How To Make Sure A Suit Is Good Quality
“This particular fabric is advantageous as it holds the shape of the suit, but actually moulds to the body over time.”
Buttoned Cuffs
“Most – if not all – suits have buttons on the cuffs, but fully-functional buttons are a sign of a quality,” says Williams. “Working buttons mean extra effort has been taken at the construction stage, and is therefore a tell-tale sign of craftsmanship.”
Flat Lining
“Silk is the most commonly used natural material in suit lining, and is a great indicator that corners haven’t been cut in the manufacture,” says Williams. “If another fabric is used however, there are still ways to check quality.
“First and foremost, check the lining lays flat. Poor stitching ensures bulges and ripples that make for a sub-par suit, and stitching to the edges should be checked for consistency. If you commit to a suit regardless of this, expect the lining to strip away over time due to poor construction.”
Comfortable Movement
“A well-fitted suit should allow free movement,” says Ian Gardiner, chief executive of designer retailer Pritchards. “Look for a blazer with a chest front shaped through the waist – this’ll grant a masculine shape, and will move with your body allowing for a better fit.”
If you don’t have that off the peg, it may warrant a visit to your local tailor. Since Gardiner argues that a blazer should fit as opposed to hang, a minor alteration will result in a more flattering shape (and won’t cost the world, either).