Buying a suit can be daunting, especially if you have never owned one before. There are so many different suiting styles, types of suit fits, and pieces. That’s a lot of decisions to make, and let’s admit it, men are not used to buying amazing suits all the time.
To help you explore the world of luxury suits, we have prepared a guide covering all the points of what you should look for in a suit before buying it. Before you go through our list of suits, the following characteristics explain the essentials of what gives a suit “overall fit.”
Let’s talk about some universal rules that apply while buying a suit.
- The suit’s shoulder line should match your natural shoulder line.
- The waistline should align with your waist dimensions
- The tie should reach your belt
- The color of your belt and shoes should be the same.
The list is a brief snapshot of what can determine the overall fitting of a suit. However, this will give you an idea it is still considered important that you focus on dressing based on your body type. This can give you the perfect silhouette.
Types of Suit Fits
There are three types of suit fits which are given below,
- Classic fit
- Slim-fit
- Modern fit
Classic Fit Suit

The classic suit comes with a liberal cut through the chest and waist. It provides enough space for the wearer to feel comfortable. The classic fit suit is less constructive than a modern and slim fit suit; it still provides an excellent shape to the body and does not look baggy.
Vintage suits look very sophisticated when worn in a classic fit.
Slim Fit Suit

The slim-fit suit is what one associates with Italian or European cut. The slim-fit suit is more fitted to the body and does not utilize extra fabric. These suits continue to grow in popularity, especially after the popularity of James Bond suiting styles.
Modern Fit Suit

The modern fit suit lies between slim and classic fit suits. It’s not as snug as the slim fit, but it does not contain the extra room of a classic fit as well. For this, it’s recommended to consider these Gatsby-inspired Suits.
Types ofSuit Pants
Now the only thing you should belooking for is the type of pants you will wear. There are two types of pantsyou can consider while buying a suit,
- Flat-Front-Pant
- PleatedPant
Flat Front Pant

The flat-front pants are for the slimmer men. They will give your suit a straight and smooth look. The flat-front pants are worn on the hips; they should fit you perfectly. Flat-front pants are the best choice if you are going to buy a modern or slim-fit suit.
Pleated Front Pants

As you might have guessed, pleatedtrousers are suitable for men as the whole are bigger at the bottom. If you arelarger from the back and front, then pleated pants are the best fit for you. Itwill feel more comfortable; the wearer will have enough space to moveconveniently. The pleated pants are worn on the waist.
If you feel comfortable in a flat-front-pant, you should go with it because these pants are in fashion while pleated pants are more traditional.
Sometimes it’s best to know how to get a suit tailor-made so that you can look smart in the perfect suit.
SuitLapels
There are three types of suit lapels out there,
- NotchLapels
- PeakLapels
- ShawlLapels
Notch lapels

The notch lapels can be worn in everyday work life and social events. If you are confused about the choice of suit lapels, then notch lapels are best for you.
Peak Lapels

Peak lapels are quite formal, especially in wool coats. It’s called peak lapels because the fabric on the lapel is cut in an upward-pointing shape, just like a peak. It’s usually found on double-breasted suits and tuxedos but is not limited to them.
Shawl Lapels

Shawl lapels are typically wornwith tuxedos and high-end jackets. It’s highly unlikely to find a shawl lapelon a suit.
SuitJacket Vents
The last important thing you need to consider when you buy your suit is the type vent. There are two types of vents you can choose from,
- Center Vent (single vent)
- Side Vent (double vent)
Center Vent

