Travel suits are a must-have for the modern professional on the go. Whether you’re flying across the globe for business meetings or attending important events away from home, having a reliable suit that stays sharp and comfortable throughout your journey is crucial. However, not all suits are created equal, and when it comes to travel, there are specific features and fabrics to look out for to ensure you arrive at your destination looking as polished as when you left.
In this guide, we’ll explore what to look for in a travel suit, including the importance of crease-resistant fabrics, such as high twists, and the benefits of a soft jacket construction for added comfort.
1. Crease-Resistant Fabrics
One of the biggest challenges when traveling with a suit is keeping it wrinkle-free. After hours in a suitcase or garment bag, many fabrics can develop creases that are hard to shake out without a good pressing. This is where crease-resistant fabrics come into play, particularly high twists.
High Twist Fabrics
High twist fabrics are woven tightly using yarns that have been twisted more than usual, which gives them a natural resilience against creasing. The tighter weave makes the fabric more elastic and helps it to return to its original shape even after being folded or compressed.
High twist wool is a popular choice for travel suits because it offers the best of both worlds: the luxurious feel and breathability of wool, combined with the practicality of wrinkle resistance. This means you can unpack your suit and be ready to go without worrying about unsightly creases.
Crease-Resistant Worsted Wools
Another excellent option for travel suits is crease-resistant worsted wool. Worsted wool is made by combing the wool fibres to align them in parallel before spinning them into yarn, which creates a smooth and durable fabric. High quality worsted wools have the ability to maintain its shape and resist wrinkles, even after being packed away for hours. Worsteds are also naturally breathable and temperature-regulating, making them a comfortable and practical choice for any climate.
2. Lightweight and Breathable Fabrics
When you’re on the move, the last thing you want is to be weighed down by a heavy suit. A good travel suit should be lightweight and breathable to keep you comfortable, especially during long flights or in warmer climates.
Super 100s to Super 140s Wool
Wool suits graded from Super 100s to Super 140s are ideal for travel. These grades refer to the fineness of the wool fibres, with higher numbers indicating finer threads. Suits in this range are lightweight yet durable, providing a perfect balance for travel. They drape beautifully without adding bulk and are naturally breathable, allowing for better temperature regulation during your journey.
3. Soft Jacket Construction
Another key factor to consider when choosing a travel suit is the jacket construction. Traditional suits often have a more structured design with padding in the shoulders and chest to give a sharp silhouette. However, this can be uncomfortable during long periods of wear, especially when traveling.
Unstructured and Half-Canvas Jackets
A soft jacket construction, or even an unstructured jacket, is perfect for travel. These jackets have minimal padding and interlining, allowing for greater flexibility and comfort. The absence of heavy structure means the jacket molds more naturally to your body, providing ease of movement without sacrificing style.
Unstructured jackets are also easier to pack, as they can be folded or rolled up without losing their shape. When you unpack, the jacket will bounce back to its original form, making it a great choice for travel.
4. Versatile Colours and Patterns
When selecting a travel suit, it’s important to choose versatile colours and patterns that can work in various settings. A classic navy or mid-grey suit is an excellent choice because it can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
For added versatility, consider a subtle texture in the fabric. Trousers and jackets with a subtle texture can be worn as a suit as well as separates, making them suitable for both business and casual settings.
5. Tailoring for the Perfect Fit
Finally, the fit of your suit is crucial, especially when traveling. A well-fitted suit not only looks better but is also more comfortable to wear for extended periods. This is where a custom-tailored suit can make all the difference.
Edit Suits Co. is an excellent choice for those looking for a travel suit that fits like a glove. Their experienced tailors will ensure that your suit is crafted to your exact measurements, providing the perfect balance of style, comfort, and practicality for your travels. With a wide range of fabrics, including crease-resistant options like high twist wool, you can customise every aspect of your suit to meet your travel needs.
