The era of the three piece suit is over for the time being, except perhaps in the fields of banking and high finance. Tuxedos are also in less demand, and are readily available to rent for occasions that demand black tie attire.
That being said, at least one nice suit should still be an essential part of your wardrobe, and this is definitely an item worth spending a little extra on. There are several things to consider when buying, so don’t wait until you absolutely have to wear one tomorrow to select a suit.
Pick your basic color. Men with black hair and a pale complexion look striking in black. Blue eyed blonds or redheads look great in navy; dark-eyed men with red or brown hair generally favor brown. Try on several shades and styles to find the color that suits you best.
Look for quality both in the material used and the workmanship involved. The seams should be smooth, and securely sewn. The pants should fit comfortably and fall straight – they should be no shorter than the top of the heel of your shoe in back. The jacket should hang naturally; it shouldn’t bunch or pull when buttoned. An unlined jacket is a good choice for warmer climates, and may often show superior quality; there is no lining to cover up substandard work.
While having a tailor alter an off the rack suit for a perfect fit may add to your initial outlay, the resulting impression is well worth the additional cost. Ask the salesman to recommend a master tailor if possible. Once your suit is perfectly tailored, you can select the rest of your wardrobe.
Try on a selection of shirts in different shades and patterns. You will probably want at least one white dress shirt for more formal occasions, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Casual business attire trends have made it acceptable to wear a high quality t-shirt under a suit in many cases.
This is a good time to pick out a tie, too. Make sure the length of your tie fits you; your height and weight can affect how a tie looks. It shouldn’t be too garish; leave the cartoon characters to those with less discerning taste. The safe tie width these days measures about three inches across at the widest point.
The right shoes and matching belt help finish your look. These are investment items; buy the best you can afford for maximum quality! You might need a pair of black dress shoes if your suit is black or navy, but every man should have a pair of stylish brown shoes as well. Dark brown is preferable to light. Make sure your socks match; they should be the same color as the suit, but a shade or two darker.
Buy a nice watch and a money clip. These will go well with anything, and it is safer to keep your money in your jacket or front pants pocket anyway. Get rid of your bulky wallet and use a flat credit card holder instead. This will cut down on nonessential junk in your pockets that could ruin the line of your suit.
Once you have acquired the perfectly tailored suit and matching accoutrements, you will be ready for any occasion!
by Kathi Burns – addSpace To Your Life!TM,
a Professional Organizing and Image Consulting Agency
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