The center vents are cut up in the middle of the jacket.
Side Vent

Side vents are, as the name suggests, cuts on the side. The side vents allow you to put your hands in the pocket without furrowing the back.
You can also wear your suitwithout vents. Suits without vents can still give a sleek and solidappearance.
Conclusion
Dressing well is a desire of every man, so; make sure whatever you wear should look good on you. A suit alone cannot make you look like a gentleman until you learn to carry it well. Always wear a suit which matches your personality instead of following any celebrity.
We have mentioned helpful suggestions regarding the choice and types of suit fits you should follow; now it’s up to you how well you will make your decision.
We will be coming up with some more helpful blogs regarding suits. Till then, we recommend exploring Suits to help you dress like a sophisticated man.
People Also Ask For
1. Should I wear slim fit or regular fit?
A. If you have an average body type, a regular fit suit will still fit your taper. But in case your body is slender, skinny, or kind of lean, a slim-fit suit will fit you more perfectly.
2. What is the difference between modern fit and classic fit suits?
A. Modern fit suits are slim than classic fit suits, but they are not snug as a slim fit. That is the reason why they look modern in look and are comfortable to wear.
3. Is slim fit still in style?
A. Slim-fit suits are on-trend, but they are not as trendy as modern fit suits. They are the best style for elongated body shape guys who feel difficulty keeping their shirts tucked while wearing a regular fit suit.
4. Can big guys wear slim fit suits?
A. Slim fit suits are closer in fit than a modern fit suit. Therefore, if a big guy wears a slim-fit suit, it will accentuate the unwanted body parts. In contrast to that, a modern fit suit will shape the body elegantly.
5. Who should wear slim fit suits?
A. Guys who have lean or skinny bodies should wear a slim fit suit. It is because a modern fit suit may fit them a bit lose, whereas a slim fit will fit them perfectly and gives a flattering look.
6. What types of suits are in style now?
A. The most trending suit style in 2021 is a peak lapel modern fit suit. Other trending styles are;
- 1920s Inspired Suits
- Broad Notch Lapel three-piece suit with a double-breasted vest.
- Classic fit notch lapel three-piece suit with pleated pants.
- Single Breasted two-button jacket slim fit suit.
7. Is muscle fit the same as slim fit?
A. Typically, the muscles fit clothing tapered close to the body. It almost looks like a slim-fit suit, but they are even more close-fitting than slim. But often, they look exactly the same.
8. Where can I buy classic fit suits?
A. You can buy a custom-made classic fit suit with free shipping and on time from Angel Jackets at a competitive price. The same suit could easily cost you $400 to $950 from your local store.
9. What is classic fit vs. regular fit?
A. Classic fit and regular fit are the same fitting styles. They don’t have any difference, and they are used interchangeably to refer to the same traditional fit suit that is loose fitting and looks the same on almost all body types.
10. Is the modern fit the same as slim fit?
A. The measurements have no difference for both the modern fit and slim fit suits. It is the cut of the suit pattern that makes it a modern or slim fit. Modern fit shapes the body elegantly, but the slim fit suit tapers around the chest, waist, and thighs to emphasize the body cuts.
1. 1920s Inspired Suits
2. Broad Notch Lapel three-piece suit with a double-breasted vest.
3. Classic fit notch lapel three-piece suit with pleated pants.
4. Single Breasted two-button jacket slim fit suit.
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FAQs
What does R and S mean on a suit? ›
All chest sizes come in three length: R(Regular), L(Long) and S(Short). An easy way to explain the difference between "Regular", "Long" and "Short" is, for "Short", both the sleeves and length of the overall jacket will be 1" - 1.5" shorter than "Regular", and same applies to "Regular" vs "Long". 36 SHORT.
What's the difference between classic fit and modern fit? ›--What is the difference between modern fit and regular fit? The main difference is that modern fit suits are slimmer in the chest, leg, and waist. They also have higher armholes for less fabric under the arms to create a closer fit. Other differences include narrower shoulders, shorter jackets, and smaller lapels.
What is the difference between slim fit and classic fit suits? ›Slim-fit suits are tighter-fitting and designed to hug the body, while regular-fit suits have a more relaxed silhouette. If you're looking for a more traditional look, tailored-fit suits offer a more classic fit with extra tailoring around the waist and shoulders.
What 3 suits should a man own? ›- The first custom suit. Your first custom suit should be a staple solid in charcoal. ...
