and measured that part accordingly. Are you going to wear it on, above, or below your bone? Also, you have to consider the band you will wear. The correct strap measurement varies depending on the kind of band you have.

How to Choose a Band Size for Your Wrist Size

You can pick from metal, leather, and NATO straps. Metal bands are usually worn a bit looser so that you can move with ease all day. The general rule is that the watch face and bracelet must be 1 cm bigger than your wrist size.

Leather straps are stiff, especially if it's new. For leather straps that have been installed on the watch face, the general rule is that it must be 2 cm longer than the wrist measurement. And for NATO straps, they must be 2.5 cm or 1" larger than the wrist size. Now that you know how to find a watch brand that fits your wrist, it's time to wear your timepiece with style.

Tips on Wearing Your Watch with Style

Watches have different formality levels, so you should know how to match them with your outfit. For instance, automatic dress watches have uncluttered dials and leather brands. Thus, these watches are ideal for formal events. Sports watches are equipped with different features such as altimeters, compasses, GPS technology, and odometers, making them suitable for people with active lifestyles. You'll also find diver's watches and field watches.

  • The level of formality matters

Avoid fashion mistakes by matching your timepiece with the event's formality level. For example, formal occasions call for a classic dress watch with a black leather band. If you're going for a business casual look, you can pair light-colored suits with high-end field or pilot watches. Dark suits and classic dress watches with leather straps will work well for a business dress look. Metal bands are suitable for casual outfits. You can pair any of the abovementioned watches with dress boots, jeans, or chambray.

  • Matching your shoes and belts

Refer to the color and material of your shoes and belts when choosing a band. Brown bands go well with brown shoes and belts. The same goes for black straps. Pair these with black shoes and belts, and you're good to go. Gold and silver bands complement either color.

  • Metals with metals

Metal cases complement metal accents. Watch cases are usually made of steel, platinum, titanium, gold, and silver. If you're wearing a rose gold timepiece, you can pair it with gold belt buckles. You should also pay attention to the color of your shoe buckles, cuff links, and other accessories on your outfit. Silver-plated watches are suitable for shoes and clothes in black, grey, and blue, while gold goes with earthy tones.

  • Heirloom watches

If you have an heirloom watch, you're lucky because this timepiece allows you to bend the rules and tips mentioned here. For the best results, choose a wristwatch proportionate to the body. Bulkier guys can work boxier watch faces, while thin men can wear slim watches.

Wrap Up

When it comes to watches, one size doesn't fit all. Thus, you should know how to choose the right watch for you. Follow the tips stated above to find a proportionate piece that perfectly fits your wrist. Whatever you choose, make sure that your wristwatch doesn't slide around or dig into the skin. Remember, you should feel comfortable while wearing your watch.