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Suits don’t have to be expensive to look sharp. Whether you need a suit for work, a wedding, or a formal event, finding an affordable yet stylish option in the UK is possible.
You can find cheap suits in the UK1 at retailers like M&S, Moss Bros, ASOS, H&M, and online discount stores such as Suit Direct and Charles Tyrwhitt. Outlet stores and secondhand marketplaces like eBay and Vinted also offer budget-friendly options.
Let’s explore where to shop for affordable suits and whether renting is a better option.
How much does it cost to hire a suit in the UK?
Renting a suit can be a cost-effective option, especially for one-time events. But how much does it cost?
Suit hire in the UK typically costs between £50 and £150, depending on the brand, style, and rental duration. Tuxedos and premium brands may cost more.
Suit Shopping Experience
Average suit rental prices in the UK
| Rental Store | Price Range | Rental Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Moss Bros | £50 – £150 | 3 – 7 days |
| Slater Menswear | £70 – £140 | 7 days |
| The Black Tux (UK) | £90 – £200 | 3 – 10 days |
| Suit Hire Online | £60 – £120 | 3 – 5 days |
When is renting a suit better than buying?
- One-time events – Weddings, proms, or black-tie occasions.
- Designer suits – Renting allows access to high-end brands without the full price.
- Changing styles – If you prefer to wear different styles for different occasions.
However, if you attend formal events regularly, buying a suit may be a better investment.
Is $200 good for a suit?
A $200 (£160) suit might seem too cheap—can it still be decent quality?
Yes, a $200 suit can be good, but it depends on the brand, fabric, and fit. At this price, expect synthetic blends, basic construction, and limited durability.
What to expect from a $200 suit?
| Feature | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Polyester blend, some wool blends |
| Fit | Off-the-rack, may need tailoring |
| Durability | Moderate, may wear out faster |
| Brand Examples | H&M, ASOS, M&S, Zara |
How to make a $200 suit look expensive
- Get it tailored – A good fit can make a budget suit look premium.
- Choose darker colors – Navy, charcoal, and black hide fabric flaws better.
- Invest in accessories – A quality shirt, tie, and shoes elevate the look.
If you want long-term value, consider spending a bit more for better fabric and construction.
Who makes the best suits in the UK?
The UK is known for its tailoring excellence. But which brands are the best?
The best suit brands in the UK2 include Savile Row tailors (Huntsman, Gieves & Hawkes), mid-range brands like Reiss and Charles Tyrwhitt, and budget options like M&S and Moss Bros.
Top UK suit brands by category
| Brand | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Savile Row Tailors | £3000+ | Bespoke luxury |
| Reiss | £400 – £800 | Modern, stylish tailoring |
| Charles Tyrwhitt | £250 – £600 | Classic business suits |
| Moss Bros | £150 – £400 | Affordable formalwear |
| M&S (Marks & Spencer) | £100 – £300 | Budget-friendly work suits |
Which UK suit brand is best for you?
- For luxury bespoke suits – Huntsman, Gieves & Hawkes
- For stylish, ready-to-wear suits – Reiss, Charles Tyrwhitt
- For affordable everyday suits – M&S, Moss Bros
Is it cheaper to buy a suit or rent a suit?
Buying and renting both have pros and cons, but which is more cost-effective?
Buying is cheaper in the long run if you wear suits often, while renting is better for occasional events.
Cost comparison: buying vs. renting a suit
| Option | Average Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Buying a suit | £100 – £500 | Regular use, work, long-term investment |
| Renting a suit | £50 – £150 per event | One-time events, black-tie occasions |
When should you rent?
- Weddings, proms, or rare formal events.
- If you need a high-end suit for a single night.
When should you buy?
- If you wear suits regularly for work or social events.
- If you want a tailored fit and durability.
How much is the average suit in the USA?
Suit prices vary in the US, but what’s the average cost?
In the USA, the average suit costs between $300 and $600, with budget options starting at $100 and high-end suits reaching $2000+.
Average suit prices in the US
| Suit Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Budget (H&M, ASOS, Macy’s) | $100 – $250 |
| Mid-Range (J.Crew, Banana Republic, SuitSupply) | $300 – $700 |
| Luxury (Tom Ford, Brioni, Zegna) | $2000+ |
If you’re shopping in the US, brands like Men’s Wearhouse, SuitSupply, and J.Crew offer good value.
What is the difference between a $500 suit and a $5000 suit?
A $500 suit and a $5000 suit may look similar at first, but the differences are in the details.
A $5000 suit is made from premium materials, features handcrafted tailoring, and offers a perfect fit, while a $500 suit is mass-produced with standard fabrics and construction.
$500 vs. $5000 suit: Key differences
| Feature | $500 Suit | $5000 Suit |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | Wool blend, polyester | High-quality wool, cashmere, silk |
| Fit | Off-the-rack, may need alterations | Custom-made, perfect fit |
| Construction | Machine-stitched, fused | Hand-stitched, full canvas |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years | 10+ years |
Is a $5000 suit worth it?
- For everyday wear: A $500 suit is fine with good tailoring.
- For luxury and status: A $5000 suit offers unmatched craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The UK has plenty of options for affordable suits, whether you’re looking to buy or rent. M&S, Moss Bros, and ASOS offer budget-friendly choices, while Savile Row brands provide luxury tailoring. If you wear suits often, buying is the better investment. If you need a one-time outfit, renting is the smarter choice.
