An important part of the process is getting to know you, your personality, style and needs for clothing. We treat everyone as an individual and don’t work to put you all in the same suits. It’s about creating pieces that meet your needs but also match your personality. Whether in person or through our suit builder we ask you a series of questions to start narrowing down our suggestions.
A few things you can think about ahead: Take an inventory of your current suits, are we replacing any or adding to what you currently have? This is important, for example if you own 1 navy suit that fits and you like it, let’s add something that compliments that such as a gray verse suggesting another navy suit to you. However, if you own that navy suit but never wear it and don’t like it, we’ll treat our suggestions as starting from scratch and not take into account that navy suit you own.
Where will you mainly wear the clothing? This affects what type of fabrics we suggest- colors, patterns etc. Are you in a more conservative work environment? Are you wearing these only socially?
This is where the magic happens. It’s the art of finding ways to bring out your personality in a suit that isn’t your boring suit you could get anywhere, but still meets the needs of a clothing or versatile suit depending on what you’re coming in for.
We typically recommend fabrics that have texture- whether that’s in a subtle pattern or movement even with a solid fabric. If this is your first we typically will start you with a blue, that’s the most versatile and works in any situation. Once you have that covered, we start branching into different shades, patterns, and colors such as light blue or gray. If you are more a gray person you can start with gray and go the other way as well.
We have our favorites, but we work with you to find the right fabric for you!
After fabric is selected we get into the details such as liner, buttons etc. These are all small details but they make a big impact to the final look and your personality.
We start with liner, this really is 100% about your personality and what you are drawn to. There really is no right or wrong on this one. If you like it, it’s perfect. A few pro tips, contrast looks nice, for example if you have a navy suit don’t feel like you have to have a dark only navy liner, have fun with color and designs you like with a pop of contrast in the design.
We can do custom liners as well- our stock liners are included in the price of the suit. If you want to create your own masterpiece there an up charge but it can be done. We can make anything you want. Below are a few examples of custom liners we’ve created in the past to give you inspiration.
Buttons will be your next choice- we have our suggestions but again this is your choice. A small detail that adds a pop of impact and makes the piece stand out above off the rack. My typical advice here is think about the shoes you’re typically going to wear. Do you want to have the option of colors such as brown or black? If so, go with a more neutral button that is versatile such as a darker/medium brown, gray or blue. If you always wear brown- don’t be afraid of a lighter brown button that adds a pop of contrast and looks nice for example.
Thread detail is another step to think about. We typically add the accent on the last button hole of the sleeve to add a touch of personality and show off that custom look. You can add it on the lapel hole and/or all the button hole sleeves as well if you like that look.
During this phase we work through all the detail from lapels, pockets etc. We do have some “standards” that tend to be the common choices, but there is no right or wrong!
Here is the standard selections.
Men’s
Single 2 button, notched lapel, 2 pockets with flaps, extended waist strap, no pleats, no cuffs and 2 back pockets with buttons.
Women’s
Single 1 button, peak lapel, 2 pockets with no flaps, regular waist strap, no pleats, no cuffs and 2 back pockets with no buttons.
Tux’s
Single 1 button, peak lapel, 2 pockets with no flaps, extended waist strap, no pleats, no cuffs and 2 back pockets with no buttons.
Shirts
classic collar and 1 button angled sleeve
If you want to explore more below is details of the options and examples below.
Jacket Design:
Lapels:
Notched Peak. Shoal
Pockets:
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Paul the Professional is a mid-20s wealth management associate at one of the most well-known trust firms in the city. With aspirations of quickly moving up the corporate latter, he’s a hard worker and highly motivated. Yesterday, he was invited to accompany some of the senior members of the firm to a private happy hour on Friday at The Charlemagne.
He’s excited, but nervous, because the extent of his alcohol knowledge surrounds scheduled games of beer pong that he and his fraternity brothers played in college. He doesn’t know the difference between cognac or whiskey, vodka or gin. Ordering a Bud Light is out of the question, but that’s all he knows. He needs help—he wants to make a great impression, but more importantly, choose a drink that won’t get him roasted.
This is a resource for young professionals who might be a little intimidated and uninformed when it comes to the “art” of socializing with work colleagues, especially when it pertains to choosing a respectable beverage. A couple minute’s glance at this document will help in deciding what to order, as well as provide a few tips about drinking while networking.
