We've been giving the guys their fair share of info over the last couple of months, and we don't plan to stop. Gentlemen, groomsmen, grooms and guys of all shapes, sizes and style preferences need a good suit - either for The Big Event or for life itself. ​

So you've headed to purchase a suit. What do you need to focus on the most?
The Fit 
This is the most critical factor. Ensure the suit matches your body type, whether that’s slim, regular, or athletic. A well-fitted suit enhances your shape, so opting for tailored or custom-fitted suits is often worth the investment. Key fit areas are the shoulders, chest, waist, and trouser length.
Fabric Quality 
Quality fabric impacts the suit's comfort, appearance, and longevity. Wool is a classic choice for its versatility and breathability, while linen and cotton work well for summer. Look for high-quality, durable materials that match your climate and lifestyle, as they’ll offer a better return on investment over time.
Color & Versatility 
Consider a color that fits multiple occasions. Navy, charcoal gray, and medium gray are versatile and suitable for both formal and semi-formal events. Since this is an investment, you want to get some use out of it, right? For a first or foundational suit, stick to these classic shades, which pair easily with a range of shirt and tie colors.
Construction & Details
The suit’s construction affects its durability and fit. Pay attention to details like lapel width (classic lapels age better), button style, and pocket type, as these define the suit's style and functionality.
Purpose & Frequency of Use
Think about when and how often you’ll wear the suit. If it's for daily professional wear, prioritize durability and a classic style. For special occasions, you might opt for a more distinctive design or higher-end fabric.

Depending on the event that is coming up, your wedding for instance, or the way you plan to wear your suit afterward - job interviews, holiday parties, special occasions - you may want to consider how well you can pair your suit to what your date is wearing, where you live (again, the climate), the seasons, and how you intend to use this purchase. No one likes buyer's remorse, so be ready when you go to shop!

And don't forget about where you live, guys!
What are the regional style norms? Certain regions may favor a more relaxed or formal look. Coastal areas often lean toward casual, light-colored suits, while urban centers may adhere more to traditional colors and conservative cuts.

And how are the seasons where you live? There's a thing called seasonal variability, which means that if you live somewhere with extreme seasonal changes, it may be wise to invest in multiple suits for different times of the year—a lighter one for summer and a heavier one for winter.

Not only are the color options for bridesmaids vast (we have around 70 colors at Bridal Traditions), they are inclusive. Traditional colors, muted tones, and classics are always popular and available for bridesmaids. 

For the more adventurous or less conventional bride, there are also plenty of color ways to choose from in this modern era. We've got the rainbow PLUS, you might say. Let your imagination rule.

Remember when the rules started changing and brides actively invited bridesmaids to choose their own style of gown? As long as the theme or palette was intact, the world was your oyster. It felt like a revelation, didn't it?! Suddenly, the line up of besties by the bride's side on her big day were part of a vibe or a theme, but each showcased a bit of individuality. 

These days, we see brides combining more than one or two colors for their bridesmaids gowns, adding more texture and interest. They are telling a story of their personality, their relationship, or just expressing their point of view.
The number of combinations is endless, so why not?!

Can't you say: "spring is my favorite season" or "bohemian vibes" or "rustic elegance" in so many different ways? Yes, you can. Having a mix of colors in your bridesmaids' gowns or groomsmen's accessories is a genius way of pulling off your theme or love story. 

We don't like to nag or preach, but the stories of disappointment are a plenty. 
Wedding Parties & Party-goers: this is just a friendly reminder that when you order your attire from an online purveyor, usually based on seeing a jpeg, you cannot be sure about the color in real life. What looks rusty online may look like peach when you're unpacking it. Greens are teals or royal. Reds run from burgundy to pink.

When you shop in store, you can see the gowns next to each other, make smart choices, then check out accessories and sort out the men's look as well. Are you going to be present on your wedding day? Of course. Be present as you choose the elements, and this starts with attire. 

Some good news! The guys are benefitting from these new dressing rules, new combinations, and fresh colors as well.

Once the theme and color palette are up for discussion, Katy bar the door, as they say. Between choices of suit or tux cut, jacket style, vest or no vest, pocket squares, ties, socks, and other touches, the groom and his groomsmen can make their "wedding day looks" equally inventive and coordinated. Many of our 3 piece suits are not "nested," which means that you have options and choices to add, should you choose.
If you have an idea, then explore it with our team.

Yes, we've thought about this and have more info to share.

> Wondering about whether to rent or buy your suit or tux? We've got you. 
> Want to know more about how we handle menswear ordering and our connection to Jim's Formal Wear? Here you go!
> Shopping in store vs. Online? Right here.
And visit our blog to see new styles of wedding gowns, suits, tuxes, bridesmaids' apparel and accessories to tie a bow around any look.

Hello from Bridal Traditions' trusty Asheville-based writer, Val. I have been working with - and in awe of - Kelly Shumate for nearly eight years. She's not just a client and collaborator, she's such an ally, a massive friend, and a provider of inspiration and belly laughs. 
She and I discussed a blog about the recent aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and I was happy to oblige with a bit from our part of the world.

Consider these links to inform and help you choose where to give, if you wish. Remember to refresh the page often so you don’t miss updates. 

Resources
FEMA relief form
Asheville Relief 
Citizen Times Guide for help page  
Mom’s Rising help link   
NC Resources Readync.gov
NC power outages 
NC Traffic and Road Conditions
Tennessee SmartWay Road Conditions
Kentucky Road Conditions

Places to Give
Beloved Asheville
Bounty & Soul
Manna FoodBank
ABCCM (Asheville Buncombe County Christian Ministries)
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You can also love from afar! Click the image below to see places to shop and support area artists, restaurants and other businesses that make Asheville and this region so special.

Of course, we will recover.
Many of us are avid campers, travelers, hikers, cyclists, rock climbers, paddlers and lovers of the mountain life.
We are hardy, hearty, and stubborn.
And we are hopeful.
Thank you for the love, support and hugs from Wilkes County to WNC. We feel them and we love you back. Promise to come visit when things come back to life.