The Ultimate Guide to Determining Your Actual Suit Size

Choosing the right suit size is crucial for a professional and comfortable fit. This guide will walk you through the essential measurements, size charts, and tips for finding the perfect suit size.

Essential Measurements for a Suit

To find your actual suit size, start by taking a few key measurements:

Chest Measurement

Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape measure level. This measurement will help determine the fit of the jacket and ensure a flattering look.

Sleeve Length

With your arm slightly bent, measure from the center of your neck across your shoulder to your wrist. This measurement ensures that your sleeves will fit well without being too long or too short.

Hip Measurement

Measure around the fullest part of your hips to get the right fit for the suit pants. This measurement helps in getting the appropriate waist size.

Other measurements include:

Waist Measurement

Measure around your natural waistline, which is typically just above your belly button, to determine the waist size for both the jacket and pants.

Inseam Measurement

Measure from the top of your inner thigh to the bottom of your ankle to find the right length for your suit pants.

Size Charts and Fit Types

After taking your measurements, consult a suit size chart as suit sizes are typically expressed as a number for chest size and a letter for fit. Here are some examples:

40R: 40-inch chest, regular fit for an average height. 40S: 40-inch chest, short for shorter individuals. 40L: 40-inch chest, long for taller individuals.

Common fit types include:

Regular (R): Standard fit for an average height. Short (S): For shorter individuals generally under 5’8”. Long (L): For taller individuals generally over 6’2”. Extra-Long (XL): For individuals taller than 6’2”.

Try On Different Styles and Consult Professionals

Different brands and styles can fit differently, so it's a good idea to try on suits from various manufacturers and have a professional tailor assist you.

Consider these tips:

Have a professional tailor take your measurements and recommend the best size for you. Most suits will require some form of tailoring for the best fit, so factor that into your decision. Visit a suit store and have a suit tailored before buying.

Measuring for a Suit: Part 1 - Jacket Measurements

To ensure the perfect fit for your suit jacket, follow these detailed steps:

Height and Weight

Take a recent measurement of your height and weight. This information helps tailors determine your “drop,” which is the difference between the size of the pants and jacket. It helps the suit be tailored more quickly.

Shoulder and Arm Measurement

Over-arm Shoulder Width: Start at the back corner of one shoulder, just below your clavicle, run the tape measure across the top of your shoulders behind your neck, and to the back corner of the other shoulder. Chest Measurement: Raise both arms and run the tape measure around the fullest part of your chest underneath both your arms. Flex your chest muscles to ensure accurate measurements. Arms: Start at the same point on your shoulder where you measured your shoulder width. Slide the tape measure down your arm to your elbow. This measurement is useful when adding in-sleeve length.

Neck Measurement

Wrap the tape measure around the bottom of your neck just above your collarbone. This helps you find a shirt that will fit properly under your suit jacket.

Measuring for a Suit: Part 2 - Pants Measurements

To get the right fit for your suit pants, follow these steps:

Waist Measurement

Measure the widest part of your hip bones to determine the correct waist size. This measurement is crucial for a proper fit and ensuring the pants sit comfortably.

Outseam and Inseam Measurement

The outseam measures the outermost leg from the hip to the ankle, and the inseam measures from the crotch to the ankle. Depending on the style, you may or may not need the waist measurement.

Example of Pants Measurements

Use the example of a pair of pants you already have that fit well. Lay them flat, fold one leg out of the way, and measure the entire length of the inseam.

Getting the Right Fit

Ensure that your suit fits properly by ensuring the jacket and pants align correctly. Here are some tips:

Jacket Fit

Armholes shouldn't be too snug, allowing for comfortable range of motion. Coats should fall smoothly across your back, creating clean lines that flatter your build. Sleeve length should hang down to your knuckles, showing about 12 inches of the shirt cuff.

Pants Fit

Ensure that trousers are hemmed evenly, with the heel of your shoe gently breaking on the top of the shoe. Pants should not drape too much or bunch, and they should hang over the shoes gently.

By following these detailed steps, you can determine your actual suit size accurately and ensure a professional and comfortable fit for all your formal occasions.