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The Ultimate Beginner Guide to Suits: Styles, Fits, and How to Accessorize Them

 

Suits have represented power, sophistication, and professionalism all over the world for centuries. The versatility and timeless appeal of a well-fitted suit makes having at least one a must in any wardrobe. Whether you're dressing up for a wedding, job interview, or a night out on the town, a suit is always an excellent choice.

Suit Styles

From classic to modern, there are numerous styles of suits to choose from. The traditional styles include single-breasted, double-breasted, and three-piece suits. These styles have been popular for decades and are a great choice for formal events or professional settings.

  • Single-breasted suits are defined by a jacket that has a single row of buttons and a narrow overlap of the front panels. The jacket typically has one or two buttons, although three-button and four-button options are also available.
  • Double-breasted suits have a distinct, elegant, appearance, with two parallel rows of buttons and a wider overlap of the front panel. Though there is a double row of buttons only the first row is fastened. 
  • A three-piece suit includes a jacket, slacks, and a vest. They are typically worn for formal events, such as weddings, business meetings, and black-tie events. The added layer of a vest can help to create a more polished and professional appearance, making them an excellent choice for people who want to make a strong impression.

For a more contemporary look, consider a slim-fit version of whichever style you prefer. These styles have a tighter fit through the body and sleeves, making them a popular choice for young professionals and the fashion-forward.

Suit Fitting

Finding the right fit is key to looking good in a suit. A suit that is too big will make you look sloppy, while one that is too tight will be uncomfortable and restrict movement. To ensure a good fit, it's important to get measured by a professional tailor or use a sizing chart to determine your size. For those on the go, Original Stitch saves you time by employing our cutting edge Bodygram technology to accurately determine your size. Our tailors then handcraft any suit in our inventory to your exact measurements. You get the luxury of a tailored suit and the ability to control the entire design process right from the comfort of home!

When trying on a suit, pay attention to the following areas:

  • Shoulders: The suit's shoulders should fit snugly, without any wrinkles or gaping.
  • Sleeves: The sleeves should end at the wrist bone and allow room for a dress shirt cuff to peek out.
  • Chest: The chest should fit comfortably, without being too tight or too loose.
  • Waist: The suit should end between the two knuckles of your thumb. Let your arms hang casually at your side to take this measurement.
  • Pants: The pants should fit snugly around the waist, without being too tight or too loose, and the length should fall just above the shoe being paired with them.

How to Accessorize Your Suit

 Suits can be dressed up or down with the right accessories. Here are a few key pieces to consider:

  • Shoes: Choose dress shoes that complement the color and style of your suit. Opt for leather or suede if you’re unsure.
  • Tie: A tie adds a pop of color and personality to your outfit. Choose a tie pattern that complements (or clashes with) the color of your suit and shirt.
  • Pocket Square: A pocket square lends subtle elegance to any suit. They go largely overlooked as an accent piece, but when used correctly, pocket squares can pull a suit’s theme together without becoming a distraction. Choose a color and pattern that complements (or clashes) with your chosen tie and suit.
  • Watch: A watch adds a touch of sophistication and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Smart watches are nice for casual suit wearers, but for more formal occasions go analogue. Silver and gold are guaranteed to stand out in a sea of black dials and digital interfaces.
  • Cufflinks: Cufflinks add a ton of class to French cuffed dress shirts. They are a must-have accessory for formal events. 

Suits for the seasons

  • Summer: Summer calls for light and breathable fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable. Linen and lightweight cotton are great choices for this sweltering season. Linen suits are easy to care for, making them a convenient choice for busy schedules. Lightweight cotton is perfect for warm weather and its breathability helps to regulate body temperature, keeping you cool even on the hottest of days.
  • Winter: Winter is where heavy fabrics that will keep you warm and protected from the elements thrive. Wool is a great option for winter suits. It’s warm, durable, and versatile. Not to mention the natural insulating properties of wool makes it an ideal barrier against the cold. 
  • Autumn: Invest in a tweed suit and you won’t feel lost for options come autumn. This heavier fabric is perfect for cooler weather and provides warm and cozy vibes in both the visual and physical sense. Dress it up with a turtleneck sweater or seamlessly fit into more relaxed situations and go the crew neck route.
  • Spring: Seersucker suits are synonymous with spring. This is because, like the season, they are light and airy. Seersucker suits tend to come in a wide variety of patterns and colors, so follow suit with the season of fresh beginnings and try seersucker for your next formal outdoor spring event.

In the end, it’s the person who makes the suit, not the other way around. A well-fitting suit will make your personal style pop. But don’t take our word for it. Use our design tools to create the suit of your dreams. We will use your specific measurements to make sure it fits like a glove—er, the best fitting suit you’ve ever owned.