Why Suits Are the Right Choice for Men’s Grooming？

Why is the suit the right choice for men? There are roughly four key aspects that make suits a superior option.

1. Suits Enhance and Modify Body Shape

The complex structure of a suit is designed to modify a man’s body shape. The less perfect the body, the more noticeable the effect of a suit. Of course, this only works if you compare the same person before and after wearing a suit—you can’t expect a suit to turn a big belly into a muscular physique. That said, slimmer or less defined body types, particularly common in Asian men, benefit significantly from the suit’s body-enhancing qualities.

Just as women can use padded bras to enhance their busts, a suit can similarly enhance a man’s upper body, making it appear more powerful and well-proportioned.

• Creates the Illusion of Chest Muscles: A high-quality suit can have more than five layers in the chest area, each serving a different function. In traditional British tailoring, extra room is often left in the chest, allowing the elastic lining to naturally form a horizontal and vertical arc, creating the illusion of a muscular chest (even though it’s empty inside). This technique is called “drumming.” Other styles may not leave this horizontal margin, known as “net,” but a well-made suit will still naturally form a vertical bulge, simulating the same effect.
• Enhances Shoulder Width: The role of shoulder pads in suits is well-known. Traditional suits feature thicker and more prominent shoulder pads, enhancing the wearer’s shoulder width. This gives a stronger, more masculine appearance, similar to how a rugby player’s protective gear makes them look more imposing. Regardless of the style, formal suits always have shoulder pads, providing men with thin shoulders a boost in confidence.
• Defines a Waistline: Men also benefit from defining their waistline, especially those with larger builds. If you’re slim, a suit can create the illusion of broader shoulders and a slimmer waist. For heavier men, the waist can be repositioned higher, around the ribcage, which helps to minimize the appearance of a large belly. This technique, called a “high waist,” is often used in suits for men with fuller figures.

2. Suits Draw Attention to the Upper Body, Enhancing Presence

The inverted triangle shape of a suit, from the neck to the chest, combined with a light-colored shirt and dark tie, directs attention to a man’s upper body. This creates a more polished and confident look. In contrast, other traditional styles like the Zhongshan suit or Tang suit lack the visual depth and dynamic structure that a suit offers. The open collar design of a suit adds layers of sophistication and versatility to the overall look.

3. High-End Suits Signal Status and Success

The cost of a high-quality suit, particularly a custom-made one, far exceeds that of off-the-rack options. The craftsmanship and premium materials involved in making a top-tier suit turn it into a luxury item, symbolizing a man’s status and taste. Wearing a well-tailored suit instantly conveys power, success, and refinement. Just as women in elegant dresses may be perceived as more sophisticated than those in casual wear, men in tailored suits are often seen as more polished and professional.

It’s worth noting that while many people in Europe and the U.S. wear what is broadly categorized as “suits,” these are often simple jackets or coats, not the finely tailored, high-cost suits worn by elite gentlemen.

4. Suits Have Historical and Cultural Significance

Suits hold a prestigious place in history and culture. For most social and business occasions, wearing a suit is always a safe and appropriate choice. If you feel too formal, simply removing your tie or unbuttoning the top button can instantly make the look more casual. Suits remain the go-to option for men because of their versatility, cultural significance, and the effortless style they offer.

A Final Note: Athletic Body Types May Need Custom Suits

If you have an athletic or bodybuilder physique, most off-the-rack suits will not fit properly and may even look unflattering. This is because such body types represent a niche market that standard suit manufacturers don’t typically cater to. Men with extremely muscular builds, like Arnold Schwarzenegger, often look better without a suit, as their physique is already well-defined and doesn’t require enhancement.

To conclude, whether you’re slim, overweight, or moderately muscular, a well-made suit—whether custom or high-end ready-to-wear—will enhance your body shape. Suits are one of the few garments that consistently flatter a man’s physique, making them a wardrobe essential for any man looking to improve his style and grooming.