Men's suit: Ernest or Simons? The guide to making the right choice

Two models, two approaches

Are you looking for a suit for a prom, a wedding, or the office? In that case, you might want to compare two of the most popular stores: Ernest and Simons. First off, it's important to know that Ernest specializes in men's suits and offers a carefully curated selection of brands. For its part, Simons is a large family department store that offers a wide range of suits at its Le 31 boutique.

Comparison table

Services	Brands	Fabrics	Fits	Uses	Online shopping across Canada
Ernest Boutique	Expert advice Tailor adjustment service	Anthony of London Orvieto jack victor	100% wool and blends with high wool content	Classic Semi-fitted Fitted Modern	Prom Wedding Office	Delivery across Canada
Simons	Advice Clothing alterations	Le 31 Designer brands	Marzotto Italian wool fabric	Fitted Semi-fitted Regular	Prom Wedding Office	Delivery across Canada

The fabric: what you really need to look at

When looking for a quality men's suit, fabric is a key factor to consider. 100% synthetic fabrics are not recommended for a suit you plan to wear often, as they wear out faster and are not very breathable. Their only advantages are easy maintenance and lower cost.

Without a doubt, wool is the material to prioritize for a suit that is both durable and elegant. In addition to offering an aesthetically superior drape, it naturally regulates body temperature, breathes, wicks away moisture, and resists odors.

Many suits offered at Simons stand out with Italian wool fabric signed by Marzotto. Breathable, sturdy, and smooth, it represents a safe bet for a long-lasting suit.

At Ernest, most of our suits are also made with high-quality Italian wool fabrics. Some models include a small percentage of synthetic materials, such as elastane and lycra, for added comfort and ease of movement.

Among our collections, you will essentially find suits that are:

• 100% wool (100% polyester lining)
• 98% wool + 2% lycra/elastane/spandex (with 100% polyester lining)

Suit brands

At Ernest, as a specialty men's suit boutique, we offer a limited selection of brands, including our house brands, Anthony of London and Orvieto, as well as the excellent Montreal-based brand Jack Victor. All our suits meet high-quality standards for fabric, cut, and construction.

Our selection also covers all price ranges. A more affordable stretch knit suit is perfect for a first suit or a one-time occasion like a graduation. At the heart of the collection, Orvieto wool suits offer the best value for money. And for those seeking high-end, Jack Victor represents the pinnacle of our selection.

Anthony of London: between $200 and $350

Orvieto: between $200 and $500

Jack Victor: between $1000 and $1200

Note: These prices are approximate and subject to change.

At Simons stores, you will find a large inventory including suits from the house brand Le 31 and other brands, in a wide range of prices (between $200 and $650), as well as designer suits from labels like Jack Victor, Calvin Klein, and Hugo Boss that can cost over $1000.

Jack Victor: the same Montreal brand is offered on both sides.

Construction and fit: the fit decides everything

What matters most for a polished and elegant look is a well-constructed and well-fitted suit, regardless of its price. At Ernest, we believe that a well-designed suit with a good fit at an affordable cost is preferable to a more expensive suit that is poorly fitted.

The half-canvas construction of a jacket, for example, provides an elegant drape and a flawless appearance without breaking the bank. The lapels, buttonholes, inner lining, and topstitching are all details that make a suit stand out.

To achieve an ideal fit, adjustments may be necessary. Simons stores offer an on-site alteration service in their sewing workshops. Ernest also offers an affordable suit alteration service. In our in-store sewing workshops, our experienced tailor-advisors adjust the shoulders, sleeves, collar, pant hems, etc., to achieve a result that closely resembles a made-to-measure suit. These passionate professionals are available in almost all our stores and can often perform minor alterations the same day.

Which suit for which need?

Prom, gala, wedding, office... each occasion has its suit! For work, Ernest and Simons offer classic and elegant suits that ensure a polished look. That said, it is important to clarify that the city suits sold at Ernest are not part of the workwear line (Lafont).

For a wedding, your suit choice will depend on your role. The groom, best man, or groomsman, for example, will opt for a higher-end and more sophisticated suit than a regular guest. If applicable, follow the event's dress code (e.g., formal or casual) to avoid any faux pas.

For a prom, you can be bolder with your suit choice, keeping in mind that it may not be worn many times. You can also opt for a versatile suit paired with a colorful shirt and bolder accessories, like an original tie, pocket square, or bow tie.

If you're looking for a first suit, don't hesitate to ask for advice in-store. At both Ernest and Simons, someone will be able to guide you toward the right choice.

Buy online anywhere in Canada

It is possible to buy a suit online anywhere in Canada from both Ernest and Simons. Both retailers offer nationwide delivery and have return and exchange policies.

Delivery at Ernest

In Canada, Ernest covers the delivery costs for all orders over $100 (before taxes). For purchases under $100, a $9.95 fee applies.

Returns and exchanges for online purchases at Ernest

You can return items in-store or by mail within 30 days of your order date. Please note that:

* Online orders picked up in-store must be returned exclusively in-store (returns by mail are not offered).

* Orders paid with installment payments (Shop Pay or PayPal) require a return exclusively online.

For an in-store return, you must bring a copy of your invoice or the shipping label to one of our branches.

Please note that exchanges by mail are not offered. You must go to a store.

For a return by mail, you must submit your request. Place a copy of your invoice or the shipping label inside the box. Once we receive the package, we will process your request and send you a confirmation email. Processing can take up to three weeks after we receive the package.

Fitting a suit purchased online

To successfully fit a suit remotely, first use a measuring tape to take your measurements. Then refer to the suit description sheets and the size guides on the stores' websites to choose the jacket and pants that best match your measurements. When you later visit a sewing workshop (e.g., our tailor service at Ernest), the adjustments will be easier to make.

So, should you buy from Ernest or Simons?

After all this information, are you still unsure whether you should buy your next men's suit from Ernest or Simons? In reality, there is no absolute answer, as it all depends on your preferences and needs. While the lowest entry price remains a key argument for buying from a department store like Simons, Ernest stands out for its value. For example, at a comparable price, an Orvieto suit dresses you in real wool, whereas you often find blended fabric elsewhere. For a garment designed to last, that transcends trends, and that you will wear for years, this difference is noticeable.

Choose Simons for:	Choose Ernest for:
Inventory depth Volume Fashion	Expertise Service Value for money

Ready to buy a men's suit for a graduation, prom, the office, or a wedding? Discover our suit collections now and take advantage of our delivery service across Canada. To make the right choice, book an appointment with one of our in-store advisors.

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