Key Takeaways
- A decent off‑the‑rack suit in Ireland starts around €250-€450.
- Made‑to‑measure options typically run €600-€1,200, while bespoke can exceed €2,000.
- Fabric, construction method, and brand reputation are the biggest price drivers.
- Shop at reputable Irish retailers like BrownThomas or local tailors for quality and service.
- Budget‑saving tips: buy during seasonal sales, choose classic colours, and invest in proper alterations.
Understanding What “Good” Means for a Suit
When you hear people talk about a suit is a coordinated jacket and trousers made from the same fabric, meant for formal or business occasions, you might picture a crisp navy wool set or a sleek charcoal window‑pane. In Ireland, a “good” suit usually means it looks sharp, feels comfortable, and holds up to the damp climate. It should resist wrinkles after a rainy commute and still look sharp at a wedding in County Kerry.
Quality is a blend of three things: the fabric, the construction, and the fit. A high‑quality fabric like Irish linen‑blend or Super120s wool drapes nicely and breathes better during a summer evening in Galway. Construction refers to how the jacket is sewn-hand‑stitched canvassing adds durability compared to a fully machine‑stitched interior. Finally, the fit is where a skilled tailor (more on that later) tailors the piece to your body shape.
How Much Does a Suit Typically Cost in Ireland?
Putting a number on a suit can feel like guessing the price of a pint in Dublin on a busy night-it varies wildly. Below is a quick reference for the Irish market in 2025. All prices are in euros and reflect typical retail ranges before sales or promotions.
| Suit Type | Typical Price (EUR) | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ready‑to‑wear (off‑the‑rack) | €250 - €450 | First‑time buyers, occasional wearers | Immediate availability, predictable price | Limited customization, may need alterations |
| Made‑to‑measure | €600 - €1,200 | Professionals who need a personal touch | Better fit than off‑the‑rack, fabric choice | Longer lead time, higher cost |
| Bespoke | €2,000 - €5,000+ | Gentlemen seeking ultimate craftsmanship | Hand‑crafted, full design control | Significant investment, many fittings |
These ranges answer the core question: good suit price is not a single figure but a band that depends on your expectations.
Factors That Influence Suit Price
Understanding why a suit costs what it does helps you make an informed decision. Here are the main price drivers in the Irish context:
- Fabric quality - Wool from the British Isles, Irish linen blends, or premium cashmere blends each carry a different price tag. Look for labels like Super120s, Super150s, or ‘Made in Ireland’ for local provenance.
- Construction method - A fully canvassed jacket (hand‑stitched canvas between the outer fabric and lining) commands a premium over a fused interior. The former is more breathable and lasts longer, which matters when you’re traveling between Dublin and Belfast.
- Fit and tailoring - A basic off‑the‑rack suit often needs an alteration service is a professional adjustment of garment measurements to achieve a better fit. Each alteration adds €30-€80.
- Brand reputation - Established Irish retailers like Brown Thomas is a luxury department store in Dublin known for high‑end menswear charge more for the cachet.
- Customization level - Adding functional details such as working buttonholes, hidden pockets, or a bespoke lining can increase the price by 10‑20%.
Where to Shop for Suits in Ireland
Ireland offers a mix of high‑street chains, boutique tailors, and department stores. Below are the most reliable options for each price tier.
Off‑the‑Rack Picks
- BrownThomas (Dublin) - Their men’s department carries brands like HugoBoss, PaulSmith, and local label Grafton & Co. Expect a solid selection of €300‑€450 suits.
- Arnotts (Dublin & Cork) - Offers a range of Suitsupply and Ted Baker suits. Seasonal sales often drop prices to €250-€350.
- Marks & Spencer (nationwide) - Good value for basics; many €250 suits are made from blended wool suitable for Ireland’s climate.
Made‑to‑Measure Options
- Hawes&Curtis (Dublin flagship) - Provides a 48‑hour made‑to‑measure service with a selection of Irish and Italian fabrics. Prices start around €650.
- TommyHilfiger Made‑to‑Measure (online, with Irish fitting hubs) - Allows you to choose fabric and cut online, then attend a single fitting in Dublin or Limerick. Average €800.
Bespoke Tailors
- O'Gorman Tailoring is a Dublin‑based bespoke tailor known for hand‑stitched construction and a wide range of fabrics - Prices begin at €2,200 for a full suit.
- Patrick’s Tailors (Cork) - Family‑run shop with a heritage dating back to 1965, offering bespoke services starting at €1,900.
- John Larkin Bespoke (Galway) - Specialises in coastal-inspired colours and Irish linen blends; a full bespoke suit runs €2,500‑€3,500.
When visiting a shop, ask about the origin of the fabric (e.g., “Is this wool sourced from the UK or Ireland?”) and whether the construction is half‑canvas, full‑canvas, or fused.
Maximising Value: Tips to Stay Within Budget
Even if you’re aiming for a high‑end suit, there are ways to keep the out‑of‑pocket cost reasonable:
- Shop during sales periods - The Irish “January clear‑out” and the post‑St.Patrick’s Day sales often feature 20‑30% off.
- Choose classic colours - Navy, charcoal, and medium‑gray fabrics retain resale value and are easier to match with existing shirts and shoes.
- Limit custom details - Stick to essential customisations like lapel style and lining; extra pockets and monograms add cost.
- Invest in a good tailor for alterations - A modest €60 adjustment can turn an average off‑the‑rack suit into a near‑bespoke fit.
- Consider a blended fabric - Wool‑synthetic blends reduce price while still offering drape and durability for wet Irish weather.
Maintaining Your Suit - Ongoing Costs
A suit is an investment, and proper upkeep extends its life. Here’s what to expect financially after the purchase:
- Dry‑cleaning - In Dublin, a standard dry‑clean costs €12‑€15 per visit. Quarterly cleaning adds €48‑€60 per year.
- Spot repairs - Minor fixes (loose button, small tear) usually cost €15‑€30 at a local tailor.
- Seasonal storage - Using a breathable garment bag and cedar blocks prevents moth damage; a good bag costs €30‑€50.
Regular care keeps the suit looking fresh for years, meaning your initial “good suit price” continues to pay off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get a decent suit in Ireland?
Buy off‑the‑rack during a sales event at stores like Marks & Spencer or Arnotts, then have it altered by a local tailor for a better fit. You can often stay under €300 total.
How does a made‑to‑measure suit differ from a bespoke suit?
Made‑to‑measure uses a pre‑existing pattern that is adjusted to your measurements, while bespoke is drafted from scratch on a unique pattern. Made‑to‑measure is cheaper and faster, but bespoke offers the highest level of personalization.
Is Irish wool worth the extra cost?
Irish or British wool often has a finer micron count, giving a softer hand and better drape. For rainy Irish weather it also resists water absorption better than many imports, making it a solid investment for a core suit.
How many fittings are needed for a bespoke suit?
Typically three to four appointments: initial measurement, first cloth fitting, final fitting, and a final press. Some tailors may add a post‑delivery check.
Can I wear the same suit for both business and weddings?
Yes, a classic navy or charcoal suit works for most business settings and can be dressed up for weddings with a silk pocket square, a patterned tie, or a formal shirt.