Not every suit is a good suit. It is important to keep in mind a few helpful tips when it comes to purchasing a suit. From the fit to the material and seams, all of these factors go into making a great suit. Some tips that will help any man looking to buy a new suit—regardless of whether this is their first or fiftieth—are found here.
Avoid Bargain Suits
Get to know what you like, what you dislike and why you need the suit. Are you going to wear it to a funeral, to court or to work? Take some time to squeeze the fabric as well. If it bounces back without much wrinkling, it means you have found a sturdy, quality material. Pull on the buttons slightly. If they feel wobbly or loose, it likely means they will fall off eventually. A quality suit will have the tell-tale signs of quality. If a suit has any of these issues present, then it is likely a ‘bargain’ suit. Remember, you get what you pay for when it comes to men’s wear.
Get to Know Different Fabric Types
Most suits are made from wool. When you purchase an upper-end suit, it will likely be made from wool that is blended with cashmere. You may even see a suit made of 100 percent cashmere. If you live in hotter weather, then it may be a good idea to look at men’s suits that are made from silk, cotton or linen.
Look at the Jacket
The jacket options that are available are either double- or single-breasted. A double-breasted jacket folds over itself in the front, while a single-breasted jacket does not. In most cases, double-breasted jackets are considered more formal. However, a new trend is to pair these double breasted jackets with jeans to provide a ‘dressed down’ look. If you are looking for a new wardrobe piece that serves multiple purposes, then consider the double-breasted jacket.
The Sleeves and Arms
When you let your arms hang at your side, the sleeves of the jacket should meet where your wrist and hand meet. The shirt sleeves need to be about a quarter of an inch longer than the jacket. A helpful tip is to put the jacket on and stretch your arms out in front of you. Be sure you are able to move freely and that you don’t feel constrained in any way. If you do, then you likely need a larger jacket.
In most cases, it is best to seek a professional fitting for a suit. While this does cost more, it will ensure you get the right suit for your body. If this is not a possibility, be sure to use the tips given here. Purchasing a suit does not have to be difficult, but it will take some time and effort in order to find the one that is right for you and your needs.
