17.2 inch suit jacket shoulders for ~16.75 inch natural shoulders?

[LittleWing]

Hello, all. I'm currently looking at a used SuitSupply suit on eBay, size 34R. I believe everything about the suit would fit me according to my natural measurements except for the shoulders. As stated in the title, my natural shoulders are a bit on the small side and so I'm worried this suit won't fit. I also don't really have any suit jackets or blazers that I can use to compare sizing. Would this size work for my measurements, or should I look for a 32R instead?

 

[Mean Eyed Matt]

Hello, all. I'm currently looking at a used SuitSupply suit on eBay, size 34R. I believe everything about the suit would fit me according to my natural measurements except for the shoulders. As stated in the title, my natural shoulders are a bit on the small side and so I'm worried this suit won't fit. I also don't really have any suit jackets or blazers that I can use to compare sizing. Would this size work for my measurements, or should I look for a 32R instead?

Hello,
To begin with, I don’t think the difference between 17.2 and 16.75 is very significant. In my opinion, the fit of a jacket across the shoulders depends not just on the exact measurements, but also on the overall cut of the suit. For instance, a loose-fitting cut with wide lapels—like those seen in the late 1960s or the 1940s—often features broad, padded shoulders that extend slightly beyond one’s own shoulders. Conversely, slim-fit suits or styles from the 1920s tend to have a more natural shoulder construction, where the shoulder joint sits further into the sleeve. From my perspective, it really comes down to the overall cut and the look you want to achieve. That said, this is just a general observation, as I haven’t seen the suit itself. Ultimately, the best approach is always to try the jacket on and see how it actually fits you.

I hope this is still of some help to you. Good luck with your search for—or purchase of—this suit or another one.