- The essential suit. Your second suit should be another solid in a rich hue of navy, which is a crucial color to have in your business wardrobe. ...
- The textured or patterned suit.
A: The difference between 36S and 36R will be the sleeve length . 36S is shorter in sleeve length than a 36R . The 36S sleeve length is about 31"-33" and 36R is 34"-35"
What does 40 R mean in a suit? ›Suit Measurements & Size Chart
Suit and sport coat sizes have one number and one letter (for example, 38S, 40R, 42L). The number is your chest measurement and the letter refers to the jacket's length ' short, regular or long.
For instance, after the chest size number (34, 40, 44, i.e.), there will be letters like S, R, or L. What do they mean, and how to find the right size? These letters stand for “short”, “regular”, or “long”. They describe the overall jacket length and sleeve length.
Who should wear a classic fit suit? ›If you're an unusual size or shape, they're one of the easiest styles for a tailor to adjust. A classic fit suit is also great for men who aren't comfortable in a slim-fit style and prefer a more timeless look. What is this? The classic shape is never out-of-date and is ideal if you only wear a suit once a year.
Is classic fit baggy? ›Standard/Classic Fit
It's definitely not baggy. It's the style of chinos that JFK would wear when vacationing in Martha's Vineyard. That's why it's called The Classic. This is our most versatile cut and a risk-free choice, and perfect for guys who don't skip leg day at the gym.
One large mistake that is commonly made by men of all shapes and sizes is the fact that most men aren't wearing the correctly fitted clothes. And most bigger men think they can't wear slim fitting clothes – WRONG-O!
Why is slim fit so popular? ›
Unlike other looks, slim-fit clothing is designed to hug the body without being overly tight, creating a modern, polished look. There are many different slim-fit clothing items, but their shared benefit is versatility. Since slim-fit shirts look more tailored than regular shirts, they are easy to dress up or down.
Should I wear slim fit or regular fit? ›Slim fit is typically more closely fitted than regular fit. If you prefer a looser fit in your dress shirts then stick with regular fit. But if you like something cut closer to the body, choose a slim fit.
Should a suit jacket cover your bum? ›Your suit jacket should cover about 80% of your butt and crotch. Generally, the bottom edge of a jacket should end between the two knuckles on your thumb. This rule can be pushed a little bit when wearing a casual sport coat because they tend to be a little shorter.
How many suits should a man own? ›Every man should have at least three good suits in his closet, although frequent suit wearers may want more. Knowing how many suits you need and planning ahead by purchasing a handful of well-fitting suits will go a long way.
How do I look classy 2022? ›- Look for new inspiration to style clothing you already have.
- Invest in a Capsule Wardrobe.
- Get rid of anything in your closet that doesn't feel good.
- Use the help of a Personal Stylist.
- Take time researching looks you like and create a mood board.
- Make sure your clothes fit you perfectly.
- The Black Suit. A black suit is a classic that every man should have; a sartorial introduction to the world of tailoring. ...
- The Navy Suit. Next on our list of must-have suits is the navy suit. ...
- The Grey Suit. ...
- The Brown Suit. ...
- The Tan Suit.
$500 to $800 range
(Part 5 explains more about suit construction). If the suit is “half-canvassed” and made of pure wool in the range of Super 110s to Super 130s, it's a winner. Most suits in this price range are considered to be good quality. They should look and feel great and last a long time.
Many guys think a three-piece suit is necessary for the groom and groomsmen and they pigeonhole the look as appropriate only for that one event. But when they're not in the groom's party, the three-piece sits in the closet. The truth is, the three-piece suit looks great on anybody at a special occasion like a wedding.
What does 34R mean in jackets? ›Coat | Chest | Hip |
---|---|---|
34R | 32 - 34 | 32 - 34 |
35R | 33 - 35 | 33 - 35 |
36R | 34 - 36 | 33 - 36 |
37R | 35 - 37 | 34 - 37 |
These sizes are Short (S), Regular (R), and Long (L). Some brands also have an Extra Short (XS) and an Extra Long (XL). These sizes refer mostly to the sleeve length, but can also have an impact on the jacket length too.
What size is 40R jacket? ›
For example if your jacket size is 40 R the table shows your corresponding trouser size is 34 Regular.
Is 42R medium or large? ›By Chest Measurements | ||
---|---|---|
Inches | Centimetres | |
Medium | 39-41 | 99-104 |
Large | 42-44 | 107-112 |
X-Large | 45-47 | 114-119 |
A: 42L is size is 42 (chest) and height is long; 42R is size is 42 (chest) and height is regular; Kushago. · 1 year ago. Helpful?
