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It's getting harder and harder to tell whether a man's suit is any good. The arrival of modern cuts and quality fabrics at various "fast fashion" retailers, such as Zara and H&M, mean a suit can look great and fit nicely without being especially well constructed or costly.

But one thing is a dead giveaway of a bad suit: the lapel roll of the jacket.

On a suit jacket of reasonable quality, the lapel will always exhibit a gentle, soft, curling roll from the shoulder and collar line, down the gorge to the point where the jacket buttons.

Here's a reasonably good example, starring Chris Hemsworth at the UK premier of the "Age of Ultron" Avengers sequel:

Hemsworth is actually a bit of a tailoring challenge, given that he owns a very sculpted, top-heavy physique that's really not ideal for outfitting in a suit jacket (guys with bulky upper bodies are always going to stretch and pucker the jacket in unusual ways, but if the cut is too generous, the proportion between jacket and trousers gets messed up).

He looks great in the "Thor" costume. But he also looks pretty good in this Calvin Klein Collection suit, though the jacket does pucker ever so slightly more than it should at the buttons (it should, in fact, pinch not at all when buttoned). 

Still, you can clearly see the roll, something Calvin Klein suits get right, interestingly, at many different price points, at least in my experience.

Some suit jackets showcase a perfect roll because of the extensive thought that has gone into their construction. Here's former Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo (on the right) standing next to current Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (and current Ferrari chairman) Sergio Marchionne. Montezemolo's suit is most likely bespoke, and the roll of the lapel is exquisite:

But a suit jacket doesn't have to be custom stitched by a tailor to have a good roll. Nor does it have to do be outlandishly expensive. But for the most part, el-cheapo suit jackets have a lapel that doesn't roll, but rather flattens out abruptly just above the first button.

This makes the entire lapel area, as well as the front of the jacket, look as if it's uncomfortably or ill-fittingly attached to the wearer. A good roll, by contrast, makes the jacket look fitted to the man and creates a bit of slightly raised dimension, providing the jacket with subtle oomph and depth.

When you're trying on a suit, be sure to check the roll. A thumb should be able to find some room as you slide it under the lapel, moving down from shoulder to button.

The jacket below is not what you want. As you can see, the first button looks as if it's floating in a sea of fabric. Overall, this entire jacket exudes inexpensive, in a bad way as it fits poorly and lacks any critical quality cues, starting with the terrible lapel roll.

A defining feature of a suit jacket is the lapel. It's important that it be done right! It should be one of the first things you examine when buying a new suit — and if the roll isn't right, it should lead you to try on something else.

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Many men attempt to emulate the cool, effortless style of James Bond, 007.

But many of them miss the small details.

Sure, his suit looks sharp as hell. But there are reasons why, beyond extraordinarily tailoring. Such as his choice of shirt collar.

Notice how tight the tie and collar is in the photo to the right? The easiest way to achieve that look is by wearing a tab collar.

For this look, an extra strip of fabric (a tab) is fastened (usually by a button) between the collars and behind the tie, bringing them together and sending the tie protruding slightly outward. This creates an elegant arch, framing the tie nicely and creating some "drama" where there normally wouldn't be any.

Let's take a closer look: 

The signature of the tab collar is roll of the collar, which perfectly frames the protruding tie. With the tabs, the tie is kept tightly in place — no matter whether you're saving the world or just slogging through your morning meetings.

This look isn't for everyone and is certainly not trendy anymore. It's a choice, and not a very commonly seen one these days. That's because there are a few significant drawbacks: You can't wear a tab-collar shirt without a tie; your collar must fit rather tightly around your neck; and your tie knot must be on the smaller side. As GQ says, tab collars are sporty and not recommended for formal occasions.

According to GQ UK, this look first gained prominence in the 1920s and was a favorite look of the Duke of Windsor. It enjoyed a revival in the '60s, which is exactly when the first Bond movie appeared (1962).

The 2012 movie "Skyfall" was the first time Bond sported this tight look, according to GQ UK, and seems as if it was Tom Ford's homage to the early Bond days (According to Vogue UK, Ford was approached by the costume team from "Skyfall" to dress Bond head to toe for the film, and this tab-collar affectation was his doing.)

Daniel Craig himself seemed to be a fan of the tab collar, and he even wore it in a few variations to the world premieres of the film.

Unfortunately, Tom Ford no longer sells the tab-collar shirt, so if you're looking for the exact model, you're out of luck. Cheaper models do exist, including this Paul Fredrick shirt with a similar collar silhouette. 

It seems not even the likes of the legendary Tom Ford could bring the tab collar into the 21st century. We'll see what Bond wears in the next film, "Spectre," due out this fall.

SEE ALSO: 18 things every modern gentleman should have in his closet

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NOW WATCH: Everything a modern gentleman should know about buying a suit

Like the rest of your wardrobe, suiting is seasonal. In the summer you’ll want to swap out heavy wool-blend fabrics and dark colors, focusing, instead, on breathable materials, lighter cuts, and softer hues. This way, you can attend formal events without breaking into a sweat.

Hollywood stylist Ilaria Urbinati is a wealth of knowledge on the topic. Urbinati is the woman responsible for making celebrities, like Bradley Cooper, Chris Evans, and Ben Affleck, look red-carpet ready. Her summer-suiting mantra boils down to one golden rule: keep everything comfortable.

