Given the classic look and ubiquity of men’s suits, it should come as no surprise that many people are unaware of how to style themselves and their suit to get the most out of it. But before we explore the style of a fine suit, are suits still relevant in this day and age where it often seems like anything goes?
It’s still common practice to wear suits and formal attire in corporate and professional workplaces, but where once it was common to wear suits in everyday life, most young people don’t see it as a viable style option anymore. This is a pity, because wearing men’s suits still confers both practical and intangible benefits to the wearer, including increased self-respect, self-confidence and a perception of competence and authority by others. Consequently, this often leads to additional career and social opportunities that shape the life of an individual.
The Benefits of Wearing a Suit to a Job Interview
Though not every job will require a suit to be worn, it is absolutely recommended that job seekers wear a suit to job interviews for office jobs, white collar jobs and other roles where smart, uniformed or formal attire is likely required. Here are some benefits of men wearing suits to a job interview:
- First impressions: You want the employer to notice you immediately, and wearing a suit will convey a sense of your competence, confidence and authority.
- Self-respect: Wearing a suit conveys the impression that you care about your style. It also shows that you are serious about the job.
- More is better: Being overdressed is always preferred to being underdressed. At the very least, it will show your potential employer that you’d rather not wear shorts and a tee-shirt on any given day to work.
Advice on Style
Even if you’ve wisely decided to wear men’s suits more regularly in your life, there are so many suit options out there that it can be overwhelming. Here are some tips on finding your classic look and feeling comfortable:
- Fit: Make sure your new suit fits your body type and your contours. A good suit should flatter rather than get in the way. Have one fitted by a good dressmaker or tailor if need be.
- Collars: If you’re going to wear a suit, go all the way and get yourself a good shirt with a button-down collar as well. Buttoning down can enhance the look of a good suit.
- Finish: You’ve got the fit—now consider the finish. Look at the stitching on the lapels, for example. Are they attractive and decorative? Is the garment finished and trimmed well?
- Buttons: If you sit, always unbutton your suit jacket buttons. It simply looks better and will make you feel more comfortable. Your comfort level will translate to increased self-confidence.
- Patterns: Consider check, plaid and herringbone suit patterns to make a strong impression, but make sure it’s not overdone.
- Pockets: You’re allowed to cut the stitching in your suit pockets. The suit won’t lose shape.
- Accessories: There’s no need to go overboard with extra stuff, such as lapel pins, because the suit is the focus point.
Wearing a Suit and Getting It Right
There are many different styles of suit out there; one is sure to be to your taste and your style. If you remember the advice on style above, it will serve you well under most circumstances.