Black Friday is one of the best times to find the perfect suit at a fraction of the price. Whether you're looking to refresh your wardrobe with a sharp business suit, invest in a timeless tuxedo for formal events, or grab a stylish, casual suit, the sales and discounts can offer incredible value.
However, with so many options available, knowing how to find the perfect suit on Black Friday can be challenging. To make the most of this shopping event, it’s important to approach it strategically.
This guide will help you navigate Black Friday sales by breaking down essential factors like fit, fabric, color, and style, ensuring that you not only save money but also invest in a suit that fits your personal style and needs. Ready to step up your suit game this Black Friday? Let’s dive into how to make the smartest purchases!
How to Find the Perfect Suit on Black Friday
Know Your Budget and Set Priorities
Setting a Realistic Budget
Before you start browsing Black Friday deals, it’s important to set a budget that aligns with both the quality of the suit you need and your overall financial situation.
High-quality suits can be an investment, but they don’t have to break the bank. Factor in the price range for good-quality fabrics, tailoring, and long-term durability to ensure you get a suit that lasts.
Prioritize Needs Over Wants:
Ask yourself what you truly need in a suit. Are you shopping for a versatile business suit that can handle daily wear? Or are you looking for a formal tuxedo for an upcoming wedding or gala?
By prioritizing needs over wants, you can avoid getting distracted by trendy colors or unnecessary extras that might not align with your wardrobe’s long-term goals.
Why Setting Priorities Helps:
Setting clear priorities helps you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases. Black Friday sales can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to get tempted by deep discounts on suits you don’t actually need.
With a clear budget and prioritized list, you’ll be able to stay within your financial goals and invest in a suit that truly suits your needs.
Understand the Different Suit Types
Business Suits:
A business suit is a wardrobe staple for anyone in a professional environment. These suits typically feature a clean, structured look in neutral colors like navy, gray, or black.
Business suits are versatile and can easily be dressed up with a tie for client meetings or dressed down for casual Fridays with an open collar shirt. The fit should be tailored, ensuring comfort while maintaining a sharp look for the office.
Casual Suits:
Casual suits are less formal and are perfect for business-casual offices or laid-back events. Made from lighter fabrics like cotton or linen, these suits are ideal for warmer weather.
Casual suits can also come in more relaxed fits, and you can experiment with lighter shades like beige, khaki, or pastel colors to add variety to your wardrobe. These suits can be paired with polo shirts or dress shirts without a tie, offering a more relaxed, comfortable look.
Formal Suits (Tuxedos):
For black-tie events, weddings, and galas, a formal suit or tuxedo is a must-have. These suits often come with satin lapels and a sleek, refined fit.
Black and midnight blue are the go-to colors for tuxedos, and they are typically paired with a formal dress shirt, bow tie, and polished black shoes. If you attend many formal occasions, investing in a high-quality tuxedo during Black Friday sales can be a smart move.
Statement Suits:
For special events or when you want to make an impression, a statement suit in a bold color or pattern can stand out in a crowd. Colors like burgundy, dark green, or patterned fabrics like checks or stripes can add personality and flair to your suit collection.
Statement suits are great for weddings, parties, or even casual outings, as long as you pair them with neutral accessories to balance the look.
Outerwear Suits:
For colder months, consider adding outerwear suits, like wool coats or overcoats, to your Black Friday shopping list. These pieces are essential for maintaining a sharp look in winter while providing warmth and comfort.
Look for suits with a structured fit and classic styles that will complement your suits underneath. A well-fitted overcoat or wool trench coat can add versatility and style to your wardrobe.
Choose the Right Fabric for Your Suit
Wool:
Wool is the most popular fabric choice for suits because it’s versatile, breathable, and available in a range of weights. Wool suits offer year-round comfort, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
For a durable and classic suit that works in most seasons, wool is an ideal choice. Consider lightweight wool for warmer climates or mid-weight wool for year-round wear.
Linen:
If you’re looking for a summer suit, linen is perfect for hot weather. Linen suits are highly breathable and lightweight, ideal for outdoor events or casual gatherings. However, linen can wrinkle easily, so it’s best suited for casual, relaxed settings rather than formal business events.
Light colors like beige, light gray, or pastel shades are popular in linen suits and add a fresh, airy look to your outfit.
Velvet and Other Specialty Fabrics:
For a statement suit or evening wear, velvet and other specialty fabrics can make a dramatic impression. Velvet suits, particularly in rich colors like burgundy or navy, are ideal for holiday parties, evening events, or weddings.
Other specialty fabrics, such as silk blends, can offer a unique texture and sheen. These suits are best reserved for occasional wear to keep them looking sharp and avoid excess wear and tear.