Origin: England
Fun Fact: Modern-day gin (and its name) evolved from a Holland-invented drink called jenever, which British troops drank during the 80 Year’s War. This practice also gave us the saying “Dutch courage.” (If you didn’t know, Dutch courage is the strength or confidence gained from drinking alcohol.)
Here are some brands to ask for when ordering:
Gin – Tanqueray, Hendrick’s, Aviation American Gin (This is a W&L favorite, and harder to find. If you recommend this to someone who knows gin, they’ll be very impressed.)
Martini
3 oz gin
½ oz dry vermouth
Garnish: 1 or 3 olives or a lemon twist
Optional: 1 dash bitters
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Paul the Professional is a mid-20s wealth management associate at one of the most well-known trust firms in the city. With aspirations of quickly moving up the corporate latter, he’s a hard worker and highly motivated. Yesterday, he was invited to accompany some of the senior members of the firm to a private happy hour on Friday at The Charlemagne.
Origin: All over. The US, Ireland, Scotland, Canada and Japan are the biggest producers.
Fun Fact: Maybe in a nod to its original purpose as medicine, whiskey comes from a Gaelic phrase meaning "water of life," also known as “aqua vitae” in Latin. Drink too much of it and it becomes “water of regret.”
Whiskey is typically ordered neat (or straight), with a splash of water or on the rocks, which is a great introduction in developing an appreciation for the taste of whiskey. At first, you might find it too strong, but let the ice/water dilute it a bit and grow from there!
Origin: Scotland
Fun Fact: “Moonshine” comes from the time when Scottish distillers took to brewing their whiskey at night to avoid the English Malt Tax of 1725.
Fun Facts: Bourbon is America’s only native spirit, as declared by Congress in 1964. Bourbon sold in the U.S. must be produced in the U.S. and stored in a new container of charred oak, hence the “smoky” flavor and reddish color.
Here are some brands to ask for:
Whiskeys – Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, Basil Hayden’s, Blanton’s (This is very top shelf and one of the best. Drink this straight.)
2 oz whiskey or rye bourbon
2 dashes of bitters
1 sugar cube (or 1 bar spoon simple syrup)
Orange twist for garnish
Manhattan
2 oz whiskey
½ oz sweet vermouth
1-2 dashes bitters
Cherry for garnish
1 1/2 oz Whiskey (bourbon)
1 oz lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
2 oz club soda
Garnish with orange slice and cherry
2 oz Whiskey
6 oz ginger ale
“Neat” or “Straight”
“Straight-up”
“On-the-rocks”
“Frozen”
“With a twist”
“Well” vs “Top Shelf”
I grew up in a family that taught me the value of hard work and gave me a passion to care for people. My parents started their own pharmacy software company, Computer-Rx, and instilled in me a strong entrepreneurial spirit. I watched them build and grow this organization with the philosophy of people over profit. I spent my early career learning the family business and growing through a variety of roles. It was here that I discovered the importance of dressing for success. How you present yourself matters and having great-fitting and great-looking clothing can boost your confidence. Ultimately, that’s what’s important – when you feel confident, you can fully engage in life and aren’t afraid to be seen.
My parents and family are very supportive of William & Lauren – my dad is one of our best customers! They support and encourage me to take risks and tackle life. When I’m not working, I thrive on time spent with my parents, siblings, and my five nieces and nephews. I take my role as aunt very seriously! I also enjoy anything that keeps me curious – podcasts, books, or wheels up on my next adventure to experience as much of the world as I possibly can. Locally, you’ll find me cheering on the OKC Thunder, watching OU football, curled up with a book or on the patio with a drink and good friends.
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Thanks for taking the time to get to know a little about me. I can’t wait to meet you and get you looking and feeling your best!
Take risks, tackle life.
Lauren
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Blues and Grays are by far the most popular colors when it comes to men's suits and are recommended for about any situation. Not only are both colors incredibly versatile they are typically great pairings together. Owning a gray and blue suit in shades that compliment each other creates more options for you to extend your wardrobe.
However, the dilemma for most men comes after the fact. You have gone home, slept a few times and have no memory of what the sales person told you to do pair with that gray suit you just bought. We're here to help- read on to get some ideas how to style your gray suit.
Download our color guide cheat sheet here.