Below, she's sharing recommendations on blazers, trousers, shoes, and more that'll keep you calm and collected — even when the sun is beating down on your sports coat. As an added bonus: We paired her fashion know-how with products for you to shop.  

1. Blazers 

Sports coats made of heavier materials and darker fabrics keep heat insulated. Instead, Urbinati styles her clients in unlined blazers, which are lighter and more breathable on the body. Opt for jackets in softer colors, like tan, khaki, navy, or slate gray. Playful plaids, pastels, seersuckers, and other prints aren't out of the question either.

Products to try: 
Billy Reid Lexington Two-Button Blazer, $625, available at Nordstrom.

Banana Republic Modern Slim-Fit Soft-Wash Striped Blazer, $175, available at Banana Republic.

Kenneth Cole Two-Button Blazer, $135.99, available at Amazon.

2. Trousers 

If you’re attending a wedding (or five) this summer, then chinos are an excellent substitute for traditional, wool dress pants. They look plenty polished and, like unlined blazers, offer more breathability in warmer temperatures. Urbinati’s pro tip: "You can hem them shorter or roll them up for an on-trend finish."

Products to try:
Reiss Tullum Twill Chinos, $142, available at Reiss. 

AG The Wanderer Slim-Fit Linen Pant, $138, available at Amazon. 

Wallin & Bros. Flat Front Cotton & Linen Trousers, $72.49, available at Nordstrom. 

3. Two-Piece Suits 

"Every guy should have a khaki cotton suit in his closet for summer," according to Urbinati. "You can wear it to weddings, formal daytime events, alfresco dinner dates — the sky’s the limit." As an added bonus: Its lighter color palette and fabric won't trap in heat from the sun's intense rays. 

For a recent event, the stylist dressed Bradley Cooper in an three-piece, off-white cotton suit from Dolce & Gabanna. "Linen and cotton are ideal fabrics for summer; they're relaxed and still look good even if they get a little wrinkled," she adds.

Products to try:
Bonobos The Foundationa Cotton Suit, $450, available at Bonobos.

ASOS Slim Navy Suit, $226.53, available at ASOS. 

Calvin Klein Malik 10 Suit, $299.99, available at Amazon.

4. Polo Shirts 

"Swapping your standard long-sleeve button-downs for polo shirts will prove exponentially more comfortable; they have more stretch and an overall softer feel," Urbinati explains. Avoid blaring brand logos and they’ll look just as sharp as your go-to oxfords. 

Products to try:
Theory Boyd Census Polo Shirt, $95, available at Amazon.

Kenneth Cole Men's Acid Washed Polo Shirt, $49, available at Amazon.

Carhartt WIP Polo Shirt, $75, available at East Dane.

5. Dress Shoes 

"Opt for lighter tans and browns in lieu of blacks, which can look quite harsh for the season," suggests the stylist. "Remember, too, that you can get away without wearing socks in the summer." Anything in the name of letting your toes breathe, right?

Products to try:
Cole Haan Lenox Hill Casual Wingtip, $129.90, available at Amazon and Nordstrom.

BOSS Hugo Boss Men's Counno Oxford, $595, available at Amazon.

Aldo Gottolo Oxford, $130, available at Amazon.

6. Men's Accessories 

This season’s most popular men’s accessories include funky pocket squares, canvas watches, and skinny belts. "I have a big rule about no belts with suits because they tend to look bulky. But, in the summer I make an exception. I think it's nice to put a skinny, tan leather belt with a suit or just a chino; it adds a summery pop of color."

Products to try:
Rag & Bone Skinny Dress Belt, $150, available at East Dane.

Timex X J.Crew Vintage Army Steel Watch, $150, available at Mr Porter. 

The Hill Side Endo Leaves Pocket Square, $35, available at Need Supply. 

READ THIS: 14 dapper watches for every budget

SEE ALSO: 10 pairs of socks that'll lighten up your serious suit and tie

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Matching your suit to your shoes isn't rocket science; it's not too hard to figure out what goes with what. Your eye (or your coworkers') is usually the best judge.

If coordinating colors isn't your area of expertise — nobody ever sat you down and told you what color lace-ups complement a navy or charcoal suit — all hope is far from lost. They are a host of online resources for suit-wearing guys like yourself — this one included. Below, we've taken nine popular suit colors and paired them with oxfords, brogues, and loafers to match.

Black
Any shoe color other than black is going to look too casual with a black suit. This is why most guys opt for charcoal gray or navy blue as an everyday-suit option. Moral of the story: Black suit, black shoes.  

Suit: Reiss Harvey Modern-Fit Suit, $462, available at Reiss.
Shoes: ALDO Aboen Oxford, $125, available at Amazon; Cole Haan Brady Belgian Tassel Slip-On Loafer, $204.95, available at Amazon; Salvatore Ferragamo Casey Cap Toe Oxford, $720, available at Nordstrom. 

Blue Indigo 
Bluer than navy, this lively hue is ideal for wear in the summer. Tan monk-strap shoes, oxblood brogues, and black braided loafers will all coordinate well with it. The less "business professional" the suit color, the more color options you will have for your feet. 

