Men's Suit Buying Guide
A suit is a wardrobe necessity. Even if you do not plan on wearing one every day, you'll need it for job interviews, business meetings, funerals, weddings, and other special occasions.
While you have many options to play with, from fabric to stitching to detailing, correct fit is key. To look sharp, the fit must be right.
What should you look for in a suit?
Suit Fits
It really is all about the fit. The saying "the suit makes the man" is right: an ill-fitting suit can make you look less dressed up than wearing no suit at all.
SLIM FIT
Just like it sounds, Slim Fit is fitted closer to the body, without excess fabric. That doesn't mean it fits like a superhero bodysuit; Slim Fit can be worn by a lot of different body types.
CLASSIC FIT
Classic Fit is comfortable and easy to wear. It's cut generously through the chest and waist, which means less constriction for you, but still maintains a clean body shape.
LapelsA dated lapel style is the number one tipoff that your suit is older than you are. The width of your lapel should stylistically mimic the width of the ties you will be wearing. |
VentsWhile most men are concerned with how the suit looks up front, it’s equally important to get it right on your back side. |
NOTCH LAPELThe Notch Lapel looks good at work, in meetings and for job interviews, but isn't too stuffy for a date night or other social event. If you are not sure about what lapel to choose, stick with Notch. |
CENTER VENTAs the name implies, the cut goes up the middle of the jacket. It should lie closed when you are wearing your jacket or the jacket fit is not right. |
PEAK LAPELThough the Peak Lapel is primarily used on double-breasted suits, a Peak Lapel on a single-breasted suit is now considered a sharp detail. Choose the Peak Lapel if you want to add subtle style. |
SIDE VENTSide Vents let you put your hands in your pants pockets without the jacket bunching up and allow the jacket to lie smoothly in the back when seated. Side Vents can also make a jacket appear slimmer. |
SHAWL LAPELThe Shawl Lapel is almost exclusively seen on tuxedos and dinner jackets, at weddings and black-tie events. A Shawl Lapel on a jacket adds graceful lines. If you're looking at a jacket with a Shawl Lapel, likely it is formalwear, or it is seriously fashion-forward. |
NO VENTSome jackets do not have a vent. This is a fine choice for those who want a clean, sleek look, but can make for a less forgiving fit. |
When you purchase a suit with the right fit and the details that best reflect your personal style, you are making a smart style investment—one that will last for years.