How to buy a suit!

[jackmccullough]

The OP hasn't been back, but if this is still a live question I do have some thoughts.

First, the poster who emphasized the importance of fit was absolutely right.

Second, you should not be even thinking about custom or bespoke. The cost is prohibitive for someone who might not wear it and might not know what he wants.

Third, although the quality of places like Bank and Men's Wearhouse is not the best, some of their suits can provide a decent level of compromise between price and quality. It is very important, however (and I primarily know this about Bank), do not buy anything that is not on sale. The "normal" prices at Bank are ridiculously and intentionally inflated. The real prices, where you can do okay on price to value, is when their sale is on to buy one/get one free, buy one/get two free, and the like. People who know more about it than I do seem to think that the Signature Gold line offers decent quality.

Finally, if you really want guidance on men's clothes the place to go is Ask Andy About Clothes.

[tpk-nyc]

If your husband is a chinos-and-dress-shirt kinda guy, a less expensive intermediate option would be a navy blazer rather than a full suit. It’s a classic look that can be worn almost anywhere and never goes out of style. The trick, as always, is getting a good fit.