Whilst it’s true that suits have been at the heart of menswear since their inception in the 1850s, recent years spent in and out of lockdown saw a decline in their popularity - until now.
If this year’s autumn/winter menswear shows are anything to go by, it seems the designers have decided that this season marks the end of loungewear’s heyday *breathes a sigh of relief*.
From suiting giants Giorgio Armani and Canali to smaller labels Casablanca and Daniel W. Fletcher, the runway was awash with sharp suiting perfect for the modern gentleman. The good news? While a two-piece from any one of these brands would be a welcome addition to your wardrobe, you don’t need to spend a fortune to make sure you’re dressed in line with the formal trend.
As David Stoneman-Merret, the Menswear Design Lead at Marks & Spencer explains: “Quality is one of the most important factors for our customers when shopping suiting and delivering premium quality and style at great value is always our focus at M&S. Take the time to find your fit, as this is one of the best ways to ensure you look on point without compromising on style or quality - especially when budgets are key.”
How should my suit fit?
Traditionally, for the jacket, the shoulder seam should end where your shoulders do, the buttons should close without any visible strain and the cuffs should show roughly half an inch of your shirt.
For the trousers, the waist should fit comfortably (no surprises there...), while the leg should be a straight fit. You should be able to see about half an inch of fabric on either side of your thigh - and they should fall with a slight break at the shoe, which could be an elegant Oxford, a modern loafer or a masculine Derby.
Merrett’s top tip: “One of the best ways to ensure you get the perfect fit is to speak to one of our in-store suit specialists who will be able to provide a personalised suit fitting, this service is free and available at a number of stores nationally.”
What makes a great suit?
Once you’ve discovered your perfect fit, it’s time to start thinking about the aesthetics. First of all, it’s best to choose a classic you’re likely to wear again and again. Matt Stallard, Senior Buyer at TM Lewin, agrees: “Versatility is key. Choose a suit that can take you from the office to the evening or even to a wedding - then you’ll feel it’s worth it”.
“When it comes to colour, consider a hue that’s timeless. Navy, charcoal and blue are common choices that offer the greatest wardrobe versatility.” He continues, “If you’d like to be slightly more expressive, you can keep to these colours but consider incorporating patterns such as stripes or checks to bring more personality to your outfit.”
Should I get my suit tailored?
The big question: is it actually worth getting your suit tailored when there are such great options available off the rack? Stallard deliberates: “Certainly there is value in having a suit tailored to you, however, it can be expensive and a time-consuming process”.
“Ready-to-wear suit patterns have come a long way and there’s now a comprehensive range of styles which allow more gentlemen to find a suit that fits their physique. Trying on different suit styles is also important so you can see how the jacket falls and moves with your shape” he concludes.
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Marks & Spencer Regular Fit Prince of Wales Check Suit
A pattern that dates back to Edward VII, the aptly named Prince of Wales check is clearly a cloth that stands the test of time. So why not treat yourself to a suit that’s fit for a king with Marks & Spencer’s design? Understated, refined and perennially chic, it’s a two-piece that will never go out of style.
Buy now £130.00, Marks & Spencer
T.M.Lewin Williams Infinity Active Slim Fit Micro Puppytooth Jacket and Trousers
If you’re in the market for a suit that perfectly balances personality with a classic silhouette without compromising on functionality, T.M.Lewin’s puppytooth design should be at the top of your list.
From the unique petrol blue hue to the innovative cloth that’s antibacterial, crease-resistant and water-repellent, it’s a masterclass in affordable tailoring.
Buy now £275.00, T.M.Lewin
Reiss Craft Double Breasted Cotton-Linen Check Blazer and Trousers
During the warmer months, nothing hits the sartorial sweet spot quite like a linen suit. A magical fabric, it’s breathable and antibacterial - and it’s the easiest way to deliver a summer nonchalance à la The Talented Mr. Ripley.
Whilst Reiss’ suits are on the more expensive end of the market, they’re a reliable investment that won’t let you down.
Buy now £456.00, Reiss
Zara Suit - Limited Edition
A suit you can dress up or down, Zara’s black boxy design will take you from work to evening drinks with no effort required. Even better, the blazer paired with black straight-leg jeans and a vest will make for the perfect weekend ‘fit.
Buy now £178.99, Zara
Topman Premium Limited Edition herringbone wool mix suit in grey
Looking for a more fashion-forward option? Your first port of call should be Topman at ASOS, which always has an elite offering of oversized and relaxed silhouettes. We love this grey herringbone set which looks much more expensive than its £144 price tag.
Buy now £144.00, ASOS
Hawes & Curtis Royal Blue Twill Classic Suit
A heritage tailoring label, Hawes & Curtis has an archive that dates back over 100 years. Today, the brand offers a range of contemporary, exquisitely-made suits that don’t break the bank - and this pure wool royal blue design is a case in point.
Sold as a full suit.
Buy now £329.00, Hawes & Curtis
Arket Relaxed Cotton-Linen Blazer & Trousers
Sick of loungewear but not quite ready to make the full return to formalwear? Fret not because Scandi high street hero Arket has you covered. From the elasticated waistband to the casual patch pockets and airy, lightweight fabric, dressing up has never been more comfortable.
Buy now £198.00, Arket
HUGO Men’s business Suit Pants Set
A black suit is a menswear essential every guy needs in their tailoring arsenal - and where better to find one than an expert in the field, HUGO? Crafted from a wool-elastane blend, it pairs the luxuriousness of the former with the stretch of the latter for a textile you’ll never want to take off.
Sold as a full suit.
Buy now £326.70, Amazon
Mango Stretch fabric slim-fit suit jacket
Is there any colour that’s as effortlessly chic as navy? We don’t think so.
A versatile shade that works with nearly every other colour, this Mango ensemble is one of the most versatile in this edit. Dress it down with a white tee or up with a classic shirt-and-tie combo.
Buy now £119.99, Mango
