Buying a suit is an essential wardrobe investment. A suit is a staple clothing piece that has the power to transform your wardrobe, especially when fitted well. But what are the tips for picking the perfect suit for you?
With a great and well-fitting suit comes poise, added respect, and confidence from the man you meet in the mirror and those around you. You can purchase the most expensive suit in the market, but if it’s not a good fit, it won’t look as good as a cheaper suit that fits well.
Are you looking for men’s suit style trends to choose from in 2021? Read on below for insightful tips on buying the perfect suit.
1. Define the Reason for Purchasing a Suit
Before going online to look for the right suit, ensure you know as much as possible about what you are buying. What do you want to use the suit for? Are you looking for a work, special occasion or wedding suit?
Do you prefer a classic suit or a contrasting pant and jacket combination? Do you want to keep it simple for a business meeting or make a fashion statement for that spring wedding you are attending? Buying a suit is a challenging process; thus, understanding what you want will help you have a firm idea of what to purchase.
2. Choose Whether to Buy a Suit in a Physical Store or Online
Depending on your needs and what you value more, you may decide to purchase your suit online or from a physical store. If you want multiple options from different stores, it's best to buy online. You can always buy a custom-made suit from the comfort of your home at 2 am in the morning.
However, if you prefer a more in-person experience, you may walk into a store and buy the best suit, depending on your needs. This is also the best way to get a suit if you need it urgently for a last-minute occasion. Ensure you go to a reputable store for high-quality customer service.
Some high-end stores also offer expert advice on the best suit for you based on your body type and your personal preferences.
3. Set a Budget for the Suit
Is this your first suit or the first one you are purchasing in a while? Set your budget between $500 and $2,000. However, the price range of a suit is wider than this.
You can purchase a suit from a thrift store for as little as $10, while you can also spend over $5,000 on a suit from a high-end store. The price range of $500- $2,000 is the average for a nice and decent–looking men’s suit.
You should also remember to budget for all the necessary men suit accessories such as a shirt, matching shoes, and a complimentary belt. When purchasing men's suits, you will often hear custom-made, off-the-rack, and bespoke phrases.
Buying an off-the-rack suit means it's ready-made, hanging on a rack waiting for a buyer. This is the best alternative for you if you're looking for variety and great deals.
A custom-made suit is also known as a made-to-measure, and it’s made based on your body type and will fit your measurements. These suits are a little more expensive than off-the-rack suits and are a great alternative for people with hard-to-fit body types.
On the other hand, a bespoke suit means that it is made from scratch to fit your exact specifications. Bespoke suits are much more expensive and are not fit for someone looking for a suit for the first time.
4. Choose the Right Fabric
If you are working with a budget of around $500 to $1,000, try getting 100% wool fabric as it indicates quality. Wool also blends with other materials, saving you lots of money. However, blends are an indication of a lower-quality suit.
The higher your budget is, the better the quality of fabric you can get. There are also super wools. When you ask about fabrics, the manufacturer may introduce you to Super 120, Super 100, and Super 80. While every manufacturer's Supers are different, there is a standard that all companies follow.
The higher the number on the Super fabric, the more luxurious the fabric's drape. That's because a higher Super signifies a tighter yarn.
If this is your first suit, try sticking to neutral colors such as charcoal, grey, or navy. Please don't go for a blue suit or a lighter shade of grey as they are too casual. You can also go for a suit with an unnoticeable pattern.
5. Buy a Suit That Fits You Well
When buying a suit, avoid purchasing one that doesn't fit you unless your tailor will adjust it later to fit. If nothing in the store fits you, it's okay to pay a little more for a custom-made suit that fits your body perfectly. When buying a ready-made suit, ensure you focus on the below areas:
Jacket shoulders
The suit's chest size
The jacket length
Jacket's sleeves
the trousers' break
When buying a suit off the rack, get a tailor to adjust it for you if it doesn't fit to ensure all the above areas fit well. However, you may pay extra for these services.
6. Always Choose Functionality Over Fashion
Don't just settle for a trending suit that will be out of style within a few months. Ensure you buy a timeless suit that will serve you a few months to one year from now. A two or three-button suit is a classic look and is the best option if you want to look formal.
7. Match Your Neckwear With the Suit
A classic suit is worn with neckwear. Your choice of neckwear should tie your whole outfit together. Red is one of the safest colors for neckwear unless it's neon red.
You can also decide to go with dark green, dark blue, or purple. Ensure you stick with plain colored neckwear, regimental stripes, or little repeating patterns such as dots and pins. Bright colors, knit fabrics, and bold patterns make the tie look too casual to be worn with a suit.
On the other hand, bowties are just as formal as long ties. A solid-colored bowtie may be perfect when worn with a suit. It may set you apart from the crowd and is perfect when attending a wedding, but maybe too conspicuous for a funeral.
Now You Know the Best Style Trends for Suits in 2021
Buying the perfect suit requires a lot of research, and there are so many steps involved in the purchasing process. Missing a simple step could cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
When you go shopping, remember to check the best style trends, set the right budget and choose a fitting suit. Follow the above steps when looking to purchase a suit for the best outcome.
Check out other posts here on our website for more informative tips.