5 tips to finding the perfect men's suit

A suit is essential in every guy’s wardrobe. Before you start shopping, here are some tips a tailor would tell you for buying the right men's suit.

Made-to-measure: A custom-tailored suit provides the ultimate in fit and comfort, but it’s also the most expensive.

• Make an appointment with a reputable tailor to record your precise measurements. Your suit jacket and matching dress pants will be handcrafted to your exact specifications, down to the smallest detail.
• A properly cared for custom-made suit can last indefinitely.

Off-the-rack: Choose your suit from the standard sizes in countless generic and designer labels available at a specialty men’s clothing store, major department store or men’s suit warehouse.

• An on-site tailor can make minor alterations to improve the fit.

Specialty formal wear: Singular events in a man’s life call for specific kinds of suits. You might purchase or rent a tuxedo for a wedding, formal dinner or special ceremony.

• Suits may be custom-ordered for you by the groom if you are part of a wedding party.
• Young men’s prom suits and boys’ suits may be worn only once in a lifetime.

• Fabric: Wool and wool-blend materials are used in most men’s suits, in heavier or lighter weights depending on the season.
• Patterns: Solids, stripes, checks, herringbone, houndstooth, bird’s eye and nailhead patterns provide an option for every taste.
• Construction: Single-breasted or double-breasted, two-piece or three-piece, depending on body type and current trends.
• Lining: The suit interior material may be plain or patterned, silk or synthetic, as chosen by the designer.
• Detailing: Two- or three-button jacket front, suit vest, plain or flapped pockets, notched or plain lapels and cuff style.

• Purpose: Consider whether it’s a business suit or just for special occasions.
• Versatility: Choose a cut and style that’s adaptable to different events or situations.
• Weight: A spring and summer suit is cut from fabric that’s finer and lighter-weight than that used in a fall and winter suit.
• Trends: Watch for current trends in men's jackets, including lapel width, trim details and button style.

• Men’s dress shirts: Available in limitless colours, patterns, slim and full fits, with buttoned or French cuffs.
• Belts: Match the finish of metal buckles to your other metallic accessories.
• Shoes: Leather is preferred in most cases. Match your shoe colour to your belt colour.
• Ties: Conservative patterns are appropriate for the office and formal occasions, but there are no limitations for social events or party wear.
• Pocket squares and handkerchiefs: Peeking above the pocket top, it provides a small splash of colour, contrast and elegance.

• Choose a classically cut suit in a basic black, navy blue or grey for daily office wear.
• Opt for a 100 per cent wool suit for durability, breathability and lasting good looks.
• Avoid extreme styles that limit the use and longevity of the suit.
• Be prepared to invest in high-quality workmanship.

Trust your personal taste and the advice of professionals to find the suit that sets you apart from the crowd. A quality suit that fits well and is comfortable will last for years to come.