On the surface, men’s suits may seem deceivingly similar. Usually, there is a shirt, a tie, a pair of pants and a jacket. Suits are so basic that it may seem that only the most debonair of men can pull them off because you have to be born with the look. However, a great looking suit is not only for the professional athletes and high-powered executives of the world. When you know the essential rules to wearing a suit, you can make it look good with great ease.
The foundation of the look is the fit of the suit. If the pants sag or the jacket suffocates, the color, material and style are not going to save the look. Once you understand the difference between a men’s suit that fits well and one that does not, you will be able to spot the important details quickly. After all, the subtle details can have a dramatic effect on the overall appearance.
The Rules to a Proper Fit
When you try on a suit jacket, you want the shoulders to fit. This can be the most difficult part of a good fit and expensive to have it tailored. When you put the jacket on, lean up against the wall. You want to make sure that the jacket does not touch the wall before your shoulders. There will be no upper arm wrinkles or shoulder divots in a jacket that fits properly.
In a standing position, about a quarter of the shirt collar should be above the collar of the jacket. There should not be a gap between the shirt collar and the lapels. The top button of the jacket should be at the navel. The jacket should be snug, but leave room to put your hand inside when the top button is done. A pinched X shape is not a proper fit.
Only about half an inch of the shirt sleeve should be visible from under the jacket cuff. The length of the jacket should just pass the top curve of the buttocks and reach were it begins to curve inward.
The pants break will depend on personal preference. However, no break is a clean, modern look. A slight break is tailored without looking flashy. Medium is for the conservative gentleman. Full break is for the old school standout. Once you have a men’s suit in Dallas with a comfortable fit, you will have increased confidence.