What is a modern fit suit? ›A Modern Fit suit falls between a classic and slim fit. While it's not cut as close to the body, it's a tighter fit than a classic-style suit. This modern fit still looks great in a variety of shapes and sizes.
What is the average suit size for a man? ›Roughly speaking, men at or under a height of 5' 7” with a chest measurement between 36-46” will need a short, men who are 5' 7” to 5'11” with chest measurements between 36-54” will need a regular, and taller men will always need a long.
What size am I in jackets? ›Take a measuring tape and wrap it around thefullest part of your chest (under your armpits). If you measure 40 inches around your chest, then your chest size is 40 inches and, likewise, your suit jacket size is 40. The letter after the jacket size is thelength of your jacket (both body and sleeve).
Should a suit be tight around stomach? ›The lapels should lie flat on your chest (not bow out) and you should be able to slide your thumb between the button of the jacket and your stomach without it feeling too tight or loose.
What color suit jacket is most versatile? ›However, if you intend to wear your suit beyond rare occasions, then charcoal grey and navy blue are the superior choices. Why? They are the most versatile and useful suit colours that provide a great value for those who have to wear formal suits regularly and look for a classic and timeless option.
What is the current trend in men's suits? ›Suiting which was previously considered completely dressy and fitted is now becoming more relaxed. Instead of traditional fitted jackets and trousers, an oversized look is trending in 2021 (great for those who've put on some extra weight during the lockdown!).
Which is more loose classic or relax fit? ›Relaxed fit pants will fit looser than regular fit pants. The fit can vary a bit brand to brand, but relaxed fit pants are generally looser in the hips and thighs than regular fit pants. But it is also important to note that relaxed fit pants are not the loosest fit you can buy.
What does premium fit mean? ›
Fitbit Premium is your personalized resource in the Fitbit app that helps you stay active, sleep well, manage stress, and more. Learn how to improve your nutrition, try new workout regimens, and more through programs tailored to your health and fitness goals.
What is the difference between classic and custom fit? ›The classic fit is more boxy, which is a wider fit. Whereas the custom is more tapered fit. My preference for sports shirts is the custom fit, because I like the more “tailored” look. For polo's, I prefer the classic fit, because I like the looser fit for it.
How should an overweight look good in a suit? ›Light, bright colours will draw the eye, dazzle the onlooker and effectively make you look bigger. Understated dark colours won't. You should also avoid too much contrast around the waist area as, again, this will draw attention to a part of your body that you'd rather people didn't focus on.
How do you not look fat in a suit? ›- 1 – WEAR MAGNIFICENT SHOES. ...
- EMBRACE THE BRACE. ...
- CHOOSE JACKETS AND SPORTS COATS THAT LOOK (AS IF THEY COULD BE) TAILORED. ...
- GET TROUSERS PLEATS WITH A SLIGHTLY HIGH WAIST (OR NATURAL WAIST) ...
- GET RID OF BAGGY CLOTHES. ...
- FIND YOUR BUTTON STANCE.
It won't date, and it will also always make you look good – the extra shape it creates makes your legs look longer and your waist seem slimmer, which will be handy as the body beneath inevitably changes. And by the time it does, slim will doubtless have come back into style.
Is slim fit too skinny? ›The jeans which are generally not as tight as the skinny jeans are the slim fit jeans. They have larger leg openings, and they never cling around the ankle. The main difference between skinny and slim jeans is that some models of slim fits have tapered leg design while the skinny jeans are straight.
Which is better skinny fit or slim fit? ›Are skinny jeans tighter than slim fit? Yes, skinny jeans are typically tighter than slim jeans. This is because they are designed to hug all of your curves and show off your body shape. If you're looking for a more relaxed fit, then go for a pair of slim fit jeans instead.
What is classic fit? ›The classic fit, also called the traditional fit, emphasizes comfort and precise cut throughout the chest and waist. It has a broader cut across the shoulders and sides, creating a clean, confident appearance. Some manufacturers taper their shirts down to the waist.
Is slim or athletic tighter? ›The main difference between athletic fit and slim fit shirts is that athletic fit shirts are cut closer to the body. The reason being is that athletic fit shirts are specifically designed for athletic shaped bodies while slim fit is for someone looking for a more relaxed fit.
What does slim fit jacket mean? ›Slim fit. jackets are cut closer to the body and fitted more to the client's silhouette. While not restrictive, slim fit is more narrow and has a tighter fit in the arms, waist and chest area in the jacket and in the thigh and waist area in the pants.