Focus on Fit: Tailored vs. Slim vs. Classic Fit
Tailored Fit:
A tailored fit strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style, offering a sleek silhouette without being too tight. This fit is structured to follow the contours of your body but provides enough room for movement.
Tailored-fit suits are ideal for most body types and work well for both business and formal occasions, offering a modern look that’s universally flattering.
Slim Fit:
Slim-fit suits are cut closer to the body, providing a more streamlined and contemporary appearance. They have narrower lapels, slimmer sleeves, and are typically tapered through the waist and legs, creating a sharp and stylish look.
Slim fit is perfect for those who prefer a trendy, modern look and can be ideal for younger wearers or those looking to make a fashion-forward impression.
Classic Fit:
Classic fit suits provide a more relaxed cut, with extra room in the chest, waist, and thighs, making them comfortable and easy to wear. They are slightly looser but still maintain a clean silhouette that works well in both formal and business settings.
Classic fits are timeless and especially suitable for those who prefer traditional styling, comfort, or require more space in their clothing.
Custom vs. Off-the-Rack:
If you’re looking for a truly perfect fit, consider a custom or made-to-measure suit, especially if off-the-rack options don’t meet your needs.
A custom suit is tailored to your exact measurements and allows for more control over details, ensuring a unique fit that complements your body type. Black Friday is an excellent time to explore custom options at discounted rates, giving you access to premium fit and style within your budget.
Consider the Color Palette for Different Occasions
Classic Neutrals (Navy, Charcoal, Black):
Neutral colors are timeless and versatile, making them essential for business and formal settings. Navy, charcoal gray, and black suits convey professionalism and sophistication, ideal for office wear, business meetings, and formal events.
These colors are adaptable and can easily be dressed up or down with different accessories, ensuring they remain staples in your wardrobe.
Bold Colors (Burgundy, Dark Green, Midnight Blue):
For those who want to make a stylish statement, bold colors add personality and flair. Burgundy, dark green, and midnight blue are eye-catching choices perfect for weddings, holiday parties, or evening gatherings.
These suits stand out while maintaining an elegant look, allowing you to express a unique sense of style.
Light Colors (Beige, Light Gray, Khaki):
Light colors are great for casual events, daytime gatherings, or warm-weather settings. Suits in beige, light gray, and khaki have a relaxed and fresh look, perfect for summer events or beach weddings.
They offer a casual elegance that keeps you looking sharp without feeling too formal, making them a great addition for more laid-back occasions.
Patterned Suits:
Patterns like checks, stripes, or plaids offer an extra layer of personality and style. While patterned suits are less common for business settings, they are ideal for social events or when you want to add a creative touch to your outfit.
Striped suits can convey power and sophistication, while plaids and checks add a fashionable edge, making them great for networking events, parties, or casual gatherings.
Look for Deals on High-Quality Materials
Quality Over Quantity:
When shopping for a suit on Black Friday, prioritize quality over the sheer number of items. A high-quality suit made from durable fabric like wool or wool-blends will outlast cheaper, lower-quality options.
Focus on deals from reputable brands that offer great craftsmanship, even if they come with a higher initial price tag. Often, these suits will last much longer and retain their shape and look after years of wear, making them a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
Wool and Wool Blends:
Wool is a classic fabric that offers both comfort and durability. Look for suits made from 100% wool or wool blends, which combine the benefits of wool with other materials like polyester or spandex for added stretch and resilience.
Wool suits are versatile, breathable, and ideal for year-round wear. Black Friday offers an opportunity to purchase wool suits at discounted prices, making it the ideal time to invest in a quality piece.
Premium Fabrics Like Cashmere and Silk Blends:
For a truly luxurious option, consider suits made from premium fabrics like cashmere or silk blends. Cashmere suits provide a soft, lightweight feel, while silk blends offer a refined sheen and sophisticated texture.
These fabrics are often seen in higher-end or luxury brands, but during Black Friday sales, you can find them at a fraction of the price. Opt for these materials for formal events, weddings, or when you need to impress at a high-profile gathering.
Performance Fabrics for Added Durability:
Performance fabrics, such as stretch wool or water-resistant suits, have gained popularity in recent years. These fabrics combine the elegance of wool with added features like flexibility, moisture resistance, or stain resistance.
For professionals who travel frequently or need a suit that can withstand different conditions, Black Friday is an excellent time to buy a suit that combines style with practicality.
Pay Attention to Suit Details: Lapels, Buttons, and Pockets
Lapels:
The lapel is one of the most prominent features of a suit, and the right choice can make a significant impact on your overall look. There are three main types of lapels:
- Notch Lapels: This is the most common style found on business suits and blazers. It features a small cut-out or "notch" at the collar's edge, offering a classic, professional look.
