Buying a Women's Business Suit
What to Look for When Purchasing a Professional Wardrobe
May 11, 2009
A business suit can be one of the most versatile parts of a woman’s wardrobe, creating multiple outfits with just two or three simple pieces. When looking for a suit, there are a few things that women should keep in mind when picking out the perfect suit.
Location, Location, Location
Depending on the location or event to which the suit will be worn, there are a couple of different things to consider when looking for a suit for a particular place.
A business suit is usually a neutral color, such as black, navy, gray, or brown with few embellishments. Fashion suits include other, less neutral colors such as white, tan, or other colors.
For an evening out, it’s time to bring out colors, prints, and accessories. A fun tank top or shirt, some bangles, and cute stilettos can dress up a suit for an outing with friends or a date or reflect an individual style.
On weekends or for more casual settings, a casual suit made of denim or corduroy is an option. If a change of fabric isn’t favorable, then opt for a suite with cropped pants or a different style of skirt for a change of pace.
Make and Fit
In addition to colors and embellishments, components and structure are also important. A three-button jacket is more formal and more flattering for women with wider shoulders or larger busts to help take the emphasis off the shoulders and for a proper fit. A skirt suit is also better for more formal business occasions, so buying a three piece suit with a blazer, slacks, and a skirt helps to make the most out of one suit.
As far as fabric is concerned, a lightweight wool or cotton blend is suggested for the office, while silk or leather are better reserved for a night out. However, keep in mind the maintenance of each kind of fabric. Dry clean only fabrics are not practical if a laundromat is rather far away, whereas wool may not be the best option in warmer climates.
It is also important to keep in mind body shapes and the cut of the clothing. Just as with a pair of jeans or a blouse, look for cuts of jackets, slacks, and skirts that best flatter the wearer’s figure. If a pair of pants or sleeves are too short or too long, have them tailored to create a crisp, clean look.
Investing in a suit can be a costly purchase, but the versatility of a suit and the professional image it helps to project are worth the cost. The details may be daunting in the beginning, but many retailers such as Overstock.com have online guides to help women learn all they can before purchasing a new suit.
