How to Properly Wear a Suit

1. The Power of a Perfect Fit

Let’s start with the most important rule when wearing a suit: fit is king. No matter how expensive your suit is, if it doesn’t fit properly, it won’t look good. Tailoring is key. You can walk into a store and buy a suit off the rack, but that suit won’t feel like it was made for you unless you get it adjusted.

What to look for in a well-fitted suit:

• Shoulders: The seams should sit directly where your shoulder ends. If the seams hang over your shoulder or sit too high, the jacket won’t drape properly.
• Jacket Length: A classic rule is that your suit jacket should cover your buttocks or fall just below the middle of your hand when your arms are resting at your side.
• Sleeve Length: Your shirt cuff should be visible under your jacket sleeve—about 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
• Trouser Length: This is another critical aspect. The pants should have a slight break where they meet your shoes, but not bunch up excessively.

2. Buttoning Rules: A Small Detail with Big Impact

A seemingly simple part of wearing a suit, buttoning is where many go wrong. Let’s break down the rules:

• Single-Breasted Suits:
  • If your suit has one button, fasten it when standing and unfasten it when sitting.
  • If your suit has two buttons, fasten the top one only.
  • For three buttons, fasten the middle one, and you have the option to fasten the top one (but never the bottom).
• Double-Breasted Suits: Always keep the jacket buttoned while standing. Unbutton when sitting down for comfort and to maintain the shape of the jacket.

Following these rules may seem minor, but it keeps the suit's silhouette clean and stylish.

3. Shirt and Tie Coordination

Wearing a suit means you need to coordinate your shirt and tie properly. Here’s how:

• Color: Keep it simple. A white shirt is always a safe choice. For a bit of contrast, a light blue shirt works well too. Dark-colored shirts are generally best avoided unless you're going for a specific look.
• Pattern Matching: If your suit has patterns, stick to a solid shirt and subtle tie to avoid clashing. On the other hand, if your suit is solid, feel free to mix in patterned ties or shirts.
• Tie Width and Length: Your tie should reach your belt buckle and the width should roughly match the width of your suit lapels.

4. Accessories: Less is More

The right accessories can elevate your look without overwhelming it. Here's a guide to the essentials:

• Pocket Squares: A well-folded pocket square adds a touch of personality to your look. Stick to a simple fold if you're unsure.
• Cufflinks: They aren't necessary for every suit, but if your shirt allows for them, cufflinks add a refined touch.
• Tie Bars: Tie bars should never be wider than your tie. Position it between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt.

5. Shoe Game Matters

No suit is complete without the right shoes. The choice of footwear can make or break your overall look. A few things to consider:

• Oxfords or Brogues: These are classic, formal shoes that work well with almost any suit.
• Loafers: Great for more casual suit wear or warmer weather.
• Color: Black shoes are the most formal, but brown shoes add a stylish contrast when worn with navy or grey suits.

Make sure your shoes are well-polished and in good condition to complement the crispness of your suit.

6. Pay Attention to the Details

Don’t overlook these final touches:

• Socks: Always match your socks to your trousers, not your shoes. Avoid flashy patterns unless you're confident in pulling it off.
• Belts: The belt should match the color of your shoes and be slim enough not to draw too much attention.
• Lapels and Lapel Pins: Peak lapels are more formal, while notch lapels are more versatile. If you want to wear a lapel pin, keep it subtle.

7. Common Suit Mistakes to Avoid

Some common pitfalls can instantly ruin your look:

• Wearing a suit that’s too big or small: This is a surefire way to look sloppy.
• Clashing colors: Make sure your suit, shirt, tie, and shoes complement each other.
• Wearing mismatched socks or an ill-fitting tie: These are small details that can make a huge difference.

8. When to Break the Rules

As with all fashion rules, sometimes it’s okay to break them—but only if you’re confident. For example, pairing sneakers with a suit can look edgy if done right. Mixing and matching different styles of suits and trousers can also work if you’re going for a more relaxed vibe.

9. How to Care for Your Suit

To keep your suit in top condition, follow these care tips:

• Dry Clean Sparingly: Only dry clean your suit when absolutely necessary to avoid wearing out the fabric.
• Use a Steamer: To get rid of wrinkles, a steamer works wonders without the harsh chemicals.
• Store Properly: Always hang your suit on a wide-shouldered hanger to maintain its shape.

10. The Psychology of Wearing a Suit

A well-worn suit isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling confident. Wearing a suit can impact how others perceive you and how you perceive yourself. Studies have shown that people tend to feel more powerful and perform better in tasks when they’re dressed well.

There’s a reason why the phrase "dress for success" exists: it works.

Conclusion

Wearing a suit properly requires attention to detail, from the fit to the accessories. By mastering these basics, you can ensure that you not only look great but also feel confident in any situation. Whether it's for a formal event, a business meeting, or just to elevate your everyday look, following these guidelines will help you wear a suit with style and sophistication.