- Peak Lapels: More formal and sharp, peak lapels point upward and outward, giving the suit a distinguished and powerful appearance. They're commonly seen on tuxedos and higher-end suits, ideal for weddings or formal events.
- Shawl Lapels: With a rounded edge and no notch or peak, shawl lapels have a more elegant, softer look. They are typically found on tuxedos and formalwear, making them a great choice for evening events or upscale occasions.
Buttons:
The number and style of buttons can significantly impact the suit’s appearance. The most common options are:
- Two-Button Suits: These are the most versatile and popular choice for business and formal wear. They offer a modern, clean look and are appropriate for nearly every occasion.
- Three-Button Suits: A slightly more traditional option, these suits provide additional coverage and are often favored for taller or more formal silhouettes.
- Single-Button Suits: Ideal for sleek, contemporary looks, single-button suits are typically seen in tuxedos and are perfect for black-tie events, offering a minimalist yet sophisticated style.
Pockets:
Suit pockets may seem like a small detail, but they contribute to the overall fit and style. There are several types to consider:
- Flap Pockets: These are the most common and are often seen on business and casual suits. Flap pockets are versatile and functional, offering a polished appearance.
- Patch Pockets: Often found on more casual suits or sports jackets, patch pockets are sewn onto the outside of the suit, giving a laid-back vibe that works well for less formal occasions.
- Ticket Pockets: Typically found on high-end suits or those with a British influence, ticket pockets are smaller pockets placed above the flap pockets. They add a bit of extra flair and are usually seen in suits designed for a more classic, refined look.
These small details can elevate your suit’s style, and Black Friday deals often offer the chance to purchase suits with premium features at discounted prices.
Look for suits with well-crafted lapels, sturdy buttons, and well-designed pockets to ensure that your suit will look sharp and stand the test of time.
Accessorize Your Suit to Elevate Your Look
- Ties and Pocket Squares:
- Opt for classic silk ties in solid colors or subtle patterns for business/formal events.
- Experiment with bolder colors and patterns for weddings or special occasions.
- Add a pocket square for a stylish touch—white linen for formal looks, colorful or patterned for personality.
- Cufflinks:
- Essential for dress shirts with French cuffs.
- Sleek, minimalist designs for timeless appeal, or unique designs (gemstone/enamel) for statement looks.
- Perfect for weddings, galas, or formal events.
- Shoes:
- Black oxford shoes for business suits, brown or tan leather for casual or lighter suits.
- Polished black leather or patent leather shoes for formal events.
- Invest in quality leather shoes for both style and comfort.
- Belts:
- Match belt color to shoes (black belts for black shoes, brown belts for brown shoes).
- Choose leather belts for durability and a timeless look.
- A premium leather belt adds sophistication and ensures longevity.
- Watches:
- A sleek, minimalistic timepiece with a leather strap or stainless steel bracelet for a formal look.
- Choose classic watches that offer both functionality and style.
- Look for Black Friday deals on reputable watch brands for timeless designs.
Conclusion
Black Friday is the ideal opportunity to invest in a high-quality suit that meets your style, fit, and occasion needs. By understanding the different suit types, fabrics, and colors, you can make an informed decision without breaking the bank.
Remember to focus on essential details like lapels, buttons, and accessories that elevate your look. Whether you're shopping for business, casual, or formal occasions, setting a budget, doing your research, and being strategic about your purchase can help you find a suit that fits perfectly and lasts for years.
Take advantage of Black Friday deals to add timeless, stylish pieces to your wardrobe and ensure you look your best for every occasion.
FAQs
What should I look for when buying a suit on Black Friday?
Focus on quality materials like wool, cashmere, or wool blends. Pay attention to the fit, lapels, and overall construction. Set a budget to avoid overspending and prioritize suits that will serve multiple purposes (business, casual, or formal).
Are Black Friday sales a good time to buy a custom suit?
Yes! Many high-end retailers offer custom suit options during Black Friday sales. If you're looking for a perfect fit, it’s a great opportunity to get a custom or made-to-measure suit at a discounted price.
What is the difference between a tailored fit and a slim fit suit?
A tailored fit is slightly more structured than a classic fit but offers comfort and a modern silhouette. Slim fit is more tapered and closer to the body, providing a sharper, trendier look, perfect for a slim physique.
Can I find both casual and formal suits on Black Friday?
Absolutely! Black Friday offers deals on a wide range of suits, from business and formal suits to casual options. Whether you’re looking for a classic wool suit or a lighter cotton blazer, there are plenty of options available.
How important are accessories when choosing a suit?
Accessories like ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks play a significant role in completing your look. They add personality and can elevate a basic suit to something more stylish and tailored to the occasion. Don’t forget to look for accessories on Black Friday deals as well!