Suits for Men: A Guide to Suit Design, Fit & Measuring
A good suit is an essential investment for every man’s wardrobe. From making you look a little taller, to helping you hide a few extra pounds, the right suit can effortlessly smarten any look and make you feel more confident too. Shopping for and buying a suit online may seem daunting, but our handy guide takes you through the process step by step. Read on if you’d like to know more about the types of suits available, measuring a suit, and the best suit for every occasion!
Types of suits
There’s a vast range of men’s suit styles, as well as various materials, fits and styles to consider. New to the suit game? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know.
First things first: understanding the different types of suits available and where best to wear them…
3 piece suit
3 piece suit
This is essentially a traditional suit consisting of a jacket, waistcoat and trousers which are all made of the same material. A three piece in navy or grey is perfect for formal occasions and party looks such as weddings, cocktail parties, awards ceremonies and christenings. Opt for a classic black if you’re attending a funeral or a fancy black tie event. And, on the topic of ties - always wear one with a three piece.
2 piece suit
2 piece suit
You can always buy a three piece suit and adapt it to a two piece depending on the occasion, but generally a two piece suit is a little less formal and helps you blend in with the crowd. The trouser and jacket combo is a simple and stunning combination, and looks great at almost any event.
Double breasted suit
Double breasted suit
This classic type of suit tends to be more associated with formal wear - its vintage and elegant look is perfect for making a statement. More material is involved to create the folded over look, alongside the peak lapels. This style accentuates a man’s frame and the sharp cut tailoring makes it a popular choice for the modern man.
Single breasted suit
Single breasted suit
The single breasted suit is modern and stylish design which works well if you’re looking for classic, everyday tailoring. The beauty of this suit jacket is that it also pairs perfectly with other types of trousers, such as jeans and chinos, making it a less formal look than other types of suits.
Suit fits
You may well be wondering how should a suit fit - and we’re here to tell you just that. It’s important to remember that, above all else, each area of the body plays a role in the overall look and feel of a suit fit. Let’s break this down…
Trousers
Trousers
The cut of a trouser leg should always be flattering without appearing too tight or loose, and it should always come back to your personal preference. If you’re looking to achieve a classic trouser length, this should sit on top of your shoe with a soft crease at the front. A more modern tapered leg should rest at the top of your shoe.
Sleeve length
Sleeve length
Placing your arms by your side, the cuff of the jacket should fall where the base of your thumb meets your wrist. You should have 1-2cm of your shirt cuff visible. If this is something you struggle with, there are big and tall suit jacket options available.
Chest
Chest
Your suit jacket should button easily but not be too loose. Once buttoned, try placing your hand between the fabric and your chest - it should fit comfortably.
Length
Length
If you can easily reach and cup the jacket hem in your hands, then it’s too long. Most modern suit jackets only sit an inch below the cuff.
Shoulders
Shoulders
The jacket shoulders should hug your own and feel neat and snug, with no excessive fabric or distortion.
Slim fit suits
Slim fit suits
It’s an age old debate when it comes to skinny vs slim fit suit, but essentially the slim fit suit creates a slimmer silhouette with a trimmed waistline and slim appearance from knee to hem.
Skinny fit suits
Skinny fit suits
Skinny fit suits (or skinny suits) are a close fitting suit through the body and sleeves and a very tapered shape through the leg.
Regular fit suits
Men’s regular fit suits, sometimes referred to as a classic fit suit, are an easy, everyday look for all-purpose wearability. This fit tends to be more relaxed with comfort as the key point of difference.
Tailored fit suits
Tailored suits are a slightly more generous fit than slim, offering a contemporary look for everyday wear.
How to measure for a suit
A well fitted suit will always trump one that has been rushed and not fitted properly. If you’re looking to spend a good amount of money on a suit, then it’s important to know how to measure for a suit. Without knowing the in’s and out’s, you won’t be able to really do it justice and wear it with pride.
You can head to your nearest tailor shop and look for suit size guides online but - if you’re hoping to measure up at home - then here are a few tips and tricks to help you along the way.
Start by wearing a shirt that already fits you well, paired with trousers that you feel comfortable wearing.
Chest
Chest
Measure horizontally around the largest part of the chest, under the armpits and over the back shoulder blades, then record the measurement once the arms are put down into a resting position. Ensure the measuring tape is snug against the body, but not too tight.
Shoulder to shoulder
Shoulder to shoulder
Measure the distance from one shoulder seam to the other, with a jacket on.
Waist
Waist
Measure around the waist roughly at the level of the navel. This measurement may correspond to either the narrowest or the widest point of the waist, depending on build.
Jacket length
Jacket length
Measure from the bottom of the collar, straight down the back centre seam, to where the required length of the jacket will end. The jacket should ideally be just long enough to completely cover your rear, though this will vary depending on the style required.
Trouser waist
Trouser waist
Decide where you would like your trouser waist to be, and then measure horizontally around the waist. For suits, it tends to be just below the navel.
Inside leg
Inside leg
Measure from the lowest part of the crotch of your trousers, keeping the measure tape down to where you wish the bottom of the trousers to end. Bear in mind the fit you want over the shoe, as this will affect the height of the trouser crotch.
