Guy's Guide to Why You Need a Suit

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   If you spend any amount of time around me or reading my articles, you will realize that, when it comes to clothing, I'm a traditionalist.  I believe that there are rules, etiquette, purpose and a right and wrong way to do things.  Less is almost always more, you can't buy style, fashion fades and not chasing trends are my hallmarks.  In spite of this, on occasion it is possible to hang the rules to elevate your style.  However, even then, there are rules.  Navy Tuxedo worn to a black tie event?  You may be able to get away with it.  One of these Bespoke Fancy Back Shirts worn to a black tie event?  You will be able to get away with a fancy back shirt because while the jacket is worn no one can tell that you are wearing it.  Canadian Tuxedo worn to a black tie event?  You'll never get away with it.

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    During my decade working in the men's retail business, I would often come across the "I don't need a suit" guy.  If you have spent anytime working in men's retail, you probably have met him too.  He would come into the store shopping for a sport coat or blazer.  Sometimes just a shirt and tie.  I started to wonder how someone could manage to live a life that never required anything more than dress casual. 

     After some investigation, I realized that this guy did indeed need a suit.  Nearly every time that he was getting prepared for an event, it was not only suit worthy, but required; still he refused to buy a suit because he thought he didn't need it. Eventually I started to wonder, who's thinking was wrong?  Was everything I've been taught a lie?  What harm was being done?  Once I thought about it, I realized that he is wrong.  He is using the wrong tool for the job and because the job was still getting done, he didn't think that he was doing anything wrong.  To me this was like using a brick to hammer in a nail.

     If I saw someone hammering a nail with a brick, I'd admire them for their ingenuity, but I'd think to myself, that person still needs a hammer.  I think the same thing when I see someone wearing anything but a suit to an event that requires one.

     Weddings, funerals and job interviews are all occasions that traditionally require a suit.  The reason is that these all very important events in life.

     When someone has decided to dedicate the rest of their life to one person, and they have invited you to bare witness, out of respect for the occasion and the host, wear a suit to a wedding unless otherwise instructed by the host.

     When someone passes away, and you were close enough to the deceased or their family to be in attendance for the funeral, wear a suit.  There is a reason it is called "paying your respects". Dress accordingly.

     When you are asking someone to consider you for employment, you should always put your best foot forward.  Show your future employer that they are important enough for you to dress appropriately in their presence.  Unless otherwise instructed, wear a suit.

     If this article has any point at all, this is it:  Every guy needs a suit.   It isn't always the best tool for the job, but when it is, no other tool will do.

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