Suits you Sir

For those of you who prefer or are bound to a more formal attire for the daily grind, picking the best suit for you depends on more than just finding a good style; you have to pick one in a suitable fabric. Depending on the season, the appropriate suit fabric will differ. Staples like wool, will often accommodate your style needs all year long. Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know about suit fabrics so that you can pick out the perfect one for yourself. Substance over style? Never.

Wool

Most modern suits are made of wool. It’s the most versatile fabric, the best in comfort, wrinkle-resistant, and has greater longevity than most. Another characteristic that makes wool an ideal suit fabric is its ability to absorb moisture, so even when you’re forced to sport a suit on the hottest of days, it’ll keep you cool. The most common types of wool suits are merino, cashmere and angora. Sold.

Best season: All year long

Flannel

Flannel isn’t quite as popular as it used to be because it’s a heavy fabric that doesn’t breathe much, which means that you’ll be toasty warm in any climate. Its wear has also declined because the fabric begins to peel over time, so be wary of cheaper suits claiming to be flannel and premium.

Best season: Winter

Cotton

Cotton is a durable fabric found in most American suits. Not very popular with the masters of  tailoring over in Europe it does hold some worthy benefits to think about. Like wool, cotton can absorb sweat and keep you cool throughout most months. As a huge bonus, the fabric is quite practical and easy to maintain since it’s machine-washable. “Suits for dummies” take note.

Best season: Spring, summer, autumn

Linen

Linen may look cool while on you’re in holiday mode, but it has many drawbacks that don’t necessarily fit into the modern man’s business attire. Although a linen suit is lightweight and will keep you very cool in the warmer months, its downfall is that it creases very easily and if done cheaply, ends up looking a bit naff. Reserve for very hot days and avoid top to toe colour, unless you’re going for a half baked Don Johnson look. In which case, good luck with that.

Best season: Summer