How to Purchase a Quality Men's Suit
Despite the increasing informality in American culture, some situations still call for a suit: job interviews, important meetings and presentations, court appearances, funerals and weddings. Make the most of this essential attire by investing in a quality suit with a tailored fit. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Full-length mirror (if the suit is for yourself)
- The wearer's best-fitting suit
- Notebook
- pen
Instructions
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Invest in a tailor-made suit for the best fit and the inimitable quality of a suit designed for the wearer. The Ask Men website recommends choosing quality fabric rather than a brand name and customizing a classic suit rather than going with a fashion trend. An experienced tailor takes all the mystery out of the details of buttons, pockets, sleeve length, slacks length and the best cut for the wearer's build.
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Find an experienced tailor by referral, if possible. Department stores that carry quality men's suits offer this service. Call for an appointment.
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Look at the suits worn by men in the wearer's profession and pay attention to colors, patterns, styles: single breasted, double breasted, 1-button, 2-button, 3-button, American or closer-fitting English or European suits. Browse magazines and websites to learn more about contemporary suits and the options available. Save or print images of suits that meet your criteria for the new suit. The more prepared you are to communicate preferences for the suit, the easier it will be to communicate them to the tailor. Plan ahead to decide on color, weight, pockets, lapels, and buttons.
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Meet with the tailor. Tell him whether the objective is a business suit or a suit for formal occasions and your preferences in color and style. Bring pictures as examples. He'll take the measurements and provide fabric options. Ask questions to determine the best weight of fabric for the seasons and settings the wearer uses the suit for.
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Return for the suit fitting appointment. Check the trousers and sleeve lengths. Examine how the suit coat fits across the back. Check the fit in various positions, such as reaching and sitting. Check the waist and the rise of the trousers (how they fit in the groin). Take your time. The tailor will make any necessary adjustments and finish the suit.
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Achieve the next best thing to a tailor made suit by having a ready-made suit tailored to fit the wearer. Retailers specializing in suits and better department stores offer tailoring service. Examine the suit on the wearer (or yourself) and assess the length of the trousers, the fit at the waist, and whether the sleeves are the right length. The trousers should touch the shoes and show a break (a slight bend in the fabric). The suit coat sleeves should show a 1/2 inch of shirt cuff.
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Tips & Warnings
Men in creative and some high-end fields have greater latitude in fashion-forward styles.
If you will only have one suit, stick to a classic style in a medium weight that can be worn year round.
Avoid trendy patterns and colors for an interview suit. Navy blue remains the business classic.
