How to Choose Your First Proper Suit | Beginner’s Guide for Men
How to Choose Your First Proper Suit | Beginner’s Guide for Men
Buying your first proper suit should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether it’s for a wedding, prom, work or a big event, the key is choosing something versatile, structured and well-fitted that makes you look sharp in every situation.
At SUITBAE, we fit thousands of lads every year in Blackpool, Barnsley and online. This guide breaks down the simple rules for choosing a first suit — plus examples of three perfect starter options:
- Diablo Black Three-Piece Tuxedo — clean, sharp and evening-ready.
- Lawrence Navy Three-Piece Suit — the most versatile wedding and work colour.
- Jake Midnight Three-Piece Suit — modern, unique and premium without being loud.
Start With the Right Colour
For your first suit, you want a colour that works for:
- Weddings
- Job interviews
- Race days
- Prom
- Dinners & evenings out
These are the three safest, most flattering choices for beginners:
1. Navy — The All-Rounder
If you only ever own one suit, make it navy. It looks good on every skin tone, photographs perfectly and works for every event. Our recommendation: Lawrence Navy Three-Piece Suit It’s sharp, structured and ideal for weddings, work and race days.
2. Midnight Blue — Premium Without Being Flashy
Midnight blue looks more luxurious than plain navy and stands out in evening lighting. Perfect example: Jake Midnight Three-Piece Suit Great for lads who want something unique but still classic.
3. Black — Formal, Clean & Timeless
Black is best for evening events, celebrations and prom. If you want something sharper than a standard black suit, go for the: Diablo Black Three-Piece Tuxedo Modern satin peak lapels, clean lines, proper structure — it suits every shape.
Choose a Three-Piece, Not a Two-Piece
For beginners, a three-piece is much easier to style. The waistcoat:
- keeps your shirt tidy all day,
- frames your tie properly,
- makes you look sharper in photos,
- keeps the outfit clean when the jacket comes off.
This is why all three recommended starter suits — Diablo, Lawrence Navy and Jake Midnight — are three-piece sets.
Fit Rules Every Beginner Should Know
You don’t need tailoring knowledge to tell if a suit fits. Just check these three areas:
1. Shoulders
The shoulder seam should sit exactly where your shoulder ends — not hanging down your arm.
2. Button Area
If you see a strong “X” pulling, in the centre, it’s too small. If it sags with no shape, it’s too big.
3. Trousers
- Should sit on your natural waist (not low like jeans).
- No folding or puddling at the ankle.
- Our stretch waistbands help massively if you're between sizes.
Match the Suit to Your Personality
Here’s how to choose based on your vibe:
- Clean, classic, confident: Lawrence Navy
- Want to stand out without going wild: Jake Midnight
- Evening elegance, black tie, prom: Diablo Black
These three cover 95% of occasions a man will face — which is exactly what you want from your first suit.
What to Buy With Your First Suit
A suit looks its best when you pair it with the right accessories. Beginners should start with:
- A plain white shirt
- A navy or burgundy tie
- Brown or black brogues (depending on suit colour)
- A simple pocket square
This setup works with all three recommended suits — Diablo Black, Lawrence Navy and Jake Midnight.
FAQ: Choosing Your First Suit
Is black a good first suit?
Yes — especially if most of your events are evening or prom. The Diablo is perfect for this.
Is navy the safest choice?
Absolutely. Lawrence Navy is the most versatile first suit you can buy.
Do I need a three-piece?
For beginners — yes. It keeps your outfit cleaner and sharper with no effort.
Is midnight blue too bold?
Not at all. Jake Midnight is perfect for men who want something classy with a twist.
Visit SUITBAE for Your First Proper Suit
Whether you’re shopping for a wedding, prom, interview or your first smart outfit, the right suit will last you years. Visit SUITBAE Blackpool, SUITBAE Barnsley, or browse our collection at SUITBAE.COM.
Try on the Diablo Black, Lawrence Navy or Jake Midnight — three brilliant starter suits that make every lad look sharp.
SUITBAE — Made for the moments that matter.