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I am looking at getting a suit made for my wedding. Rather than waste money on a tux rental, I figured why not take the opportunity to get a really nice suit? Catch being, it has to work for me in the future. Is there a certain style, colour etc. that embodies a classic suit that every man should own?

Excellent question, and excellent idea. Tuxedos are not really appropriate for weddings, unless you are getting married as part of an evening party where everyone will be in black tie. And rentals are cheap and nasty. This is indeed the perfect opportunity to get your best suit for all purposes.

The most practical and flexible suit is single-breasted, two-button, in charcoal (dark grey). Why charcoal? This is a suit that can take you to formal events such as weddings and funerals, but is also perfectly appropriate for a lunch meeting. Black suits tend to look cheap, and should be reserved for casual wear at night. Light-coloured suits are no good in winter. Charcoal is extremely easy to match with other colours: white shirts, blue shirts, pink shirts, ties of all colours, and either black or dark brown shoes, depending on the formality of the occasion. (For your wedding, wear black shoes, a white shirt and a silver tie.)

Navy is also versatile, and perfect for a wedding. But you can always make that your second suit.

Recent fashion in suits is for a slim fit, with narrow, flat-front trousers, small armholes, a high button stance, and narrow lapels. No cuffs on the trousers. You may choose between a single centre vent and double (side) vents. I like the formality of the side vents, but there is no rule. The side pockets on the suit will be double-jetted besom (ask your tailor to explain what that is) with flaps.

Excellent idea to get it made for you too. It may be cheaper than you think.

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