Things people don’t tell you when buying a Suit
While people buy suits all the time, many people aren’t aware of the different things they should be knowing before buying them. However, for those that have an idea what to look for when buying a suit, many are kept in oblivion purposefully, in parallel. Here are some things that people might not tell you when buying a suit but we do. Depending on which store or tailors you deal with, some are deliberately undisclosed and some aren’t.
Fit is more important than brand!
The fit of a suit is key, and even the most expensive suit can look cheap if it doesn't fit properly. A well-fitted suit will always look better than a designer one that doesn't fit properly. It's important to find a suit that fits your body well, so be prepared to try on a variety of styles and sizes. Make sure you try on several different suits and pay attention to how they feel and fit on your body.
A suit's fit is more important than its brand because a well-fitting suit looks good on anyone, whereas an ill-fitting suit can make even the most expensive brand look cheap. A good fit can enhance the wearer's appearance and create a flattering silhouette, while an ill-fitting suit can be uncomfortable, unflattering, and detract from the wearer's overall look. A good fit means the suit is comfortable to wear, moves with the body, and doesn't create wrinkles or bulges in the wrong places. A suit that is too big or too small can look sloppy and detract from the wearer's professional appearance. In contrast, a suit that fits well can give the wearer confidence and make them look sharp, polished, and put-together.
While a high-end brand can indicate a certain level of quality and craftsmanship, it's the fit that really determines how a suit will look and feel. For this reason, it's often recommended to invest in a well-fitting, mid-range brand rather than a poorly fitting, high-end brand.
Not all suits are created equal!
Not all suits are created equally because there are many factors that can impact the quality, design, and overall appearance of a suit. Different fabrics and construction methods will impact the feel and longevity of a suit. Consider factors like breathability, drape, and wrinkle resistance when choosing a suit fabric. Here are some factors that help illustrate why:
Materials: The quality and type of material used in a suit can greatly impact its appearance and durability. High-end suits are typically made with fine, high-quality fabrics like wool, cashmere, or silk, while lower-end suits may be made with synthetic materials that don't look or feel as good.
Construction: The way a suit is constructed can also impact its quality and appearance. High-end suits are typically made using traditional tailoring techniques, such as hand-stitching, that result in a more precise and durable fit. Lower-end suits, on the other hand, may be mass-produced using machine stitching, which can result in a less precise fit and a lower-quality appearance.
Design: Suits can vary greatly in terms of design, from classic, timeless styles to more contemporary, trend-driven looks. Some designs are more versatile and can be worn for many different occasions, while others are more specialized and suited to specific events or environments.
The color can change: Different lighting can affect the appearance of the color of a suit, so it's important to try on suits in different lighting conditions.
The material can shrink: Some materials, such as wool, can shrink after being cleaned, so it's important to have a suit that is not too tight.
The buttons can come off: Buttons can come off, so it's important to make sure they are securely sewn on and to have a few extra buttons on hand in case they do come off.
Brand reputation: Some brands have a reputation for producing high-quality, well-designed suits, while others are known for producing lower-end, less stylish options. The reputation of a brand can impact the perceived value of its products and influence consumer behavior.
Price: Finally, the price of a suit can also indicate its quality, as higher-end suits typically cost more due to the use of finer materials and more skilled craftsmanship.
Ultimately, not all suits are created equally because there is a wide range of factors that can impact their quality, design, and overall appearance. When shopping for a suit, it's important to consider these factors and choose a suit that meets your needs and fits your budget.
Other notable undisclosed must-know facts
The jacket and pants don't always come in the same size: It's common for the jacket and pants of a suit to come in different sizes, so don't be surprised if you need to buy them separately.
Dry cleaning can be expensive: Many suits need to be dry cleaned, which can be expensive, so be prepared to factor that cost into your budget.
Different occasions call for different styles: There are different styles of suits for different occasions, such as business suits, formalwear, and casual suits, so be sure to choose the right style for your needs.
Get a second opinion: Take a trusted friend or family member with you when you shop for a suit. They can give you an honest assessment of how the suit looks on you and help you make the best choice. Better yet, when making a custom-made suit, consult and speak freely with your tailor or designer.
Don't overlook accessories: A well-chosen tie, pocket square, and dress shoes can make all the difference when it comes to pulling off a polished, put-together look. You can read this blog to get more details about accessories for suits.
Be mindful of care and maintenance: Regular cleaning and pressing can help your suit maintain its shape and appearance over time. Consider investing in a good quality suit bag to protect your suit from dust and moisture.
Tailoring is often necessary: Even if you find a suit that fits well off the rack, you may still need to have it altered to get the perfect fit. Suits are often sold with a standard length and fit, but most people need some tailoring to get the best fit. This can include alterations to the jacket’s sleeves, chest, waist, etc.; and the waist, hips and length of the pants. While altering standard off-the-peg clothes may seem like a feasible option, it always isn’t true as it distorts the cut and way the suit was designed and made. Sometimes, altering a readymade suit can almost cost as much as getting a custom-made one. Getting a tailor-made suit with trusted tailors is your sureshot to avoid these hidden costs that can sum up to a heavy price-tag.
Consider your budget: Suits can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Determine how much you're willing to spend before you start shopping and look for suits that fit within your budget.
Albert & Ace International Bespoke Clothiers has been in business for more than 50 years, providing useful insights and straightforward styling advice to customers, ensuring that each client gets an edge over creating a lasting impression by consistently creating value for them through personalized quality tailored apparels using premium materials, refined techniques and uncompromising workmanship.
With 5 decades of experience and clients in more than 55 countries, Albert & Ace International is a trusted partner of a global collection of signature styles and fine fabrics for custom-made suits, shirts and coats, carefully curated for you, showcased and measured within the comfort of your home or office. Their USP is based on their proprietary 4Fs: Fit, Function, Feel & Freedom, unlike their competitors that mainly focus on the "fit" aspect of bespoke clothing.
To book an appointment, visit albertandace.com or email Ace here.