Creating a business professional look that will impress your co-workers is not a difficult task. The first priority is fit- (learn more here). Picking out the perfect color can feel like an art because there really are endless options. It's hard to go wrong with a color or pattern, trust your gut on what you like visually. However, here are a few tips to help you. Solid is the safest and most versatile, naturally. If you're looking for a pattern go with a subtle pattern, it will still be extremely versatile and give you the look you're going for.
Look for fabrics what have some texture to them- this can be true in a solid, a textured fabric or subtle patterns can give you the same effect. In a full suit that texture will give the suit depth and help it look richer.
Since we're talking about Business Professional attire stick to light colored solids and light colored or subtle patterns. Do you like louder patterns and colors, not a problem, but save those for more casual days.
White shirts and light blue shirts can be worn interchangeably. I say treat your light blue shirts as a white shirt in the sense of pairings. They provide a slightly different look, but are extremely versatile and go with literally anything. Make sure you have a handful quality shirts in each color.
A few other colors to consider with gray: purple, pink and subtle patterns. Again, sticking to the lighter and pastel shades. These are almost as versatile as the solids mentioned above, but they add a little bit of personality and depth.
The great thing about ties, is that they are an easy and fairly inexpensive way to make your wardrobe feel bigger. Your options are generally open here as it’s your personality.
For a more business professional look I wouldn't get an incredibly loud pattern. However, don't fear patterns- they are actually better then a solid. You gain multiple colors and some depth to the look when you have a nicely selected tie with a pattern.
Recommend color of ties depending on the shade of gray:
Deciding what color to wear with your suit can be overwhelming. Gray is a very versatile color overall so in general either brown or black will work. The really only limitation is if you have a really dark shade of gray, like charcoal, generally go with black shoes. Otherwise, brown, black or even a navy shoe would work well with gray.
A buttoned up business professional look is a very common way to wear a suit, but it's not the only way. When looking to wear your gray suit to a wedding, date night or in a more casual situation- the options are still endless. Everything I mentioned above still applies and can be used. But here are a few more ideas to mix it up.
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Finding the right fit is hard and takes attention to detail. Fit is the most important aspect when looking at suits, so take the time to get it right. Everyone has various preferences on the fit, but there are a few key things that every suit should have in order to be the right fit. Most of the fit guide is the same for men and women, there are a few differences we will notate below. This is a guide, at the end of the day as long as you feel comfortable the fit is perfect.
To download our fit guide click here.
When men and women buy off the rack the shoulder is one of the most common to not fit properly. You usually have to give up the shoulder to gain the right fit somewhere else. The shoulder should lie flat and the seam of the suit should form where your arm meets your shoulder. The shoulder fit is the hardest to adjust and the most important, don’t buy a piece that does not fit in the shoulders, you’ll never be able to get it to fit properly.
Jacket length can really change the look and is important when it comes to a proper fit. For a man, the perfect fit, the back should cover your butt, ideally where the butt curves back in towards your thighs. For women this can vary based on preferences- but the suggested fit for the most flattering look is in the back the vent should not quite fully cover your butt, but come about 3/4th the way down. In the front it should hit typically about the thumb knuckle.
The best way to tell if a jacket is the right length is by using your hands. Ann appropriate modern length will hit in the middle of your hand, at about where your thumb joint meets your arms hanging at rest for a man and the thumb knuckle for a woman.
If your sleeve length is proper, we should see about a half inch of your shirt cuff beyond your jacket sleeve. It doesn’t have to be exact, but use that as a guideline and make sure some of your shirt cuff shows from your jacket. You should never see the full cuff. If the seam of your cuff shows then your shirt is either too long or your jacket is too short.
This is easy to tell if it fits, but finding the reason can be hard.
You want your jacket to rest against your shirt collar without significant gaps in the neck. Generally if you have a gap between the suit collar and the shirt collar you need to make some adjustments in fit so you have the smooth lines similar to the pictures below.
The break is the small wrinkle created when your pant cuff hits your shoe. Style can dictate your preference for the amount of break, the more modern look is no break. However, the standard guideline is a small, subtle break. One small crease is usually ideal as the cuff rests on top of your shoe, they need to touch but there shouldn’t be much more than that. For women length is preference depending on shoes you typically wear, but the rules are generally the same for men and women here on length
The pants should be “slim” but not tight and the seat drop should not hang too low. There is variance here based on comfort, but the main thing is the be able to move comfortable without fear of ripping your pants, but not so baggy if a gust of wind came through it would carry you.
