Getting suit tailored in SE Asia - what should I be aware about?

When tailoring suits in Southeast Asia, here’s what you should keep in mind based on the most helpful WSO content:

Fabrics:

• Wool or Blends: Stick with 100% wool fabrics for a professional look. Super 110s or Super 120s are ideal for durability and year-round wear. Avoid superfine fabrics (e.g., Super 150+) as they can wear out faster.
• Weight: Opt for lighter fabrics (around 250g) to suit the warmer climate in Southeast Asia. If you’re concerned about heat, consider half or quarter lining to improve breathability without sacrificing too much formality.

Colors:

• Navy, Charcoal, and Light Grey: This is a solid trio for a professional wardrobe. Navy and charcoal are staples, while light grey adds versatility. Avoid black unless it’s for funerals or formal evening events. Skip olive or brown for now, as they’re less formal and not as versatile in professional settings.

Lapels:

• Notch Lapel: This is the standard and safest choice for professional settings. If you want to experiment, you could go for a peak lapel on one suit (e.g., the navy) for a slightly more formal and bold look.

Lining & Canvassing:

• Full Canvas vs. Half Canvas: Full canvas provides better structure and longevity but is more expensive. Half canvas is a good middle ground, offering decent structure at a lower cost. Avoid fused suits as they are less durable and don’t drape as well.

Other Customizations:

• Functional Buttons: Functional sleeve buttonholes (surgeon’s cuffs) are a nice touch but not essential for your first suits.
• Ticket Pockets: These are optional and can add a touch of flair but aren’t necessary for a classic look.
• Cuffed Pants: Personal preference. Cuffs can add weight to the pants, helping them drape better, but they’re not a must.
• Vents: Stick with double vents for a modern and versatile look.
• Lapels Width: Around 3.5 inches is a safe choice unless you have a unique body type.
• Pants: Avoid pleats for a cleaner, more modern silhouette.

Additional Tips:

• Tailor Selection: Research tailors carefully. Look for reviews or recommendations, especially for tailors in Bangkok or Hanoi, as these cities are known for quality tailoring.
• Durability: If possible, get two pairs of pants per suit to extend the lifespan of your wardrobe.
• Fit: The most important aspect of any suit is the fit. Ensure the tailor takes precise measurements and offers fittings to refine the suit.

This approach will ensure you get high-quality, versatile suits that are perfect for professional settings.

Sources: Custom Suit Discussion, Suit shopping, Q&A: I am a mens fashion stylist and the founder of a mens custom suiting business, New To Formal Fashion? Start Here. PT1, A minimal wardrobe that works for interns/first years