These days, it can be daunting trying to navigate the wealth of information, sales techniques and options presented when looking for a suit shop. Internet shopping, fast fashion, different brands (new & old) and quantity vs quality are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to finding your next outfit.
In this article we outline what to look for in a suit, how to dissect the suit construction and how to shop for quality, this is outlined via the following points:
Shopping for suits on a budget shouldn’t bring your style down a peg or two. Suit-shop wisely, and you can pick up tailored quality for a stitch of the normal price. Read ahead on how to spot the little-known features that make for a quality and sharp-looking suit.
Fabric is probably the most critical part of a suit’s make-up. It has the tough task of retaining its breathability and softness, while also being hard-wearing enough to make it through countless events and office days. Some fabrics just aren’t up to scratch – we particularly recommend avoiding synthetic fibers like polyester. While initially looking passable, their propensity to retain heat often results in wrinkles after even a day’s wear. If you truly want a suit that will stick with you for years, check the tag and make sure it is a woolen fabric.
Additionally, synthetic fiber suits usually do not hold up to dry cleaning as well as natural materials as the heat involved in the process tends to warp the material. The quality of the suit’s inner construction is important as well; from lightweight canvas to soft shoulder pads, strong stitching to flat lining. Like anything, using cheap materials to construct a finished product will result in a shortened lifespan.
Looking further and past just the fabric to the components which make up the garment’s foundation will ensure you purchase a high-quality suit that will last over time.
One of the easiest characteristics of a good suit to pick out, high-quality stitching looks clean and robust. The stitching of the suit is like the foundations of a house – while it may be unnoticeable if you don’t look for it, it will lead to problems down the track if left unchecked.
Look for consistent stitching patterns, avoiding low-quality suits with irregular patterns. In particular, you should always check a suit’s lining. A suit lining should lay flat, so bulges are often a tell-tale sign of poor stitching. If done poorly, this lining will strip away through use of the suit.
Most – if not all – suits have buttons on the cuffs, but fully-functional buttons are a sign of a quality. Working buttons mean extra effort has been taken at the construction stage – a very good indication of pride in the tailoring, and thus a top-quality suit. This is usually a great option for tailor-made suiting.
It should be noted that when purchasing suits off-the-rack if the sleeve length is more than 2cm shorter or longer than you desire you will need to invest in a sleeve alteration through the shoulder of the jacket. This is a substantially more costly job and one of the reasons off-the-rack suits usually do not have fully functional buttoned cuffs.
Check that the suit lining lays flat. Poor stitching results in bulges and ripples that make for a sub-par suit, and stitching around the edges should be checked for consistency. If you commit to a suit regardless of this, expect the lining to strip away over time due to poor construction.
A well-fitted suit should allow free movement. Look for a jacket with some drape in the chest and a tapered waist – this will grant a masculine shape without restricting too much movement. If you don’t have that off the rack, it may warrant a visit to your local tailor for alterations. Since a jacket should fit as opposed to hang, a minor alteration will result in a more flattering shape (and won’t cost the world, either).
When it comes to your suit trousers, look for a comfortable fit in the thigh and a gentle taper toward the ankle. The waistband of a trouser can easily adjust to fit your shape, however, if the thighs are too tight there is very little seam allowance to let the material out.
FINAL REMARKS
A quality men’s suit can be hard to find and discovering a great suit shop where you feel comfortable spending your hard-earned money really boils down to an element of trust. Don’t be afraid to raise what you have learned about quality suiting from this article today with the staff in your local suit store; if they are trained correctly, they should be able to easily navigate you through you purchasing journey and make you look and feel your best.
Ready to experience the Black Jacket difference? Secure your private consultation today and enjoy a personalised fitting tailored to your style, occasion, and budget. Book online below or make an enquiry to begin your suiting journey with confidence.
Professional team of staff committed to creating the best customer experience. Highly trained and qualified to fit quality suiting in a wide range of fabrics and styles. The end result was exceptional. Thank you Ryan and staff you continue to deliver without exception.
We used BJS for our wedding and honestly couldn’t have been happier with the experience. From the very first appointment through to picking up the suits, the whole process was super easy for us – Exactly what we needed when planning a wedding!Dylan and the groomsmen looked amazing!Thank you Black Jacket Suiting !!
Ryan and his team were extremely friendly, professional, and really knew their stuff. They made the whole process easy and stress-free, and took the time to make sure everything fit perfectly. You can tell they genuinely care about quality and customer service. I have purchased 4 suits from Black Jacket.
The team here really knows their stuff. I walked in with no idea what I wanted colour wise for my wedding they help me put it all together. can’t wait for the wedding in September.
I’ve used Black Jacket Suiting a couple of times for myself and my teenage son. The experience has been excellent. The level of detail to get everything right, so we looked our best, was amazing. I would highly recommend the team at Black Jacket Suiting for any occasion, where you want to look your best!
The BJS team are superb. Super knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. They have made the suit prep for my wedding very easy.
Outstanding experience with exceptional service and attention to detail throughout the suit fitting. The fit was perfect, and I wouldn’t be happier with the quality and professionalism. The process was quick and easy and one week to return provides a lot more flexibility than other places.
We had such an amazing experience getting my fiance’s wedding suit here. We were given lots of different options and talked through the whole process, and the team made the this all completely stress free! Their attention to detail with tailoring, professionalism and genuine care really stood out, and my fiance’s suit and accessories looked absolutely incredible. We couldn’t have been happier with the final result!Highly recommend to anyone looking for quality suits and exceptional service, especially for weddings!
We were so impressed with Black Jacket Suiting. It was a wonderful experience. The team were welcoming, professional, incredibly helpful and attentive. They took the time to measure properly, and the alterations were done flawlessly. The suit fitted like a glove.The suits themselves were great quality, very comfortable, and looked fantastic in photos. The booking and delivery process took all the stress out of planning, and dropping the suits back afterwards was completely hassle-free. It is a one stop shop for all your formal needs. Highly recommend this business to anyone looking for formal wear!
I’ve bought a suit for my son here for formal events and hired suits for myself. First class service made it a really easy process for both my son and I to organise.
We specialise in wedding suits, business suits, school formal suits, tuxedos, and event formalwear, offering options for hire, ready-to-wear purchase, made-to-order, and custom tailoring. Our range is designed to suit every occasion, budget, and personal style.
Yes. Our showroom operates by appointment to ensure every client receives dedicated time with a stylist in a private setting. This allows us to provide a personalised, seamless suiting experience.
For suit hire, we recommend booking your fitting at least 7 days before your event. For Ready-to-Wear suits, allow for 2 weeks. For Made-to-Order suits, allow approximately 5 weeks, and for Custom Tailoring, allow >10 weeks, depending on fabric and design selection.
We provide a 7-day hire period at no extra charge, giving you flexibility before and after your event. Additional days can be arranged for a small daily fee if required.
We carry one of Australia’s most diverse ranges, including skinny, slim, classic, and big-man cuts, as well as short, regular, and long fittings to accommodate a wide range of body shapes.
Timings:
12pm-7pm
10am-4pm
Closed
