Things You'll Need:
- Blouses
- Hosiery
- Blouses
- Dress shoes
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Step 1
Consider where you will wear the suit and how dressy your attire needs to be. Options include a formal skirt suit, a casual pantsuit or an interchangeable set with a jacket, skirt and pants. If you wear different sizes on top and on bottom, your best bet is to buy matching separates.
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Step 2
Head to a store, whether Brooks Brothers or Banana Republic, that matches your style and budget. Because fit is so important with a suit, buying online is riskier, but possible if you're familiar with a retailer or designer's fit and have a good tailor.
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Step 3
Anticipate spending at least $300 to $400. (Prices range from $200 to $2,000 or more.) Keep in mind that a higher price doesn't necessarily mean a better suit. Some manufacturers are coming out with stylish yet less-expensive suits.
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Step 4
Get a high-quality, all-season fabric such as 100 percent worsted wool, which looks and wears better better than polyester blends. If you're expanding your suit collection, you might consider more seasonal fabrics such as cotton twill, linen or silk.
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Step 5
Find a color that fits your needs. Start with a neutral like navy, black or gray before adding other colors.
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Step 6
Find a jacket style that suits you. Choose from single- or less popular double-breasted jackets; with a lapel and collar (or neither); and a cut and length that flatters your figure. Once you've found a style you like, inspect the construction and fit in more detail.
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Step 7
Try the jacket on. You should be able to move your arms freely. The shoulders should be about an inch (2 1/2 cm) wider than your shoulder bone, and the sleeves should extend to about the wrist bone. Button the jacket to test for comfort and to make sure the buttons don't gap across the chest or pull over the hips.
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Step 8
Choose a flattering style for the skirt or pants. Flat-front pants tend to be more slimming. Straight skirts aren't very forgiving but can be slimming when they fit just right. An A-line, pleated or slit skirt makes walking easier. You should be able to insert two fingers into the waistband. Choose a length that's appropriate for its intended use.
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Step 9
Examine the construction of each piece. They should be fully lined with straight hems, flat-lying collars and buttons that are even. Zippers, buttons and other fasteners should lie flat. Pockets shouldn't gap, and the hem should hang straight.
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Step 10
Have a knowledgeable salesperson or, better yet, a tailor check the suit's fit before you buy it. Spend the money to have your suit altered to fit.
