How Do I Pick a Sport Coat?

A sport coat is a type of men's jacket that looks similar to a suit jacket. A sport coat, however, is made of heavier material and is single-breasted. It is a more casual version of a suit jacket. Though the general style of a sport coat is very basic, different brands will fit differently. Therefore, choosing the right sport coat for you will mean trying on several different kinds before you find the one that works.

Instructions

1  Decide on a budget. Sport coats can range in price. They can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The brand name and type of material used are the biggest factor in how much a sport coat costs.

2  Decide on a type of material. Tweed, cotton, wool, silk and corduroy are the most common materials used when making sport coats. Wool and corduroy will keep you warmer than tweed, cotton or silk.

3  Have a tailor take your measurements. Getting a good fit is essential. For you to get a good fit, you have to know your measurements. A tailor will measure your overarm, your arm and your chest. This will help you find the best-fitting sport coat.

4  Decide on the colors that will coordinate with the colors you wear most often. Classic colors like navy blue or black add a more formal appearance to your outfit. Colors like tan and white make your outfit more casual. You can buy more than one sport coat if you want both formal and casual options.

5  Look for features you like. The number of buttons, the pocket placement and other features may be deciding factors for you. Wearing a stylish but practical sport coat is helpful when you need a pocket for a handkerchief, for example. These features add both style and convenience to your life. If you're over six feet tall, look for a longer sport coat for a better proportion; likewise, if you are five feet eight inches or under, look for a shorter length.

6  Visit several stores and look for a style that appeals to you. Look at the tags to find measurements. There may be an associate available to help you. He can tell you the measurements if they aren't marked on the tag. Try on several sport coats until you find the one that suits you best.