Question 1

How do you calculate suit size?

Accepted Answer

To calculate suit size: 1) Measure your chest at the fullest part (under arms), 2) Round to nearest even number for jacket size (e.g., 40" chest = size 40), 3) Determine length (S, R, L, XL) based on height: under 5'8" = Short, 5'8"-6' = Regular, 6'-6'3" = Long, over 6'3" = Extra Long, 4) Measure waist and inseam for pant size. Your suit size combines chest measurement with length code (e.g., 40R means 40" chest, Regular length).

Question 2

What is the difference between slim fit and regular fit suits?

Accepted Answer

Slim fit suits are cut closer to the body with narrower shoulders, tapered waist, and slimmer sleeves and pant legs. They typically run 2-4 inches smaller than regular fit and create a modern, tailored silhouette. Regular/classic fit suits have more room through chest, waist, and legs, offering traditional comfort and ease of movement. Slim fits work best for lean, athletic builds, while regular fits accommodate various body types comfortably.

Question 3

How should a suit jacket fit?

Accepted Answer

A proper suit jacket fit: Shoulders align with your natural shoulder edge (no divots or overhanging), Chest allows you to fit a fist between your body and buttoned jacket, Sleeves end at wrist bone showing 1/4-1/2 inch of shirt cuff, Length covers your seat and hits at mid-thumb when arms hang naturally, Collar lies flat against your dress shirt collar with no gap, Lapels lie flat without pulling or gaping when buttoned.

Question 4

What measurements do I need for a custom suit?

Accepted Answer

Essential custom suit measurements: Chest (fullest part), Waist (at belly button), Hips (fullest part), Shoulders (point to point across back), Sleeve (shoulder to wrist with bent arm), Back length (base of neck to desired jacket length), Neck (shirt collar size), Inseam (crotch to floor), Outseam (waist to floor), Thigh, and Calf. Professional tailors take 15-20+ measurements for perfect custom fit.

Question 5

How do suit sizes vary by brand?

Accepted Answer

Suit sizes vary significantly between brands and countries. Italian brands (Armani, Ermenegildo Zegna) run smaller and slimmer. American brands (Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren) tend to run true to size with more room. European brands often use different numbering (size 50 = US 40). British brands may run slightly larger. Always check each brand's specific sizing chart and try before buying. Even within brands, different lines (slim vs classic) fit differently.

Question 6

What does 40R mean in suit sizes?

Accepted Answer

40R means: '40' = chest measurement in inches (40-inch chest circumference), 'R' = Regular length (for heights 5'8" to 6'0"). Other length codes: S (Short, under 5'8"), L (Long, 6'0" to 6'3"), XL (Extra Long, over 6'3"). So 40R is for someone with a 40-inch chest who is 5'8" to 6'0" tall. This sizing system is standard in American and British suit manufacturing.

Question 7

How should suit pants fit?

Accepted Answer

Proper suit pant fit: Waist sits comfortably at natural waist (no belt needed, but stays up with belt), Rise (crotch to waist) has no pulling or sagging, Seat/hips allow comfortable sitting without pulling, Thighs allow easy movement, Legs taper appropriately for style (slim, regular, wide), Length creates desired break: no break (modern), slight break (versatile), or full break (traditional). Pants should be hemmed to your exact inseam with proper dress shoes on.

Question 8

What is suit drop and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Drop is the difference between jacket size and pant waist. Standard drop is 6 inches (size 40 jacket = 34 waist). Athletic drop is 7-8 inches for muscular builds. Portly drop is 3-4 inches for larger midsections. If your drop differs from standard, you may need separates (jacket and pants sold separately) or alterations. Many brands now offer athletic fit (larger drop) alongside regular fit to accommodate different body types.

Question 9

Should I size up or down for a suit?

Accepted Answer

Generally, size based on measurements, not up or down. If between sizes: For jackets, size up if you have broad shoulders or plan to layer; size down for slim fit preference if you're lean. For pants, choose waist that fits comfortably (tailor can take in but adding fabric is difficult). Never size down hoping to lose weight - get current fit. Quality alterations can adjust 1-2 inches, but can't compensate for wrong base size.

Question 10

How much do suit alterations typically cost?

Accepted Answer

Common suit alteration costs: Hem pants $15-30, Take in/let out waist $20-40, Shorten sleeves $20-35, Take in jacket body $40-75, Adjust shoulders $50-100+, Shorten jacket $40-60. Basic alterations (hem, sleeves) cost $50-100 total. Major alterations can add $200-400 to suit cost. Some retailers include basic alterations with purchase. Budget 10-20% of suit price for alterations when buying off-the-rack.

Suit Size Calculator - Mens Suit Size Calculator & Jacket Size Guide

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