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Is an Expensive Suit Worth It Right Out Of College?
I’m just starting in business and I have a little cash to spare for getting set up (but not too much). Is a custom-tailored suit worth the $1000 or so I’d be paying for it, or should I just get something off the rack for my first couple years?
A full bespoke suit would be awesome to have, but it’s not a necessity, no. If you’ve got the cash and you’re pretty confident that you’re not going to grow any more, it can be a lasting investment, but no one is going to hold an adjusted off-the-rack suit against a 20-something guy.
I know I filled out a decent amount in my first few years out of college, and I’m glad I didn’t get anything custom-tailored before then. Something from Jos. A. Banks, Men’s Wearhouse, etc. won’t be the most amazing suit you’ll ever own, but it will still get you by just fine in most situations.
The one potential exception would be a man who’s got such an unusual build that off-the-rack suits aren’t an option. I’m borderline at 6’8″ with a very slim build — if you’re in a similar “outlier” region, and you’re in an industry where your appearance and your tailoring are going to be judged pretty seriously (trial lawyer, etc.), then you might think about getting a custom suit.
Otherwise, I’d hold off a few years and see what your needs are. You may not even stick with a business career that requires suits!
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LikeDislikeWe did a video for young men considering bespoke suits over on the Real Men Real Style YouTube channel:
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LikeDislikeMost guys gain the most weight when theyre 25 – a couple years after college. I decided to “invest” on my work wardrobe by getting all my work clothes tailored after reading John T. Molloy’s book: Dress for Success. it was a mistake for me. I ended up gaining weight and did not use them after 2 years. Now I find that if you look properly youll find some great clothes off the rack made with great material that is durable and does not look cheap. With a little adjustment, it will look just fine.
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