There is a distinct moment that happens when a man puts on a suit that was made specifically for him. The shoulders align perfectly, the jacket follows the natural contour of his torso, and the trousers break exactly where they should. It isn’t just about looking "nice": it’s about the confidence that comes from knowing you are presented in the best possible light.
For many, buying mens suits has traditionally been a game of compromises. You find a jacket you love, but the sleeves are too long. You find the perfect color, but the trousers are too tight in the thigh. At 700 Shop, we believe you shouldn't have to settle. With over 65 years of expertise in the heart of Indiana, we’ve seen how the right fit transforms not just an outfit, but the man wearing it.
Whether you’re preparing for your wedding, a milestone promotion, or simply want to elevate your daily wardrobe, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about custom suits for men and how to achieve that elusive perfect fit.
The Three Tiers of Suiting: Which is Right for You?
Before diving into the measurements, it’s important to understand the landscape of suits for men. Generally, your options fall into three categories:
1. Off-the-Rack (Ready-to-Wear)
These are the suits you see hanging on the racks in standardized sizes (e.g., 40 Regular, 42 Long). While convenient, these are designed for an "average" body type that rarely exists in reality. Even with a high-quality off-the-rack suit, you will almost always need professional alterations to make it look right.
2. Made-to-Measure
Made-to-measure is a significant step up. We start with a pre-existing pattern and "tweak" it based on your specific measurements. This allows for a much better fit than off-the-rack and gives you the ability to choose fabrics, buttons, and linings.
3. Custom/Bespoke Tailoring
This is the pinnacle of the craft. When you opt for a custom order at 700 Shop, we aren't just adjusting a pattern; we are often creating a look that is uniquely yours. This is for the man who wants a specific fabric, a unique lapel style, or has a physique that traditional sizing simply doesn't accommodate.
The Anatomy of the Perfect Fit
A suit is a complex garment. To the untrained eye, a suit might look "fine," but an expert consultant at 700 Shop looks at several key "fit points" to ensure the garment is working for you, not against you.
The Shoulders: The Foundation
The most critical part of any suit is the shoulder. If the shoulder doesn't fit, the entire suit is compromised. The seam where the sleeve joins the jacket should sit right at the end of your natural shoulder. If it hangs over, the suit looks too big and "slouchy." If it ends before your shoulder does, you’ll see unsightly ripples and feel restricted in your movement.
The Chest and Lapels
Your jacket should be able to button comfortably without pulling. A common sign of a poor fit is the "X" wrinkle that forms around the button when it’s too tight. Conversely, if there is too much room, the jacket will look boxy and erase your silhouette. The lapels should lie flat against your chest. If they gape or "pop" out, the jacket is likely too tight across the back or chest.
The Sleeve Length
A standard rule of thumb is that your jacket sleeve should end right at your wrist bone. This allows about half an inch (1–2cm) of your dress shirt cuff to show. This small detail is a hallmark of a well-dressed man and provides a finished, intentional look.
The Jacket Length
While trends in jacket length have fluctuated over the years, a classic, timeless fit should cover your seat. A quick test: with your arms hanging naturally at your sides, you should be able to cup your fingers under the hem of the jacket.
The Trouser Break
The "break" is the fold or creasing of the fabric where the pant leg meets the shoe.
- No Break: The trousers just touch the top of the shoe. This is a modern, clean look often seen in slim-fit styles.
- Slight/Half Break: The classic standard. A single, subtle fold of fabric.
- Full Break: A heavy fold of fabric. This is generally considered dated and can make the wearer look shorter.
Why Choose Custom Suits for Men?
You might wonder if a custom suit is worth the investment compared to a high-quality off-the-rack option. Here are three reasons why our clients at 700 Shop consistently choose the custom route:
1. Unrivaled Personalization
When you go custom, every detail is a reflection of your taste. You choose the fabric (from lightweight wools to luxury blends), the lining (perhaps a bold pattern that only you know is there), the style of the pockets, and even the color of the thread on the buttonholes. It is a creative process that results in a one-of-a-kind garment.