Suit: Suitsupply La Spalla Blue Plain, $999, available at Suitsupply.
Shoes: Florsheim Swivel Woven MC Tassel Slip-On Loafer, $149.95, available at Amazon; Reiss Conrad Pebble Grain Derby Shoes in Ox Blood, $165, available at Reiss; Antonio Maurizi for Suitsupply Light Brown Double Monk Strap, $349, available at Suitsupply. 

Champagne
Soft beige suits are great options for formal daytime events and summer weddings. Pair yours with light-colored shoes: Whites, tans, browns, and navys are all great choices.   

Suit: Zara Stretch Linen Jacket, $99.99, available at Zara; Zara Stretch Linen Trousers, $39.99, available at Zara.
Shoes: River Island Suede Loafer, $90.61, available at ASOS; J.Crew Kenton Suede Derby Shoes, $200, available at MR PORTER; Paul Smith Adrian Leather Derby Shoes, $575, available at MR PORTER. 

Charcoal
Charcoal, like black, doesn't carry much in the way of color choice. You should never pair brown shoes with a charcoal suit: Dark browns look like you’re trying for a close match and coming up short, whereas light browns are too informal. Plain black works best; a deep burgundy (see the BOSS Black by Hugo Boss below) is a slightly more relaxed, elegant touch. 

Suit: Bonobos The Foundation Wool Suit, $860, available at Bonobos. 
Shoes: To Boot New York, $244.71, available at Amazon; Magnanni Rafa Bit Loafer, $299.90, available at Nordstrom; BOSS Black by Hugo Boss Neviol Oxford, $295, available at Amazon. 

Gray
Stick with blacks and browns when wearing a gray suit. If you're wearing the suit with a white dress shirt and necktie, go for a classic black shoe. Matching your suits and shoes isn't a perfect science, of course; you should experiment with different brown tones to see which work best. 

Suit: Brooklyn Tailors Super 120 Jacket, $710, available at East Dane; Brooklyn Tailors Super 120 Pants, $285, available at East Dane. 
Shoes: Ted Baker Men's Fotiu Slip-On Loafer, $79.93, available at Amazon; BOSS Hugo Boss Men's Varmio Slip-On Loafer, $210.63, available at Amazon; Bruno Magli Maioco Lace-Up Dress Shoe, $302.63, available at Amazon. 

Khaki
Summertime brings with it a lighter palette. If you have a khaki suit hanging in your closet, be sure to pair it with pretty much any color but black — the severe color will awkwardly draw attention to your feet. Navys, burgundys, browns, and tans should do the trick. 

Suit: Brooks Brothers Twill Suit Jacket, $336, available at Brooks Brothers; Brooks Brothers Twill Suit Trousers, $150, available at Brooks Brothers. 
Shoes: Aldo Men's Schooler Oxfords, $120, available at Amazon; Gordon Rush Julian Loafer, $175, available at Nordstrom; Suitsupply Blue Loafer, $249, available at Suitsupply. 

Light Gray
A light gray suit looks great teamed with tan shoes. Standard black and browns will compliment it, but you have more versatility here and you should use it to show off your fashion prowess — because, yes, businessmen know how to dress.

Suit: Brooklyn Tailors Handmade Super 120s Wool Twill Jacket, $750, available at East Dane; Brooklyn Tailors Handmade Super 120s Wool Twill Trousers, $300, available at East Dane. 
Shoes: H by Hudson Francis Wingtip Shoes, $195, available at East Dane; Allen Edmonds Neumok Wingtip, $275, available at Nordstrom; Harris Plain-Toe Monk Strap Shoes, $530, available at Barneys New York.

Navy 
For most guys, the navy suit is the workhorse of their weekday wardrobe. It's professional and the most flexible of colors: You can pair a navy suit with black, brown, or burgundy shoes depending on the occasion. Black shoes are typical business dress, while brown are more relaxed — oxblood or burgundy offer the most playful, social vibe.

Suit: Reiss Saber B Slim Striped Blazer, $332, available at Reiss; Reiss Saber T Slim Striped Trousers, $162, available at Reiss.
Shoes: Grenson Dylan Leather Wingtip Brogues, $380, available at MR PORTER; Allen Edmonds Delray Moc Toe Oxford, $385, available at Amazon; Loake 1880 Rothschild Cap Toe Oxfords, $395, available at East Dane.

White 
Suitsupply's white pinstripe suit has warm weather written all over it. For shoes, light browns leathers and suedes will coordinate perfectly  — a muted gray Blucher is a great option as well. 

Suit: Suitsupply Havana White Stripe, $499, available at Suitsupply. 
Shoes: Florsheim Bucktown Plain-Toe Oxford, $80.50, available at Amazon; Tod’s Perforated Wingtip Bluchers $239 (originally $625), available at Barneys New York; Cole Haan & Todd Snyder 'Willet' Leather Penny Loafer, $268, available at Nordstrom. 

READ THIS: This is the most practical wallet you'll ever use

SEE ALSO: There is an easy thing you can do to get rid of your dress shirt's yellow armpit stains

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Jon Callahan of Freemans Sporting Club explains the essentials for purchasing a tailored suit.

