I don't typically spend a lot of money on clothes. I shop at the Gap, Structure and Kenneth Cole. But I was out of town on business recently and got invited to dinner by a client. The restaurant had a dress code and I had only brought casual clothes with me.

So I said "Alfred, let's go shopping." I decided to buy a suit. I found a few that I liked for $500 and $700, but the one I LOVED was just over $3000. I spent the afternoon in heavy contemplation, trying to figure out what I could mortgage. I nearly settled on the $500 suit several times. Finally, what the hell. I decided not to look nice for the dinner. I decided to look VERY nice.

A few people commented on the suit during dinner. The comment I got repeatedly was, "you look so thin in that suit." Now, I'm not a big guy by any means - you'd describe me as having an average build. But, being a vain man, I enjoyed the compliments.

Did I appear thinner because the suit was so expensive,(my bank account was certainly thinner) or do Italians just know how to make clothes?

I figure a few more comments like that and the suit has paid for itself.

This may sound stupid but it wasn't the suit it was the way you felt in it.  I have found that with my clothes the ones that I get the most compliments in are the ones I loved when i bought them and this is regardless of the price i paid for them.  It just seems i have more confidence wearing certain clothes and that may be what happened to you.

Depends on the suit, was it a double breasted? was it well fitted to you ?

did it have boxed shoulders?


these all make a difference
sasha

It was single breasted, it fit me well, and they made alterations that afternoon for me. Boxed shoulders? I have no idea what that is.

All I really know, is I looked good.

smile, love
riker

but I'd say I have to agree with you. The way you feel does tend to alter your appearance. I was probably standing up straighter, squared my shoulders, head high, sucked in the gut and struttin' with some attitude.

just a shape, box squared shoulders

sasha

Now get some good ties too.  I suggest having a woman's input.  Every tie I've ever gotten compliments on was picked out by a woman.  I've vetoed a few, but the fact remains, a tie is an ornamental accessory that pulls the entire look of the suit and shirt together.  This is what women do everyday before breakfast- and with a wardrobe that contains far more variations and permutations than any guy can imagine.  By comparison, we men are rank amateurs, even if we have good taste.  

I agree with the others, too.  If you feel good about the way you look, you'll also project that confidence.