Suit Fabrics : Which type of fabric is best for suits?
This is a common question often asked by both suit wearers and menswear clothiers & service professionals – such as tailors, stylists, image consultants etc.
- New to the world of suits? or just getting started as a tailor or stylist and probably wondering what suit fabrics are best for prospective clients?
- Are you a stylish persona, who is right now thinking of new fabric choices to upgrade your bespoke suit collection or just add some varieties to your existing wardrobe?
- Perhaps you don’t fall in any of the first two categories above? You might just be curious as to what other fabric materials are there for suits apart from cashmere or wool.
Do you tick any of the boxes? YES? Then by all means this article is a must-read.
Why does your suit fabrics matter?
Fabrics used to weave suits are just as important as the suit design itself, which is why its imperative for you to be conscious of what suit fabrics you’re putting on.
So without further ado, gents, here are 7 classy fabrics that are great for suits.
7 Classy Fabrics That Are Great For Suits
Suit Fabrics #1, Cashmere:
Origins: Cashmere, also known as Cashmere wool is the name given to the wool that is originally gotten from the soft under-hair of a native goat from Mongolia (cashmere goats, pashmina goats, and some other breeds of goat). The hair used to weave the wool that makes cashmere is ultra-fine and found in the under neck and belly area of the goat.
Famous for its soft texture, water resistance, and excellent breathability, this fabric is the perfect stylish topping for your suits. They come in light or heavy weaves depending on the temperature at the time.
Suit Fabrics #2, Worsted Wool:
Wool is actually one of the most comfortable fabric for any type of dressy outfit piece, ranging from dress trousers, sweaters, and of course suits as we’re discussing today.
They provide breathability and comfort which are key features of a good suit. These suits are great and perfect for a formal or semi-formal setting and might look appalling and inappropriate for casual calls. You should get a wool fabric for your first suit
Suit Fabrics #3, Cotton:
The most common fabric in the garment industry is cotton. An excellent choice for a stylish summer suit, cotton khaki fabrics are good and comfortable to wear, plus they’re more affordable compared to wool. However, you will have to iron your cotton suits frequently as they are highly likely to crease and they do not drape effortlessly compared to cashmere or wool.
Suit Fabrics #4, Linen:
Linen – one of the best fabric choices for a hot summer or hot weather temperatures. Originally designed using loose weaves, and a natural light texture. This fabric piece is very appropriate for casual and stylish events, even though in some cases you can style them for semi-formal occasions especially if you’ll like to bring a certain dose of casual sophistication to your outfit in a semi-formal occasion.
Suit Fabrics #5, Silk:
Silk, the foundation history of fabrics. We all know the background of this natural fabric, gotten from silk worms and undergoing such careful but soothing measures to arrive at that buttery feel against your skin, simply lovely and elegant!
Silk can be easily blended with other fabrics like wool or the like. You’d hardly ever see a suit piece that is 100 percent silk, which makes it so flexible and stylish. This piece doesn’t roughen up like other materials like cotton, it sits comfortably against your skin, no wonder it is considered a luxury fabric. You should get one today if that’s your style 
Suit Fabrics #6, Velvet:
Yes, Yes, did I hear someone say Luxury???
Velvet fabrics, traditionally made from silk – this is a special fabric that is made by a unique process of weaving two layers of fabrics together which results in a material that’s even more sumptuous and luxurious than standard silk fabric.
Velvet suits are very great for formal wear, dinner suits, and can be super stylish when paired with a sharp bow tie.
Want to go casual with velvet? Velvet blazers layered with either turtlenecks or casual dress shirts are exceptional in appearance.
Suit Fabrics #7, Tweed:
Tweed, a category which represents several fabrics of medium-to-heavy weight, and designed for weather resistance.
Typically made of tightly woven dyed wool, tweed suit fabrics are famous for their very thick and bulky nature. Although there are a few exceptions that consists of blends. They do come in a variety of weights, weaves, and colours.
With regards to weave effects, some range of twill weave patterns includes herringbones, cross twills, diamonds, checks in many tones and hues.
Tweed fabrics make excellent pairs for trench coats, sports jackets, and for casual or semi-formal wears. This jacket provides a special style, offers warmth and comfort and if handled properly, can last for a while.
Final Note
These 7 fabrics we’ve covered here today are definitely perfect for suits. When considering the right suit fabric for your suit or that of your prospective clients, do well to consider the occasion, the personal style of the individual that will be wearing it and the weather.
On the other hand, also consider the fabric weight, breathability, softness, and distinctive appearance and ensure it aligns with your taste and style.
One trick though, in order to look extra stylish, do well to pair the same fabric of suits with the trousers, this will bring wholesomeness to your outfit style.
Above all, stick to what works for you, and whatever you wear, wear them with your heads held up high.
Till next time…stay classy, always!
Yours in Style,
READ NEXT: A Guide to Matching Ties and Pocket Squares
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ALSO READ: The 5 Important Types of Suits Everyone Should Own
My name is Kobi O. Mbagwu, a professional image consultant, menswear style expert, and entrepreneur who uses fashion, style and clothing as key tools in transforming ordinary men into extraordinary classy gentlemen.
My personal goal is to help gentlemen dress better, live well, do well and develop a unique personal style that matches their lifestyle and goals.
I believe that success can be built through style. I believe that fashion is a tool that can be used to change people’s lives positively. I also strongly believe that if you dress well, you look good, and if you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, you worry less, and the less you worry the more you are able to stay motivated and focused on your goals pursuit and by so doing you are able to live a more fulfilling and successful life.
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