A guide on how to choose a business suit
"You never get a second chance to make a first impression". It's an old adage because it is undeniably true. It is therefore imperative that to succeed in business it makes sense to wear great looking business suits.
Ulysses S. Grant & Li Hung Chang 1874
Below are our 4 top tips to help you choose the perfect business suit:
Choosing the perfect business suit – tip 1 The style of the Cloth
The cloth dictates more than anything else the overall 'look' of a business suit, and it very much depends on your style whether you opt for solid colors, pin-stripes, checks, herringbones or other patterns. But always take care to consider your environment. Just because you are a very outgoing person that doesn't necessarily mean that a loud, audacious suit is going to reflect well in the business world. Similarly, there are many industries (such as advertising and the media) where a conservative suit will make you look stuffy and out of touch. At De Oost Bespoke Tailoring we take the time to talk to our clients about the role the business suit has to play in their working life, so that the cloth compliments that role completely.
Choosing the perfect business suit – tip 2 The Practicality of the cloth
In general business suits need to be the 'toughest' suit in your wardrobe. City life, travel and commuting is very hard on suits - whether it's running for a cab or sitting on a park bench they are susceptible to considerable wear and tear. The general rule of thumb is that the heavier the cloth the more hardwearing it is (although we offer exceptions if you prefer). Also, the medium to heavy cloths will hold their shape throughout the day, so you're looking as crisp in the evening as you did first thing.
Choosing the perfect business suit – tip 3 The cut / style options
Some cuts and style options are too casual for a business suit, and it is important to know that your choices are appropriate. We recommend 2 or 3 button jackets, depending on your shape (and taste), and style options can range from the ultra modern (such as contrast stitching on the boutonniere) to the very traditional (such as pleated trousers and side adjusters). The wrong combinations of options can make the suit look strange – so be careful!
Choosing the perfect business suit – tip 4 The fit
We know from experience that when a customer puts on a perfectly fitted suit it can change everything. Their whole demeanor can improve - they become more confident and feel more powerful and respected. To wear bespoke is to join the ranks of the most successful business people in history and while it would be absurd to attribute their prowess to their pin-stripes, there is no doubt that if you look the part you feel the part. The fit of a business suit is absolutely vital. At De Oost Bespoke Tailoring we take up to 30 measurements to ensure accuracy, and we offer a fit guarantee – we won't let you take your suit away until you are entirely happy with it.
