Men's Style Blog
Section: Gentlemanly Pursuits - Blog
We all know making a good first impression is based on your appearance; how your clothes fit determines whether you look sharp and confident or awkward and juvenile. Wearing ill-fitting clothes is the number one fashion mistake men make, but it’s easy to correct. Here’s our solution.
Dressing sharp isn't limited to any given set of outfits. It's more about taking pride in what you wear. The right outfit makes you look sharp and enhances your image; but if it doesn't fit right, it makes you look slovenly. Here's how to get a perfect fit, every time.
The fit of an outfit determines whether it is perceived as ‘sharp' or sloppy. Most men pay a lot of attention to their outfit's colour and style, but neglect the cheapest and most important component of an outfit: the fit.
To fit properly, your outfit should project a defined shape as it drapes over your body. No one looks good in clothes that billow and sag.
The starting point of a good fit is a proper length. Your trousers should fall just far enough to “break” on your shoes; the cuff should rest slightly on the top of your shoes, without spilling excess cloth over them. It's okay to wear jeans slightly longer as the bunching of fabric on a narrower cut spreads out better over the leg.
The waistband should rest comfortably above your hips, around the natural waist (or the narrowest point on your torso). Jeans fit lower at the trouser waist – just like modern cut chinos and dress slacks. You can pull off the lower cut easily when your waist is smaller than your chest.
If the reverse is true, avoid low-cut trousers because they will never stay up. Consider wearing suspenders instead; they are stylish and as well as practical.
To achieve a perfect fit, your shirt sleeves should extend far enough to cover your wrist bone when standing with your arms hanging down. The seam where the sleeve joins the shoulder must fall neatly on the end of your shoulder; it shouldn't droop down on your bicep.
Jacket sleeves should start at the same place. However, they should be just a touch shorter, so that a half-inch of the shirt sleeve is visible beyond the cuff. The shirt length should allow you to tuck in at least two inches of fabric all around.
Now that you have your clothes the right length, make sure they fit well in terms of circumference. Your clothing should fit close to your body, with just enough slack to allow you to move comfortably.
Pay special attention to the “rise” in your trousers (the distance between the waistband and the crotch seam). If the seam that joins the legs is hanging a few inches below your crotch, you might get a saggy look that translates straight to your thighs and bottom.
Your business shirts should fit you in the shoulders. Next, check the fabric in the torso. Even if the neck and sleeve length are right, too much fabric in the torso might make you resemble a balloon. The best way to avoid swimming in fabric is to buy a slim cut business shirt or to purchase a custom-made business shirt.
Finding off-the-rack clothes that fit perfectly is akin to finding a needle in a haystack. It's easier and cheaper to find a tailor you like and cultivate a relationship.
Have him or her make small adjustments to your clothes such as shortening the sleeves and so on so they fit better. These will be inexpensive alterations, but they improve your appearance tremendously.
At Montagio Custom Clothing, tailor made means we always have your size. You'll always get a perfect fit - we guarantee it. Call our showroom tomake a private appointment or stop by at your convenience.
Original idea for article from Antonio Centeno, author of the internet's most actionable men's style guide. We recommend a read!
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With over 20,000 satisfied clients, Montagio's distinction as the top-rated tailor in Sydney and Brisbane is no coincidence. Our success lies in our commitment to personalisation, ensuring each suit is a true reflection of the individual wearing it. Unlike others, we focus on providing unparalleled service, meticulous attention to detail, and an array of bespoke options, making every Montagio suit a testament to quality and individuality. If it lacks that personal touch, it simply isn't Montagio.
Named in GQ Magazine's "Best Tailors" list, and the highest reviewed tailor on Google, Montagio has paved the way for discerning men to get suited up with style. A truly personalised experience, we deliver perfectly fitted bespoke suits, shirts and coats for business, weddings, formal and casual events. Our showrooms are visually packed with designs that inspire and 1,000s of fabrics, making it easy for you to get the look you want. Our difference? We won't let you walk out until we've tailored your perfect garment. It's personal. To experience the same red-carpet service, book your personal appointment today.