When you’re making investments in suits make sure you’re getting the best fit and putting your best foot forward!
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So… you’ve graduated college and started your new job wearing the black suit that Mom and Dad got you for graduation. Things are pretty great… Then, week two of work starts and you’re wondering, what color suit should I wear?
Or, maybe you’ve been in your career a few years and you’re really angling to get a particular promotion. Finally, your chance to get out of “the pit” and in to your own office… But with a promotion will come more expectations – one of which is you dressing the part. It’s time to start retiring chinos and the old button-down sport shirts from your everyday office wardrobe before you get that promotion. Dress like you know what you are doing now.
Let’s take a look at how to effectively and efficiently build that professional wardrobe that you need. We call this guide – The Business Wardrobe – because its ready for multiple business formal days per week but is flexible enough to allow for plenty of business casual and a business appropriate casual Friday.
This is an outline for a small, serviceable wardrobe that will cover the basics for almost any business-oriented career. Once you’ve got a feel for your office’s culture, you can add more of what you need to your wardrobe. Maybe you feel like you need more suits because of the formality of your office, or potentially, you want to wear jackets without a tie and want to branch out to more blazers and sport coats.
Download this guide here to keep with you.
Before you take out a loan to go buy everything on this list, start inside your own closet. Some of these essentials you’ll already have. Pick out your best-fitting professional clothes, and make them the base of your wardrobe. Then, budget to add quality, well-fitting pieces over time to supplement and complement what you already own.
It's not about buying cheap clothes - it’s about investing in pieces that are versatile and can be paired with several pieces in your wardrobe. By following this guide, you can create more 275 unique looks. And guess what - there are only about 261 working days within a year (less if you count vacations and holidays). You could go the entire year without ever wearing the exact same thing twice – and that doesn’t even count that you could change out the shoes and belt that you are wearing.
2 Suits x 2 Extra Pants x 1 Dark Jean x 5 Shirts x 5 Ties x 2 Shoes = 275 Looks
Even if you take into account that probably one or two of your ties will not pair well with every single one of your shirts, you still have a very nice variety of things you can wear on a weekly basis. Now, let’s get into some details about each type of item you need.
This is going to be one of the most important parts of your business wardrobe. You’ll need two suits to start out. Would it be great to have more? Sure! But two is a great start. Navy and grey are the colors we recommend you start with, they are the most versatile and classic options. once you have your base covered, start adding color and pattern from there.
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We have resources to help you dive deeper into styling the navy suit and gray suit.
We suggest that young professionals stick with suits that are plain or have very subtle patterns for two reasons:
1) It projects maturity to your superiors and colleagues
2) it is easier to mix and match those suits and wear more often.
As for colors, choose two things that complement each other well, like navy and medium gray, that way you can wear the pants of one with the jacket of the other. This can more than double the number of unique looks that you can put together.
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Pair the jacket from one with the pants from another to create great, business casual looks.
The fit of this suit will be the most important part of this purchase. You’ll want something that is slimming, not skinny, and the style aspects should stick to the modern standards: notch lapel jacket, no pleats or cuffs for the pants. If you’re buying off-the-rack, be sure to visit a tailor who will make sure the suit fits properly and can make adjustments as needed.
Trying on a suit, but don’t know if it really fits? Check out our blog on fit.
Trousers, slacks, whatever you call them, you’ll need a few extra pairs in your wardrobe. Stay away from the cotton chinos that you’ve “been getting away with” for the last couple years, and go with some fitted, wool slacks in complementary colors to the suits that you own (think: modern blue, khaki/browns, charcoal, or all shades of gray). Also, branch out to some patterns with these pants: a windowpane, a subtle glen plaid or herringbone.
Complete the looks by adding one of your suit jackets, and whenever you need to, a tie. This will be perfect for most days in the office, but if a big client is in town or you’re giving a presentation to the boss, stick with a full suit.
Whether you travel occasionally for work or your office just has a great casual Friday policy, a good pair of jeans is going to come in handy.The fit of your jeans is just as important as your suits. Go with a slim-fitting (not skinny), dark denim without all the flair of distressed washes, holes, or decoration on the back pockets and get them hemmed so they are the proper length, it's worth it. Pair it with one of your business shirts or a button-down sport shirt and one of your suit jackets or fun sport coat if you have it.
