A business suit is more than just a piece of clothing – it’s a symbol of professionalism, confidence, and success. Whether you’re heading to a job interview or a business meeting, choosing the perfect business suit can make all the difference. But with so many styles, colors, and materials to choose from, finding the right one can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you understand the different types of business suits. From fabric options to lapel styles, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty of what makes a suit stand out.
What is a Business Suit?
A business suit is a formal outfit consisting of a jacket and trousers made from the same fabric. You will commonly come across this style in a business or professional office setting, such as law firms, banks, or government offices.
The distinguishing features of this type of attire include darker fabric colors, dress shoes, subtle or minimal patterns, and sometimes a tie.
Importance of a Business Suit
A good business suit is an investment that can pay off in many ways. It can help you make a good impression, boost your confidence, and even improve your job prospects.
A well-tailored formal suit can make you look taller, slimmer, and more polished. It can also convey professionalism, authority, and attention to detail.
Types of Business Suits
The most common types of business suits are the single-breasted suit and the double-breasted suit. The single-breasted suit is the most common and versatile option. It can be worn for most occasions and can be dressed up or down depending on the accessories.
The double-breasted suit is a more formal option. It features two rows of buttons and peak lapels. It is typically worn for more formal occasions such as weddings and black-tie events.
Other types of business suits include the three-piece suit, the pinstripe suit, and the windowpane suit.
Selecting an Appropriate Color
The formality of a suit increases as the shade of its color darkens. In our view, men should begin with two essential colors: charcoal gray and navy blue. These timeless colors are essential elements in a man’s wardrobe and are ideal for professional settings. They can be effortlessly paired with other colors and easily dressed up or down to suit various occasions.
While black is often associated with formality, it may not always be the best choice for a professional suit. It is better suited for formal events outside of the office.
Fabrics and Textures
The formality of a suit can also be determined by the fabric and texture. A smoother and shinier fabric generally indicates a higher level of formality.
For a business suit, the optimal fabric choice would be wool or a wool-blend. It offers a balance of comfort, durability, and breathability, making it suitable for year-round wear. With its natural wrinkle resistance and ability to drape well, wool lends a polished and professional appearance to the suit.
Business Suit Patterns
Patterns also contribute to assessing the formality of an outfit. Generally, patterned suits are considered less formal than plain ones. For gentlemen who appreciate adding a touch of personality to their attire, pinstripes emerge as a captivating and time-honored option. These thin, vertical stripes add a touch of charm without being overly distracting.
The Importance of Details
Choosing the right lapel, pocket square, and buttons can elevate your look from good to exceptional.
The lapel is an essential component of a suit jacket. The most common lapel styles are the notch lapel and the peak lapel. The notch lapel is a classic option and works well for most occasions. The peak lapel is more formal and is typically worn for black-tie events.
The buttons should be simple and understated, while the pockets and vents should be functional and practical.
Choosing the Right Shirt and Tie
The most common colors for business shirts are white, blue, and light pink. A plain, solid-colored shirt is a safe and versatile option that works well with most business suits.
Formal shirts follow similar rules as suits. Solid colors are more formal than patterns, and larger, more visible patterns indicate a more casual shirt.
The tie should complement the suit and shirt and add a touch of color and personality. The most common tie patterns are solid, stripes, polka dots, and paisley. When choosing a tie, opt for the classic shades such as navy, burgundy, or dark dray. These colors are versatile and pair seamlessly with a variety of suits.
Also Read – 5 Dress Shirts Every Man Should Own in 2023
Trousers
A simple rule to complete your business attire is to match the color and fabric of your trousers to your suit. Opt for well-tailored, fitted trousers to enhance your business attire’s overall aesthetic.
Not sure about the trousers’ length? Read our article on proper suit pants length.
Business Shoes
When it comes to footwear for a business attire, opting for shoes with shoelaces adds a touch of formality. It demonstrates attention to detail and a refined sense of style, making laced shoes a preferred option for professional settings.
We highly recommend opting for the timeless essential of an Oxford dress shoe, whether in a plain toe or cap toe design. The color of the shoe should complement your suit, typically in black or brown. Choose a sleek and clean design without any broguing, which means no hole perforations.
Accessorizing Your Business Suit
Here’s where it gets fun. The right accessories can add a touch of personality and style, while the wrong ones can detract from the overall look. The most common accessories for business suits are cufflinks, pocket squares, and watches.
Cufflinks add a touch of personality and style to your business suit. They come in a variety of styles and materials, from simple silver to colorful enamel. We recommend simple silver cufflinks for your business attire.
Pocket squares are another great accessory that adds a touch of elegance to your business suit. Select colors that create a striking contrast with your suit, different from your tie.
A watch is a practical and stylish accessory that can complete your professional attire. Watches with leather or metal straps excude class and sophistication.
To Wind Up
Choosing the perfect business suit can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and guidance, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. A well-tailored suit will exude confidence and professionalism and definitely create a lasting impression.
