FROM THE TOP: There’s nothing worse than an ill-fitting suit, so if it doesn’t sit nicely across the shoulders, hang it back on the rack. When scouting suits, start with a size smaller than your regular gear and remember there should be a firmness around your shoulder blades (but not so much that it restricts movement). The right jacket will hug your shoulders and make you stand taller. A tuxedo will always be a head-turner, and a streamlined black suit remains a modern alternative.

LAPELS 101: A notched lapel (pictured) is the most classic lapel for a suit and works for guys of all shapes and sizes. Its more formal cousin, the peaked lapel, has twin peaks that point towards the shoulders and help bring definition to the torso.

TAPER TIPS: Getting a suit tailored to your body shape is key to nailing the best fit. Bringing the jacket in at the sides of your waist will give you a strong line in the shoulders, and the chest piece will help the suit keep its shape and prevent sagging.

LET'S VENT: You might not be able to see it, but it does pay to know what’s happening at the back of your jacket. That’s right, we’re talking about vents. If you want to keep your look more casual, opt for a clean and simple centre vent. Those wanting to make more of a statement can go for a double vent.

CUFF STUFF: The cuffs of your suit should sit just above the hinges of your wrists, in order to give those shirtsleeves a bit of time in the spotlight. This length is essential for showing off your shiny new cufflinks, too. The four buttons on the cuff of this suit (pictured) are known as ‘kissing buttons’ and overlap each other slightly.

PANTS PROTOCOL: Suit trousers should be hemmed to sit at the top of your shoes – bunching around the ankles is a big no-no. Slim-cut pants with a flat front offer a modern, clean look. Most come with a zip fly, single-button closure and, of course, belt loops.