Every man should have at least one suit in his closet. There are many options to think about such as cut, fit, fabric, style, purpose. Fitted ankle suits look great for date night and for work. There’s the suit you want to keep around for the occasional funeral or job interview. Depending on your business, you might need a multitude of suits for your everyday wear. Whatever the reason, whatever the cause, a suit is always something you should have on hand. 

Brooks Brother and Jos A. Bank are two long-lasting American companies that specialize in off-the-rack suits for a reasonable price point. Keep reading to see how these companies started and a few items that they specialize in. Keep them in mind the next time you need a suit. Their well-trained staff will ensure you get a good fit, even without tailoring.

Brooks Brothers

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Brooks Brothers are known as one the oldest, and probably most recognized American clothing companies that are still in existence. Founded in 1818 by Henry Brooks, the company changed its name to Brooks Brothers when Henry’s sons inherited the company. In 1849, they were the first company to introduce ready-to-wear clothing.

One of the company’s most famous customers was Abraham Lincoln, who was actually assassinated while wearing a black Brooks Brothers suit. Fun Fact: from 1865 to 2003, Brooks Brothers discontinued black ready-to-wear suits. The main theory is that it was out of respect for Mr. Lincoln, but without confirmation from the company, it is just that – a theory. 

Around the beginning of the 20th century, they introduced the sack suit, which would go on to be one of their most popular and most successful wardrobe staples. The generous cut of these particular suits allowed them to fit a wider array of body types right off the rack without needing to be tailored.