2. Solutions for Every Build
Not every man is built like a mannequin. Whether you have broad athletic shoulders and a narrow waist, or you need a little extra room for comfort, custom suits for men provide the solution. We take precise measurements of your neck, chest, waist, seat, and inseam to ensure the garment moves with you.
3. Long-Term Value
A suit that fits correctly undergoes less stress on the seams and fabric. Because it isn't pulling in the wrong places or dragging on the floor, a custom-fitted suit will generally outlast a poorly fitted one.
The 700 Shop Experience: 65+ Years of Excellence
Buying a suit shouldn't be a stressful transaction; it should be an experience. At 700 Shop, we pride ourselves on being more than just a retail store. We are a destination for men who care about their appearance.
Expert Consultants
Our team doesn't just sell clothes; we understand the "why" behind the "what." We take the time to learn about the occasion you’re dressing for. Is it a summer outdoor wedding? A high-stakes boardroom presentation? We’ll guide you toward the right fabrics and styles for your specific needs.
On-Site Tailoring
One of our biggest advantages is our on-site tailoring. Having an expert tailor under the same roof means that the vision discussed during your fitting is the exact vision executed on the garment. This level of quality control is rare in modern retail and ensures that every suit leaving our shop meets our rigorous standards.
A Legacy of Trust
For over five decades, we’ve served the community with a commitment to "Fashion and Fit." This isn't just a tagline; it’s the philosophy that guides everything we do. When you walk into 700 Shop, you’re benefiting from generations of sartorial knowledge.
Beyond the Rack: Unique Custom Orders
While we maintain an extensive in-stock selection of mens suits for those who need a quick turnaround, we also specialize in unique custom orders and made-to-measure services.
If you have a vision for a specific color of velvet for a gala, a particular tweed for a fall wedding, or a performance-stretch fabric for a travel-heavy job, we can make it happen. We can also help you explore respected names in menswear like Hart Schaffner & Marx and Jack Victor, giving you access to premium fabrics, refined construction, and elevated style options through our custom order and made-to-measure programs. Whether you're building a polished business wardrobe, selecting a standout sport coat, or investing in a suit for a major event, our team can guide you through options that go far beyond what you’ll typically find on a standard retail floor. This is the ultimate way to ensure that you aren't just wearing a suit: you’re wearing your suit.
Preparing for Your Fitting: Tips for Success
If you're ready to start the journey toward the perfect fit, here are a few tips to help you prepare for your appointment at 700 Shop:
- Wear the Right Shoes: Bring the shoes you plan to wear with the suit. This is essential for getting the trouser break exactly right.
- Wear a Similar Shirt: If possible, wear a dress shirt similar to what you’ll be wearing with the suit. This helps us measure the jacket neck and sleeve length more accurately.
- Know Your Timeline: Custom orders take time. While we work efficiently, we recommend starting the process at least 6–8 weeks before your event to allow for shipping and final tweaks.
- Be Open with Your Consultant: Tell us how you like your clothes to feel. Do you prefer a very slim, modern silhouette, or do you value a more traditional, roomy fit? There is no "wrong" answer, only what makes you feel best.
Conclusion
The search for the perfect suit ends when you stop looking for a size and start looking for a fit. In the world of suits for men, the difference between "okay" and "extraordinary" lies in the details: the half-inch of cuff, the pitch of the shoulder, and the quality of the fabric.
At 700 Shop, we’ve spent 65 years perfecting the art of the fit. We invite you to visit us and experience the difference that expert consultation and professional tailoring can make. Whether you choose from our curated in-stock collection or embark on a custom journey, we are here to ensure you walk out looking and feeling like the best version of yourself.
Ready to find your perfect fit? Stop by and see us today or browse our featured products to get inspired for your next look.