A well fitting suit is a timeless wardrobe staple, whether you're preparing for a wedding, a job interview or a special event.
But finding the perfect suit can often feel like a daunting task, do you go for a tailored, custom made option or choose a ready made suit off the rack?
Both paths have their advantages, but understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make an informed decision.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how to find the perfect suit, whether you opt for a shop bought suit or a tailored masterpiece.
Understand Your Body Type and Style Preferences
Before diving into the world of suits, it's essential to assess your body type and personal style preferences.
Whether you choose a pre-made suit or opt for a tailored one, the right suit should complement your frame and make you feel confident.
Body Type: Consider your height, build and proportions. Are you slim, broad shouldered, tall or shorter? These factors will influence the cut and fit of the suit. For example, a slim-fit suit works well for leaner individuals, while a more relaxed cut may be better suited to those with a broader build.
Style Preferences: Do you prefer classic, modern or fashion forward styles? A tailored suit allows for more personalisation, while ready-made suits often adhere to established trends and fits. Think about whether you want a timeless, conservative look or a contemporary edge with slim cuts and bold lapels.
Shop bought Suits: Quick and Convenient
For many, an off the peg suit offers convenience and affordability without sacrificing style.
Here's what you need to know about buying a suit off the rack:
Variety of Choices: Ready made suits come in various styles, colours and materials. From classic wool suits to lightweight summer fabrics like linen or cotton, you're sure to find a range of options in different price points. Most stores will offer a variety of colours, from traditional navy and grey to bolder options like charcoal or black.
Off the Rack Fit: The biggest advantage of buying a ready made suit is the speed and convenience. You can walk into a store, try on a few options and walk out with a suit. However, ready made suits are produced in standard sizes and while they may fit well for many, they may not be perfect for every body type. It’s important to understand that off the rack suits often need alterations to achieve the ideal fit, especially in the jacket sleeves, waist and trouser length.
Cost: Off the peg suits are often more affordable than custom made suits. While prices can vary based on the fabric and brand, they tend to be more budget friendly, making them an appealing option for those who don’t want to break the bank.
Alterations: Most off the peg suits will require some degree of tailoring to achieve a perfect fit. Whether it’s hemming the trousers or adjusting the jacket’s shoulders or waist, alterations can make a significant difference in how the suit fits and feels. Make sure to budget for tailoring when buying a ready made suit.
Tailored Suits: Precision and Personalisation
If you're looking for a suit that fits you perfectly and reflects your personal style, a tailored suit is an excellent investment. While it requires more time and often a higher budget, a tailored suit offers several key benefits:
Perfect Fit: The primary advantage of a tailored suit is that it’s made to fit your exact measurements. A skilled tailor will take detailed measurements of your chest, waist, inseam and other key areas, ensuring that every part of the suit fits like a glove. This means the jacket, trousers and sleeves will be customised to suit your proportions, giving you a sharp, clean look.
Customisation: With a tailored suit, you can choose everything from the fabric to the lapel style and lining colour. This level of personalisation allows you to create a suit that truly reflects your personality and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a modern slim fit or a more traditional cut, a tailor can bring your vision to life.
Quality: Custom made suits are often constructed with higher quality fabrics and craftsmanship. Many tailors offer a range of luxury fabrics like high end wool, silk blends or even cashmere, which ensures that your suit not only fits well but also feels comfortable and looks exceptional.
Time Investment: One of the biggest drawbacks of opting for a tailored suit is the time commitment. From the initial fitting to the final adjustments, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months to complete your suit. It's important to plan ahead and give your tailor enough time to create a perfect piece.
Cost: Tailored suits are typically more expensive than off the rack options due to the level of craftsmanship and the use of premium materials. Custom made suits can cost several hundred to several thousand of pounds, depending on the fabric, brand and the tailor’s experience. However, the investment is worth it if you're looking for a suit that will last for years and provide a flawless fit.
How to Make the Right Decision: Tailored vs. Shop bought
When deciding between an off the peg suit and a tailored option, consider the following factors:
Budget: If you're on a tight budget, a ready made suit is a good option, especially if you’re willing to spend a little extra on alterations. However, if you have the budget for it, a tailored suit offers the perfect fit and personalisation.
Time: Need a suit quickly? An off the peg suit is your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re planning for a special occasion (like a wedding) or have the luxury of time, a tailored suit will provide a more refined and unique fit.
Occasion: For formal events like weddings or business functions where you want to make a lasting impression, a tailored suit is ideal. If it’s for something less formal, like a casual meeting or a night out, a shop bought suit may suffice.
Long Term Investment: While a tailored suit might be pricier upfront, it will last longer and feel more comfortable. If you attend events regularly or need a suit for work, investing in a tailored suit is a wise choice.
Finding Your Perfect Suit
Ultimately, the perfect suit comes down to your individual needs and preferences.
An off the peg suit offers convenience and affordability but may require alterations to achieve the best fit.
A tailored suit, on the other hand, provides unmatched personalisation and a flawless fit but requires more time and money.
No matter which route you take, the key to a great suit is ensuring it fits you well.
Whether it’s ready made or custom made, a suit that fits properly will make you feel more confident and polished.
When in doubt, always consult with a professional tailor, they can help guide you toward the best option based on your body type, style and needs.
Happy suit shopping and here's to finding the perfect one for you!
Please take the opportunity to explore the Suit services included in our supplier list at The UK Wedding Collective - Hardman & Hemming
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