You shouldn’t compare yourself to others… unless you’re wearing a Super 220 Merino Wool suit and they’re not.
– Sterling Archer
The Savvy Gentleman’s Guide to Suit Fabrics – A Canadian Perspective
Hello there, fellow Canadians! This is Sam from Sam’s Menswear in Toronto, and I’m here to talk about something that’s near and dear to my heart: suit fabrics. You see, when it comes to tailored suits, it’s not just about the cut and the fit. It’s also about the choice of fabric. And believe me, when I say, the fabric can make a world of difference to your suit and more importantly, how you feel in it.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But Sam, there are so many options out there, how can I possibly choose?” Trust me, I’ve been there. The sea of suit fabrics can be as overwhelming as a Montreal winter. But fret not! I’m here to help you navigate these icy waters.
Let’s start by addressing some of the questions you may have when it comes to suit fabrics. Then, I’ll recommend some fabrics ideal for our diverse Canadian climate, from our sweltering summers to our frosty winters. And of course, I’ll provide some examples of suits made from these materials.
Suiting Up for Different Canadian Climates
Hot Weather Fabrics
Choosing a suit for our Canadian summers can be a bit like trying to catch a hockey puck in the dark. Casual dressing is simple – a t-shirt, a button-up, or a polo shirt will do – but finding a suit that won’t leave you sweating like a moose in heat is trickier. Here are a few fabric recommendations for those scorching summer days:
- Cotton: This is the Wayne Gretzky of summer fabrics – versatile, reliable, and always a safe bet. Cotton is affordable and comfortable, though it doesn’t breathe as well as linen. Full cotton suits, especially Italian ones, can be a bit like finding a Stanley Cup in Toronto (rare!), but they’re out there.
- Linen: Linen is like a cool lake breeze on a hot summer day – lightweight, breathable, and utterly refreshing. While pure linen suits are somewhat rare, just like our beloved maple syrup, they’re not impossible to find.
- Kid Mohair: A standout option for hot summers, Kid Mohair is as gentle on your skin as a Canadian manner. It’s lightweight, highly resilient, and easy to dye. But much like our elusive Canadian lynx, mohair is not typically used in tailoring, due to the difficulty in sourcing and processing the material.
- Silk: Just like a Canadian sunset, silk adds a touch of beauty and elegance to any situation. It’s pricier and more luxurious than cotton and linen but provides breathability and a shiny finish to the garment. Plus you get to brag about wearing silk. This is sure to attract compliments.
Cold Weather Fabrics
As any Canadian knows, when the winter comes, you need to be prepared. You don’t want to be caught out in the cold in a suit that’s not up to the task. So, here are my fabric choices for winter:
- Wool: This is the Tim Horton’s coffee of suit fabrics – warm, comforting, and quintessentially Canadian. Wool is not only durable but also breathable, acting as insulation during those frosty winter days.
- Cashmere: A fabric that’s as soft and luxurious as a bed of Canadian pine needles. It’s light, provides excellent insulation, and is soft, water-resistant, wrinkle-resistant, and hypoallergenic.
- Vicuna Peru: This fabric is the Northern Lights of suit materials – rare, luxurious, and absolutely stunning. Vicuna is the priciest suit material globally, but trust me when I say, it’s worth every penny.
How to Tell if a Suit Fabrics Top Notch
Now, you might be wondering how to differentiate a quality fabric from a mediocre one. Well, my friend, here’s a simple test you can perform: squish the material in your hand. If it bounces back to its original form quickly, you’re likely dealing with a decent-quality fabric. But the best way to ensure you get a great product? Purchase from reputable sellers. And yes, I am one of them, and I guarantee that every suit you get from CustomSuitAndShirt will be of the highest quality.
Which Fabrics Won’t Leave You Wrinkled?
If you’re seeking fabrics that resist wrinkles, think of them like a good Canadian beer: the fuller and more robust, the better. Fabrics with a higher thread count and those made from heavier materials are less prone to wrinkling. And let’s face it, who wants to deal with wrinkles when there’s hockey to watch?
All About Super 150s
Ever heard of the Super S numbers? These numbers are like the points on a hockey scorecard, they help you understand the quality of your suit. Higher Super S numbers indicate a finer quality, much like a hat trick is better than a single goal.
The Priciest Suit Fabric
Now, if you’re looking to splurge on a suit, Vicuna is your go-to fabric. It’s the most expensive suit fabric out there, but like a good Canadian whisky, it’s worth the investment.
Choosing Italian-Made Suits
Italian tailoring is like a well-cooked poutine – absolutely delicious. While the prices can vary, remember that when you invest in an Italian handmade suit, you’re getting a suit for life. It’s like a loyal Canadian retriever – it’ll stick with you through thick and thin.
Cost of Italian Suits
Price, as always, depends on your budget and the type of fabric you prefer. You can acquire an Italian suit of good quality for around $800 CAD. But, if you’re willing to pay a bit more, you’ll get an even better fabric – much like upgrading from regular to maple bacon.
Investing in a Quality Suit
A suit is a long-term investment, much like a well-stocked wine cellar or a season pass to your favourite hockey team. Your first Italian-made suit might come with a higher price tag, but its superior craftsmanship means you won’t need to replace it. So, when you invest in a suit, remember you’re investing in a suit for life. I recommend that a suit should cost at least $800 CAD to ensure excellent quality.
Well, there you have it, folks! That’s my two cents on suit fabrics. Remember, whether it’s a hockey game or a formal event, you always want to bring your A-game. So, choose your suit fabric wisely!
Happy Canada Day!
