May is usually a very popular month for graduation parties, Indian weddings, and a whole host of cultural and religious events in our books. My parents have a hard time getting my brother in Indian clothes since they can be uncomfortable, so he was in the market for a suit! With the help of his older sister, we decided to document and note some of our experiences with finding him the perfect suit. So here are some tips for buying a men’s ready-to-wear suit! It could be a bit complicated search, but these tips will help breakdown the obvious!
Fabric
This is the most important of all tips for buying a men’s ready-to-wear suit. A wool suit is the best option to go for as it is a natural fiber, breathes well, and the cuts are stylish. Though if you’re going somewhere tropical or even warmer for a wedding, here are a few other choices. Linen is the perfect summer suit as it is lightweight, but the maintenance is difficult. Polyester is a good option if you’re hoping to cut costs, but a polyester and wool blend is a more acceptable alternative to a an economical, high quality suit. Do keep in mind that many summer suits are made of tropical wool making it not too warm and can be worn all year round. Fabric makes a big difference!
Double vs. Single-Breasted Jacket
A double-breased jacket generally folds over itself in the front, whereas a single-breased jacket doesn’t. Double-breasted jackets are generally more formal, perfect for larger weddings and more elegant receptions. Though a double-breasted jacket can be paired with a pair of jeans to dress it down for a more casual affair.
Collar
Your jacket’s collar should hug the back of your back without buckling or pulling on your shirt. Your shirt should stick out an inch from the back of your collar. This is the most looked over of tips for buying a men’s ready-to-wear suit.
Suit Lapels
Lapels is the extension immediately below the collar of the jacket and folds against the chest. A thinner lapel is more fashion forward, whereas a thicker lapel is more traditional. Though it’s important to note that the stitching on the lapel is as invisible as possible.
Arms & Sleeves
When trying on suits, let your arms hang on your sides, your sleeves should end where you hand meets your wrist. Your shirt sleeves should be a quarter-inch longer than your suit jacket. When out shopping, put on your jacket and stretch your arms in front of you. Make sure you’re able to move comfortably. Kind of unexpected for tips for buying a men’s ready-to-wear suit, right?
Buttons
A 1-button jacket is suited best for slimmer men whilst a 2-button jacket will be sufficient for more men and situations. 3-button jackets are considered dated.
Vents & Slits
vents are the flaps of cloth below the waist at the back of the jacket. They should cover your entire rear end and should never seem to look separated unless you’re bending or sitting down. Make sure they lay flat against your backside when you’re standing straight. A larger individual should choose a jacket with two slits, while a thinner man should opt for a jacket with no slits.
Trousers
In the waist, you should be able to stick one finger at the seam of your trousers and still be comfortable. Pleats should be avoided and flat front trousers should be what you go for. Cuffed trousers look better on taller men, where shorter men should avoid cuffed bottoms. For the rise, the length from the crotch to the waistband, try to stick with a rise that’s right in the middle and not too high or low.
