The number one tool almost all men can stock in their style repertoire is the suit. It’s versatile, flattering, and virtually always appropriate. Unfortunately, I don’t think most men share my opinion. I think for most guys, the suit is intimidating, excessive, and suitable (pun intended) only for weddings and funerals. I’m here to tell you that couldn’t be further from the truth. A suit can range from casual to formal; it’s all about how you style it. Today I’m going to break down five misconceptions about men’s suits.
1. They’re Uncomfortable
A suit is certainly stiffer when you first buy it due to the canvassing (half or full) inside. This canvassing adds structure helping the suit hold its shape. Think of it like a new pair of jeans. A new suit needs to be broken in. Over time the canvas will mold to your body, and the suit will look even better. The more you wear it, the better it will look.
2. They’re Expensive
Expensive is a relative term, of course. What’s cheap to one person may be unaffordable to another. However, a few lower cost producers of men’s suits have splashed onto the scene over the past decade or so. Two of my favorites are Suitsupply and Spier & Mackay. I think they both provide suits made with excellent materials and wonderful styling for a relatively inexpensive price. Another great option is looking for a Brooks Brothers suit on sale. I personally think their suits are worth the full price tag, but getting one on sale is even better!
Suit: Spier & Mackay // Shirt: Brooks Brothers
Tie: Suitsupply // Socks: Corgi // Shoes: Meermin
3. They’re Too Formal
Certainly men’s suits are more formal than jeans and a t-shirt, but they can be worn more casually in so many ways. Think of a suit like a blank canvas, and all the little details determine the final look. Shoulder structure (or lack thereof), pocket style (jetted, flap, or patch), and trouser cuffs can all define the suit’s intrinsic formality. Then try styling it with a Breton striped shirt or a long sleeve polo shirt. Wear your suit with loafers and no socks. Even try a fun print shirt. There are so many ways to lower the formality of men’s suits.
4. Co-workers Won’t Understand
I feel this one. I really do. It’s uncomfortable to stand out. Most people don’t like being the unique one in a group. But I say wear what you want to wear. If you want to be the guy who wears a suit every day, wear a suit every day. Don’t dress for other people, dress for yourself. Think about the image you want to project, and enact it.
Suit: Spier & Mackay // Shirt: Brooks Brothers
Tie: Maison Leporem // Socks: Corgi // Shoes: Beckett Simonon
5. They’re Too Hard To Style
I think it’s actually the exact opposite. Men’s suits take away most of the guesswork. You already have your pants and jacket chosen. Just choose a shirt based on the formality you want. I prefer blue shirts, they work better with my skin tone. Choose the right color shoes, and match your belt to your shoes. You can add a tie or pocket square if you want.
Let me know how your suiting goes! Send me a picture and I’ll share it on social media if you’d like. If you have any questions or need some help styling, just let me know!