What are the common mistakes in wearing a suit jacket? ›
- Getting the Wrong Sleeve Length. ...
- Buttoning Your Jacket Incorrectly. ...
- Settling for the Wrong Trouser Length. ...
- Going Over the Top with Accessories. ...
- Forgetting to Remove the Stitching. ...
- Choosing the Wrong Jacket Length. ...
- Buying a Jacket with Ill-fitting Shoulders.
Here's a few tips for carrying your stuff while wearing a suit: Phone - discreetly slide your phone into the inside chest pocket of your jacket. Yes, an iPhone 10 will fit. The outside chest pocket on your suit should either be kept sewn shut, or used for a suit pocket square.
What happens if you wear a suit everyday? ›The only problem with wearing the same suit everyday is that your trousers will wear away pretty quickly if you don't allow them to rest regularly. One solution is to switch up two suits in similar shades and fabrics and wear them as separates on contrasting days.
What is the best fit for suits? ›Your suit jacket should cover about 80% of your butt and crotch. Generally, the bottom edge of a jacket should end between the two knuckles on your thumb. This rule can be pushed a little bit when wearing a casual sport coat because they tend to be a little shorter.
What are the three types of suits? ›There are three basic types of suits: the two-piece, the three-piece, and the tuxedo. Within those suit styles, there are endless variations on the material (wool, cotton, polyester), button style (two- vs. three-button and double-breasted), pocket arrangement, venting, and cut (slim-fit, classic fit, and more).
What is the difference between fits and suits? ›'fit' means the clothes are the right measurements for you (not too long or short). That is 'This jacket fits you well' or 'This bolt fits this nut'. 'suit' means it looks good on you or goes with your general style (probably means it fits too). That is, 'This dress really suits you'.
What's the difference between regular fit and tailored fit suits? ›Tailored fit is a sleek and timeless style of suit. It is not as roomy as a Regular Fit suit and less fitted than a Slim or Skinny Fit suit. This fit features a shaped waist and clean lines which allow for a stylish and dapper silhouette. Trousers are slightly tapered to finish off the suit smartly.
What type of suit makes you look thinner? ›A three-piece suit can be very slimming because the waistcoat gives you the illusion of having a smaller waist. If you love how you look in a double-breasted jacket, by all means, go for it, however, if your goal is to look slimmer, wear a one or two buttoned ,single-breasted jacket instead.
What is a reasonable amount to spend on a suit? ›If you are on a budget, there are good-looking suits for $600-$999 that you can tailor to make look higher-priced. There are also great suits that you can find in the $300-$599 range that would get the job done.
What 5 suits should a man own? ›- The Black Suit. A black suit is a classic that every man should have; a sartorial introduction to the world of tailoring. ...
- The Navy Suit. Next on our list of must-have suits is the navy suit. ...
- The Grey Suit. ...
- The Brown Suit. ...
- The Tan Suit.
Who should wear a 3 button suit? ›
A three-button suit looks best on men who are at least 6 feet or taller, because when the top button of the jacket is buttoned, it rests higher on the chest shortening the v-cut shape of the jacket.
Can I wear a 3 piece suit to a formal event? ›Three-piece suits are generally smarter than the regular two-piece, but you can still wear one to almost any occasion. They're perfect for weddings, or a formal summer garden party.
What is Italian fit suit? ›The Features of Italian Suits
It has high armholes and very little shoulder padding. It also features narrow-cut lapels, a more pronounced V-shaped torso, and piped pockets. The suit trousers have a tapered waist, which fits firm to the hips and goes slightly from the knee down.
Designed to offer more room in the shoulders, under the arms and in the sleeves, without going up in size across the waist, the Muscle Fit range will fit as it should, highlighting the fact that you've been lifting big all winter, and skipping the pizza all summer.
What is a bunny suit in the OR? ›A cleanroom suit, clean room suit, or bunny suit, is an overall garment worn in a cleanroom, an environment with a controlled level of contamination.
Is it better for a suit to be tight or loose? ›With the top button fastened (never the bottom button), the jacket should lightly hug your midsection, but not feel tight or constricting. The jacket shouldn't be pulling at the button, creating an ugly “X”.
How do you tell if a suit needs to be tailored? ›Relax your arms by your sides with your palms facing in toward your body. Stand sideways in front of the mirror and see where the jacket sleeves stop in relation to your shirt sleeves. The shirt sleeve should be popping out by about 1/4-1/2 of an inch. This is one of the most telling signs of a well-tailored suit.