From the Founder of Ascend Collection - Cameron Luke

Buying your first suit is a big step. I still remember mine — not because it was perfect (it wasn’t), but because it changed the way I carried myself.

It’s not just about looking good. It’s about walking into a room and knowing you belong there.

Since starting Ascend Collection, I’ve helped hundreds of men step into that same feeling — and if you’re getting ready to buy your first suit, I wrote this for you.

Here’s what I wish every first-time client knew before investing in their first suit.

1. Understand the Landscape: Off-the-Rack vs. Custom

You have a few options when shopping for suits:

Off-the-rack: Fast and convenient, but rarely fits well. It’s built for everyone — and no one.
Made-to-measure: A decent middle ground, using templates adjusted to your measurements.
Custom (what we do at Ascend): Built from the ground up for your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.

When I started Ascend, it was because I couldn’t find a suit that fit me the way I wanted — so I decided to make them myself, and make them better.

2. Start with a Suit That Works Hard for You

If you’re only getting one suit, make it navy.

Why?

It’s incredibly versatile — weddings, job interviews, dinner dates, even casual Fridays.
It flatters just about every skin tone and body type.
It’s timeless. You’ll wear it for years.

Most of my first-time clients walk out in a custom navy suit, and they always come back later for gray or something bolder.

Start with the foundation. You’ll build from there.

3. Fabric Isn’t Just a Luxury — It’s a Long-Term Investment

Your suit fabric affects everything: how it feels, how it wears, and how long it lasts.

When we meet at Ascend, I’ll show you a curated range of 100% wool fabrics and/or other natural fibers — comfortable, breathable, and built to last.

No synthetic blends. No corners cut. This is an investment, and it should last you 5, 10, 15, 20 years — not just one wedding season.

Vitale Barberis Canonico Wool from Italy

4. Fit Is Everything — And Custom Gets It Right the First Time

A suit that fits you will always outperform one that doesn’t.

We take over 30 precise measurements during your fitting. Not just chest and waist, but things most people never consider — posture, shoulder slope, arm pitch.

The truth is, I’ve never met a “standard” body type — and that’s why I don’t believe in standard sizes.

5. The Details Tell Your Story

One of my favorite parts of working with new clients is helping them express themselves through the small things:

Lining that reflects your personality
A custom monogram with your initials or a meaningful date
Lapel styles and buttons that reflect your taste

It’s not about copying a magazine look. It’s about creating something you’ll be proud to wear.

6. Who You Work With Matters

When you work with Ascend, it’s personal. Every suit is built with intention — and every client becomes a part of the story we’re telling.

I don’t want to just sell you a suit. I want to help you level up — whether you’re walking into a boardroom or down the aisle.

We take our time. We get it right. And we make sure you leave with something you’re proud of.

Final Thoughts

Here’s what I recommend to anyone buying their first suit:

✅ Choose a timeless, versatile color like navy
✅ Stick with premium materials that lasts (wools, silks, linens)
✅ Make sure it fits — not just okay, but great!
✅ Don’t be afraid to add your personality
✅ Work with someone who listens and cares

🎯 Ready for Your First Custom Suit?

Let’s build something exceptional — together.

👉 Schedule Your Private Fitting

Or contact me here if you want to talk through your options first. I’m always happy to help.

A Guide to Buying Your First Suit