Grad 101: 8 golden rules for finding the perfect suit

- Shop Your Suit on Ernest.ca
- (Suit, shirt, tie or bow tie)

Your prom day is fast approaching, and you still haven’t chosen your outfit for this special evening? In this article, you'll find some essential tips that inspire you!

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Une publication partagée par Ernest (@boutique_ernest)

1: Trends and Cuts

Since fashion evolves from season to season, trends have changed, even for prom suits. In recent years, suits have been worn closer to the body. If you’ve never worn this clothing, you might initially find it a bit uncomfortable. However, remember that fabrics are now more stretchable to ensure ease of movement—perfect if you plan to dance for hours!

2: The Timeless Black Suit

If colors don’t appeal to you or if you prefer a more discreet and chic look, the black suit is your best choice. Pair it with a white or light gray shirt, a subtle tie, or a bow tie, and don’t forget a pocket square in your jacket pocket. You’ll effortlessly achieve a James Bond-inspired look. Plus, you can always wear the jacket with a T-shirt and jeans for future occasions like your graduation ceremony.

3: The Right Suit and Dress Shirt Size

There are many price ranges for suits, but if it’s not the right size, it can quickly look like you borrowed it from your dad or uncle. Choosing a model designed for young men and their body shape is essential.

Remember that your shirt should always be tucked into your pants. It should fit close to your body and not create a bunching effect around your waist. To check if the collar fits properly, ensure there’s about a finger’s width of space between your neck and the collar. A solid-colored shirt is a safe choice, but with many options available, you might be tempted by a subtle micro-pattern or even something bold and eye-catching.

4: Adjustments to the Jacket and Pants

Don’t worry if the suit that caught your eye doesn’t fit perfectly on the first try. It’s common to need a few alterations to ensure it matches your body shape. A tailor or seamstress can adjust the sleeve length, taper the back if required, work on the waist or crotch area of the pants, shorten the hems, and more.

Nowadays, men’s suit jacket sleeves are worn shorter, ending at the wrist bone, allowing about 1/4 inch of the shirt cuff to show. This also highlights a nice watch or bracelet on your wrist.

Your pants, on the other hand, should rest just above your shoes. They should create a slight break on top of your shoe for a classic length. If you want to follow modern trends, the hem of your pants should sit at your ankle, revealing your stylish socks. Depending on the type of shoes you wear, you might even go sockless!

5: The Two-Button Suit is the Best Choice

The standard choice is a suit jacket with two buttons. Trust our experience—it’s the style that stands the test of time! You might come across double-breasted jackets or three-button models while shopping. However, these styles are bolder and less timeless.

6: The RightAccessories – Bow Tie, Tie, and Pocket Square

No matter which suit and shirt you choose, your accessories will set you apart from other graduates. A bow tie with fun patterns, a sleek solid tie, a floral pocket square, and elegant cufflinks… are your chance to have fun and choose combinations that reflect your style. The pocket square must no longer match your bow tie or tie perfectly. Professionals can guide your choices, but the final decision is yours.

7: The Belt Matches the Shoes

Good news: your shoe choice isn’t limited to classic dress shoes this year. Sportier styles (including the popular Converse) can also be considered. Who says you can't have style without sacrificing comfort? Just remember to coordinate your shoes with the right belt. Since you'll be tucking your shirt into your pants, you'll need a stylish belt that complements your outfit. Don't stress about finding a cognac belt that matches your shoes ideally—natural leather can have slight variations in shade. Just make sure to stay within the same color range. Want to wear sneakers to prom? Simply choose a sporty, stretchable belt, and you're all set!

8: Create Beautiful Memories – With or Without a Date

There was a time when prom was the perfect opportunity to ask your crush to be your date for the big night. That also meant making sure their outfit had a small matching detail, like a color or an accessory, for the perfect official photos. Today, you can attend solo, with friends, or with someone you love.

No matter how you dress, the most important thing is to be yourself. Your graduation prom is a special moment, a milestone, an achievement! Be proud, smile, and thoroughly enjoy the reward of your hard work. After all, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Happy prom night! Boutique Ernest congratulates you on this accomplishment and offers you an exclusive promotion. Visit our graduation section for more details. Once again, congratulations!

Find the nearest Ernest boutique for your perfect graduation outfit.