[jyl]

Ah, suits. For about 15 years, they were an important part of my life. I wore them 5 days a week, 12 hours a day. And, you know, they were fun. There was the snug European suit stage. Lots of accessories with those, cufflinks, collarstay, vests. Then there was a double breasted phase. Sharp, baby. Then the serious phase, charcoal pinstripes from Brooks Brothers. Finally I started having all my suits custom made from fabric samples. Suspender buttons, extra pants, hidden pockets. Career change, and instantly no more suits. I've worn a suit maybe 10X in 12 years.

I was going through the closet, getting rid of clothes that don't fit, are worn out, ugly, or haven't been worn in years. Came across a bunch of my old suits. The later ones need to be taken in. I can wear the older ones from 25+ years ago, the pants are maybe 1" snugger than ideal. I guess there'll never be a reason for me to buy another suit. Too bad, they really were kind of fun.

One piece of advice. Buy a traditional, businessman or lawyers' two-piece single-vent suit. Not a three-button short-lapel flap-ass hipster thing. In a serious color and fabric, meaning dark gray, navy, charcoal, or black, subtle pinstripes or windowpanes, 100% wool, and lined unless you live in the tropics. Get that real man's serious suit. With serious shirts, ties, and shoes. Then you can get the more light-hearted variations. But you want to be ready for interviews, business dinners, and deaths.