WORDS BY JOSEPH FURNESS
In most modern instances, suits are optional. So, if you do decide to get dressed up for the occasion – whatever that occasion may be – you’d be smart to select a soft and comfortable suit that keeps you feeling just as good as you look.
What to Look For in a Soft and Comfortable Suit
When browsing for a soft and comfortable suit, it’s paramount to consider which material best suits your wants and needs. For instance, linen is perfect for those who reside in warmer environments as it’s lightweight, breathable and rarely restrictive. On the other hand, corduroy is thick and velvety, which is why it’s preferable to those who reside in colder climates. Additionally, you may want to bear in mind that certain linings will feel more luxurious on the skin than others. Naturally, silk is regarded as the elite choice for suit lining.
As well as the suit’s material, it’s important to examine the cut and fit. By choosing looser fits over super-skinny designs, one is sure to feel freer; so, make sure you look out for relaxed-fit elements such as slouchy, soft-tailored blazers and elasticated waist trousers.
Finally, it’s essential to choose a suit that you can wear ad infinitum – think timeless designs presented in evergreen colors. Doing so will be beneficial for your mental state (no more panic buying suits for interviews, meetings and weddings), bank balance (for obvious reasons) and the planet (needless to say, it’s way more sustainable to re-wear a suit than it is to keep buying brand-new ones).
8 Best Soft and Comfortable Suits
The Linen Suit – Dolce & Gabbana
Contrary to popular belief, linen doesn’t always mean neutral colors – take this 100% linen double-breasted Dolce and Gabbana suit, for example.
Perfect for weddings abroad, business trips and formal events that take place outdoors, this suit is relaxed yet sophisticated and, most importantly, invites a welcomed airflow that’s guaranteed to keep you feeling, in both senses of the word, cool.
The Virgin Wool Suit – Boglioli
If it’s a comfortable wool suit you’re after, your best bet is a two-piece constructed with virgin wool. As the name suggests, this type of wool is super soft and completely unspoiled as it comes directly from the sheep.
Italian family business Boglioli often works with pure virgin wool to create their suits, and our pick of the bunch is their super versatile double-breasted taupe beige suit. No cap, this truly is the suit of our dreams.
The Corduroy Suit – Brunello Cucinelli
When we think of soft and comfortable fashion, corduroy instantly springs to mind. The sumptuous textile looks smart and feels super cosy, which makes it perfect for an everyday suit.
If it is a corduroy suit you’re looking for, may we recommend this single-breasted two-piece suit fashioned by Italian luxury fashion brand Brunello Cucinelli? The relaxed cut of the suit pairs well with the stormy grey hue of the material to create a look appropriate for gentlemen of any age.
The Technical Stretch Suit – Prada
We once thought of the 2020s as the beginning of the future. Now that we’re living in the moment, it’s only right that our suits are made with advanced materials.
Prada’s technical stretch suit is, as the name suggests, stretchy, thanks to the elastane element of the material; lightweight, thanks to the polyester element of the material; smart, thanks to the slim fit; and versatile, thanks to the classic design. Who said safe choices have to be uninspired?
The Pleated Suit – Homme Plissé Issey Miyake
Alongside the more conventional soft and comfortable suit options is Homme Plissé Issey Miyake’s pleated blazer and elasticated-waist trouser set that’s just as comfortable as a tracksuit. Yes, that’s right, the Japanese label has created a suit that you’ll actually want to wear to your home office.
Personally, we like the idea of a black that you can pair with different colors, but don’t be afraid to opt for a statement look. Perhaps the chocolate brown two-piece is right up your street, or maybe the royal blue set tickles your fancy.
The Linen-Blend Suit – Jacquemus
Loose linen-blend suits are for those who are so laid back they’re horizontal. If that sounds like you and you’re seeking to look just as nonchalant as you are, we suggest you consider investing in a Jacquemus suit that combines air-permeable linen with silky viscose.
Consisting of an off-centre buttoned blazer and a pair of wide-leg trousers, this Jacquemus suit is enlivened with a subtle leaf pattern and, IOO, is best paired with a light tee and a pair of box-fresh trainers.
The Boxy Suit – Off-White
Back in the 80s/90s, dapper businessmen wore boxy business suits that made them look and feel masculine, and, more importantly, kept them feeling comfortable throughout the entire day. To the delight of many, Off-White designer Virgil Abloh has brought the boxy business suit back into fashion for his latest season.
By updating the retro double-breasted boxy suit with an off-centre button fastening and office-inspired details, Abloh has successfully merged contemporary and retro aesthetics to appeal to the style-savvy consumers of today. All we need now is a devilishly colorful Off-White tie.
The Elasticated Waist Suit – Tagliatore
A suit fashioned with an elasticated waist offers next-level comfort, complements the wearer’s body and accommodates room for any post-meal bloating that may occur. What more could you ask for?
81-year-old Italian brand Tagliatore – famed for its heavy-duty outerwear and tailored suits – has produced the perfect elasticated-waist suit for the debonair dandies of the world. Available in an eternally modish chocolate brown hue, this suit is one to keep forever.