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A selfie is a photo you take of yourself. A "suitfie" is a photo you take of yourself in a suit — and they're starting to bubble up on Instagram.

Well-dressed men the world over are taking pictures of themselves in their favorite suits and using the new hashtag. It's sort of a mix between outfit of the day (#ootd) and #menswear.

See for yourself:

According to a Websta.me search, there are over 1,300 selfies tagged as suitfies, so the community is in a relatively nascent stage.

There don't appear to be any hard-and-fast rules on what constitutes a suitfie. Some photos are taken in the traditional selfie style, with a front-facing camera or mirror, while others are taken by someone else or a via remote set-up tripod. 

The main difference between suitfies and selfies is that with a suitfie the person's head usually isn't in the frame. All eyes should be on your sharp suit. 

SEE ALSO: 17 men's fashion experts on Instagram who will inspire you to dress better

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You’re not just doing it to please the boss: new research shows that wearing a suit and generally dressing formally can help you think more creatively.

The improvement applies specifically to abstract thought, according to a study in the journal of Social Psychological and Personality Science, which can be found here.

This form of thinking, as opposed to concrete thinking, is associated with more creativity, an ability to solve problems by bringing together pieces of information to a quick and logical conclusion.

Previous research indicated formal clothing is about fitting in with the dress standards of a company and also about getting a measure of respect.

A formal suit can also signal professionalism, but dressing style can also make people less approachable and distant.

For those in love with casual Friday, that so-called relaxation of standards is more about bringing people together than a reward — spending the day loosening up and sitting around in comfortable clothes.

Psychologists say that those with more relaxed clothing are signaling intimacy and familiarity.

There is a whole body of work about clothing and how this impacts on the local social environment.

For example, research has found that well-dressed and groomed women get the friendliest and fastest service when they visit a clothing boutique because sales assistants think they are more likely to buy.

And men who wear red run the risk of being seen as more aggressive and dominant.

But for women, the colour red can have a different impact. One study found that men tend to tip more to waitresses wearing red.

The latest study looks beyond how others perceive a person in more formal clothing.

“People wear formal clothing in a variety of situations, such as when at work, meeting someone new, or on a job interview,” writes Michael L. Slepian and colleagues of Columbia University in the study, “The Cognitive Consequences of Formal Clothing”.

Formal clothing can also be about creating a certain aloofness.

“People who wear formal clothes describe themselves as more competent and rational, whereas people who wear casual clothes describe themselves as more friendly and laid-back,” the researchers write.

The latest research, based on five studies, found that people have social distance and feelings of power when wearing more formal clothing.

The critical insight is that this feeling is a predictor of abstract thought processing.

In one of the studies, university students were told to bring two sets of clothing, one formal along the lines of what to wear to a job interview and one set they would normally wear to a lecture.

The students then filled out questionnaires wearing either formal or casual clothes. The more formally dressed showed, through the questionnaires, that they had better abstract thought.

The researchers believe the key may be that those wearing formal clothes are more socially distant but it is unclear how this promotes more abstract thinking. One theory is that a sense of looking good promotes a feeling of well-being and delivers a subsequent improvement in thinking power.

The researchers think there’s more work to be done in this area, including how wearing formal clothes might influence decision making.

SEE ALSO: 15 things every guy should have in his wardrobe this summer

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NOW WATCH: 10 fashion mistakes men make over and over at the office

A man needs more than just tips and advice to reach his suit style goals. He also needs inspiration.

And one the best places to find suit inspiration is the visual paradise of Instagram, where world-class menswear bloggers love to strut their stuff.

Keep scrolling to see the 17 best Instagram accounts to inspire your suiting goals, however lofty they may be. 

SEE ALSO: The only situation in which to leave the buttons on a collar point unbuttoned

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17. The Instagram for the themetro-man.com blog is just as good as the site itself. If you're looking for well-tailored sartorial inspiration, Moti Ankari has it in spades.

Instagram Embed:
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Follow him on Instagram.

16. One of the most famous male models in the world, David Gandy knows how to wear a suit. Whether on the street or the runway, he always looks impeccable.

Instagram Embed:
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 Follow him on Instagram.

15. The Grey Fox's Instagram and blog (greyfoxblog.com) caters to an oft-ignored demo: men over 40. Founder David Evans usually prefers suiting that's conservative, British-made, and European cut.

Instagram Embed:
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 Follow him on Instagram.

Suit shopping is often one of men’s biggest style challenges.

Shopping off the rack is budget-friendly but can be hard to find a perfect fit.

And once you’ve taken your pick to a tailor, the alterations needed often blow your wardrobe budget altogether.

That’s why many guys turn to custom suiting.

In recent years, more and more affordable options are popping up, with companies like Indochino, J.Hilburn, and Alton Lane offering made-to-measure suits at a fraction of what it used to cost to get a suit made just for you.

Even if you suit up only a couple times a year, it’s worth investing in a suit ... and yourself.

A few things to consider when getting your first custom suit:

1. Wear snug fitting clothing to your appointment.

For measurements as accurate as possible, tight fitting clothing is key.

If you have things in your pockets, remove them before the measuring tape comes out.

