Suits fabric really does make the suit literally and figuratively. Linen, polyester, wool, cotton, tweed, herringbone, flannel, silk, poplin, seersucker, and cashmere, are the materials that usually make up a suit.
A mens linen suit will not feel the same as a polyester suit, and a polyester suit will not feel the same as a wool suit…etc. Also a suits price will vary greatly depending on what kind of material it is made up of.
Below you will find a brief overview of the different types of suit material you may find while searching for your ideal suit. Click through each to get a quick rundown on the advantages and disadvantages of each suit fabric.
Cashmere – extremely soft, most comfortable
Cotton – light, breathable
Flannel – heavy, soft, and durable
Herringbone – heavy, coarse, durable, and hard to wrinkle
Linen – machine washable, light
Polyester – soft, hard to wrinkle
Poplin – lightweight, soft, and smooth
Seersucker – soft, warm, no ironing necessary
Silk – smooth, light, soft, shimmering appearance under light
Tweed – heavy, durable, and hard to wrinkle
Wool – durable, versatile