How To Choose Your First Suit
Like many other firsts in your life, picking out your first suit is a milestone! It’s that moment where you step into the next phase of your life. For some, this may be the next step of your career, for others, a time when you are preparing for a significant event such as a wedding, graduation, or another formal occasion that marks a new beginning.
If you’ve ever stepped into a suit boutique, you know that the selection of colours, fits, and fabrics can be overwhelming.
Not to mention the question of accessories. Should you wear a pocket square or a waistcoat? Do you need cufflinks? Bow ties or a regular tie? It is easy to become discouraged and walk out with the first item you find, or worse - nothing at all!
Luckily, in this blog, we’ll delve into some helpful tips to keep in mind, when selecting your first suit.
1. Fit
If there is one aspect that can certainly make or break a suit's look, it is the fit. A poorly fitted suit is easy to spot and certainly spoils the entire look, as it will not flatter your physique.
As a general guide, your suit fit should feel snug, yet still leave you room to move around easily. It is typical for many men to accidentally choose a suit that is too big, after all, wearing a suit for the first time is quite an adjustment to sweats and t-shirts.
Here is a rough guide to determine the fit of your suit:
● Lapel: does it show the right amount of shirt and tie?
● Shoulders: does the jacket fit snugly, but still allow you to move your arms freely?
● Sleeves: does the jacket sleeve end right where your wrist meets your hands?
● Trousers: do the trousers end right where your ankle meets your foot?
The above is a rough guideline to help you avoid either being swallowed by your suit, or it being too tight that it creates pleats all over. Additionally, it is always recommended to allow the store assistant to help you and take your measurements, as many of them are well-trained in suit fittings.
2. Colour
When picking out your first suit, it is always recommended to pick a safe colour. One that can be mixed and matched to give you different looks.
Typically, navy and dark grey suits are great options! Both can be dressed up to fit formal occasions and dressed down for more casual settings.
These two options always work well with many colour schemes, lending you the versatility you need to be able to wear this suit many times.
3. Fabric
For your first suit, it is always advisable to play it safe with fabric and style. Try to look for something that will work for a number of events.
You wouldn’t want to invest in a linen suit and realise that you only had one event to wear it to. Wool is one of the most commonly used fabrics for suits due to its versatility. Furthermore, this material drapes really well, making it the ideal first choice when first buying a suit.
4. Accessories
While accessories are certainly not mandatory, it is a great way to establish your own personal flair.
A general guide is to try and stick to complementary colours. So, if you are going to wear a pocket square, ensure that the colour scheme matches your suit and shirt palette. Another good note for neatness is to ensure your footwear matches your belt. It does not have to be an exact match, but if you are wearing a brown belt, then wear brown footwear to bring it all in.
Experiment with cufflinks and a statement watch to truly elevate your look. If you are not much of a jewellery person, then you can wear an embellished shoe, such as our G.H.BASS Weejuns Ornament
Putting It All Together
Now that you have all the tips, you are ready to pick out your very first suit and reach a new milestone! Remember, focus on finding a suit that fits well, in a versatile colour and fabric like wool, and consider adding tasteful accessories to enhance your look.
Need help picking out timeless footwear to match? Browse our selection, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect pair to complement your look. Whether it’s for a job interview, a wedding, or any formal occasion, your first suit is an investment in your personal style and confidence.
Enjoy the process of selecting your suit and walk into this new chapter with style!
