How To Choose A Suit – 5 Important Rules

When it comes to suiting up, many men feel like they are lost in a sea of choices. With so many different styles, fabrics and colors to choose from, how to choose a suit can be a difficult decision.

In this comprehensive guide, you will discover how to choose a suit for every occasion. We’ll start by discussing the different body types and how to pick the best suit style for your physique.

Then we’ll move on to choosing a suit for special occasions and business wear. Finally, we’ll give you some tips on taking your measurements, accessorizing your suit, and avoiding common mistakes. By following our advice, you’ll be able to find the perfect suit for any event!

Picking the right suit
Picking the right suit

How To Choose A Suit For Your Body Type

With so many different styles of suits available, it is important to take the time to find the one that best flatters your body type.

There are three main body types: ectomorph, mesomorph and endomorph. Each one has its own unique set of characteristics that should be taken into account when choosing a suit.

Ectomorphs are typically thin and have difficulty gaining weight. They have long limbs and a small frame.

When choosing a suit, ectomorphs should look for something that is slim-fitting and tailored to their body shape. Avoid boxy or baggy styles as they will only make you look larger.

Mesomorphs are the lucky ones! They have a naturally athletic build and can pretty much pull off any type of suit. If you’re a mesomorph, you can afford to experiment with different styles and colors. Just be sure to avoid anything that is too baggy or loose-fitting.

Ideally, look for a slim-fit suit with narrow lapels. This will help to accentuate your muscular shoulders and define your waist.

Endomorphs are larger than ectomorphs and have a harder time losing weight. When picking a suit, endomorphs should look for something that is well-fitted but not too tight. The body can be balanced out with judicious use of shoulder pads.

Avoid suits with lots of excess fabric as they will only make you look larger. Instead, opt for a tailored style that flatters your figure. Check out our article on how to look slimmer and taller for more tips.

Male body types: Ectomorph, Mesomorph and Endomorph
Male body types: Ectomorph, Mesomorph and Endomorph

There are also variants of these body types such as apple and pear shapes. They should favor well-fitting suits with some structure to them. Draw attention to the neck and shoulder line rather than the waist.

Height also comes into the equation when choosing the right suit. If you are on the taller side, pick a suit with longer sleeve length for the suit jacket. This will prevent the fabric from bunching up and making you look shorter. And if you are shorter, go for a two-button jacket which will help to elongate your torso.

Now that you know how to pick a suit based on your body type, let’s move on to choosing a suit for special occasions and business wear.

Choosing a Suit for Special Occasions

When it comes to special occasions, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you’ll want to choose a suit that is appropriate for the event. A black tie affair will require a different suit than a summer wedding, for example. In general, if you’re attending a formal event, you’ll want to choose a darker color suit in a classic cut.

Make sure the suit is made of quality fabric. Wool is a good choice for winter events, while linen is ideal for summer weddings. You’ll also want to make sure your suit fits well. Nothing ruins a special occasion like a ill-fitting suit!

Pick a classic style. A single-breasted two-button suit is a good choice for most occasions. Accessorize your look with a dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes.

And finally, you’ll want to choose a suit that makes you feel confident. After all, confidence is key when it comes to looking your best. By following these simple tips, you’ll be sure to look sharp at your next special event.

How to pick a suit for special occasions
How to pick a suit for formal occasions

Choosing a Suit for Business Wear

For business wear, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Make sure to choose a suit that is appropriate for the occasion. An informal business meeting necessitates a different suit than one that you’d wear for a job interview.

When you have a work interview, it’s important to choose a suit that conveys confidence and professionalism. First, pick a subtle color such as a dark charcoal or navy suit. These colors are seen as more serious and will give you a more authoritative presence.

Second, make sure the fit is slim but not too tight. You want to look put-together, not like you’re bursting out of your clothes. Third, opt for a classic style for your interview suit like a two-button jacket with notch lapels. This will never go out of style and looks good on most body types.

Fourth, pay attention to the details. Check that the buttons are sewn on securely and that there are no loose threads. Make sure your shoes are polished and your hair is neatly styled.

Following these guidelines will help you pick business suits that make the best impression in an interview setting. However, it’s important to remember that interviews are not the only time you’ll need to wear business attire.

A formal business suit
A formal business suit

For casual business wear, you can typically get away with a sport coat or blazer instead of a full suit. And while you don’t need to be quite as formal, it’s still important to aim for a neat and professional look.

