The Timeless Story of Men’s Suits

When it comes to statement pieces in men’s fashion, a few things have a reputation that matches that of men’s suits. Suits for men can be many things, classic, subtle, eye catching. That is exactly why men from all walks of life, from the head of state to a young business executive, from athletes to artists, have been donning suits for hundreds of years. In the recent past, we have seen men’s suits become more adventurous, gender neutral, and even casual. Despite its various modern avatars, the classic men’s suit holds a special place in men’s formal fashion.

At Zodiac, we have a collection of men’s suits that meets the evolving style needs of the modern man. From 100% woollen suits to men’s suits in pure linen to suits in blended fabrics, we have you covered for all seasons and occasions.

Looking back at the history of men’s suits

Men’s suits have been around for centuries. From the 1600s to 2022, suits have journeyed through time and adapted to the evolving lifestyle of their wearers. Many experts believe that the origin of suits dates back to the 1660s. The King of England, Charles II, was a man known for his impeccable and often experimental taste in clothes introduced the vest or waistcoat into men’s everyday wardrobes. This vest was tight fitting, knee length, and made from wool. This particular style of vest is especially important in the history of men’s suits as it would go on to lay the foundation for the present day waistcoat.

While the King of England played a significant role in popularizing men’s formal suits, he was not alone. The history of modern suits for men is incomplete without the mention of Beau Brummell. The English socialite was responsible for starting many fashion trends in his time. Even as a prominent figure in Regency England, Brummel was never one to follow others in fashion. At a time when men’s fashion comprised over the top powdered wigs, elaborate shirts with ruffles, thick and embroidered fabrics like velvet, embellished jackets, stockings for boots, Brummel decided to renounce the flamboyance and choose simplicity. He wore muted colours, long tailored pants, and teamed them up with simple yet elegant long tailed jackets with little to no embellishments. He ditched the stockings and added an elaborate white waistcoat to complete his look. Given his standing in society as a connoisseur of fashion, men around him were more than eager to follow suit. Brummel, to date, is remembered by fashion enthusiasts and historians as the one who paved the way for the modern man’s suit.

In the 1920s, slim fit suits for men became vastly popular. However, this trend changed by the end of the decade as wide legged trousers and jackets with wider shoulders made an appearance and were quickly adopted by men.

The ‘roaring 20s’ was also the time when vibrant colours and interesting patterns made their way into men’s wardrobes. During this period, men wearing suits would also don the double breasted waistcoats.

Following the Second World War, men’s suits were somewhat standardized. Suits for men were cut as straight as possible and by the 1960s, suit lapels had become narrower than ever. This structural change in the design of suits slowly pushed the double breasted suits away from the limelight.

During the 1970s and into the 80s, the three piece style of suit became popular. This period marked the return of the snug fitting suit coat, also encouraging the comeback of the waistcoat. This new three piece suit style was made popular by the Hollywood film, Saturday Night Fever, and quickly became associated with disco culture. Later in the 1980s, men’s suits grew to become more relaxed. The jackets were loose fitting, allowing for more movement and the waistcoat was completely disposed of. These suits have the closest resemblance to the men’s suits we are most familiar with today.

In the 1960s, the Nehru Jacket, which was a variation of the Jodhpuri bandhgala with a mandarin collar rose to fame in India as well as the western world.

Men’s suits have been evolving with time since their first appearance. Change is the only constant and the suits are always up to the task. By now, we all would agree that suits are timeless.

How to pick the right suits for men?

Picking the right suits depends on a range of factors. Firstly, know why you want to buy a suit. Also, before making the decision, you need to consider how often you are going to wear it. Are you looking for office suits, something you can wear to work every day, or are you looking for formal suits for a special event, or something more relaxed, like casual suits in linen?

For everyday work looks, opt for classic solid colours, a comfortable fit. For special occasions like weddings and formal dinners, you might want a finer fabric, tailored or slim fit look. Darker tones work well for uber formal events but that doesn’t mean you have to stick to black.

