The most crucial aspect to a stylish mens suit is the fit. Even after spending a fortune on a sleek designer suit, if it doesn’t fit you right—the final result is a cheap and sloppy look. In order to make sure that your suit fits properly, it is important to examine the shoulders, chest, and length. Among these three, a wrong chest size could be disastrous. Here is a quick summary of how to choose the proper chest size.

Whether you’re purchasing a wedding suit or a business suit, the size of a suit coincides with the chest size. To measure your chest, lift up your arms half way, and measure right underneath your arms. Cross over the shoulder blades and the fullest part of your chest. Another option is to measure your waist and then add six inches. Of course, this doesn’t work for everyone. However, the final test comes when you actually try on the dress suit.

When it comes to the proper chest size, GQ’s How to Buys a Suit guide offers this golden rule: If you can’t button your suit jacket, then the chest does not fit. If you’re a large man, this may be a challenge. Still, find a sport coat or suit jacket you can easily button without straining it. In addition, a larger man can wear a pocket square to lift the focus away from his belly to his chest.

While you want to close your suit jacket without the buttons hanging on for dear life, there shouldn’t be more than a fist-worth of space between the button and your chest. Larger men especially shouldn’t wear a roomy suit. Instead of hiding the belly, the extra space looks sloppy. Finally, remember that designer suits don’t have to cost a fortune. Once you get a handle on the right suit size, order online from Menswearecollection.com, and experience the difference in price and quality.