Help needed for new work suits

[migolfke]

Most of my suits are showing signs of wear, so it's time for me to reload my suit wardrobe. I wear suits to work everyday in a relatively conservative profession and workplace. I'm not looking to break the bank, but need to make sure the suits hold up and look professional. Any thoughts on the top line Joseph A. Bank suits ($900 or $1200 ones that you can get for 70% off)? ANy help with fabrics, stores, deals, etc. is appreciated.

[SilverBullets]

Any well fitted suit is generally going to look good and certainly will look professional. Some of the top of the line Jos. A Bank stuff is decent, not great, but will likely serve the purpose (wont break the bank, will look professional, and will look pretty solid).

I personally try to buy all of my professional clothing (Business Casual and Professional) at Nordstrom during either their anniversary sale (most of the month of July) or right after the holidays. Nordstrom sells a lot of premium clothing and during those sales they are for middle tier prices (though still more expensive than Jos. A Bank). Its really up to what you want and how much importance you place on cost v. materials v. fashion etc. .

With that said, a suit from Jos. A Bank, Kohl's or Nordstrom will look awful if it doesn't fit right. A well tailored suit is what matters most. If tailoring isn't free, pay for it. It matters.

[ptjn1201]

Most of Joe Bank's suits are from the same manufacturer that Lands End sells -- you should check both websites regularly as their clearance stuff provides a great deal, even if you have to bring some stuff in for alterations. Lands End can be very hit and miss on their website, as they'll have the jacket but not the matching pants, or only 36S jackets and 48 waist pants. But Bank's runs those 2 for 1, 3 for 1 deals all the time, and they're a good value at those prices. I shopped their clearance areas on their websites back when I had look "presentable" for work. I never thought I'd really fall into business casual, but I hardly ever see the dry cleaner anymore.

[2putttom]

The man who speaks well does well...the man who dresses well does even better.

[willywads]

[quote name='migolfke' timestamp='1351256103' post='5848911']
Most of my suits are showing signs of wear, so it's time for me to reload my suit wardrobe. I wear suits to work everyday in a relatively conservative profession and workplace. I'm not looking to break the bank, but need to make sure the suits hold up and look professional. Any thoughts on the top line Joseph A. Bank suits ($900 or $1200 ones that you can get for 70% off)? ANy help with fabrics, stores, deals, etc. is appreciated.
[/quote]

It depends on what your looking for, I own 2 banks suits. (I wear slacks and a polo most days) I think they have very nice suits (i have the signature series, middle of the road) and like you said it wont break the bank. If I remember correctly they do charge for alterations but they usually do a pretty could job. Find the older looking guy who has been there for 20 years and have him take your measurements, he will be the best. I was highly disappointed with brooks brothers suits not a lot of bang for a lot of buck (however their polos are top notch) Nordstrom's usually has good sales around the holidays and there are good suits to be had for good prices (check after thanksgiving and after christmas) I would like to include I am not a european style suit guy ( 6'3 240) so if you are into that type fit I have nothing for you.

[hebron1427]

do some searching in this forum. i recall someone asking this question within the last 6 months or so. someone responded with a great synopsis of various options when it comes to suits because "suits are my thing."

[driverwedge]

[sub]If you're in the New England area, I can hook you up with my suit guy. Total custom head to toe. I hate wearing business stuff that isn't tailored anymore. His intro deal is 4 custom suits, 12 custom shirts $1,200. Going forward (much like a drug dealer) the suits and shirts are MUCH higher. [/sub]

[Myherobobhope]

I'd look into getting at least one custom suit made... for days that you HAVE to look professional... then just cheap out on Jos A Banks suits on another 2-3.

[Shrapnac]

You can sometimes find steals at places like Saks Off Fifth and Nordstrom Rack too.

I have a custom made suit and it's a world of difference from off the rack, and people can tell, especially at events like weddings where most people are wearing a suit that they only have for weddings and funerals.

[migolfke]

Any ideas on specifically what to look for in buying suits or specific brands that tend to make higher quality suits for a "reasonable" price. I don't mind paying for good stuff, but I don't want to spend $1,000 for a suit that is the quality of a $200 suit.

[Myherobobhope]

I don't have any great suggestions... honestly, you should be able to tell by the fabric.

I'd look into getting one custom made. My tailor (who does an awesome job on hemming and such, I haven't gotten a suit made [yet]) charges around $800 for his cheapest suit... that said, it will be very high quality.

As for "off the rack" in my mind, quality goes as follows:

Brooks Brothers/Rochesters (if you are big and tall)/Nordstroms - Best quality, highest prices
Jos A Banks / Dillards - Decent quality, cheaper
Men's Wearhouse - Utter s***.

I bought 2 suits for $150 at Men's Wearhouse... I hate them both. Fortunately, both are now way to big for me.