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Grad 101: 8 golden rules for finding the perfect suit
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Grad 101: 8 golden rules for finding the perfect suit
The big day is fast approaching! Do you need help putting together an outfit? If you aren’t sure where to start, here are a few expert tips to help you choose the right clothing for your Grad celebration.
1: Cut and style
Fashion trends are constantly changing, and grad clothing is no exception. Men’s suits have become much more fitted in the past few years. If you’ve never worn form-fitting clothing before, you may find it a little uncomfortable at first. However, modern suits are made from stretchy fabrics that allow you to move freely.
2: Black suits, a timeless classic
A black suit is ideal if you aren’t into bold colours or prefer something classic and chic. Make sure you finish off your look with a white or light grey shirt, a tie or bow tie and a pocket square. James Bond, step aside! You can also wear your black suit jacket with a t-shirt and jeans for other occasions like your convocation.
3: The right size suit and dress shirt
You can spend all the money you want on a suit, but it may look like you borrowed it from your dad or uncle if it's not the correct size. It's essential to choose a suit in a cut and style suitable for young men.
You must tuck your dress shirt into your pants. Therefore, your shirt should fit close to your body to prevent it from bunching or puffing up around your waist. You should be able to slide a least one finger between the collar and your neck. You can play it safe with a solid, neutral-coloured shirt or have fun with a subtle pattern or something bright.
4: Suit jacket and pant alterations
Don't worry if your suit doesn’t look perfect at your first fitting. You may need a few alterations before it fits just right. The tailor can adjust the length of your jacket sleeves, cinch the waist and hem your pants.
Nowadays, men’s suit jackets are worn slightly shorter at the wrists. Your suit jacket should only extend about a quarter inch beyond your shirt sleeves so you can wear a nice watch or bracelet.
Generally, the hem of your pants should sit just above your shoes to create a horizontal crease called a break. If you want a classic look, your pants should sit at the ball of your ankle. Don’t forget to wear a pair of funky patterned socks ! Depending on the shoes you’re wearing, you could also go sockless.
5: Two-button suit jacket
Most suit jackets have two buttons. However, double-breasted and three-button suit jackets are all the rage this year. The style of suit jacket you choose is key. For example, you don’t want to look back on your grad photos in 10 years and regret your decision. It’s up to you if you want to think outside the box with your style.
6: The right accessories: bow tie, tie and pocket square
No matter what suit or dress shirt you choose, what will set you apart is your accessories and how you wear them. Do you want to wear a patterned bow tie? What about a bright, glossy tie or floral-printed pocket square? You can have fun choosing accessories that express your personality. Moreover, your pocket square doesn’t necessarily have to match your bow tie or tie. Professionals can help you with the decision, but ultimately the choice is yours!
7: Matching belt and shoes
You don’t have to stick to dress shoes when it comes to footwear. You can also wear a nice pair of sneakers or Converse. You can be stylish without compromising on comfort. Since your shirt will be tucked inside your pants, you must accessorize with a stylish belt. If your shoes are cognac, don’t worry about finding a belt in the exact same shade. Natural leathers can vary in colour; just stay within the same tones. If you’re wearing sneakers, look for a sporty or stretchy belt.
8: Create beautiful memories
It used to be common to ask your crush to go with you to grad. Additionally, you were expected to match your suit and accessories with the colour of your date’s dress. Today, you can go alone, with friends or a family member. The important thing is to be comfortable and be yourself. Your grad celebration is a special time in your life. Be proud, walk with your head held high and reap the rewards of your efforts.
Happy graduation !
