How To Choose The Right Suit For Any Occassion

When starting your suit collection, understanding the basics is key to ensuring you make the right choices that suit your style and fit your needs.

Suit Fundamentals

Single-Breasted vs. Double-Breasted Suits

Single-breasted suits are ideal for almost any occasion. You’ll see them everywhere because they just work.

Double-breasted suits bring a more formal, bold look. Perfect for when you want to stand out or for very dressy events.

Choose the Right Fabric

Wool suits are durable and practical in most settings.

For warmer days, cotton is lighter and more breathable, giving you a relaxed feel.

Linen is great for summer or holidays, but it wrinkles easily, so keep that in mind. Each fabric has its own strengths, so choose based on the occasion and climate.

Navy Blue Charcoal Grey and Classic Black suit fabric colours

Select Suit Colors

Navy and charcoal work in almost every situation. Black is super formal, so save it for special events.

If you want to add some variety, patterns like pinstripes or checks can add some flair, but they’re not as versatile for everyday wear.

Choose The Right Lapels

Lapels can change the entire look of a suit.

Notch lapels are the most common and work for almost any occasion.

Peak lapels are more formal and give off a sharper, more confident vibe.

Shawl lapels, on the other hand, are mostly reserved for tuxedos and very formal settings.

Suit Construction Basics

We're not here to bore you with details, but it’s worth knowing how suits are put together. A few quick points can help you find the perfect balance of quality, comfort, and cost.

Collage: Suit Construction - Full Canvas-Half Canvas-Fused

What Is A suit canvas

A suit canvas is a hidden layer that gives structure to the suit jacket. It's made from horsehair blended with cotton, or synthetic materials, and sits between the outer fabric and inner lining.

Lighter and casual look jackets are made without a canvas - these are fine for relaxed settings, but not for formal occasions like business or weddings.

Fused Suit Construction

A fused suit uses heat-activated glue to bond layers of fabric together. It's cheaper to care for, which is why it's a popular budget-friendly choice.

Because there’s no separate canvas piece, the jacket can feel stiffer and trap heat. Overtime the glue may bubble or peel around the lapels. If you’re unsure whether a suit is fused, just ask the retailer for details.

Half Canvas Suit Construction

A half-canvas suit has a layer of canvas that runs from the shoulder to halfway down the jacket.

This canvas, often made from horsehair blended with cotton or synthetic materials, gives the jacket better shape, support, and more structure compared to cheaper fused suits.

Full-Canvas Suit Construction

A full-canvas suit has a layer running from the shoulders to the hem, giving it shape and structure. This helps the jacket fit well, hang smoothly, and last longer.

While it feels heavier and costs more than a half-canvas suit, it offers a classic, tailored look that holds up over time.

Occasion-Based Selection

Dress codes can be confusing, but once you know what’s expected, it’s much easier to pick the right suit.

Black Tie Events

For black-tie events, a tuxedo or formal dark suit is a must.

White Tie Events

White tie is even more formal, requiring a tailcoat, white vest, and gloves.

Semi-Formal

A dark suit and tie will usually work for cocktail parties or business events, with room to show some personality through your tie or cufflinks.

Casual and Business Casual

For more laid-back settings, a light suit or a blazer with chinos will keep you looking sharp without overdoing it.

Weddings

Your suit depends on the type of wedding. A classic dark suit works for traditional weddings, while destination weddings might call for lighter fabrics and colors.

Seasonal Suit Fabric Choices

The time of year affects your suit choice. In summer, go for lighter fabrics like linen or cotton.

In colder months, wool or heavier materials will keep you warm. Also, lighter shades suit summer, while darker colors are better for winter.

Getting the Perfect Fit

No matter how much you spend, a suit that doesn’t fit right just won’t look good.

Tailoring and Measurements

Shoulders are especially important—if it doesn’t fit here, it won’t work.

Proper chest, waist, and inseam measurements are just as crucial, so don’t be afraid to visit a tailor.

Common fit issues

Common fit issues like baggy sleeves or too-tight jackets can ruin the look.

Off-the-rack suits might need some tailoring to get that perfect fit. For a more custom option, you can look into made-to-measure or bespoke suits. Both offer a higher level of personalization and fit.

How a Skilled Tailor Makes a Difference

A good tailor can transform your suit. They’ll fix small issues, adjust fit, and give advice on what works for your body type.

Bespoke and made-to-measure suits are at the high end of tailoring, but if you’re looking for that perfect fit, they’re worth the investment.

The Finishing Touches

Accessories can take your suit to the next level.

Accessories Your Suit - Ties, Pocket Squares, and Cufflinks

Elevate with Ties, Pocket Squares, and Cufflinks

A tie is more than just an afterthought—think about the patterns, textures, and width.

Pocket squares add a pop of color, and cufflinks add a finishing touch.

how to choose and maintain the right shoes

Shoes are equally important. Oxfords are classic, but loafers offer a relaxed yet stylish option.

Keep your shoes clean and polished—they can make or break your look.

Belts vs. suspenders

Belts vs. suspenders (also called braces) comes down to personal style.

Belts are common, while suspenders give off a more vintage, sophisticated vibe.

The Power of a dress shirt

Don’t forget your dress shirt. White and light blue shirts are easy to match, but once you’re confident, try out different colors and patterns.

Seasonal Accessories

Scarves, hats, and gloves are not just functional but can add an extra layer of style. A well-chosen scarf or hat can really complement your suit, especially in colder months.

Care & Maintenance

How to Keep Your Suit Looking Sharp

Taking care of your suit ensures it lasts. Good quality hangers, especially wooden ones, help maintain its shape. Avoid dry-cleaning too often as it can wear out the fabric. Spot cleaning and airing out your suit between wears will help it stay fresh.

Hand held steam iron used to remove creases from a suit

Handling Wrinkles and Repairs

Wrinkles happen, but they don’t have to ruin your look. A steam iron or hanging your suit in a steamy bathroom can help smooth out those creases. For minor repairs like loose buttons or small tears, a simple sewing kit or a quick visit to your tailor can save the day.

Share Your White Tie Experience

Have you attended a white tie event? Share your experience in the comments below - what you wore, how you prepared, and any tips you picked up. Your story could help others dress their best!