What To Look For When Shopping For A New Sports Coat

The first thing that needs to be determined is how much you want to spend. Once that is decided, it will help to narrow down where to go. There are three types of options: off the rack, made to measure or bespoke. Thedifference between made to measure and bespoke is, MTM garments are made from an existing pattern brought to one’s measurements, bespoke is when a pattern is made from the individual measurements to create a garment. With that said, a MTM purchase is highly recommended because it is less time consuming and more cost effective, not to mention the end result is very similar to a bespoke purchase. When you decide how much you want to spend and what option is best for you, I suggest keeping top of mind these details, fit, color, style and what life events you intend on using the sports coat for.

If you decide to purchase from off the rack, know that there are various designers and along with that there are various fits. You can mention your style preference to the sales consultant and they should be able to guide to the best designers that provide your desired fit. If you decide to go it on your own, know that if you like a more modern style you should go with a slim fit in your jacket size or size up one for a more comfortable and attractive overall look. If you like a more traditional style, you should go with a regular fit in your size or size down for a cleaner and a more polished look. 

Once you determine your preferred fit, the next step is choosing a color. If this is your first sports coat purchase, I suggest going with a traditional navy blue color. This is a staple color that can be worn to pretty much any and every type of event, not to mention it can be dressed up or down. If this is not your first sports coat purchase and you already have your staple navy in your wardrobe, I suggest a solid mid hue grey if you’re more traditional, if you like a pattern and if it’s your first pattern sports coat purchase a subtle check is highly recommended. Other things to keep in mind when choosing a color is the time of year for the weight of fabric and type. If you’re looking for a fall/winter sports coat, a mid to heavier wool weight is best as well as darker, richer colors. If you’re looking for a spring/summer sports coat, a light wool, cotton or linen blend are best as well as lighter, brighter maybe even bolder colors and prints. 

Lastly the sports coat collar style is also important, there are three different options available. They are the notch and peak lapel including the shawl collar. The shawl collar is rounded, the peak lapel has a pointed edge and the notch lapel has a notch opening in between the up and lower collar. Although you will mainly come across the notch and peak styles when shopping off the rack. The notch lapel is the recommended option if this is your first sports coat or if looking for something classic. The peak lapel is recommended for a more modern or second time sports coat shopper. The shawl collars are recommended for fancy smoking jackets or tuxedos. 

Go out and get yourself a great looking and fitting sports coat.