|
Wool
This
is the most popular suit fabric choice due to its
versatility and refined aesthetic. Wool is a
fantastic choice as it breathes well, and can be
worn in both slightly hot and cooler temperatures.
It is a softer fabric and tends to be wrinkle
free. The two main wool yarns produce worsted
(which is a fine smooth yarn spun from combed
long-staple wool) in which the fibers are combined
before spinning, and woolen (plain wool) where
they are not. These two yarns can be woven in a
number of ways to produce flannel, tweed,
cashmere, and merino — to name a few.
In reference to cashmere or cashmere blend suits,
not only is it considered a luxury item, but it
can sometimes give off an unwanted sheen to a
suit. You’re probably going to want to purchase a
suit with more of a matte finish. If you do desire
a cashmere suit, buy one for a special occasion,
or plan to wear it somewhere other than work. It
may look like a little too much.
Super wool
Suit
fabrics are sometimes classified as Super 100s,
140s, 160s and so on. The numbers refer to the
number of times that the worsted wool has been
twisted as it was being made. As a general rule,
the higher the number, the finer and lighter the
cloth will be, as well as the more expensive it’s
likely to be. The more lightweight it is (the
higher the number), the better the suit is for the
warmer months of the year. The only drawback to
super wools is that they don’t keep their shape
very well and require extra care, and they won’t
last very long if worn regularly.
Cotton
Cotton is the second most popular suit fabric, as
it breathes very well and is soft. However, it
tends to crease very easily. Cotton suits are a
cheaper option, best to wear during the
transitional and warmer months of the year, and
are great for all body types. Look for heavy
cotton or wool/cotton blend as it allows the suit
to retain its silhouette better. It’s best to wear
a cotton suit if you’re going to a semi-formal
event as it’s just a bit more on the casual side.
Polyester
Polyester is made of synthetic materials that are
of lower quality fabric. Polyester suits usually
come blended with another fiber, such as wool, in
order to keep the price of it low.
If you’re strapped for cash, a polyester wool
blend suit still makes for an acceptable choice.
It doesn’t tend to wrinkle, but unfortunately the
fabric doesn’t breathe very well. On the negative
side, polyester blended suits tend to shine a
little more and can make garments look cheap.
If you do opt for a polyester suit, make sure that
it’s only worn during the spring and fall to avoid
subjecting it to extreme temperatures. Try and opt
for wool blends for increased quality and wear
ability for more formal atmospheres and office
wear. This fabric suits most bodies types.
Linen
Linen suits are super lightweight and help you to
remain cool as the temperatures rise. The fabric
is extremely breathable and tends to be far more
porous, in comparison to conventional wool.
Unfortunately, linen tends to wrinkle easily,
stain easily, and needs to be frequently dry
cleaned in order to maintain the fresh, crisp look
of the fabric and the overall suit. It also tends
to lose its shape very quickly. Linen suits should
only be worn in the summer and are best suited for
casual events. They can, however, be worn to work,
but just be aware of color choice and style. If
your office is very formal, it’s best to leave the
linen suit for off-hours. |