2. Skip the functioning button hole option on the sleeves.

Even though functioning button holes scream style, it’s not wise to have your first MTM suit created with them. Why? Because it is a very costly alteration, and with your first custom suit, you’ll still probably need some tweaks to get everything just right. Lengthening or shortening sleeves on non-functioning button sleeves is quite quick and inexpensive to have done. So save this feature for your second MTM suit (making sure whoever created your first one accounts for the alterations in the second one). Once your measurements are locked in, you can customize to your heart’s desire.

3. It’s better to be too big than too small.

If you’re measuring yourself (with the help of a friend, of course), ensure the tape measure is not held too closely to the body, and if you’re in between numbers, round up rather than down. Remember: It is always easier to take things in than to let things out.

4. Go for a versatile, season-agnostic style.

While you may be presented with a seemingly endless supply of swatches to choose from, stay simple with your first suit. You are going to want to wear this bad boy as much as possible, so choose a fabric and color that are classic and versatile. I’d recommend navy blue or dark grey in a medium weight fabric.

5. Know the difference between half canvassed, fully canvassed and fused suits.

Most of the time when you’re having your suit made, you’ll have the option of having it canvassed or fused. The main difference here is going to be how long the suit lasts and how it lays on your body. Although more expensive, a canvassed suit is going to lay nicer on your body, allow for more movement, and will last longer as the fabrics are not fused (glued) together, and are less likely to deteriorate with dry cleaning or bubble when wet.

6. Do your research!

Finding a maker who has good reviews is important. Another thing to look for is a company that will reimburse you for some or all alteration costs is key (many do up to a certain amount). It is quite likely that a few adjustments will have to be made to the suit once you receive it, some of which might be costly. For example, if the shoulders and/or the body needs to be taken it, it will be more expensive than if the sleeves, waist or pant hem need to be adjusted.

7. Keep track of all adjustments made to the suit.

If you intend on ordering another, it is wise to make note of anything you changed on the first so that your second has a higher chance of coming back perfect!

8. Manage your expectations.

For the most part, a custom suit is going to fit you better than an off-the-rack-suit when you first try it on, simply because it was made for you. Do expect to have to have minor alterations made, however. Simple pant or sleeve length adjustments are common, and if the suit company’s idea of ‘slim fit’ does not align with yours, you may have to have the pants tapered.

SEE ALSO: The 6 belts every man should have in his closet

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NOW WATCH: The 3 classic tie knots every modern gentleman should know

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Dressing for the corporate job you want is much easier said than done. In an article by our senior finance editor, Linette Lopez, that published last week, she revealed the whole hierarchy to dressing on Wall Street. The abridged version: Entry- and junior-level employees can't dress like their bosses. But, they still need to look sharp. 

"It's very important not to be too showy or too aggressive at a junior level when the goal is to demonstrate a polished humility in both attitude and dress," explains Jessica Cadmus to Lopez. Cadmus is the founder of The Wardrobe Whisperer, a company that curates closets for high-powered professionals.

A fair amount of this summer's entry- and junior-level job interviewees are recent under- and post-graduates, so cost-effectiveness is important. Below, we've laid out a list of dressing guidelines (and affordable clothes to buy) you'll need to make a great first impression. They may be the difference between a signing bonus and a rejection letter. 

The Suit

Without a steady paycheck coming in yet, custom suits are firmly out of reach. A two-button suit in navy or gray is versatile because you can pair them with nearly any color dress shirt and shoe and they'll look sharp and understated.

The fit of your suit is where it will really make a difference in an interview — a decent number of stores, like Nordstrom, Banana Republic, and J.Crew, offer free tailoring and alterations when you purchase a suit with them.

Products to try:
Suitsupply Napoli Italian Wool Suit, $499, available at Suitsupply.

Banana Republic Modern Slim Textured Navy Wool Suit Jacket, $398, available at Banana Republic; Modern Slim Textured Navy Wool Suit Trouser, $170, available at Banana Republic. 

The Shirt

Skip the stripe and check prints. You'll want to keep your dress shirt crisp, subtle, and preferably a solid color — plain white or light blue. You'll have time after you land the role to impress your coworkers with your knowledge of banker stripes. 

The same goes for cuff links. Skip them. For entry-level roles at big-name banks and law firms, wearing cuff links is something that's generally reserved for your boss, who holds a higher-ranking position at the company. 

Products to try:
J.Crew Ludlow Traveler Shirt, $88, available at J.Crew.

Calibrate Trim Fit Dress Shirt, $59.50, available at Nordstrom.

The Tie

Hopefully you've picked up that subtlety is key. Your tie serves to complement your outfit, it's not there make a bold statement. Feel free to play with lighter colors and small patterns, like Fluer de Lis and stripes, but stick to silk ties.

While blues and reds are the most common tie colors you'll find in corporate-office settings, mellow yellows and grays won't be out of place either.

If you don't know how to tie a proper knot, you can start practicing with our tutorial on the 3 best tie knots for the office.

Products to try:
Brooks Brothers Repp Tie, $79.50, available at Brooks Brothers.

Calibrate Woven Silk Tie, $49.50, available at Nordstrom.

The Shoes

If you are picking one element to splurge on, make sure it's your shoes. Barring a few exceptions, most men have a difficult time finding pairs of dress shoes for under $350 that feel as good as they look.