Prices can vary a lot here. Find what you like and feel comfortable in your price range. Personally, we find great success with Joe’s Jeans which can go for around $100 on sale to about $200 at full price.
Outside of suits, your shirts are arguably the most important items in your closet and need to be picked the most carefully. The rule of thumb is to stick with lighter colors like white or light blue. If you branch into patterns, lighter colors and subtle. patterns. The darker colors and louder patterns work great for casual days or with just a pair of slacks. Here are the things to look for when picking out shirts:
The fit is what will determine how much you like your shirt, so get some that looks flattering. If you find a particular brand that works well, stick with it. I suggest conservative colors and patterns for your business shirts for the same reasons as your suits: 1) It projects maturity to your superiors and colleagues, and 2) it is easier to mix and match with pants, jackets, and ties.
The great thing about ties, is that they are an easy and fairly inexpensive way to make your wardrobe feel bigger. Especially since your suits will be conservatively colored, ties allow you to add a little color and personality to your daily life. Cycle through them, without wearing the same one multiple days in a row, and no one will notice that you are just beginning to build your wardrobe.
Start with twice as many ties as you wear on the average week. So, if you wear a tie 2-3 times a week, try to start with 5 ties. If you’re on a budget the most important thing here is to make sure each tie goes with more than one shirt you own. Also, stick to ties 2.5 to 3 inches in width. Too skinny isn’t professional, but too wide won’t be the look you want either. Rule of thumb, your ties should be darker then your shirts.
Did I mention inexpensive? Right now, the skinnier ties that your Dad wore in the 70’s or 80’s are once again popular. Raid his closet and find something in a classic stripe or geometric dots that isn’t too worn out and make it yours. For other inexpensive options, check out online tie stores like The Tie Bar for decent quality ties.
The best advice for shoes is not to skimp and buy the least expensive thing you can find. You are going to be spending more time in these things than you are your bed. Think about that. Your feet will thank you for going with a better-quality shoe. I suggest a leather sole as well so that you can re-sole the shoe as many times as you need. Expect to spend about $100-150 on a decent, leather-soled shoe, and don’t forget a belt to match.
One brown pair and one black pair is enough to get you started. If you own or can also get a more casual pair, go with something in a different style like a loafer or something suede that can be worn with jeans, chinos and even slacks on your more casual days. Wear your brown shoes more often than your black ones so when you do have more formal events, the black shoes will be in great condition.
When it comes to styles, choose something that looks classic, and unless you know that you love it avoid the extra intricate designs of brogues. A nice oxford will be a wise choice that will never completely go out of style.
TAKE CARE OF THE THINGS YOU OWN
The last takeaway from this long post is to take good care of the things you do buy and already own, that’s the only real way to build a wardrobe. Extend the life of your business clothes, try to avoid wearing your business attire out on the weekends, unless you’re attending a business event.
You’ll want to dry clean your suits occasionally, but don’t do it excessively, as it can shorten the life of your suit. When its wrinkled or if it gets some bad odors (like smoke from a happy hour bar), let it hang in the open or lightly steam it. Same goes for small little dirty areas, spot clean them if you can.
Learn to launder and iron your own shirts. It will save you money (dry cleaning) and money (buying new shirts when the old ones wear out faster). Yes, that’s money twice.
Wash your jeans sparingly, too, or the color will start to fade. And when you do wash them, do it inside out and always hang dry.
Finally, your shoes, get them buffed and polished a few times a year, whenever they look like they need a little TLC. And don’t forget about getting them re-soled when they start wearing thin or close to the woodwork at the base of the shoe.
]]>Grays and blues are the two most popular colors when it comes to suits. There are thousands of variations of each, but navy still remains the most versatile, classic look available. It gives you a suit that can be worn for weddings, funerals, happy hours, the office, really any occasion to look stylish and classic. A classic navy suit has replaced the need for the black suit of old.
Not only does this give you a classic and sophisticated suit, you also get separates that can work for many occasions as well. You can wear the pants on their own with a nice button up shirt or dress it up with a tie when you need the full suit. The navy jacket can also be worn with jeans or lighter gray dress pants to give a few more options other benefit is navy works with brown or black. Honestly, it's hard to mess this one up. Read on if you want some ideas on how to put together navy for any occasion.
