LOL, I got one myself for matchs and casual wear. Might stick out on a lawyer suit.
For more formal attire, consider the 'Mirage' from Michaels of Oregon.
I've got two, size 42, I'd like to trade for size 38, thanks to Adkins.
The best calibers for self defense, IMHO, are .45 ACP and .357 Sig. But they can be difficult to shoot if you're not accustommed to it. .40 caliber is good also, as it splits the difference between the two previously mentioned calibers.
I think with 9mm, you're taking a step down from the other calibers, but if you use a good hollow-point bullet, you should be okay. The good thing about 9mm is that there is less recoil than the other rounds, so follow-up shots are faster.
Once you pick the caliber, you need to pick the operating style you want. There are 3 main ones:
1911- style: You carry this gun 'cocked and locked'. The weapon is cocked, but has a safety to disengage. The advanatages are a light and consistent trigger pull for each shot. The disadvantages are that you have to disengage the safety before firing. If you haven't trained yourself to do this, then forgetting it could be fatal.
DA/SA style: These guns don't have manual safeties. Instead, the trigger is the safety. The hammer is uncocked, until you pull the trigger for the first time. The trigger pull cocks the hammer and fires the round, hence DA= double action. Each subsequent round is "single action" (SA). The DA trigger pull is very heavy, around 12 pounds. You're not going to 'accidentally' pull the trigger. The SA trigger pull is typically around 4 pounds. Advantages are very simply to manipulate and no safety to mess with. Also, most of the guns have an external hammer, so you can place your thumb on it when holstering, to avoid discharging your weapon should it the trigger catch on something when you holster. Disadvantage is you have to master two different trigger pulls.
SA or DA only style: The trigger pull is consistent and the same for each pull of the trigger (around 6 pounds), with no safety except for the trigger. Glocks are an example of this type. Advantages: Same trigger pull for each round. Disadvantages: A lighter first trigger pull increases the chance of inadvertantly pressing the trigger. Also the trigger generally isn't as nice compared to 1911-style or SA/DA triggers in single action.
Personally, I prefer DA/SA, but the main reason for that is since I learned that first and stuck with it.
As far as gun brands go, spend the money and get something good. Like a Kimber or Springfield (1911s); Sigs or H&Ks (DA/SA); or Springfield XD or Glock (DA only).
Try to find a range that rents guns, and go try some out.
You'll also want to spend some money on carry gear, such as a good holster (I recommend the Versa Max 2 by Milt Sparks $100), and a good belt (Wilderness Instructors Belt $30).
If you have more questions, don't hesistate to ask. Folks here are very knowlegdable and helpful.
LOL, I got one myself for matchs and casual wear. Might stick out on a lawyer suit.
For more formal attire, consider the 'Mirage' from Michaels of Oregon.
I've got two, size 42, I'd like to trade for size 38, thanks to Adkins.
That belt is a wonderfull thing. It doubles up as an emergency rapelling/evac belt. I've done some near emegency rapells with it when I had to aid a fellow climber, inexperienced and starting to panic, and didn't have time to mess with a harness. Good attachment point to your body if you ever have to do a real quick ice rescue of someone and can't wait for help to arrive. Everyone should own one.