We have an extended guide of shoes under $350 here.

While you'll never go wrong with wearing a black oxford or cap toe lace-up to an interview, polished-looking loafers and monk strap shoes are just as common in most offices today, making them another acceptable footwear option. Of course, no one is going to fault you for playing it safe and sticking with what you know looks good.

Products to try:
BOSS HUGO BOSS 'Brokin' Wingtip, $295, available at Amazon and Nordstrom.

Florsheim 'Classico' Double Monk Strap Slip-On $190, available at Nordstrom.

Kenneth Cole New York 'Stick with Me' Penny Loafer, $112.56 (originally $168), available at Nordstrom.

The Belt

Wear a belt, guys. While it's fashionable to wear suits sans belts at the moment, a job interview isn't the time or place to show off your fashion know-how. If you're interviewing for a role at a creative agency, like a magazine or a startup, you might be able to get away with it.

A standard black or brown belt with a simple silver buckle buckle is all you need. For the frugal gentleman, you can even buy reversible belts, like the Calvin Klein pick we linked to below, that have a different color on either side.  

Products to try:
Calvin Klein Smooth Leather Reversible Belt, $26.99, available at Amazon.

Allen Edmonds Dearborn Belt, $98, available at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: The best men's dress shoes for under $350

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships so we may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Since you don't have all day to scour the web for noteworthy sales and discounts, we rounded up the best tech, home, and style deals for you to shop in one convenient place.

1. Roku 3500R Streaming Stick (HDMI)

Roku's Streaming Stick is one of the better streaming dongles around, and this week Amazon has it on sale for $40. That's $10, or 20%, off its original $50 price tag. It's worthwhile savings for a worthwhile device, especially if you're looking to cut the cord on cable TV.

Roku 3500R Streaming Stick (HDMI), $39.99 (originally $49.99), available at Amazon.[20% off]

2. Timex Men's Easy Reader Watch 

Timex watches are generally very budget-friendly, with higher-priced models maxing out at around $250. You can save even more on one at Amazon this week. Timex's Easy Reader is discounted more than 50%: The leather strap watch usually retails for about $42, but it'll cost you just a hair under $20 if you add it to your cart now.

Timex Men's Easy Reader Watch, $19.69 (originally $42.95), available at Amazon.[54% off]

3. Anker 5-Port USB Charger with PowerIQ Technology

If you have multiple devices that need charging at any given time, something like Anker's 5-port USB charging station is a worthwhile purchase. For $12, you can juice your smartphone, tablet, and more simultaneously, and at each device's fastest speed possible, thanks to the charger's PowerIQ technology.

Anker 25W 5-Port Desktop USB Charger with PowerIQ Technology, $11.99 (originally $49.99), available at Amazon.[76% off]

4. Reiss' End-of-Summer Sale

A quick scan of Reiss' site yields tons of discounted suiting that'll look sharp in an office. The selection is hit or miss in terms of available sizes, but if you can find something you like in your size, you can end up paying less than half of the regular retail price.

Reiss Youngs Two-Piece Suit, $367 (originally $745), available at Reiss.[50% off]

5. FRESHeTECH KeyDisk Key Organizer

If you hate the way conventional key rings jingle in your pocket as you walk, this may be the easiest $20 you'll spend this month. The KeyDisk is composed of two aluminum plates that can sleekly store up to 6 keys. When you want to use a particular key, you simply swing it outwards so it protrudes from your KeyDisk. No jingling. 

FRESHeTECH KeyDisk Key Organizer, $19.99 (originally $30), available at Stack Social.[33% off]

6. Cole Haan 'Howland' Penny Loafer

The great thing about loafers is that you can wear them year-round, and with or without socks. However you wear them, Cole Haan's leather penny loafers are an easy recommendation, especially now that you'll be saving 15% on them. 

Cole Haan 'Howland' Penny Loafer, $119.95 (originally $148), available at Nordstrom and Amazon. [15% off]

SEE ALSO: 8 tech gadgets that pay for themselves over time

READ MORE: The best portable Bluetooth speakers under $100

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships so we may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

When you buy a suit, you hope you'll get enough wear out of it to justify the cost.

For this reason, custom suits are generally out of reach if you've only been part of the full-time workforce a few years. You're more likely buying your jackets and dress pants off the rack — maybe even the discount rack, depending on how much you make and how much you're willing to spend on clothes.

Those salary-imposed price constraints are inherently limiting; you can cross Canali suits and Salvatore Ferragamo ties and loafers firmly off your shopping list for the time being. However, Jos. A. Bank, Brooks Brothers and Charles Trywhitt aren't the only stores that sell affordable suiting. Below, we found 11 reasonably priced suits and separates for you to add to your work rotation this fall.

1. Calvin Klein

The Everything Store doesn't disappoint with its selection of men's fall suiting. Featured brands include Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Ben Sherman, Kenneth Cole, Andrew Marc, and Theory. The light gray Calvin Klein suit pictured here will look great with with black, brown, or tan dress shoes. 

Calvin Klein Michael Grey Two-Button Side-Vent Suit with Flat-Front Pant, $167.05-$299.99, available at Amazon. 

