Ask the Tailor: How to Choose a Suit Lining

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Each month we ask our expert tailors to address one of your most frequent questions. This month we’re considering suit linings, and how to choose the right one for you.

If you’ve never commissioned a bespoke suit before, you may wonder how much of an impact the lining you choose will have on your finished suit. After all, how many people will actually see the inside of your tailoring?

Though it’s true that the lining of a suit generally remains unseen, that’s not to say it doesn’t pay a key role in how your suit looks and feels. 

The lining will impact on how well your suit hangs, how warm or cool it is to wear and how long-lasting your suit is likely to be. And though a suit lining may not be seen by many people, it’s still an opportunity to add a little of your style personality to your tailoring and make your suit absolutely your own.

How do you choose the right suit lining?

There are a variety of factors to keep in mind when it comes to considering suit lining choices. We suggest you think about three key things in particular.

Temperature

Warmth plays a big role in lining fabric choice. For example, the kind of fabric you’d choose to line a winter suit would be very different to a summer suit. Speak to your tailor about which fabrics are best suited to the type of weather you plan to wear your suit in.

Versatility

Though the lining of your suit won’t always be on display, that’s not to say that it won’t ever be seen. The lining may be visible when you wear your jacket unbuttoned, or perhaps on the back of your waistcoat, if you choose a three piece suit. If you want a very versatile suit, you may prefer to opt for a more classic lining. That way it will be appropriate for all occasions and will work well with a wide range of shirts and ties. 

Personal style

Of course, you may be less concerned about how well your suit lining will complement your tie and more interested in making sure it complements your personal style. A suit lining can be an excellent chance to bring a touch of something different to an otherwise very traditional piece of tailoring. Bold colours, patterns or painted scenes: the only real limit is your own imagination! 

Next month we’ll be asking our tailors to advise on whether your suit should be cut to flatter your posture. Sign up to our newsletter to make sure you don’t miss it.