Suits by occasion
Looking to find the perfect suit for an event you have coming up? We have you covered when it comes to occasionwear and accessories. Learn more about some of our favourite suit styles below…
Casual suits
Casual suits
Casual suits blend formal with informal, and have a more relaxed tailoring look, making them easy to transition from day to night. They consist of two separate pieces that can be worn together or separately - still looking smart either way. If you’re wondering how to wear a casual suit, we’d recommend teaming the two piece with a polo shirt and trainers, making this a great outfit for the office and then onto evening drinks or dinner with a friend or partner.
Wedding suits
Wedding suits
Saying I do to the wedding suit of dreams can be difficult, but it’s important to consider all aspects of the big day before making a call. If you’re getting married during the winter months, a tailored suit in classic colours such as navy, grey or black is perfect. Though three piece suits look great, you should remember to wear your trousers higher on your waist and pair them with braces. For less formal weddings or those held in the height of summer, why not consider suits in light blue, soft grey and tan? We recommend opting for lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen. If you want to add a personal touch and accessorise with watches or cufflinks, then do exactly that - it’s your day, after all. As a guest, If you’re scouring the internet for a wedding guest suit, we’d recommend regular fit and slim fit suits.
Workwear
Workwear
How you present yourself at work signals that you care about your role and are confident in how you look. If you’re working in the corporate world, a business suit is probably part of your everyday attire, but which type are you wearing? We’d recommend a regular fit suit or a tailored fit suit, but this is very much about preference and how formal you need your office suit to be. Dress codes for offices vary across the country, and your suit might change depending on meetings you have on that day. If you’re hoping for more of a relaxed look in the office, try wearing a checked shirt under your jacket, and teaming it with jeans instead of matching trousers.
Prom suits
Prom suits
Prom is a momentous occasion and calls for a well fitted, show-stopping suit. First up is the prom tuxedo. This is ideal if you want a smart, modern and elegant look for the big night. Get into character and express yourself with a bow tie - it’s sure to really steal the limelight. Or, if that’s not your style and you’d like something more evergreen, you could choose from a two or three piece set in a tailored fit, which you can use again and again after the big occasion.
Dinner suits
Dinner suits
Knowing how to wear a dinner suit and when it’s appropriate to do so is definitely worth knowing. Generally, mens dinner suits tend to be made from satin and have an elegant look and feel. Even if a dinner suit is coloured in navy or burgundy, the satin detailing inside will be black and potentially have a slight sheen too, giving it a regal feel. Men’s dinner jackets are worn for more formal occasions, and are usually accessorised with a bow tie. The dinner suit and jacket are great for a number of formal events, such as: Dinner jackets come in a variety of styles from patterned to velvet, cream or even white. There’s something for everyone and it’s a great chance to express your personality by working the room
Formal suits or tuxedos
A tuxedo is the ultimate formal suit for men. It oozes class and elegance through the use of satin, across the buttons, collar and pocket trims.
The tuxedo suit is traditionally black, but contemporary styles can be darker colours such as grey, burgundy and midnight blue.
Consider wearing a formal suit like a tuxedo if the invite is after 5pm and mentions black tie. Other occasions could be a wedding, dinner party or ceremony.
Summer suits
Summer suits
Summer suits, known for their lighter colours and softer fabrics. You’re looking for breathable, lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton in the warmer months and colours such as dove grey, light blue or even khaki.
If you’re a trendsetter you might also want to try short suits too, which are growing in popularity at occasions such as weddings and christenings.
Suit fabrics
Tweed suit
Tweed suits are versatile, so can be paired with both a crisp shirt or a polo shirt for a more relaxed look. Generally, they work well for any outdoor events, such as a trip to the races, golfing tournaments, shooting meets or garden parties. Opt for pastel shirt colours as these look great as a contrast against the tweed.
Linen suit
Heading to a summer wedding? Then a linen suit needs to be top of your to do list. The lightweight material means you’ll be comfortable all day and still feel formal yet relaxed. Linen suits also work well as office attire in the summer months.
Velvet suit
Velvet suits are a signature style and are really having a ‘moment’. Airing on the formal side, the suit jacket should be slim and trim - but let the plush fabric do the talking. Experiment with bold colours if you’re feeling daring!
Wool suit
Wool is a luxurious and gentle fabric and the same can be said when wearing a wool suit. Expect to feel comfortable, enjoying a soft feel on the skin, when donning a wool suit all day. Wool suits are widely worn in the winter months, but the fabric is actually very lightweight meaning they are suitable in summer too. So consider wool if you’re heading to a wedding, graduation or business event this year.
Cotton suit
Decide where you would like your trouser waist to be, and then measure horizontally around the waist. For suits, it tends to be just below the navel.
Flannel suit
You should consider a flannel suit if you’re looking for a warm, comfortable material during the colder months. They still look pretty high end, making them a good choice for weddings, black tie dinners, officewear and more.
Best suit brands
Finding the perfect suit is no easy feat, but luckily you have us to guide you through! Choose from a variety of styles and brands including…
Suit accessories
Style up and express your personality by adding accessories to your look. Choose from any of the below…
  • Watches - choose from a variety of designs and brands including Guess, BOSS and Ted Baker
  • Ties - shop every colour and pattern imaginable to find the perfect one
  • Cufflinks - add a splash of personality and colour, or keep it simple with stainless steel
  • Waistcoats - find your favourite three piece in seconds
  • Dress shoes - complete the look with the shoe of your choice
  • Suit shirts - No suit is complete without a crisp shirt, choose from a variety of different colours and patterns
  • Suit socks - buy in bulk to ensure you’re covered for all occasions