This advice can be applied to both men and women, since we all want a basic suit jacket that lasts for years. Choosing the right jacket is about more than just following the latest fashion trends. A well-made jacket can enhance your appearance, exude professionalism, and stand the test of time. On the other hand, a poorly made suit can look cheap and undermine your overall presentation. With the Indiana Image Consultant tips below, you can pick a high-quality jacket while avoiding common fashion pitfalls.
Photo by Mizuno K
1. Fabric Quality: The fabric of your suit is one of the most crucial aspects to consider. High-quality jackets are typically made from 100% wool or wool blends. Wool is a durable, breathable, and versatile material, ideal for all seasons. Some suits also incorporate silk or cashmere, adding softness and luxury.
Avoid synthetic materials like polyester or rayon, which are common in cheaper suits. These materials tend to wrinkle easily, lack breathability, and do not drape as well on the body. Additionally, synthetic fabrics have a distinctive sheen that makes the suit appear low-quality. To test the fabric, you can feel it between your fingers. It should be smooth, soft, and somewhat substantial. If it feels too thin or coarse, it’s a sign of poor quality. A suit with a higher Super Number (such as Super 100s or Super 120s) generally indicates a finer wool thread and better fabric. Also, avoid shiny jackets. This is another major pitfall. Shiny suits suggest cheapness so don’t be lured by a deceptive “good deal.”
2. Construction and Fit: The construction of a suit is key to how it fit and durability. High-quality suits are often fully canvassed or half-canvassed. A canvas interlining gives structure to the suit, allowing it to mold to your body over time, creating a personalized fit. Cheap suits are often fused (glued together), making them rigid and prone to bubbling and wear over time. The fit is equally important. Even an expensive suit can look cheap if it doesn’t fit properly.
A well-fitting suit should hug your shoulders without being tight, and the jacket should taper slightly at the waist to accentuate your frame. The trousers should be slim but not tight, with a slight break at the shoes. Avoid suits that are too baggy or too tight, as they detract from the overall aesthetic and professionalism.
3. Details Matter: The devil is in the details when it comes to high-quality suits. Look for subtle yet important features such as stitching, lining, and buttons.
• Stitching: Pay attention to the stitching, especially at the seams and edges. High-quality suits often feature hand-sewn stitches, which are slightly irregular but more durable. Cheap suits usually have machine stitching, which can look too perfect and may unravel over time.
Find more Indiana Image Consultant tips in Part 2 coming next week.
Keep it sassy, Indy.
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC, Personal Image Consultant