However, it’s still important to avoid anything too casual, like jeans. Overall, the key is to dress in a way that shows you’re taking the meeting seriously without coming across as overly formal.

Accessorizing Your Suit

When you have chosen the perfect suit, it’s time to accessorize! The right accessories can take your suit from ordinary to extraordinary.

Let’s start with ties for suits. When it comes to ties, there are endless possibilities. You can choose a tie that matches your suit or goes against it for a more daring look. You can also choose a patterned tie or a solid color, or even a bow tie. The sky is the limit!

A Venetian silk blue paisley tie
A Venetian silk blue paisley tie

Next, let’s move on to shoes. When choosing the right shoes, you’ll want to keep two things in mind: comfort and style. You’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet, so make sure you choose a pair of shoes that are comfortable.

But don’t sacrifice style for comfort. If you have a special event, pick an elegant pair of dress shoes. Black shoes are a safe choice in urban settings, and brown shoes are more commonly worn in the countryside.

Finally, let’s talk about pocket squares. A pocket square is the perfect way to add a pop of color or pattern to your suit. Just be sure to choose a pocket square that compliments your tie.

Accessorize your suits with pocket squares
Accessorize with a pocket square

Suit Patterns and Fabrics

You now know how to pick the perfect suit and accessorize it, so it’s time to choose a pattern and fabric. There are a few things you should keep in mind when making your decision.

Suit patterns – The most popular suit patterns are stripes, plaids, and solids. Stripes can be dressed up or down. Plaid is perfect for a more casual look. And solid colors are always in style.

Suit fabrics – The most frequent suit fabrics are wool, cotton, and linen. Wool is a classic fabric that is perfect for colder weather. Cotton is a breathable fabric that works well for warmer weather. Linen is a lightweight fabric that is stylish for summertime.

Picking a suit pattern
Picking a suit pattern

Common Suit Mistakes and 5 Important Rules

When picking the perfect suit, avoid these common mistakes and make sure to follow these simple rules:

1. Choosing a suit with a bad fit. Make sure your suit fits properly. It should be comfortable and flattering.

2. Wearing the wrong color suit. Choose a color that compliments your skin tone.

3. Picking the wrong style suit. Choose a style that is appropriate for the occasion.

4. Not accessorizing your suit. The right accessories can take your suit from ordinary to extraordinary.

5. Not paying attention to detail. The little things matter. Make sure your suit is well-tailored and free of wrinkles.

Choose your new suit carefully
Choose your new suit carefully

Buy a Suit Online or in Store

As you’ve learnt how to pick the perfect suit, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test! You can either buy a suit online or in store. If you’re buying a suit online, be sure to read the reviews before making your purchase.

If you’re buying a rack suit in a department store, be sure to try it on and to check all angles in a full length mirror before you buy it. For a top notch outfit, check out these bespoke suit tailors who are some of the best in the world.

The main thing is to pick a suit with a perfect fit that makes you feel confident. And don’t forget to accessorize with a well-chosen tie, pocket square, and cufflinks. These small details can really make an outfit stand out.

Choosing a suit in store
Choosing a suit in store

Taking Your Measurements for a Suit

If you intend to buy a suit online, it’s important to take your measurements. This may seem like a daunting task, but we promise it’s not as difficult as it seems. All you need is a tape measure and someone to help you out.

First, you’ll want to measure your chest. Wrap the tape measure around your back and under your arms, making sure it’s level with the ground. Then, breathe in and out until you find the largest measurement. This is your chest size.

Next, you’ll want to measure your waist. Place the tape measure around your natural waistline. Breathe gently in and out to find the biggest measurement, as this is your waist size.

Finally, you’ll want to measure your hips. Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your hips. Breathe in and out until you find the largest measurement, which is your hip size.

Once you have your measurements, you can use them to find the perfect-fitting suit. Just be sure to keep them in mind when shopping for suits online.

Get your suit measurements taken
Get your suit measurements taken

In Conclusion: How to Choose a Suit

We hope our guide has helped demystify the process of choosing a men’s suit and given you some ideas on how to find one that makes you look sharp! Follow these simple rules for a modern look that integrates your personal style.

Do you have any tips on how to pick the perfect suit? Share them in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out our other style guides for more fashion advice. Thanks for reading!

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How to choose a suit that's right for you
How to choose a suit that’s right for you

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Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

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