simply, if the shoulder doesn't fit, then the jacket doesn't fit. 2. The Lapel Jacket lapels come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Whatever style you select, it must fit your body correctly. If your jacket's lapel is too tight, it will look as though you're overweight; while if it's too large, it will make you look as though you're pubescent. How to tell if it fits : For a 1-button suit, do up the lone button; for a 2-button suit, do up the top button; for a 3-button suit, do up the top two buttons. With your arms by your sides, your jackets' lapels should be sitting snug and flush with your chest. If they bulge at all, then your jacket is too small. If it doesn't fit, you should: avoid buying the jacket. Altering the lapel of a jacket is possible, however it will require your tailor to alter the side-seams of your jacket which will change the way the midsection of the jacket sits on your body. This will also ruin the natural design of patterned fabrics, particularly pinstripes, as they will no longer sit vertically along your body if the sides are altered. Avoid this at all costs. 3. The Jacket Sleeve The jacket sleeve is one of the most noticeable aspects of an ill-fitting suit. A poorly fitted sleeve will make the wearer look as though the suit is borrowed, and can easily be avoided through alterations. How to tell if it fits: