Suit Yourself.

-- LibCon's Personal Guide To Suit-Wearing. --

by jeph.skyn

For a man, the suit is probably the most important component in his wardrobe. Being so, a suit must fit a man perfectly. So, I've divided suit wearing into three areas: Business, Casual, and Transitional (or a suit that can be worn in both categories).

Firstly. Whether it be for an interview, business meeting, or a day at the office, every man needs a black suit, simply for it's functionality and versatility.

This particular suit by Dior Homme ($1,287; Saks Fifth Avenue) has the classic two-button jacket that can be pretty appropriate for the workforce.

Tip: Make sure when buying a suit, or getting one tailored, that the seam of the shoulder on the jacket meets with the end of your shoulder. Too much and you'll look like a kid in his dad's suit. Too far in and you'll look like a dad in his kid's suit.

Category: "Transitional". Because with a quick tie loosening and sleeve roll this can be taken from corporate America to a couple drinks at the bar.

P.S. Don't let the $1287 price tag discourage you. Similar suits can be found at any local K&G, Men's Warehouse, or wherever your checkbook permits.

Next suit: The Khaki Kasual. The khaki suit is also a very impressive one to add to your fashion repertoire. While ranging in a variety of fabrics, the easiest khaki suit to find is usually a cotton blend. I'd invest in a khaki suit during the seasonal transition from summer to fall. They are generally 50- 60% cheaper.

This Khaki suit (Banana Republic) is in the classic three piece style, which includes a vest. I generally fall in love with three pieces because all three pieces are seamlessly interchangeable with other outfits.

Tip: When buying or tailoring a suit ALWAYS consider your stomach. (Sorry, :[ but it's true). A man with a little more in the tummy area should generally keep his jacket buttoned all the time. It makes a guy look ten times sleeker.

Categories: This suit is in most cases worn "casually". I'm sure a lot of you fashionistos could dress this suit properly in a business setting, but just for the articles sake let's say it's a casual number.

P.S. When looking for a khaki suit make sure you consider your local thrift store to find one. I did. :]

New Navy: Another valuable wardrobal asset is the navy blue suit. When paired with the right lightly colored dress shirt, complementing tie, and brown wing-tipped oxfords, the job interviews will be rolling in.

The suit pictured here is classic Ralph Lauren. (Ralph Lauren, $1,395) The thing to keep in mind with this suit is NOT wearing black shoes. If you don't own a pair of brown shoes, you should probably invest in a pair (try zappos.com)

Tip: One of the biggest mistakes you can make with a suit is having the pants way too long. We're not in third grade anymore guys. No one is going to ridicule you for being in "the flood." I think suit pants should rise enough when you sit to show your amazing socks. (try Gap, 3 for $15)

Categories: Personally, I'd wear this suit to work, so we'll say "business". This suit just screams CEO of Fortune 500 company.

Lastly: The pinstripe suit.

The pinstripe also shares an element it's necessity in your closet. The pinstripe allows you to make a statement without opening your mouth. This pattern has enough going where one can go belt-less if appropriate.

Pictured above is the Brook's Brother's Pinstripe Regent Suit ($2,400). This suit being a neutral grey, I'd play with a lot of different tie colors like purple, royal blue, plum, and even a moderate pink.

Tip: The pinstripe suit is perfect for short individuals. The vertical stripes with the length of the body, making the individual look taller. Not to mention pretty cool.

Category: I'd think we can safely put this one in the "transitional" bracket. While this suit is perfect for office wear, one could pull this look off on a dressy evening, or even church.

P.S. Make sure not to forget about the pocket on your jacket! Very important. This can add so much sartorial flavor to any suiting. Whether you add a handkerchief, pocket square, or a silk fabric cut out, JUST BE YOU!

Trust me, there will be plenty more articles to come for accessories like ties, cuff links, etc. Stay tuned and:

...raise the bar. ▁ ▂ ▃ ▅ ▆ ▇ ▉