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Suit up & look sharp

The right shoulder fit and length of the sleeve are a few things to take note of when picking an off-the-rack suit.

Suit up & look sharp

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While made-to-measure and bespoke suits are unique and more likely to fit perfectly, they are also heavier on the pocket and can take weeks to make. A good off-the-rack suit, with perhaps a little tailoring thrown in, can be just as flattering and much easier to get one's hands on.

Plus, dapper options can be found at high-street labels. British fashion retailer Topman recently launched a 10-piece suit collection with London-based designer Charlie Casely-Hayford, bringing his bespoke tailoring style to the masses.
Labels such as Zara and H&M also offer sharp and classic choices that are kinder on the wallet. All one needs to
do is look for the right fit.

Here are some things to look out for:

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Shoulders: The right shoulder fit is the most important thing as this is one part of the suit that the tailor will not be able to change. The shoulder pads should not protrude beyond one's shoulders, and the shoulder seam should be the same
length as the bone under it.

Sleeve: The sleeve length should allow about half an inch (1.25cm) of the shirt cuff to show.

Hem:When the arms are relaxed and hanging straight down, the hem of the jacket should reach the middle of your palms.

Pants length: The hem of the trousers should rest lightly on top of the shoe, such that a slight crease is formed at the front above the ankle. There should not be a bunching of fabric above the ankle.

Add subtle details: Little additions, such as a pocket square in a different print or a lapel pin in a contrasting colour can
add charming touches to the outfit and help to spruce it up.

Here are some outfit suggestions.

Those who are a little more daring can try on this bright blue checkered blazer to stand out from the crowd. A
striped green pocket square adds a subtle contrast to the outfit.

Gingham suit blazer, $179, from Zara Super non-iron long-sleeved shirt, $49.90, from Uniqlo Marled suit trousers, $49.90, from H&M Splice Cufflinks dark green cotton pocket square, $18, from Zalora

Esort feel:Heading for a sophisticated yet laidback event on the beach or a garden soiree? Dress up in this casual yet classic combination of linen and denim.

Slim-fit linen blazer, $199, from Mango Denim shirt, $39.90, from H&M Slim-fit textured chinos, $49.90, from Mango Pink Daisy lapel pin, $19.90, from Benjamin Barker

Vested interest: Even without a jacket, you can still look dapper with this navy blue vest. The fitted piece will keep any man looking sharp and well put together.

Charlie Casely-Hayford X Topman blue twill waistcoat, $129, from TopmanPure cotton Oxford shirt with pocket, $69.90, from Marks & Spencer Selected Homme dark pink trousers, $139, from Topman Speckled bow tie, $35.90, from
Zara

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