Myer Autumn Winter 2012

Before you start trying anything on, do your research.

Consider:

what type of suit you like most
what brands you identify with
what a tailor can and can't do
whether you want something fashion-forward or classic
how often you think you'll be wearing it

With pre-prepared answers you'll make a far more informed decision and a quicker shopping trip.

Next: Have a good look around

Utilise the help of the Myer team in store and have them point you in the right direction. Ensure you know all of the options there are. Check the number of buttons, the different types of lapels, the colours, the patterns and brands. Take your favourite selection of styles to the change room and see what looks best on you.

Previous: Do your research
Next: Buttons

Two-buttons is the standard for most modern suit jackets. Make sure you leave the second one undone for greater mobility.

Three-buttoned suits were very fashionable in the 90s and are only now beginning to make a come back. Try buttoning only the middle button for a casual look.

One-buttoned suits are very fashion-forward and a departure from the classic suit, but will make any man stand out in a crowd. If you're looking to make a statement, give it a try.

Previous: Have a good look around
Next: Shoulders

Feel like you’ve got the weight of the world on your shoulders? Don’t let it show. The wrong shoulders on your jacket can make it look too big and weigh you down, when it actually fits you fine. Make sure the shoulder pads end where your shoulder bone ends for a neat and tidy fit.

Previous: Buttons
Next: Lapels

The standard notched lapel is the most common style on suit jackets. You’ll know it by the appearance of a small cut out triangle at the height of your chest. This is the standard on single-breasted suits and is used on nearly all suit jackets, blazers and sports jackets.

The 1920’s inspired peaked lapel is the most formal, featuring on double-breasted jackets and always found on formal coats such as a tailcoat and dinner jacket. This look is making its comeback.

The shawl lapel is when the lapel is on a continuous curve. It began as an informal eveningwear addition, but today is seen in both formal and informal suit styles.

Previous: Shoulders
Next: Focus on details

It’s all in the detailing. When you’re looking at a stylish new suit, you need to consider the lining, the fabric, the quality of the buttons and the stitch-work. A suit with high-quality detailing will likely have a better cut and last a lot longer. For an investment suit, one you want to have around for a long time, you need to take the finer details into consideration.

Previous: Lapels
Next: Understand what a tailor can do for you

Tricks of the tailor trade
Sometimes a suit may need to be tailored, but just remember that they can’t fix everything.

A tailor will be able to:

adjust the length of your trousers
adjust the width of your waist
adjust the length of your sleeves
adjust the seam at the rear of the jacket

Although keep in mind, if you need anything adjusted more than an inch, it’s probably too much. If your jacket need adjustment, you may consider trying another size instead of having it altered.

Previous: Focus on the details