For more intel on what to buy from the latest Uniqlo: C drop, start here.
For the most part, suits are not what we’d call “value propositions”. Unless you’re subject to the whims of an especially Draconian office dress code, you’re probably not wearing ‘em that frequently—though we wholeheartedly recommend you do—and the best of the bunch can cost a pretty penny. Every once in a while, though, a brand figures out some shit and delivers a preposterously good suit at a price that looks like a proposed Klarna installment. And, well, I’m here to report that Uniqlo has just figured out some shit, and delivered a preposterously good suit for under $150.
The suit in question comes from the retailer’s Clare Waight Keller-helmed Uniqlo: C label, and the whole shebang clocks in at a mere $130. The AirSense Jacket, which will run you $80 (not a typo), is so light and breathable that calling it a jacket feels a bit misleading—despite it very much being a jacket that does all the things you want one to do in the spring.
But even more improbable than its weight is its drape, which shouldn’t look as flattering—or feel as bouncy—given its seemingly unstructured construction. Improbable or not, though, I’ve worn it layered over dress shirts, knit polos, and plain-Jane ribbed tank tops, and its synthetic polyester fabric never felt slick, static-y, or otherwise remotely unnatural, even if it is, in fact, 100% unnatural. (For all you tailoring nerds, yes, the single-button cuffs are functional.)
The AirSense Pleated Pants are $50 on a bad day, and thanks to their healthy rise, forgiving pleats, and languorous silhouette, those bad days are few and far between. (My only knock against them is the elastic waistband, but I’m nit-picking.) Crucially, the creased front adds 360º of dimension, and ensures they hold their shape despite the aforementioned fabric weight, which means they’ll also resist bunching, sticking, or otherwise clinging to your gams when the weather gets warmer.
Based on the measurements online, I went with a medium in both the pants and the jacket—I’m 5’9”, 145 pounds with a 36” chest and a 30” waist—and could’ve comfortably sized down in both for a less relaxed fit. Together, they make for a suit that looks and feels like it costs quadruple the price; as separates, they offer just as much utility as any of the navy-blue trousers or blazers already in my closet (which is to say: a lot).
Is this the only suit you’ll need this spring? Maybe, assuming you have another option to wear to the more formal engagements on your calendar. But if you’re looking for a suit that can handle quite a bit of that circuit for under $150, I have no clue how you could beat this one.