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Do's and Don'ts: Suits
The most important thing I’ve learnt about style? It’s all about attention to detail. And I’ve filled this guide with some of the most important details I’ve learnt about dressing well.
Now we all hate being told what to do. It’s part of being a man. Therefore I’d like to impress that the following style tips are mere guidelines rather than stiff rules. After all, it’s the overall ensemble that’s important.
–Nicholas Charles Tyrwhitt Wheeler
Suits
DO choose the correct style. A one-button jacket suits short men, a double-breasted suit is ideal for slim men, broad gents look good in a two-button jacket and tall, heavy built men look best in a three-button suit.
DO add interest (and warmth) with a waistcoat. It lengthens the body and therefore works particularly well on larger men or those with short legs. Always leave the lowest button undone.
DO think about your trousers. Flat-fronted trousers are more contemporary but trousers with pleats can be more forgiving on expanding waistlines.
DO invest in a classic Dinner Suit. Choose good quality fabric and a classic cut and you’ll be wearing it for years.
DON’T wear your suit with a button-down shirt. This shirt is a casual style and therefore works against the neatness of the suit.
DON’T ignore button etiquette. If you’re wearing a one-button jacket fasten the button, if you’re wearing a two-button jacket fasten the top button and if you’re wearing a three-button jacket fasten the middle button.
DON’T overdo the dry cleaning. A good suit is made of wool, a natural fibre, and dry cleaning will wear it out quickly. Most of the time a simple brush and press is all that is required.
DON’T think of your suit as a work uniform. Wear with individual flair and accessories like a silk handkerchief.
