Buying a suit for work can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with what to look for. A well-fitting suit can make all the difference in your professional appearance, but it’s easy to make mistakes that lead to a less-than-flattering look. Here are 12 common mistakes to avoid when buying a suit for work.
1. Ignoring the Fit
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is purchasing a suit that doesn’t fit properly. Suits are meant to be tailored and fit nicely to your body. Even the most expensive suit will look sloppy if it’s too loose or too tight. Always prioritize fit, and consider having your suit tailored to complement your body perfectly.
2. Skimping on Quality
Suits aren’t cheap, and while saving money on a cheaper suit might be tempting, low-quality fabrics and construction will be noticeable. Cheap fabrics can pill, tear, and wear quicker than good-quality natural fibers. Investing in a high-quality suit made from wool or a wool blend will not only look better but will also last longer.
3. Choosing the Wrong Color
A suit is an investment; you want to have it on hand for years to come. This is why opting for a suit in bright or trendy colors is a big no-no. Not only does this mean that your suit won’t be as versatile as a neutral-colored suit, but it may not be appropriate for a professional setting. Stick to classic colors like navy, gray, or black, which are versatile and convey a polished, professional image.
4. Overlooking the Fabric
You might not think that what fabric your suit is made from matters all that much, but in actuality, the fabric of your suit matters more than you know. Lightweight fabrics like linen may wrinkle easily, making you look unkempt. Similarly, manufactured fibers could make you sweat and cause your suit to wear faster than one made from natural fibers. Opt for fabrics like wool or a wool blend for a durable and professional suit.
5. Neglecting Shoulder Fit
The shoulders of your suit jacket are the easiest indication of whether a suit is cheap or not. The jacket shoulders should fit perfectly; they are the foundation of the suit’s structure. Shoulders that are too tight or too droopy can ruin the entire look, so ensure the jacket fits well in this area to look professional and suave.
6. Choosing the Wrong Jacket Length
The length of your jacket is another important factor you can’t neglect when shopping for a new suit. A jacket that is too long or too short can throw off your proportions. The jacket should cover your buttocks without extending too far past them. A well-proportioned jacket will enhance your overall silhouette and make your ensemble look put-together.
7. Ignoring Sleeve Length
The wrong sleeve length is a surefire way to make your suit look cheap and tacky. Ensuring your sleeve length is right is crucial for a polished look. The sleeves should end at your wrist bone, allowing about half an inch of your shirt cuff to show. Sleeves that are too long or too short can make the suit look ill-fitting. A good way to check this is to extend your arms forward and see how far the jacket cuffs rise on your arms.
8. Going Too Tight on the Waist
A suit that’s too tight around the waist can be uncomfortable and unflattering. While you don’t want your suit to look oversized, you also don’t want to throw off your proportions with a suit that’s too tight. Ensure there’s enough room to move comfortably and the jacket button doesn’t pull or strain when fastened.
9. Forgetting About Vent Styles
Suits come with different vent styles—single, double, or none. It’s a subtle feature that says a lot about your suit and fashion choices. A double-vented jacket is often the best choice for work as it allows for better movement and provides a more tailored appearance. A suit jacket with no vent may not be the best choice for when you’re on the go, as your movement is likely to be restricted.
10. Overlooking the Pant Fit
While the fit of your jacket is important, don’t forget about the fit of your pants either. They should sit comfortably at your waist without being too tight or too loose. The length of your suit trousers should also be just right, with a slight break where they meet your shoes. Anything longer than that can look sloppy and cheap.
11. Not Considering Your Shoes
Even if your suit is perfect, your shoes are just as important. In fact, your shoes can make or break your suit. Pair your suit with polished, well-maintained dress shoes in a color that complements your suit to look your best-dressed self. Avoid casual shoes, extreme heights, and overly worn footwear, which can cheapen your whole look and draw unwanted attention to your feet.
12. Neglecting to Update Your Suit Style
Just like dresses, skirts, hats, and accessories, suits can go out of style, too. If you’ve worn the same suit for years, it might be time for an update. Modern suits often feature slimmer cuts and more refined details, giving you a contemporary, confident look. The best fashion advice for suits is to opt for a timeless style that won’t date quickly or require updating within months or years.