How To Choose A Suit For All Occasions
The one thing every man needs in his wardrobe is a perfectly-fitted suit—and it's well worth approaching it as an investment piece, something you buy once and tailor well and care for over years. This doesn't come cheap, but the good news is that you only need one: with the right accessories, a single business suit can become the perfect outfit for any number of situations.
Make an investment and go bespoke
You don't have to shell out for an entirely custom-made suit to get something that fits you perfectly. Higher-end suit retailers will measure, tailor and fit an off-the-rack suit to you right there in-store, making sure it hits the perfect spot. That said, don't be too conservative as you pick your suit-maker; you want something that will last for years or even decades to come. Don't be afraid to ask the staff for advice—they're the experts, and they can help you make the perfect choice.
Keep it classic
If you have room in your budget for several suits, it can be fun to look at different fabrics and consider pinstripes or bolder colours. For true versatility, though, you want to keep your basics as plain as possible: a classic charcoal grey is dark enough to wear to a funeral but less severe in the office than true black, and plainer fabrics will work in more situations than those with a pattern.
Add personal touches for everyday business
Cufflinks and ties are both great ways to express your personality, and will help you dress a suit down. You want to make sure everything you pick works well together, and look out for subtle ways to put your own stamp on the overall effect without picking anything too comedic or wacky.
Pick formal additions that suit your style
Buy a three-piece suit if you can: you can then wear it as a two-piece when attending job interviews or business meetings, and save the waistcoat for more formal occasions. You can also add a lapel pin, a pocket square or buttonhole and perhaps even a carefully-chosen hat—and never underestimate the power of a good pair of shoes!
Tailor, maintain and treat with care
A good suit can last for decades if properly cared for. Get it tailored every couple of years, store it in a garment bag when it's not being worn and only ever have it dry-cleaned. These tricks will all help your investment pay off and keep you looking your best in all manner of situations.