The Men’s Guide to Buying the Right Suit
Buying a suit can be quite a daunting and intimidating experience. At a first glance, the sheer number of options and the range of details to consider may appear overwhelming.
However, by following a few simple rules and knowing which decisions need to be made can make it much easier to look sharp and feel comfortable. Setting a budget is important but even more so is getting the right fit – a well-fitted suit will always look more expensive than an ill-fitting one. Whether you’re looking for a sleek slim fit suit , a sharp tailored suit, or a classic regular fit, read on for how to find the best cut and fit for you with some top tips and advice from those in the know.
Choosing a Cut
Slim, tailored, or regular cut suits all have different defining features. Getting clued up on what each of these terms mean will make any suit buying journey much smoother.
Selecting the Details
The Anatomy of a Well-fitted Suit
Once you have decided on the cut, fabric, colour, and other defining characteristics of your suit, the biggest step is finding a suit that fits. By paying attention to the key areas, finding a suit that fits will become a matter of instinct.
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Tips to Remember
Voice from the Experts
Craig Landale, founder & editor of Menswear Style @ http://www.menswearstyle.co.uk
If you could choose one suit that will stand the test of time what would it be?
“A navy two button single breasted, notch lapel suit is probably the safest bet. Blue is very versatile and can be worn with both black and brown shoes at ease. Although double breasted suits are trending this year, the single breasted has stood the test of time”.
What rule do you always follow when choosing a suit?
“I stay away from fashion suits, I’ll go slim but not skinny and it has to fit right. Get a 2nd and 3rd opinion on the suit fitting. Don’t go too cheap and stick to reputable suit brands.”
Personal Stylist Gabrielle Teare @ http://www.gabrielleteare.com
What suit is the best style and fabric for everyday wear?
A single breasted suit fits most male body shapes. Fabric depends on use; the more silk and cashmere in the fabric the less durable the suit is. Beware buying shiny fabrics or those that are overly large i.e. wide pin stripes. Look to see if it creases on the hanger.
What tips would you give to ensure the best fit when choosing a suit?
Try it on; ensure it does not pull across the chest or when you raise your arms at the back. If you are long-waisted the jacket may not cover your bottom so check that the suit jacket is long enough. Trousers and suits can be tailored to fit so do not worry too much if there are small alterations needed.
What rule do you always follow when choosing a suit?
When buying a suit I always find out the level of authority of the man and what he will use it for. I also ask the budget as, to a certain extent, the more you spend on a suit the bigger choice of fabrics and cuts. If the budget is smaller we look at a range of suits and try to find the one that enhances your natural shape and hangs beautifully. I measure the man to work out what length of jacket will suit.
Celebrity Fashion Stylist Joe Ottaway @ http://www.joeottaway.com
What are the key features of a well-made, quality suit?
There are many key features of a good suit but the main to look out for are:
· A good fabric with a weight of 10-12oz which means the cloth has a tighter closer weave, lightweight, but robust enough to with stand the rigours of day to day wear.
· Look out for a “rope finish” to the shoulder line of the suit. This again means the arm hole and shoulder have much more support and structure and can endure a lot of wear. Traditional English-made suits have this feature whilst more Italian made suits have a much softer shoulder line.
What advice would you give to a man shopping for a suit on a budget?
Maximise your budget and choose a suit with the best fabric you can afford preferably 100% wool. Look at high street institutions as they carry very affordable well-made suits with a range of fits from short, regular and long.
What rule do you always follow when choosing a suit?
Choose a suit which has timeless appeal i.e. something in a classic colour, such as navy blue or grey. This is an investment purchase so choose a timeless style, able to be worn at any point in your social and work lifestyle. Look for a mid-notch lapel to increase its timeless appeal.
Posted January 8th, 2014 in Uncategorised.