The Night Before Checklist | How to Prep Your Suit Properly
The Night Before Checklist | How to Prep Your Suit Properly
Most lads don’t realise it, but looking sharp starts the night before. Rushed steaming, creased shirts, dusty shoes or missing accessories can ruin a great outfit before you even leave the house.
This SUITBAE Night Before Checklist covers everything you need to do to make sure your suit looks perfect for weddings, prom, race days or any big event.
1. Steam the Suit (Not Iron)
Steaming keeps the fabric smooth without damaging it — essential for structured suits like:
- Charles Stone Contrast Three-Piece Suit
- Diablo Ivory Three-Piece Tuxedo
- Lawrence Navy Double Breasted Three-Piece Suit
Rules for steaming:
- Hang the suit high with plenty of space.
- Use long, downward strokes — never press the steamer into the fabric.
- Steam trousers from the inside for a cleaner fall.
- Let everything cool completely before touching.
2. Iron Your Shirt to Perfection
A wrinkled shirt destroys even the most premium suit. Iron it the night before so it's crisp and ready.
- Start with the collar.
- Then the cuffs and sleeves.
- Finish with the front panels.
- Hang immediately to avoid new creases.
White shirts are unforgiving — preparation matters.
3. Polish Your Shoes (They Show in Photos)
Shoes instantly change how expensive your outfit looks — especially with lighter tones like the Diablo Ivory or Charles Stone.
- Clean and polish leather properly.
- Check laces — replace if worn.
- Match your shoes correctly:
- Brown Brogues → Lawrence Navy Double Breasted Three-Piece Suit
- Black Brogues → Charles Stone Contrast Three-Piece Suit
- Black Patent Brogues → Diablo Ivory Three-Piece Tuxedo
4. Prep All Accessories Tonight
Make sure you’re not hunting for anything in the morning.
- Lay out your tie or bow tie.
- Match your pocket square.
- Check cufflinks, watch and belt.
- Match belt → shoe colour.
Ivory tux? Bow tie is essential.
Charles Stone Contrast? Black or pastel ties look best.
Lawrence Navy Double Breasted? Keep accessories simple and clean.
5. Grooming: Do It the Night Before
Grooming can make the difference between looking polished and looking rushed.
- Trim beard or shave the night before to avoid redness.
- Sort eyebrows and neckline.
- Style your hair so it matches the suit’s shape.
Clean shave works beautifully with an ivory tux. Short, tidy beard suits Charles Stone Contrast. Sharp grooming elevates the double breasted look.
6. Empty Your Pockets
Keys, phones and wallets ruin the shape of your trousers and jacket.
- Use an inside jacket pocket or card holder.
- Leave bulky items in a safe bag or with someone you trust.
Clean lines = clean photos.
7. Hang Your Outfit in the Right Order
Prepare everything on one hanger or rail so you’re not scrambling in the morning.
- Jacket
- Waistcoat
- Trousers
- Ironed shirt
- Tie, belt, accessories
This is especially important for lighter fabrics like the Charles Stone and Diablo Ivory.
8. Pack a Small Emergency Kit
Every groom, groomsman, prom lad or best man needs this:
- Lint roller
- Spare shirt buttons
- Mini deodorant
- Plasters (new shoes hurt)
- Breath mints
Light suits like the Ivory Tux show fluff easily — a lint roller is a lifesaver.
Visit SUITBAE for Expert Suit Prep & Styling
Whether you’re wearing a bold Charles Stone Contrast, a premium Diablo Ivory Tuxedo, or a clean, sharp Lawrence Navy Double Breasted, the right prep the night before ensures you look your best all day.
Visit us in Blackpool, Barnsley or online at SUITBAE.COM for fitting advice, styling tips and expert guidance.
SUITBAE — Made for the moments that matter.