A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Custom-Tailored Suit for Your Body Shape
There are different types of body shapes. Tall and slim. Tall and chubby. Short. Egg-shaped. Triangle-shaped. Inverted triangle-shaped. Box-shaped. Long legs with a shorter torso, or vice versa. Knowing your body shape will help you and your tailor to create for you the perfect custom-tailored suit.
The most common mistake many people make is ordering a custom-tailored suit they saw another person rocking. They make the order down to the color, style, and accessories. However, that's not the way it should be. You can borrow inspiration from others, then use them to custom-tailor a suit that fits your body shape.
When choosing the perfect custom-tailored suit for your body shape, there are three things to take into consideration; fit, fabric, and style.
Fit
Whether you’re looking to make a statement at your next formal event or want to look your best every day, a custom-tailored suit should do two things. One, fit your body shape. Two, your body shape to perfection. And three, fit your body shape perfectly. And then some.
No matter how expensive the fabric is, nor how timeless the style, if the fit is off or ill-fitting, it will seem like you did not put any thought into it. A custom-tailored suit that fits you will make you look well put together and supremely confident.
The thing with a suit that doesn't fit is that - whether it is custom-tailored or off-the-rack - you don't want fashion cops to ask: "Is this suit his, or did he borrow it?" "Did he look in the mirror before he left his house?" "Who let him leave his house looking like that?"
Hell, yeah. We're all fashion cops. I know you've also asked yourself the above questions when you saw someone wearing something that looked comical or corny. Ideally, if people ask you about your custom-tailored suit, it should be: "Where can I get a suit like that?"
For some people, nailing the correct fit can be a little challenging. Here's the thing. You'll never go wrong with a timeless fit that has sleek lines. With a timeless fit, I mean, have you ever watched decades-old black-and-white pictures or videos of men dressed in suits and thought to yourself how classy they looked? That's the kind of emotion a timeless fit should evoke.
A timeless fit goes beyond fashions and fads. A timeless fit will be in every season. A timeless fit has taste embroidered in its DNA. And taste transcends time. If, like the men in black and white pictures, you can travel back and forth in time and be sleek and stylish every single time, you will have checked the box of timelessness.
If you are unsure about fit, ask your tailor to guide you. But the best place to start is to know your body shape. If you have this fact at your fingertips, it will help you make better decisions concerning the fit of your custom-tailored suit. Although your tailor may be well-versed in making bespoke suits, you are the wearer, and you should be involved in making the final decisions.
Fit involves a broad spectrum of things, from the shape of your shoulders to the length of your pants legs and length of the arms. Fit also covers how the suit will look when it is buttoned and unbuttoned and how the pants legs will look when seated.
The other thing you should consider when choosing the perfect custom-tailored suit for your body shape is changes in your body shape. As humans, our weights go through different changes due to such things as illnesses or lifestyle changes. If, for instance, you lose or gain weight, how will your suit fit? Please talk with your tailor about this and let them advise you on what may happen in such circumstances.
Fabric
A custom-tailored suit is not only all about the fit. The fabric used, too, plays a significant role in determining how your suit will look and how it will feel. But first, let's debunk two myths. One is the myth that fabric is just fabric. And the other myth is that the more expensive a fabric is, the better a custom-tailored suit will be.
Fabric is not just fabric. Different fabrics have different properties, such as texture and patterns. So it’s essential to pick one that works with your body shape and the style of your custom-tailored suit. If you are unsure how to proceed, ask your tailor for guidance.
A pricey fabric will not necessarily translate into a pricey-looking suit. That's why, when it comes to fabric and cost, you don't have to break the bank. There are plenty of fabrics available out there that are both affordable and of good quality.
When it comes to fabric - (and this applies to style as well) - don't try to keep up with the Joneses. You can get inspiration from others but don't get carried away. Go for the fabric that will work best for your body shape and personal style. For example, if you’re heavier set, a linen-blend or wool-blend fabric can help create a slim silhouette.
The other thing to consider is climatic conditions. Generally, lightweight and breathable fabrics are an excellent option for those who sweat easily or live in warmer climates. On the other hand, opting for wool or tweed fabrics is usually better for those who live in cooler climates, as they tend to provide more insulation.
When choosing fabric, you also need to consider wear and tear. Because you have spent a pretty penny on your suit, you should also factor in the maintenance cost. I know. That seems like such a small thing, but it's not. If you want your suit to serve you well for a long time, you must treat it well. How many times will you be wearing your custom-tailored suit? Will it be your "daily driver" or will it be for special occasions?
The other aspect of fabric that you need to consider is your suit's lining. Though the lining is hidden from public view, it plays a vital role in how your suit looks and how the suit flatters your body. People may sometimes have "snippets" of the lining, for instance, when the coat is unbuttoned. The lining should complement the suit and should seem like an afterthought.
Style
When it comes to style, the golden rule is that fads come and go, but a timeless style is here to stay. Because you are spending a lot of money on your custom-tailored suit, it will be best to choose a style that will serve you for many years. Avoid at all costs what's gaudy and go for a style that looks like gold.
Colors and patterns are aspects of style that you should keep in mind. Just as fabric is not just fabric, color is not just color. Let's take navy blue, for example. It can be a deep, rich navy, or it can be a lighter version. So when selecting your custom-tailored suit, please consider the color that works best with your skin tone and the occasion you intend to wear it to.
Pinstripes or broad stripes? The decision between pinstripes or broad stripes is ultimately a personal one. If you're looking to make an impact, pinstripes are the way to go. They are sleek and sophisticated yet subtle enough not to overpower other clothing items. On the other hand, if you want something more subdued, broad stripes provide just that. They add texture to any look without going overboard.
Slim-fit suits are perfect for someone with a slimmer body type, while regular fits are better suited for more muscular figures. Whatever you decide, ensure that you can button your suit without it seeming like the buttons are about to fly out. Also, to make sure the suit fits, try tying your shoes with the suit buttoned. If you struggle to accomplish that simple exercise, the suit may be too tight for your body shape.
You will never put a foot wrong with a timeless suit. If you have to have just one or two suits in your closet, go for classic two-button styles. These suits are timeless and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
However, if you’re feeling a little daring, try a three-piece suit with a vest and trousers for a modern, stylish look. If well-tailored and excellently accessorized, a double-breasted suit can make slim men with flat tummies look classy and timeless.
If you can hit two birds - style and substance - with one custom-tailored suit, you can smile all the way to any occasion in your suit.
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