2. Brooks Brothers

Some of suits are sold as units, like the Calvin Klein above; others, like the Brooks Brothers here, are sold as separates. If you wear suits on a regular basis, you should consider buying two pairs of pants since they generally wear out much quicker than jackets. Brooks Brothers has solid offers for men who want to buy in multiples. 

Brooks Brothers Navy Suit Jacket, $448; Suit Trousers, $200, available at Brooks Brothers. 

3. J.Crew

J.Crew's suiting comes in two fits: Ludlow and Crosby. The Ludlow fit creates a slim silhouette for a modern look, where the Crosby fit is tailored for more athletic men, with extra room in key areas, like the arms, chest, shoulders, and knees.

J.Crew Crosby Suit Jacket in Windowpane Italian Wool Flannel, $425; Suit Pant in Windowpane Italian Wool Flannel, $225, available at J.Crew.

4. Bonobos

The price for Bonobos' suiting is capped at about $1,115, which is more expensive than most entry- and junior-level employees can comfortably spend. Its Jetsetter line— composed of versatile four-season wool suits with a hint of stretch — runs for a more modest $525 and is available in four colors: charcoal, navy, light gray, and light navy.

Bonobos The Jetsetter Suit in Charcoal, $525, available at Bonobos.

5. DKNY

If you're looking to save a sizable chunk of change, Amazon's men's suiting section really does deserve a second look. Sure, it's probably not the first place you think to go clothes shopping and you'll have to get lucky with sizing for some products, but overall, there's great value to be found here. This sharp-looking DKNY suit is proof of that.  

DKNY Wool Plaid Two-Button Side Vent Slim-Fit Suit, $299.99, available at Amazon. 

6. Suitsupply

Suitsupply's fall collection is divided into three different lines — the blue, purple and red lines. Its Blue Line suits are great starter suits, featuring year-round, classic Italian fabrics from $399. Its Purple Line suits features a wide selection of classic and contemporary pieces in Italian wools and other seasonal fabrics from $469. And its pricier Red Line suits feature wool in Super 130's and up, including the finest blends with cashmere and silk, as well as handmade detailing. They're priced from $639. 

Suitsupply Lazio Blue Check Suit, $499, available at Suitsupply.

7. Banana Republic

For more formal occasions, you may need a black suit. You can buy a full-retail priced one at Banana Republic for about $570. However, since the retailer is constantly running different sales and discounts, it would behoove you to wait and shop when you can pay significantly less than the MSRP. 

Banana Republic Tailored-Fit Black Italian Wool Suit Jacket, $398; Tailored Slim Black Italian Wool Suit Trouser, $170, available at Banana Republic.

8. Club Monaco

Club Monaco's more affordable suiting is pretty much in line with the pricing you'll find at J.Crew or Banana Republic, so it's not a huge leap for your wallet to make. If you like classic tailoring and Italian wool, the jacket and trouser featured here are easy recommendations. 

Club Monaco New Grant Hopsack Suit Jacket, $425; New Grant Hopsack Suit Trouser, $195, available at Club Monaco.

9. Calibrate

A two-button suit, like this gray Calibrate one, is versatile because you can pair it with nearly any color dress shirt and shoe and it'll look sharp and understated. The fit is where it will really make a difference in an interview or meeting — a decent number of stores, like Nordstrom, Banana Republic, and J.Crew, offer free tailoring and alterations when you purchase a suit with them.

Calibrate Trim Fit Wool & Mohair Blazer, $295; Wool & Mohair Vest, $125; Wool & Mohair Flat Front Trouser, $125, available at Nordstrom.

10. Zara

You're probably not going to get top quality out of anything you buy from a fast-fashion retailer like Zara. Though, if you're main concern is looking sharp on the cheap, and you're okay with replacing your suiting more frequently, it's a worthwhile destination — especially if you gravitate toward modern cuts and silhouettes. 

Zara Birdseye Suit Blazer, $169; Suit Waistcoat, $79.90; Suit Trousers, $79.90, available at Zara.

11. Ted Baker London

At a department store like Nordstrom, there's bound to be hundreds of items red-lined at any given time of year; this Ted Baker suit is one such item. Available sizing can get tricky, but if you're willing to take a few minutes to scope out the sale section, you may come out of it with a real gem. 

Ted Baker London 'John' Trim Fit Wool Suit, $477, available at Nordstrom.

SEE ALSO: 7 menswear brands you’ll like as much as J.Crew

READ MORE: 8 fall style trends every guy should know about

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When it comes to buying a first suit, many have no idea where to start. Let me break it down for you. 

This is the exact suit style you should buy: single breasted, two-button, dark gray, three-inch notch lapels.

And here's why it has to be that way: 

• Color: Why gray? Because black is too formal for some settings and earth tones can be too informal. This is your first and only suit. You need to be able to wear it anywhere. Navy is also acceptable, but won't serve as well if you have a funeral to attend.
• Style: Single breasted, two-button jackets are the dominant style in most workplaces (other styles can be too adventurous). Notch lapels are preferred over the more formal peak lapels; they should measure around three inches, as skinny lapels severely limit the ties you can wear.

Wasn't that easy? Hold on, buying your first suit does gets a bit more complicated...

