HE-447
SELECTING MENSWEAR
Cooperative Extension Service • Purdue University • West Lafayette, Indiana
Garment Fit, Quality and Care
Physical comfort in clothing continues to be a high priority for men. Whether in a business suit or casual jeans, the way clothes fit affects how the man projects himself. Researchers have found men rated comfort and fit to be the most important factors in wear studies and preference evaluations. The comfort ratings were found to be dependent on the fit of the garment. Even in the most casual clothing, fit is critical to appearance and comfort.
A man’s presence, not his clothes, should command attention. Clothes that are low-keyed, fit well and tastefully coordinated create a restful effect—one only notices the result, not the cause. In this guide we will examine how to create the desired effect by shopping realistically, establishing guidelines for good fit in suits and shirts, recognizing quality features and maintaining one’s clothes through recommended care practices. “Selecting Menswear—Body Proportion and Wardrobe Coordination” HE-446 is a companion guide that tells how to coordinate clothes based on personal body proportions.
Men have many excuses for not trying to project a better image - from “I hate to shop” to ‘‘I really can’t afford to buy good clothes” or “I couldn’t care less what I look like.” The truth is that well-coordinated clothes do make a difference and clothes are expensive. You can’t afford to make many mistakes.
Realistic Shopping Approaches
• Planning is the key to good wardrobe management. Refresh your memory, look in your clothes closet and note what clothes are there. What clothes are no longer being worn? If they are just occupying space, it’s time to discard them. Make a written or mental list of clothes you do have and can wear. Think how new garments can fit into your existing wardrobe. Buy new clothes in outfits. For example, when buying a suit or jacket and pants, select at least two coordinating shirts and ties. If possible purchase a belt, socks and shoes to round out the wardrobe. Think about total cost before
starting on the shopping trip; decide what you need and can afford before buying anything.
• Plan the shopping trip so there is sufficient time to consider alternatives and possibly to be fit for alterations. Comparison shopping takes time but can save money. It depends on your priorities. Which do you have
the most - time or money?
Dress in your best outfit and wear those accessories you would normally wear with a new suit. Not only will you receive better service, but also you 11 get better fit in a