The moment you've been waiting for has finally come. Your suit has arrived, and it’s just as exciting as you imagined—but maybe a little nerve-wracking too. After all, this isn’t just any outfit; it’s the outfit. Knowing how to wear a suit and knowing it fits perfectly can make all the difference.
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to feel confident the moment you put it on.
First Impressions
When your suit finally arrives, you might be tempted to admire it on the hanger for a while, but don’t wait too long before trying it on. Ideally, you should slip into it within 48 hours of delivery. That way you have enough time to check the fit and spot any areas that might need a little tailoring. And the sooner you try it on, the sooner you can start feeling like a million bucks.
The Perfect Fit
Your suit might look amazing, but the real test is how it feels when you move around in it. Go ahead, take a few steps, sit down, and raise your arms. See how your new suit behaves.
A well-fitting suit should feel comfortable, not restrictive. You should be able to move naturally while still looking sharp. This is your chance to make sure everything is just right, so you can confidently wear your suit without worrying about tugging, pulling, or adjusting all day.
How Should A Suit Fit?
A great suit should feel like a natural extension of your body. Every part of the suit should fit snugly but not too tightly, and complement your body’s shape without clinging or bunching. When a suit fits well, you’ll notice the difference in how it looks and how you feel wearing it.
Our tips:
- Leave the bottom button of the vest undone: This classic style move looks polished and allows for better movement.
- Button the 2nd or tightest button of the shirt sleeve: Keep your shirt cuffs in place at your wrists.
- Adjust your pants to sit about 2 inches under your belly button: Ensures a proper fit at your waist, avoiding sagging or riding up.
- Pant hem and shoe interaction: Pants should sit right on top of your shoes with no break for a modern look, or with a ½ break for a more traditional style.
How Should a Suit Jacket Fit?
The suit jacket is the centerpiece of your look. A well-fitted jacket should contour to your shoulders, chest, and torso and create smooth lines. It should feel comfortable without being too tight and allow for easy movement.
Our tips:
- Button the top button of the jacket only: This creates a sleek, tailored appearance.
- Make sure the shirt sleeve shows about ½ inch outside of the jacket sleeve: This adds a crisp, professional touch.
- Unbutton your jacket when sitting down: Prevents creasing and ensures comfort.
- Jacket sleeve length: The sleeves should extend just past your wrist. If the jacket fits well but the sleeves are too short or too long, a tailor can adjust them by up to 2 inches. If more than 2 inches of adjustment is needed, consider exchanging the jacket for a different size.
When To Call in the Tailor
Even the best suit may need a few tweaks to achieve that perfect, custom fit. Tailoring can make all the difference in how your suit looks and feels.
Here are some common alterations to consider:
- Pant Hem: Getting the pant hem right is essential for a polished look. Whether you prefer no break, a slight break, or a full break, the hem should be adjusted to sit perfectly on top of your shoes.
- Jacket Sleeve Shortened or Lengthened: If the sleeves of your jacket are too long or too short, a tailor can adjust them by up to 2 inches for a more refined appearance.
- Jacket Sides (Taken In): If your jacket feels too loose around the torso, having the sides taken in can create a more tailored and slimming fit.
- Pant Taper: For a cleaner, more streamlined look, consider tapering the legs of your pants. This alteration can also provide an even slimmer appearance if desired.
- Pant Waist (Taken In or Let Out): If your pants are too tight or too loose around the waist, a tailor can adjust them by up to 2 inches for a more comfortable fit.
Step Out in Style With The Modern Groom
Ready to make a memorable entrance on your big day? At The Modern Groom, we’re here to help you know how to wear a suit with confidence and style as you walk down the aisle. We’re here to show you how a suit should fit for a flawless look.
Choose The Modern Groom for your wedding attire and step out in style, feeling great as you celebrate your big day.
