5.36.0 Men's Guide to Suits | Tailoring Tips | Next UK Skip to Main Content
Close
Store Locator
Help
  • for you
  • women
  • men
  • boys
  • girls
  • home
  • holiday shop
  • new in
  • baby
  • brands
  • gifts & flowers
  • beauty
  • sports
  • clearance
 

STYLE & INSPIRATION
 

How to choose the perfect suit


When it comes to choosing a suit, it's important to find one that works for you. After the hustle and bustle of Christmas, New Year and other winter events, it's likely that your formal attire is feeling a little overworn. But with summer on the horizon and plenty of summer invites piling in, the need for a perfect new suit is growing. If you're stuck with where to start, what to look for and how to style it – we've got you covered with our guide to 2023 suiting.

Hero_MB

The fit


The perfect suit starts with the perfect fit. An ill-fitting suit deflects from your smart style, serving less James Bond and more hand-me-down style. Ensure you're all set for getting the perfect fit with our Suit Fit Guide.


Shop all suits

MensTailoring_MB_Block1


The Jacket
 

Once you've mastered the fit, you'll have to choose the right jacket. First, choose from one button, two-button or three-button fastening. One button is most flattering on slimmer builds and more laid-back occasions, while the ever-popular and timeless two-button, single-breasted jacket flatters any body shape and can effortlessly work at casual events and formal occasions. Three buttons are less popular, but work well on men who are slim and tall – otherwise, you can risk the jacket creating a shorter and more squat appearance.
 

Next, the choice between notch or peak lapel. The lapel is the folded fabric that runs from the collar to the top of the button. Traditional and classic, the notched lapel is named because it looks like a sideways V shape where the lapel meets the collar. It’s a great fail-safe standard that always works. As the name suggests, a peak lapel comes to a peak at the edge where it points upwards – this is the perfect option for making a statement with your formal style.
 

Level it up further still with a double-breasted suit jacket – perfect for more formal occasions and accentuating the shoulders. Opt for a peak lapel if you're keen to try a double-breasted style.



Shop all suits



Waistcoat or no waistcoat?


Oozing classic elegance, the waistcoat is the perfect way to instantly elevate your formal look. A fundamental element of the three-piece suit, it’s worn over the shirt but under the jacket. Just like your jacket, you can opt for a single-breasted or double-breasted shape to suit your style.

When it comes to the colour, it’s most common to match the waistcoat perfectly to the jacket and trousers, but we also love a contrasting waistcoat that creates a more prominent look. Choose a colour that works in harmony with your jacket and trousers and play around with different combinations.

 

Shop men's waistcoats



The Shirt
 

When choosing the perfect shirt, think about your body type. If you've got a heavier build, opt for a regular fit or Oxford shirt in a thicker fabric that isn't clingy so it’ll drape for a flattering fit. For athletic builds, show off your shape with a slim fit shirt that tapers into the waistline and fits well around the chest. Slim builds should choose a regular or slim fit shirt that is tapered at the waist and is made in a thicker fabric that adds mass and shape.

When choosing a colour, choose a tone that is either lighter or contrasting to your suit jacket. For example, if you're wearing a navy suit jacket, try a light blue shirt.

Your shirt should be well fitted and should not spill out when tucked in, but also shouldn't be skin tight. When it comes to cuffs, the button cuff is the most common, designed with built-in buttons so you won’t need cufflinks. For a more formal style, choose a double cuff that is folded back and fastened with cufflinks.


Shop men's shirts


Shoes, ties & the rest
 

Now it’s time to add the all-important finishing touches. If you're wearing a tie, go for something bold to add personality to the blank canvas of your suit. As a general rule, ensure your tie ends before the waistband of your trousers and tie it with a traditional Windsor knot. Match a statement pocket-handkerchief with your tie and elevate it all with your favourite watch and complementary cufflinks.

Consider your footwear as an extension of your outfit by picking the right style for the occasion. Opt for formal Oxfords or Brogues for special occasions or dress it down a little with Chelsea boots, loafers or even a smart sneaker.

The final touch? A great pair of socks. Opt for something colourful and fun to add some personality when you sit down and hitch your trousers up. But remember – socks should only be visible when you sit down.


Shop shoes    Shop accessories

Dress to impress with Next
 

Whether you're heading to the office or getting ready for a special occasion, nail every dress code with men's tailoring at Next. Explore 100's of suits, jackets, shirts and trousers for every style, shape and taste, as well as luxury tailoring from the biggest names in fashion, including Moss Bros, Reiss, Ted Baker and Joules.