Where should I go to get measured for a suit? (I'm NOT thin)

[fuimananteater]

I'm beginning a new job that will require frequent court appearances and as a result would like to get a couple new suits (and shoes and belts) that will be appropriate for a public defender.

But, I've lost weight since my last suit purchases (when I was a put in a 54 by The Men's Warehouse folks - I weighted 325 pounds then, 275 now and losing 2 pounds/week consistently - 6'0" and carrying weight between my waist and below the shoulders). While my current suits "fit" after several additional alterations (sides in, waist in to about 45") I need to be find out what my current measurements are so I can order a new suit on-line.

I'm considering purchasing a Baroni through Wizard of Aahs (or something similar) or hoping to luck out finding a suit at Jeremy's; but I'd like to find out what size to order. It'd be nice if that could also let me try out a pair of Allen-Edmond, A. Testoni, or similar shoes with leather soles.

I'm not trying to waste anyone's time; I'll be buying shirts, belts, and shoes locally (greater Bay Area based in Berkeley but SF to the north bay are fine) but I would like to get accurately sized up given my recent weight loss and so I can take advantage so sales at local stores.

So where should I, an overweight guy who may need a size 50 suit, go to find out what size suit to order and maybe pick up a couple belts/shirts/ties?

• I've considered returning to the Men's Warehouse, but I'm a little concerned they will be slightly rushed in their measurements and their past suggestions have been, well, only fairly accurate most of the time and inaccurate (requiring adjustments) a bit too often.
  
• I've considered Nordstrom's but they don't likely carry my size (probably a 50, but I'm guessing) so they will not be able to test out a jacket on me.
  
• Wilkes Bashford is, honestly, a little intimidating and I would feel horrible if I couldn't at least afford to compensate the clerk who helps me by buying a couple things from their store (and at Wilkes that might be the case).

Thanks for your suggestions and the great thoughts you've all offered up in these forums.

 

[garmentmerchant]

Go to a tailor ask him to measure you. The other places are going to try to sell you on everything.

 

[Motol12]

Originally Posted by garmentmerchant

Go to a tailor ask him to measure you. The other places are going to try to sell you on everything.

I cannot agree more with this. Any tailor worth his salt will measure you effectively. Anywhere else you go will make up measurements to try and get you to buy suits.

Also, avoid the Men's Warehouse at all costs. If you'd like to get an affordable suit try JoS. A Bank, Marshalls, or Macy's. Avoid the Men's Scarehouse.

 

[bmulford]

Originally Posted by garmentmerchant

Go to a tailor ask him to measure you. The other places are going to try to sell you on everything.

+1

Store tailors aren't to be trusted with measurements. There are several tailors in the city that can measure you - and will be happy to do the alterations for the suits you order.

Jeremys sometimes has size 50 suits, but its always slim pickings there. I'd suggest going to the bloomingdales (the SF store has a nice mens store) and nordstroms rack (they have some nice stuff in larger sizes).

Good luck!

 

[fuimananteater]

Thanks a million bmulford, Motol12, and garmentmerchant.

I'll stop by a tailor in Berkeley (a few get great reviews on Yelp) for measurements.

And thanks for the heads up on Jeremy's slim pickings and the recommendations for bloomingdales and Nordstrom Rack ... Rack was on my list of places to check out, but Bloomingdales was not - good to know they'll have a good size for me.

Thanks again!