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Different types of suits for men & suit size guide

From classic and elegant to modern and quirky: there are many different types of suits to match every style. To help you find a suit that fits you perfectly, we’ve put together an overview of the various suit fits. We’ll also explain how to work out your suit size and how a suit should fit. That way, you’ll always look your best – from business meetings to weddings.

Different types of suits

Having a suit with a good fit will make you look smart and feel confident. Below we will show you the most common types of suits:

Regular fit – a timeless classic

Regular fit suits are very comfortable and have a relaxed fit. This style of suit flatters most body types. The jacket has a normal length and ends just above your buttocks. The trousers have a classic straight fit.

Find your perfect regular fit suit

Slim fit – smart and close-fitting

In comparison to a regular fit suit, a slim fit suit has a closer fit. This type of suit has slim sleeves and slim fit trousers. The jacket is slightly shorter and has narrow lapels. The shoulders and waist are accentuated, which will emphasise your figure in a stylish way.

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Relaxed fit – the comfortable suit

Relaxed fit suits offer you exceptional comfort and freedom of movement. The jacket is less fitted and has a slightly looser cut. The trousers are also cut wider and sit comfortably on the leg. The relaxed fit is therefore deliberately loose and creates a casual, modern silhouette.

Skinny fit – a modern alternative

Skinny fit suits are very close-fitting. They will highlight your figure even more than a slim fit suit. This style of suit is a modern alternative to a classic regular fit suit and is often worn by men with a slim or athletic build.

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Different styles of suit jackets

Jackets are usually available with either one or two rows of buttons. However, what is the difference and when should you wear different types of suit jackets?

1. Single-breasted jackets – an absolute classic

A single-breasted suit jacket is a classic type of jacket with only one button placket, which can have only one, two or even three buttons. In general, the rule is: the more buttons your jacket has, the more stylish your suit is. Single-breasted jackets will make your waist look smaller and are suitable for any occasion.

2. Double-breasted jackets – a very smart alternative

A suit with a double-breasted jacket is a great choice for formal occasions. The jacket has two parallel rows of buttons with a total of four to eight buttons. A traditional double-breasted jacket has six buttons. This type of suit also makes you look slimmer and at the same time it will highlight your shoulders.

How should a suit fit?

A suit with a good fit will make you look stylish and show off your best features. That's why it's important to think about which type of suit you would like to go for. Below we have listed some tips on how to find the right fit:

Suits for smaller men

Slim fit suits are a great choice for smaller men, as they will make you appear taller. Make sure your sleeves and trousers have the correct length so that you don’t have to fold them up. A shorter jacket and dark colours or vertical patterns will also make you look taller.

Suits for taller men

Tall men should make sure that their sleeves and trousers are long enough, and the jacket should also go down to your hips. Tailored suits are recommended for tall men. If you would like to look a bit smaller, you can wear a 3-button lapel. Vertical patterns such as pinstripes are not a good idea as they will make you look even taller.

Suits for broad shoulders

A regular fit suit can flatteringly balance out broad shoulders and make the upper body appear more proportionate. It is important that the suit does not have any additional shoulder pads. A single-breasted suit can also draw attention to the waist.

Suits for plus size men

Men with a more robust build look particularly elegant in a suit when they opt for darker colours. The suit should also not feature too many details that draw attention to the upper body. When it comes to the fit, regular fit and relaxed fit suits are particularly recommended. A regular fit emphasises the waist slightly without being too tight, and the straight cut of the trousers makes the legs appear slightly slimmer. A relaxed fit, on the other hand, is particularly comfortable and offers great freedom of movement.

Tip

To make sure your suit fits perfectly, you can also put together your own suit with our Mix & Match collection. You can order different sizes and combine different jackets and trousers for a smart and stylish look.

Discover our Mix & Match collection

Suit size guide

A suit with a good fit will highlight your assets and make you look smart. Below we will show you how to find a suit with a good fit:

Size guide part 1: jackets

Shoulders

A jacket with a good fit should not feel too tight around your shoulders. Make sure that there are no creases on the torso or around your shoulders. The shoulder seam should be on the same level as your upper arm. To find out if the jacket fits properly, you can try leaning against a wall. Lean sideways against a wall. If your jacket touches the wall and it feels baggy, then it is too big.

Chest

When you close your jacket, the lapels should not stretch, crease or stick out. The jacket should have a good fit and you should be able to easily close and open the buttons with one hand. In addition, make sure that you can fit the palm of your hand on your chest when all the buttons on your jacket are fastened.

Getting the right sleeve length

You will have the right sleeve length on your jacket if your hand is completely visible. In addition, about one centimetre of the shirt should be visible from under the jacket sleeve.

