The world of online shopping has opened up a plethora of opportunities for consumers, and purchasing a suit is no exception. In recent years, buying a suit online has become increasingly popular due to its convenience, extensive options, and the ability to service people who might not have suitable options that are close to them.

However, when it comes to your big day, it’s important to approach this process with careful consideration to ensure that you get the perfect suit that fits your style, body type, and budget. Alexander from Suitably (based in Melbourne but servicing all of Australia), serves up some of his top tips to help you look tip-top on your wedding day in “Digitally Dapper: Tips For Buying A Wedding Suit Online.”

Have A Plan For Measurements

Before you even start browsing online suit stores, it’s crucial to have an understanding of sizing and the options that are offered. Purchasing online generally means that you have two options: off-the-rack and made-to-measure. Whilst off-the-rack will typically have standard sizings that you will choose from based on stock, made-to-measure will typically ask you to send through your measurements in order to make your suit exactly for you.

Some brands will offer guides that will assist you in getting these done at home whereas others will have more inventive options for those who aren’t comfortable doing so such as professional in-store measuring and, in some cases, apps using clever technology to get you measured at home with just a few photos (at Suitably, we cover all these options to provide the best convenience we can).

Whilst it’s crucial to have accurate measurements, different brands will have different “house styles” that will impact the end result. Consider this and don’t be afraid to ask questions and see if your vendor will provide you with assistance with this.

Images: Joey Clark / Suit: Suitably 

Understand Suit Configurations

Suits come in various configurations, and understanding them is essential before making a purchase. The three primary suit styles are:

Single-Breasted Suit: This is the most common style, characterized by a single row of buttons down the front of the jacket. It’s versatile and suitable for various occasions.

Double-Breasted Suit: These suits feature two rows of buttons on the front of the jacket. Not often seen in weddings presently but a great option if you’re looking for something a little quirky.

Three-Piece Suit: In addition to the jacket and pants, a three-piece suit includes a waistcoat or vest. This style adds a layer of sophistication as well as gives you an extra layer in case you decide you take your jacket off (which, you probably will).

Understanding these styles will help you narrow down your choices and select the one that suits your needs and preferences.

Fabric Matters

The fabric of your suit is not only crucial for comfort but also for the overall look and durability. Common suit fabrics include wool, linen, and blends. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most popular:

Wool: Wool suits are versatile and suitable for various seasons. They are breathable, durable, and wrinkle-resistant, making them a popular choice.

Linen: Linen suits are excellent for hot climates due to their breathability, but they wrinkle easily. This may be a good thing if you’re after something a bit more casual in nature. This is quite a popular option for more laid-back affairs at the moment, especially beach weddings.

Blends: Fabric blends combine different materials to create suits that balance various qualities, such as comfort, durability, and wrinkle resistance. Be wary of blends that are made mostly of synthetic materials as they are generally of lower quality.

Consider the climate and occasion when choosing the fabric of your suit. For versatility, a wool suit is often a safe bet.

Image: Mel Badsey / Suit: Suitably 

Consider Suit Colour

The color of your suit is a significant factor in making a statement, being true to your personality, and fitting the occasion. While classic colors like navy, charcoal, and black are timeless and versatile, there’s room for personal style. Lighter colours like gray and light blue are great for spring and summer events, while earthy tones like brown and olive can provide a unique twist for more casual occasions. Choose a colour that compliments your skin tone and fits the formality of the event. At the moment, we’re seeing a lot of greens and even a few wonderfully deep purples. But it really is up to you – the sky is the limit! Patterns are also having a big moment in suiting at weddings for something a bit extra.

Images: Kyra Boyer Photography / Suits: Suitably

Check The Adjustment Policy

No matter how good your vendor is, due to the fact that there are so many variations involved in this process (house style, personal preference, measurement accuracy, etc.), there is a chance that you may need to have something adjusted or altered in some fashion. Often this might be quite simple whereas some other things may not be so easy. Some vendors (even some of the bigger ones) will offer a capped allowance on adjustments and others will provide a more “fair use” approach. Make sure that your vendor’s policy is something that you can work with.

Read Reviews & Seek Recommendations

One of the advantages of shopping online is the wealth of customer reviews and recommendations available. Before finalising your purchase, read reviews from other buyers to get insights into the suit’s fit, quality, and overall satisfaction. Additionally, seek recommendations from friends and family local to you.

Images: Mel Badsey / Suit: Suitably 

Budget Wisely

Set a realistic budget for your suit purchase. Online platforms offer a wide range of options, from budget-friendly suits to high-end designer brands. While it’s tempting to splurge on a high-quality suit, it’s essential to balance your budget with your needs. I always like to consider reusability in your budget – will you want or be able to wear this suit again for other occasions?

Know that off-the-rack options will typically be cheaper (but not always), but may need further alterations which could become costly based on how close you can get to your body and preferences. Made-to-measure vendors are typically all-inclusive and may offer you bonuses for multiple wedding party members. Consider all the options in your decision-making.

Consult A Tailor

(If possible!)

This is something that I am really passionate about. Talking to someone who is knowledgeable and also invested in your day and what you’re trying to achieve can make all the difference. Suiting in all terms is not an exact science and there are so many factors that need consideration. Even if you have a very clear idea of what you’re trying to achieve, talking to someone about it can be the difference between a good outfit and one that people will be talking about for years. For us here at Suitably, we assign a consultant who looks after you from start to finish regardless of whether you buy online or in-person. We take this part of the process incredibly seriously.

Image: Kyra Boyer Photography / Suits: Suitably

Buying a suit online can be a convenient and satisfying experience when approached with careful consideration. It’s an important day and a really important part of the wedding process that will keep its posterity through your photos and more importantly, your memories. Taking a little bit of time to understand the basics will provide you with the confidence to make a purchase that you will no doubt treasure forever.

About Alexander & Suitably: Alexander is the owner and operator of Suitably, which provides Australia with high quality, made-to-measure suiting that is catered to the wedding market. Working out of Melbourne, Alexander has dealt with over 1000 weddings personally over the course of the last 7 years. These have been as simple as a single person who was coincidentally getting married at the restaurant next door to his office, all the way to a 20-person party with groomspeople scattered all over the world. Alexander believes in the inclusivity of all persons, the ethical treatment of animals, and moving away from fast fashion and its harmful impacts on the planet.