For many, a suit is a wardrobe essential that conveys sophistication, confidence, and style. Whether you’re dressing for work, a wedding, or any formal event, a well-fitted suit makes a powerful impression. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know to look polished and put together in a suit, even if you’re just starting out.
1. Start with a Timeless Colour
When building a suiting foundation, it’s wise to start with a versatile colour that works across multiple occasions and settings. Here are three classics:
- Navy Blue: Often seen as the most versatile suit colour, navy suits are appropriate for both formal and semi-formal events. They’re a great starting point, offering a modern look that pairs well with various shirt and tie colours.
Source: @bchanism
- Charcoal Grey: A close second to navy, a charcoal suit conveys professionalism and works well in both corporate and evening settings. Its neutral tone complements almost any shirt and tie combination, making it highly versatile.
- Classic Black: Best suited for formal occasions like black-tie events, a black suit offers a sleek, timeless appearance. However, black can be a bit limiting for daily wear, so it’s ideal to consider it after you’ve established your foundational navy or charcoal suit.
2. Prioritise Fit Above All
Fit is paramount in suiting. A suit that fits well will enhance your appearance and boost confidence. Here’s what to look for:
- Shoulders: The shoulder seams should end at the natural shoulder line, not extending beyond it. A structured shoulder gives a clean line and ensures the suit doesn’t appear oversized or sloppy.
- Jacket Length: The jacket should just cover your rear without going beyond it. A quick test is to let your arms hang naturally by your sides; the bottom of the jacket should align with your knuckles.
- Sleeve Length: Aim for the jacket sleeve to end at the wrist bone, allowing about half an inch of your shirt cuff to show. This detail gives a polished finish to the look.
- Trouser Length: The trousers should either have a slight break (where the hem meets the shoe with a small crease) or no break at all for a more modern, streamlined look.
Source: Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht) from Suits (2011)
3. Pay Attention to Construction and Fabric
Fabric and construction impact both the appearance and durability of your suit. A few tips:
- Wool Suits: Wool is a classic, breathable fabric that provides structure without too much weight, making it ideal for year-round wear. Super 100s to Super 150s wool is a good balance of quality and durability for everyday suits.
- Half-Canvas vs. Full-Canvas Construction: A canvas construction provides structure to the jacket, helping it conform to your body over time. While full-canvas suits are the gold standard, a half-canvas jacket is more affordable and provides a similar fit improvement.
- Details in Lapels and Pockets: Notch lapels are versatile and work for most occasions, while peak lapels offer a bit more formality and flair. Flap pockets are classic and formal, while patch pockets add a casual touch.
Source: Westwood Hart
4. Personalise with Mr. Fierze MTM Suiting Services
For a suit that fits and feels precisely tailored to you, consider a made-to-measure option. At Mr. Fierze, we offer a made-to-measure (MTM) service, where you can enjoy the benefits of a suit crafted to your specific measurements.
Our MTM suits are designed to blend comfort with sophistication, ensuring each suit accentuates your individual style while offering a flawless fit. To provide focused attention and excellent craftsmanship, we take appointments every second Saturday—perfect for those looking to invest in a suit that’s uniquely theirs.
5. Master the Art of Styling
Now that you have a well-fitting, quality suit, it’s time to style it appropriately:
- Shirt and Tie: A crisp, white dress shirt is a timeless pairing with any suit colour. For a touch of colour, light blue is a versatile option that works with navy, grey, and charcoal. When choosing a tie, opt for a shade darker than your suit or shirt for contrast, and play with subtle textures or patterns.
- Footwear: Your shoes should match the formality of your suit. Black oxfords are a safe choice for formal settings, while brown brogues or derbies can pair well with navy and grey suits for a versatile, stylish look.
- Accessories: Less is more. A simple watch and a neatly folded pocket square add elegance without overpowering the outfit. If you choose cufflinks, keep them understated, as they should complement rather than steal the show.
6. Confidence Is Key
A well-chosen, well-fitted suit not only enhances your appearance but also the way you carry yourself. Confidence is the final ingredient to looking sharp in a suit. Walk tall, stand straight, and embrace the power of classic style.
With these basics in place, you’re ready to make your suit your own. Remember, it’s not just about wearing a suit; it’s about letting it represent your style, personality, and confidence. If you’re ready for the next step, book your MTM appointment with us and elevate your look from standard to exceptional.