With a well-fitted suit comes confidence, poise, and respect— both from those you meet and from the person within the mirror. But even the best suits out there are pointless if they don’t fit you well— we’re not kidding you when we say you’d look better in a $100 suit from Target that fits you perfectly than in an $8,800 handmade silk suit from some designer on Rodeo Drive that’s just ill-fitting as a whole.
If you’re looking for the best suit for your body type, it’s imperative that you visit the local tailor. If that’s not doable under short notice, then take some expert advice before you buy yourself a new suit. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to buy a suit, depending on your body type.
Be Realistic About Your Body
It’s important to be realistic about your body type. The person wearing a properly fitting suit that matches their body type will always look better than the person wearing something they’re either trying to squeeze into or that they’re drowning in. It’s just a fact.
In order to find the best suit for your body type, you need to be honest with yourself about what shape you are. Are you pear-shaped? Apple-shaped? Do you have broad shoulders or a narrow waist? Knowing the answer to these questions will help guide you in choosing a suit that will actually fit and flatter your body.
If You’re Big and/or Tall
Bigger guys should opt for a suit with a good amount of room within the chest and shoulders to accommodate their frame, ensuring that the stomach area is fitted but not snug.
Now if you’re on the taller side, just confirm that your jacket and sleeves are the correct length. A suit that’s too long or short merely will only accentuate the fact that you’re tall (but not in the way that you want).
Finding a suit that fits for someone who’s both big and tall is all about paying extra attention to the small details and finding a specific cut that is neither oversized or too long. Sure, it might take some getting used to when it comes to wearing a fitted suit, but at the end of the day, you want something that fits you to perfection. You want things to fit trim but not tight, regardless of whether you have a broader frame or a belly.
Make sure to avoid narrow or slim lapels because they’ll end up looking out of proportion together with your build. Additionally, you’ll want your pants to strike the proper balance in fit. (Don’t forget to hem your pants if they’re too long, otherwise your entire look will come off sloppy.)
If You’re Muscular and Athletic
When you’re broader on top with wide and defined shoulders and a narrow waist, and even with that desirable V-shape, you’re likely to have a difficult time finding a suit that properly fits.
The standard suit set with a 10-or 8-inch drop between the jacket size and pants size most likely won’t work for you. Ideally, should look for suits that are sold as separates— meaning you’ll be able to purchase the jacket and pant sizes separately, ensuring the proper sizing.
Fit-wise, you’ll need to make sure that there’s enough room where you would like it but not so much that it’s like you’re wearing the incorrect size. Depending on what size you are, a slim-cut suit will likely work (as long as it’s not too tight)— otherwise you can search for suiting that maintains a slim cut but has adjustments, such as a slightly lower armhole and extra room in the chest area to accommodate your frame.
When it comes to your lapels, a medium to wide-width lapel will enhance your V-shape, whereas a nipped-in jacket waist will fit you without having to tailor so much.
When choosing your jacket, ensure that there’s enough room in the chest and shoulder areas, while avoiding extreme tightness around the biceps. Essentially, you’re going to want to maintain slim cut proportions with the pants while ensuring that the taper isn’t too tight— you’ll want to avoid looking top-heavy.
If You’re Slender
First off, you’re lucky. You can pretty much wear anything and look great in it— just make sure that the proportions are perfect. The jacket should cover your behind completely. Like with the other body types, you’ll want the proper balance— slim but not tight. Look for a slim cut that has higher armholes and narrower proportions. Many slim guys tend to buy their suits too big, and if this is you, try going down a suit size— the positive difference in appearance may surprise you.
Unless you’re poking out in weird places, sizing down will likely mean a better-proportioned fit. Slim-cut suits often have equally narrow lapels, which work well, but you’ll also choose a peak or wider lapel if you would like to offer your shoulders a touch of heft and broadness. Below the waist, you’ll want the pants trim and with a pleasant taper, any billowing is merely getting to accentuate your slimness.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to choose a suit for your body type, it’s time to start shopping!
We hope this helped to give you a better idea of the type of suit that is best for you. If you have any further questions, please contact us! At San Suit Outlet, we can help you choose the right suit for your body type.