The most critical factor for men’s suits is size and fit. It might sound like the most obvious thing, but getting this wrong can ruin your entire look. Try out different styles to understand what fits you best instead of simply picking up what’s in trend. Another important element in your suit is the number of buttons on it. The number of buttons impacts the fit. Since the 1990s, the three button suit has been the standard choice for most men. However, if you are looking for a more modern, minimalistic look, 2 button suits are your best bet.

Vents on the back of a blazer are one of the key factors to consider when buying your next suit. Every design element in men’s suits has a utilitarian purpose. Vents allow for movement, access, while also being aesthetically pleasing.

There are 3 types of suit vents:

- Single vent: Ideal for casual suits because of its simpler aesthetic. It is also a great option for your everyday business suit. This style is suitable for all body types and for people who prefer to keep things subtle.

- Double sided vent: European style vents found commonly on made to measure or premium ready to wear men’s suits. An ideal choice for those who want to create an impression wherever they go.

- Ventless Jacket: Ventless suit jackets are not a great option most of the time. It almost always applies to a tuxedo jacket.

Suits are a style investment. They are meant to serve you long term. That is why it is advisable to pick patterns, prints, and colours that will stand the test of time. While this decision is also heavily influenced by the number of suits you already have in your wardrobe, we would suggest starting out with timeless classics. As your collection of suits grows, you can experiment more!

Feeling ready to flaunt your style in a statement suit? Browse through our collection of men’s suits and find one that fits your taste, needs, and preferences

What is the best suit for a man?

Suits are formal wear and worn especially on special occasions. Zodiac suits have all the hallmarks of the best suit for a man and have a wide range of collection in men’s suits that matches the modern man’s fashion in formal, casual, and classic Jodhpuri style bringing a contemporary look. Zodiac ensures 100% woolen suits, linen suits, and blended suits for men.

Who is trending in men’s suits?

The topmost trending in men’s suit is solid, checks, and striped suits. As per your personality and your body structure, you can choose suits for any occasion. A wide range of collections in stylish Jodhpuri suits is becoming the latest trend in men’s suits for special occasions like weddings, formal parties, and festivals.

What is a four-piece suit?

There are different types of suits created for every occasion giving a versatile look to each occasion. The types of suits consist of 3-piece suits, four-piece suits, and 5-piece suits. Generally, a four-piece suit consists of a trouser that blends with the coat, an inner shirt, and a vest.

What is a five-suit piece?

The definition of a five-piece suit revolves around the idea of formal attire and it comprises of a 1) suit jacket, 2) suit trousers, 3) waist-coat, 4) bow-tie or tie and 5) a blending suit shirt. The suit attire is mainly worn during winters and can be worn in offices during meetings and special occasions.

What suits should a man own?

Every man should own a classic, formal and casual suit for different occasions. Opt for a shade that compliments your personality and also matches your partner’s color code for a particular occasion. Black, grey, and blue are the most common colors that blend with every occasion.

Should Every man have a black suit?

A black suit in a men’s wardrobe is a must-have formal attire. It suits everyone, irrespective of appearance in height, and body. Also, a black suit is comfortable to wear for formal occasions.

What is the most popular suit color?

Generally, men prefer black, navy blue, or grey suits. These colors go well in the board meeting as well as an evening function.

How do you determine a man’s suit size?

There are different sizes for a suit - 38 short, 40 regular, 42 long. The numerical is the chest measurement along with jacket length.

Is it ok to wear a suit without a tie?

A tie is one accessory that completes formal attire, especially a suit. However, it is not always important to wear a tie with a suit. A suit can be smartly worn even without a neck accessory.

Men’s suits that fit perfectly?

A classic fit suit is a universal buy for all men. Customized as per the body size, it suits perfectly throughout.

What 3 suits should a man own?

A man should own a classic style suit, a tuxedo 3-piece suit, and a modern fit suit that is trendy in terms of colors/pattern/lapel

What color suit is most versatile?

A black or dark blue suit is the most versatile one that balances the appearance both in a corporate and family environment.

Are suits comfortable?

Suits are comfortable when worn in a cool environment. If you need to commute via public transport or have to stand in the sun, wearing suits will be quite uncomfortable.

What are the most comfortable suits?

In the end, comfort related to suits is entirely a subjective choice. Depending upon the age, body type, and occasion, one can customize the suits as per their comfort.