Fit, care and budget
Why fit matters more than price
By sneakersInn team · Updated
Fit matters more than price because clothes that fit your body look sharp, make you look taller and more in proportion, and feel comfortable, whatever they cost. An expensive jacket with shoulders hanging past yours looks worse than an affordable one that fits. Check fit at the shoulders, chest, waist, length and sleeves before you look at the label.
| Fit point | Shirts and jackets | Trousers |
|---|---|---|
| Shoulders | Seam on the edge of your shoulder | |
| Chest | No pulling at buttons | |
| Waist | Follows your shape, no tent effect | Stays up without a belt |
| Length | Shirts cover the seat; jackets cover it | Touches the shoe |
| Sleeves and legs | Cuff at the wrist | Gentle taper to the ankle |
What does good fit do?
- Proportion. Fitted clothes show your shape instead of hiding it.
- Height. Trousers at the right length and jackets that end at the seat make legs look longer.
- Polish. Fitted clothes look intentional; loose clothes look borrowed.
- Comfort. Clothes that fit move with you.
What is the most important fit point?
Shoulders, because they're the hardest to change. Buy shirts and jackets by shoulder fit. See how a suit should fit.
What are the most common fit mistakes?
- Too big overall, especially shirts and jackets.
- Trousers too long, pooling at the shoe.
- Sleeves too long, covering the hand.
- Too tight, with buttons pulling.
See wardrobe mistakes most men make.
What can a tailor fix?
| Easy | Possible | Hard or impossible |
|---|---|---|
| Trouser length | Shirt body | Shoulders |
| Sleeve length | Trouser waist | Jacket length |
| Trouser taper | Jacket waist | Rise |
See how to work with a tailor in Accra.
What about relaxed and oversized styles?
Relaxed fits are fashionable, but they still need the right shoulders and lengths. A good relaxed fit is chosen, not accidental: shoulders slightly dropped, body roomy, sleeves and trousers still ending in the right place.
Does fit matter for shoes?
Very much. Shoes that are too big crease and slip; too small hurt. See how to pick the right sneaker size.
Questions
Should I buy a size up to be safe?
No. Buy what fits your shoulders and chest, then tailor.
Does fit differ for different body types?
The principles are the same; the details change. See dressing for your body type.
Why spend on a tailor instead of new clothes?
Because a small alteration makes something you own look new. See what to splurge on vs what to save on.