How Long Does a Tailored Suit Last?
A quality suit can be worn multiple times a week, especially if you mix it up with shirts, ties, and other accessories. Choosing a cloth that breathes, like cotton, wool, or kid mohair, will also help.
Having a tailor for simple alterations can keep you from having to buy another suit every time you gain or lose weight or experience an unexpected growth spurt.
Size
A tailored suit can last a long time, but it depends on how well you take care of it. Some common mistakes can shorten the lifespan of your tailored suit. For example, if you get your suit dirty frequently, it will eventually show wear and tear. A stain from ketchup, mustard, or even coffee can leave noticeable marks on your suit. You can also ruin your suit by making certain mistakes when wearing it, like wearing a tight-fitting shirt with a collar button undone or leaving it unbuttoned.
If you make these mistakes, your tailor may have to sew new buttons onto your suit or replace the fabric around the buttonholes. These repairs will cost money, but they’ll keep your suit looking good for longer.
When you buy a custom-tailored suit, knowing how to measure yourself properly is important. Taking your measurements in person is the best way to ensure that you’ll get a suit that fits you perfectly. Avoid getting measured in a department store by a commissioned sales associate, as this can lead to inaccurate measurements and a less-than-satisfactory fit.
Understanding how to select the right cloth for your needs is also important. If you select a wool or cotton suit that’s too thin, it will wear out quickly. On the other hand, a quality vicuna or cashmere suit will breathe and wear out more slowly.
Additionally, if you’re buying off-the-rack suits, be sure to check the label inside the jacket or waistband of the pants for specific instructions on how to clean and care for them. Some guys are oblivious to this fact, which can lead to premature wear and damage to their suits.
Finally, be sure to get your suit professionally dry-cleaned on a regular basis. This will help remove lint and dirt from the suit and keep it fresh and crisp. In addition, you should brush your suit on a daily basis to remove excess lint and debris. This will also prevent the suit from developing a static charge, which can cause it to look linty and dingy.
Fabric
The fabric of the suit is a crucial factor in how long it will last. A tailored suit should be made from durable, high-quality fabric that will stand up to wear. The cloth should also be soft on the skin and should be breathable to keep you cool.
A suit is a big investment, and you want to make sure that it will last as long as possible. A quality, bespoke suit will last upwards of 20-30 years with proper care. However, the initial cost of a bespoke suit can be prohibitive for many men. If you only plan on wearing the suit occasionally, such as for work or special occasions, a made-to-measure or off-the-rack suit may be more appropriate.
If you are buying a suit, look for the label “silk swatch” or “100% wool swatch.” These fabrics will be much more durable than those without these markings. The label will also give you a good idea of the thickness of the fabric and how it will feel on the body.
The cloth’s thread and super count will also impact how long your suit lasts. A super count of 110 to 130 is ideal for an everyday suit, while a higher number produces a finer and more delicate fabric that may not hold up to daily wear. The origin of the fabric can also be a key factor, as the price and durability can vary widely depending on where the cloth is produced.
A common mistake that people make is purchasing suits based on the fashion trends of the moment. Although this may seem like a great idea at the time, it will likely look outdated in five to 10 years. Instead, opt for timeless styles with subtle contemporary touches.
One of the biggest mistakes that guys make is not reading the care instructions on their suits. Typically located inside the collar of a suit jacket or the waistband of trousers, these labels provide specific instructions on cleaning and caring for your suit. If you don’t read the care instructions, your suit will be at risk of damage and premature wear.
Style
A tailored suit should last a long time if it’s properly maintained. But it’s not just about the fabric or the construction of the suit. It’s also important to consider how you use it and how often you wear it. For example, if you wear your suit only for business meetings, it may only need to be dry cleaned once or twice a year. However, if you wear it to casual events, like weddings and other social functions, it should be dry cleaned more often to extend its lifespan.
If you’re going to be wearing your suit a lot, it should be made of sturdy material. For instance, a good quality wool blend is a great choice because it will keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. It will also breathe and won’t pill as easily. Another thing to consider is the color of your suit. Dark colors are more formal and will stand out in a crowd. Lighter colors are more versatile and can be worn with a variety of other clothing items.
Be sure to choose a suit that fits you well. It’s best to go with the larger size if you’re between sizes. This will allow you to alter the suit later if needed. Also, be sure to hang your suit on a heavy-duty clothes hanger instead of a plastic one. Cheap hangers can bend or break, which will damage your suit.
It’s a good idea to periodically take your suit to the tailor for simple alterations. This will keep it looking sharp and help you avoid any rips or tears that could detract from its look. However, keep in mind that there are busy times of the year for tailors. It’s a good idea to book alterations in advance to avoid waiting too long.
You should also avoid putting your suit in the washing machine or dryer. This can cause the fabric to stretch, which will reduce its longevity. Also, it’s a good idea to only use professional dry-cleaning services for your suit.
Care
A tailored suit is one of the most expensive clothing items you will ever purchase, and it can be easily damaged if it isn’t cared for properly. Even if your suit is made from the finest fabrics, it will still be exposed to everyday dirt, dust, and sweat throughout the day. The fabric of your suit will also get creased and dirty from the buttons, belt loops, seams, and any other accessories you use. These creases and wrinkles can make your suit look worn out, unattractive, and smelly.
Proper care and maintenance of your suit will extend its life and ensure it always looks crisp and sharp. Invest in a soft bristle brush and use it after every wear to remove lint and other debris. This is particularly important for suits that are not dry-cleaned regularly. This will not only prevent your suit from becoming dingy, but it can also help you avoid the need to have it professionally dry cleaned for up to 6 months at a time.
Whenever you aren’t wearing your suit, it should be hung on a broad, wooden hanger that will support the shoulders of the jacket. It should be hung up in an open area of your closet, with space around it to allow the fibers to breathe. Never store your suit in a drawer or on a coat rack, as this can cause damage to the delicate material. If possible, buy multiple hangers so that you can alternate them. Using a cedar wood hanger is also an excellent way to help deter moths and other insects from damaging your suit.
You should only have your suit professionally dry cleaned when it has become stained or dirty. It is a good idea to have it professionally pressed after each cleaning, as this will help to prevent the material from stretching out of shape. Never try to iron your suit at home, as this can damage the fine fabrics.
Alternate your suits as often as you can and try not to wear each one more than twice a week. This will give the fibers of your suit a chance to recover between each wear and will also help to eliminate any unwanted body odors.
With a solid foundation in technology, backed by a BIT degree, Lucas Noah has carved a niche for himself in the world of content creation and digital storytelling. Currently lending his expertise to Creative Outrank LLC and Oceana Express LLC, Lucas has become a... Read more