• Seasonality: This suit needs to take you through all four seasons. It can't be too thick or too thin.
• Fit: If you try on a suit jacket and the shoulders don't fit, put it back immediately. Shoulders are the only part of the suit that a tailor can't alter — make sure they fit. As for tailoring, make sure the jacket extends to the top of your inseam and fully covers you in back. Sleeves should be graze the point where your thumb and wrist meet when your arms are at rest. 
• Price: The quality of fabric and construction dictate the price. You'll often see "super" numbers relating to the suit's wool quality; the higher number, the better the wool (usually). If you're on a budget, settle in the $500 to $750 range. 

Plenty of makers — from Suitsupply to Banana Republic — sell perfectly serviceable suits. And for your first suit, that's exactly what you need. Save patterns, other colors, and non-traditional styles for your second or third suit. 

SEE ALSO: 15 things the modern gentleman should buy for fall

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NOW WATCH: Everything you need to know about buying a suit

It's every business traveler's nightmare: Flying into town for an important meeting and finding that your suit is wrinkled beyond repair.

One easy way to avoid creases is to wear your suit jacket on the plane instead of cramming it in your suitcase, said Eli Chess, managing partner at custom menswear maker Alabaster & Chess

But if you dread the thought of wearing business attire for any longer than you have to, there are also a few tricks to minimizing wrinkles, even if you're packing in a carry-on suitcase.

In this video, Chess shows us the right way to pack a suit for a business trip.

Produced by Alana Kakoyiannis. 

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Durand Guion, Vice President, Men's Fashion Director at Macy's Inc. explains what essential suit styles and cuts every self-respecting man should own.

Produced by Alana Kakoyiannis. Additional camera by Justin Gmoser.

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When it comes to buying a first suit, many guys have no idea where to start.

But it's actually easy: There's really only one clear option.

For their first suit, every guy should buy a single-breasted, two-button, dark gray suit with 3-inch notch lapels in the $500 to $750 range.

And here's why it has to be that way:

• Why gray? Because black is too formal for some settings and earth tones can be too informal. This is your first and only suit. You need to be able to wear it anywhere. Navy is also acceptable, but it won't serve as well if you have a funeral to attend.
• Why single-breasted, two-button? Because single-breasted, two-button jackets are the dominant style in most situations. Other styles may be too adventurous for some weddings, parties, or the like.
• Why 3-inch notch lapels? Because notch lapels are preferred over the more formal peak lapels; they should measure around 3 inches, as skinny lapels severely limit the ties you can wear as well as take the suit's formality down another notch.
• Why the $500 to $750 range? Because plenty of makers — from Suitsupply to Banana Republic — sell perfectly serviceable suits in this price range. And for your first suit, that's exactly what you need. Save patterns, other colors, and nontraditional styles for your second or third suit.

SEE ALSO: Forget everything you've heard — this is the only jacket a man needs for fall

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NOW WATCH: 4 essential suits every man needs in his closet

It turns out, there's a better way to travel with a suit than carrying a garment bag around the airport (or worse, ironing it when you get to your destination). 

Contrary to what you may think, you can actually pack a suit in a suitcase without it becoming a gigantic wrinkle. 

Here's how you do it:

Take a suit jacket and pop one of the shoulders inside out.

Then take the other shoulder and fold it back into the other jacket, so the inside of the jacket is facing out.

Finally, fold the jacket in half.

For pants, just fold them into three quarters along the seams. By putting your folded garments in separate Ziploc bags and taking all the air of them before you pack them, you can ensure they don't get squished between all your other garments.

And as always, it's good practice to hang up all your garments in a closet as soon as you arrive at your destination.

To see those steps in video form, check out this video by One Bag, One World.

SEE ALSO: Here's why every guy should own a navy blazer

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NOW WATCH: How to properly pack a suit

Techno-fabric menswear upstart Ministry of Supply makes some pretty bold claims with its newly released "3D suit."

"The problem with suits is that they aren't as comfortable as sweats," reads the copy on their website. "We've set out to change that."

To do that, the first change the company has made to the traditional suit is to throw out the wool — instead, it uses a "soft foam-like" polyester which was "molded three-dimensionally around the human form."

Ministry of Supply claims the fabric "hovers around the human form" with a four-way stretch. 

Bonus: it doesn't wrinkle (but it still doesn't look quite like wool, either.)

The jacket retails for $448, and the pants are going for $248. The steep price isn't deterring customers — both the pants and the jacket are already sold out in navy blue. 

It's reminiscent of the infamous "fancy sweats" Tom Brady wore in his GQ Man of the Year spread.

But much like the pajama suit before it, anyone who takes a close look at this getup will agree that it does not pass as a suit. 

Though I have no doubt this look would be seen as appropriate in some circumstances, like in a casual workplace, I still have a hard time seeing it in a more traditional environment, like at a law firm or a bank — the very places men are expected to wear suits everyday.

Plus, Ministry of Supply's "suit" retails for about as much as a respectable, traditional wool version, without many of the benefits of a formal suit. A well-fitting suit makes you feel like you're on top of the world. A sleeping garment can never offer you that.

Yes, Ministry of Supply created a suit that is comfortable. It's just not a suit you can actually wear like a suit. Technology isn't going to replace traditional suits any time soon. 

SEE ALSO: The one suit that should be every guy's first

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