Planning to buy a new suit in the near future? If so, you'll need to decide which material is right for you. Suits are made in a wide variety of different materials, each of which offers a different set of characteristics. Some suit materials are soft and plush, whereas others are firm and heavy. The truth is that there's no single "best" type of suit material, which is why it's important to familiarize yourself with the nuances between them.
Wool
It should come as no surprise that the single most common material used in the production of suits is wool. It's important to note, however, that there are several different variations of wool, ranging from lightweight, breathable wool to heavier cold-weather wool. Don't assume that suit will be uncomfortable to wear during the summer just because it's made of wool. Assuming you are shopping in person, feel the fabric to see if it's light and breathable.
Note: heavier wools tend to weigh 12-14 oz, whereas three-season wools weigh 10-11 oz, and light summer wools weigh 7-8 oz.
Cotton-Wool Blends
Another common material used in the production of suits is a cotton-wool blend. This has become a popular alternative to 100% all-wool suits, as the cotton balances out its physical characteristics, making it softer and more preferable for many men. While there are always exceptions to this rule, most cotton-wool blend suits cost less than all-wool suits. So if you're in the market for a new suit but don't want to crack open your saving's account, you can always try a cotton-wool blend.
Linen
Of course, we can't talk about suit materials without mentioning linen. Made from the fibers of the flax plant, linen suits are the perfect choice for the warm spring and summer months. They are lightweight, breathable, durable, and resilient to stains. If you're planning a vacation to the beach this summer and want a formal suit to wear, you should consider linen for this reason.
Synthetics
Suits are also made of a variety of synthetic materials. These offer the benefit of being wrinkle-resistant, but they tend to be uncomfortable and "scratchy" to wear. Fashion experts rarely recommend suits made of synthetic materials due to their uncomfortable feeling.
So, what's your favorite suit material? Let us know in the comments section below!
