For some guys, a suit is a near-daily go-to. The item he turns to each morning for a pristine and professional look. For others, it’s an occasional upgrade, a sartorial way to mark and honor life’s best moments and achievements. In either scenario, one wants their suit to fit perfectly and look excellent—neither of which are easy to achieve. Ahead, our definitive guide to finding a suit that fits your frame and your lifestyle, once and for all.
Decide what kind of suit you need.
It’s not that you need dozens of suits in your closet. But you may need a few that vary in fit, fabric and formality. Ahead, three suits that might serve you best.
Wedding Suit
More than anything, it’s the color, tailoring and fabrication that can elevate an everyday suit to one special enough to wear on the big day (or someone else’s big day). Black, navy and gray suits are all excellent for walking down the aisle. A formal tie, crisp undershirt and natty shoes also help bring wedding day vibes.
Casual Suit
There are a few ways a suit can feel slightly more casual. Playful colors, like a soft pink or a rich burgundy, will still look dressed up, but add a welcome irreverence to certain occasions. Likewise for a plaid or windowpane suit, both of which look dapper, but wouldn’t be at-home at a black tie event. Of course, the fabric can make a difference, too. Linen, khaki and even jersey knits can offer a low-key appeal.
Formal Suit
A very dark suit with a white shirt, solid dark tie and black shoes feels formal and appropriate for somber affairs, like appearances in churches, courts or executive functions.