Finding the right jacket length

The length of your jacket is down to your own personal preference. However, you should make sure that the jacket covers the zip on your suit trousers and your buttocks. The vents on your suit jacket should go straight down and not stick out.

Suit size guide: finding the correct jacket size

To find your suit size, start off by standing up straight and putting your arms down. It's best to have someone help you measure, as it's easier if there are two of you. Measure closely to your body and don't suck in your stomach.

Here is how to measure for a jacket:

  • Measuring your chest: put the tape measure around your chest and bring it back to the front just below your armpits over your shoulder blades.

  • Jacket length: put the tape measure next to your neck, let it roll straight down over your chest and take note of the length next to the bottom of your thumb.

  • Sleeve length: starting at around the middle of your neck, measure over your shoulder and along the outside of your arm all the way down to your wrist.

The C&A size guide can help you find the perfect suit size for you. In this guide – specifically in the ‘Men’ section – you’ll find a special guide for office wear.

Suit size guide part 2: suit trousers

Getting the correct fit

Suit trousers that have a good fit should not crease, slip or feel too tight.

Getting the right length

When looking for trousers with the right length, there are two different kinds of style. The trousers will either have a narrow or wide leg:

  • Wide leg suit trousers: these will go down to the heel on your shoe and your socks will not be visible. Your trousers should also not crease.

  • Narrow leg suit trousers: these trousers will go down to your shoes and will have a small crease.

How to find the right size trousers

Start off by standing up straight and again it’s always best to ask someone to help you.

Here is how to measure for a pair of suit trousers:

  • Waist size: put the tape measure on the widest part of your hips and measure the circumference.

  • Inside leg length: measure from the top down to the hem (below the ankle) on your trousers. The tape measure should measure the length of your inside leg.

Men's suits are available in short, regular and long sizes so it is easy to find one with a good fit. This way you can find the perfect suit with a great fit.

You can easily find your suit size in our size chart.

FAQs on finding the perfect suit

Below you will find some helpful information, tips and answers to the most common FAQs about suits:

Absolute suit faux pas

Always make sure that your suit has a good fit and it is not too long or too big. In addition, don't put anything in your outside pockets, so that they don’t stick out. Instead, put your wallet and mobile phone in your inside pocket. It is also important that the collar of your jacket always lies flat and does not stick out.

Which button on your suit can you leave undone?

The number of buttons on your jacket will determine which button you can leave undone:

  • Single-button jacket: you should leave your button done up even when standing up or sitting down.

  • Two-button jacket: your top button should always be fastened, but you can leave the bottom button undone. Before sitting down, you should also undo your top button.

  • Three-button jacket: the middle button needs to be fastened, but you can leave the lower button undone. It is also generally recommended to fasten your top button.

  • Double-breasted jacket: on this type of jacket you will need to fasten all the buttons, even when sitting down.

Discover our collection of suit jackets
Can you wear a T-Shirt under your jacket?

You can always wear a long-sleeved shirt under a jacket. This will make you look smart and it is a great choice for a less formal occasion. If it is too warm, you should take off your jacket and slightly roll up your sleeves. A short-sleeved shirt or a T-shirt under your jacket is too informal for events and business meetings.

Find a matching shirt for your new suit
What can you wear with a suit?

In addition to a jacket, suit trousers and a matching shirt, you can finish off your smart look with some of the following accessories:

  • Tie or bow tie: a tie with a smart knot or bow tie can make you look very elegant. Depending on your job a tie may be compulsory, whereas a bow tie is compulsory for "white tie" and "black tie" events and formal occasions.

  • Waistcoat: having a matching waistcoat will make you look very stylish and it is great for special events and functions.

  • Pocket square: a pocket square is tucked into your breast pocket on a suit jacket to add a splash of colour.

  • Shoes: having the right pair of shoes is very important to make sure you look smart. Black or brown leather shoes are often recommended and go well with almost every suit. For further information and tips on choosing the right pair of shoes, have a look at the following article: Different colours and fabrics for suits.

  • Socks: your socks need to match your trousers or shoes to complete your look.

  • Belts: belts and shoes should match in both colour and material for a smart traditional look. Leather is the best choice for shoes and belts. Your belt should not be too flashy.

Conclusion: finding the perfect style and suit fit

Once you've found your suit size, try different styles, materials and colours to find your personal suit style. Get inspired by our stylish collection of suits and find your new perfect suit today.

Discover our collection of suits

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Image sources in chronological order:

Cover photo: Gecko Studio - stock.adobe.com
1st – 3rd image in text: C&A
4th image in text: Chanakon - stock.adobe.com
5th image in text: pressmaster - stock.adobe.com
6th & 7th image in text : AI generated