Buying Suits: Practical Tips for the Everyday Man
When you walk into a store looking for a suit, the options can feel overwhelming. Do you need a navy blazer, a charcoal office suit, or a casual linen set? The good news is you don’t have to be a fashion expert to pick a suit that looks sharp and lasts long. Below are straight‑forward steps that help you buy the right suit without wasting money.
How many suits do you really need?
Most men can cover work, events, and weekends with three to five suits. A solid navy, a charcoal, and a light gray cover most office days. Add a pattern—like a subtle check—for a change of pace, and you have a versatile core wardrobe. If you attend weddings or formal events often, keep a black or deep blue tuxedo‑type suit on hand.
The exact number depends on your lifestyle. If you work from home, two suits may be enough. If you travel a lot, consider a wrinkle‑resistant fabric that can sit in a suitcase without creasing. The rule of thumb: buy only what you’ll actually wear, then fill gaps as needed.
What to look for in a good suit
Fabric is the first factor. Wool is a safe bet for year‑round wear—it's breathable, drapes well, and resists wrinkles. For hot climates, try a lightweight wool‑cotton blend or linen, but expect more maintenance. Feel the material; it should be soft yet sturdy. A cheap polyester blend will feel slick and sag after a few washes.
Fit matters more than price. A well‑tailored suit in a modest fabric looks better than an expensive off‑the‑rack jacket that doesn’t sit right on your shoulders. Look for a shoulder seam that follows your natural shoulder line, sleeves that end where your wrist bone shows about a quarter inch of shirt cuff, and trousers that break just above your shoes.Construction clues reveal quality. Check the stitching: a suit with a high stitch count (usually 10‑12 stitches per inch) signals durability. Look for functional buttonholes on the sleeves—called “surgeon’s cuffs”—as a sign of craftsmanship. Fully canvas jackets hold their shape better over time than fused ones.
Detail on the inside matters too. A deep, breathable lining (often Bemberg or silk) keeps you comfortable. A decent suit will have a double‑vented back for easier movement, while a single vent can restrict you when you sit.
Lastly, price isn’t the only indicator of value. Mid‑range brands that focus on fit often give better bang for your buck than luxury names that rely on brand hype. When you find a suit that meets these basics, try it on, move around, and see how it feels. If you’re unsure, bring a trusted friend or ask the store staff to suggest tailoring options.
Buying suits doesn’t have to be a big gamble. Start with a few core colors, choose the right fabric for your climate, and prioritize fit over label. With these steps, you’ll build a wardrobe that looks polished, feels comfortable, and saves you money in the long run.
