Whether you’re stepping into the corporate world for the first time or updating your professional wardrobe, investing in a perfect made to measure work suit or business suit is essential. A well-fitted custom made suit not only enhances your appearance but also boosts your confidence and leaves a lasting impression on clients, colleagues, and superiors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when buying the ideal work suit, that is practical, sharp, well fitted and long lasting.
Before you hit the stores, define the purpose of the suit. Consider the typical dress code of your workplace, the industries you interact with, and the occasions you may need to attend. Typically in the Law/Finance world of London dark navy, gray or charcoal suits are the most appropriate with very little or no visible stripe or check.
The fit is the most crucial aspect of a perfect work suit. An ill-fitted suit can ruin even the most expensive fabric and design. When getting fitted for a custom made work suit three key elements need to be considered: comfort, appropriateness and personal preference. One of the main points of getting a custom work suit is so that it is perfectly tailored to your body, providing a clean look as well as being very comfortable through long work days.
Selecting the Right Fabric:
Choosing the right fabric is pivotal for both comfort and style. For most professional settings, wool is an excellent choice as it is breathable, drapes well, and resists wrinkles. Look for Super 100s to 130s as this wool will be fine enough without being too fine, anything over Super 130s typically wears quite quickly and isn’t practical for a day to day work suit. Wool blends are also worth considering, especially for added durability and ease of maintenance, we only recommend natural fibers for suits so the mohair blend is our recommendation for a work suit. Additionally, consider the weight of the fabric, opting for lighter fabrics for warmer climates and heavier ones for cooler weather. A minimum of 250g/sm and a maximum of 400g/sm is recommended.
Picking the Appropriate Style:
The classic single-breasted, two-button tailor made suit is a safe bet for business settings. However, depending on your body type and personal style, you might explore various lapel styles, such as notched or peaked lapels. LMtMSR recommends double vents at the back for the cleanest look. Experiment, but remember to maintain a professional look that aligns with your workplace culture.
Pay Attention to Details:
The devil is in the details, they say, and this holds true for work suits. Look for suits with functional buttons on the sleeves, as this indicates a higher quality suit. Check the stitching for precision and consistency. A well-constructed bespoke suit will have clean, even seams. Assess the lining material, and opt for breathable ones to avoid discomfort during hot days.
Construction:
A “full canvas” construction for a custom work suit is almost a must as it provides durability, flexibility and superior drape compared to “half canvassed” and “fused” constructions. You can read more about suit construction here as well as a helpful guide to london tailors here.
Budget Wisely:
A perfect MTM work suit doesn’t necessarily have to be the most expensive one. It’s about finding the right balance between quality and cost. Set a budget that allows you to purchase a suit made from quality materials and skilled craftsmanship without breaking the bank. LMtMSR recommends spending £800-1000 for a durable, professional looking working suit; it is always better to invest in construction rather than fabric! A guide to London tailor can be found here Remember that a well-maintained suit will last longer, so it’s an investment in your professional image.
Conclusion:
Choosing the perfect work suit or business suit involves careful consideration of the fit, fabric, style, construction and details. It’s an investment in your professional image and can boost your confidence in any business setting. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to owning a work suit that not only fits you like a glove but also makes a lasting impression on your colleagues and clients, ultimately enhancing your career prospects.