1. J.Crew Ludlow suit in Irish linen, $456
J.Crew's Ludlow silhouette has become the go-to for young professionals. This lightweight linen version is perfect for working through summer heat.
2. Suit Supply Napoli in plain blue, $399
Suit Supply's Napoli fit is the perfect starter suit. A slightly padded shoulder and traditional button-stance (slightly above your natural waist) give a fitted but not-too-slim silhouette to a variety of body types.
For a slim wool-blend suit you really aren't going to find a better price than H&M.
4. John Varvatos Star USA wool suit, $380.
Nordstrom Rack is a great place to find designer suits for a deal, though limited sizes are available.
5. Topman New Fit Slim Fit suit, $250
Not every suit jacket needs to taper at the waist. Go with a boxier jacket like this one for a style that's a bit more new-wave.
6. Zara micro herringbone double-breasted suit, $298
A double-breasted suit doesn't have to be old-fashioned, as Zara shows us here with the laid back styling.
7. Ike Behard notch lapel suit, $280
Another banger from Nordstrom Rack, the styling in this particular image shows how a turtleneck can be a great alternative to a button-up with a suit.
8. Boss Hugo Boss check-plaid suit, $497
If it's your first suit, you probably want to go with a solid navy or grey. But if you've got those bases covered, start looking at bolder options like plaids and pinstripes.
9. Calvin Klein peak lapel tuxedo, $320
If you can find a deal (or if you get invited to a lot of fancy parties) it might make more sense to buy a tux rather than rent.
MAJOR KEY ALERT
To get an inexpensive suit to look as good on you as it does in the pictures, you're going to have to invest in a bit of tailoring. A tailor can help you shorten or lengthen sleeves and pants, taper pant legs or slim the arms and body of a suit.
NOTE: The shoulders of a jacket are hard (and therefore expensive) to alter. It's important that you find a jacket that fits in the shoulders right off the rack.
Some Suit Supply and J.Crew locations (as well as large retailers like Nordstrom) will have on-site tailors to help you out. If you buy a suit at a physical store, the salesperson should be able to recommend a tailor for you.
If you're buying online, you can simply Google tailors in your city. BUT MAKE SURE TO FIND A LEGIT TAILOR NOT JUST A DRY CLEANER THAT DOES ALTERATIONS. Checking reviews will be crucial.
Prices vary, but a few simple fit adjustments to any of the above suits shouldn't cost you more than about $50.
