The Suit Guide

The Step By Step Suit Guide:

Step 1: Measurements

A wisely measured suit can make or break you. With a tailor made suit, your body proportions can be enhanced. No not that down there. However a beautiful suit can usually excite most men. This first stage is a godsend for tall, short and fat men who often find department stores don’t cater for them. A suit is a unique piece specific to your body. You should be specific with your tailor with regards to the cut of the suit, how you would like suit to fall on your shoulders, waist or shoes even.

Step 2: Style

You might be looking for a style you’ve seen on the catwalks of Milan and Paris. So take the magazine and show it to your tailor. Or you may be a little conservative and opting for a classic look. You should choose what makes you feel comfortable and more importantly what would make you look good. Whatever your choice, be it single or double breasted, three or four buttoned, do discuss your options with your tailor first.

Step 3: Fabric

A good fabric is the sine qua non of any well-made suit. Fabric grades can range from the low 80s to high-end super 180s. A higher grade means better quality and therefore an increased price. Also, where the fabric is sourced from varies from homegrown fabrics that have lesser price range to Italian and English varieties that can cost a lot. However do not let the price put you off, always heed the tailor’s caveat. Choosing a substandard lower grade material such as linen or polyester may appeal to those with a lean wallet, but remember to think of a suit as a long-term investment. Pinching the pennies will only affect your image and comfort. If you’re thinking about buying a designer suit instead, so keep in mind that they are generally made from lower grade fabrics (100s and 110s) to lower costs and increase markups. In such cases, you’re essentially paying for the brand name rather than the labor of love traditional tailors provide. Super 100s – 180s wools (sometimes known as worsted) and cashmere are ideal choices for suits, expensive but worth it. These high-quality materials drape better and are more resistant to temperature and humidity and will resist creasing.

Step 4: Customization

Adding up to your suit can give you the extra edge other men may not possess. From the type of button to the type of pocket, an additional touch here or there will distinguish you from the crowd. Remember to keep it simple.

Suit Tips:

• Make sure your suit sleeve shows only a half-inch of your shirt cuff.
• Your trouser leg should only show a half-inch of your shoe’s heel.
• Your tie can make or break your outfit. Choose carefully.
• Do not clean suits too often as this can weaken the fabric.
• Before putting your suit into storage, dry-clean the items so that small stains won’t oxidise over time. Make sure you place it in a breathable garment bag, not in plastic.

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