We are here to give you general guidelines and remove the overwhelming fear of style, but adjust according to the culture of your work place as you see fit.
Download our color guide cheat sheet here.
Creating a business professional look that will impress your co-workers is not a difficult task. The first priority is fit- (learn more here). Picking out the color navy can feel like an art because there really are endless options. It's hard to go wrong with a color or pattern, trust your gut on what you like visually. However, here are a few tips to help you. Solid is the safest, naturally. If you're looking for a pattern go with a subtle pattern, it will still be extremely versatile and give you the look you're going for.
Look for fabrics what have some texture to them- this can be true in a solid, a textured fabric or subtle patterns can give you the same effect. In a full suit that texture will give the suit depth and help it look richer.
As far as shade of blue, there is wide range. For the sake of the classic navy, I would go for a darker blue verse the more modern bright blues popular today. They are beautiful suits, but depending how light blue you go, they do not replace the navy. Saying that, don't be afraid to get a suit that is clearly blue and not confused with black.
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Once you've covered fit and the color or pattern you want in your navy suit, it's time to put the accessories with it. There seems to be a passionate debate whether you can wear black with navy. If you are of the strong opinion black and navy do not go together- rock and and stick to brown. If you aren't sure- we're here to reassure you black and navy work great together. However, the rule that should never be broken- if you wear brown shoes, wear a brown belt and vice versa and you'll be fine.
Since we're talking about Business Professional attire stick to light colored solids and light colored or subtle patterns. Do you like louder patterns and colors, not a problem, but save those for more casual days.
White shirts and light blue shirts can be worn interchangeably. I say treat your light blue shirts as a white shirt in the sense of pairings. They provide a slightly different look, but are extremely versatile and go with literally anything. Make sure you have a handful quality shirts in each color.
A few other colors to consider with navy: purple, pink and subtle patterns. Again, sticking to the lighter, pastel shades. These are almost as versatile as the solids mentioned above, but they add a little bit of personality and depth.
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The great thing about ties, is that they are an easy and fairly inexpensive way to make your wardrobe feel bigger. Your options are generally open here as it’s your personality.
Recommended colors for navy- Red, purple, green, yellow, gold, and lighter blues. For a more business professional look I wouldn't get an incredibly loud pattern. However, don't fear patterns- they are actually better then a solid. You gain multiple colors and some depth to the look when you have a nicely selected tie with a pattern.
A buttoned up business professional look is a very common way to wear a navy suit, but it's not it. When looking to wear your navy suit to a wedding, date night or in a more casual situation- the options are still endless. Everything I mentioned above still applies and can be used. But here are a few more ideas to mix it up.
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First thing's first: The word "sartorialist" may or may not be a "real" word. Yes, people use it, but WE haven't verified its authenticity. We'll get back to you on that. Just know that when we use the word, we're talking about a person who has a strong interest in tailored clothing and fashion. We're talking about YOU. Yes, you're a sartorialist. Embrace it.
Now to the point...
If you're looking to add some dimension, and perhaps, personality, to your look, consider investing in a few classic accessories:
1) A Pair of Cufflinks
Sure, you might not wear a French cuff shirt very often, but when you do, you'll need some cufflinks to clasp the ends of your shirt cuffs. Most people think that cufflinks are a luxury item, and while they definitely can be, you don't have to break the bank. Most department stores and some online retailers carry reasonably priced, quality cufflinks. Of course, jewelry stores will carry them, as well. Opt for a gold- or silver-toned pair--something that can be worn with any color suit or tuxedo. If you're lucky enough to find a pair of vintage cufflinks, it's worth the splurge. Etsy is a great resource for vintage accessories!
2) Pocket Squares
Wanna add a "pop" of color without being "over-the-top?" This is where the pocket square comes in! Choose five different squares of various patterns, fabrics, and colors. When you feel that your ensemble needs a little "umph," pop in a square! Try not to worry about being too "matchy-matchy." Your square should complement the other components of your ensemble. So, choose something you like, something you'd feel comfortable wearing.
3) Tie Bars
Think Mad Men. Now, sharkskin suits may go in and out of style, but the tie bar is a classic. And on a very windy day when you're walking from your office to the courtroom, you're gonna be glad you wore your tie bar. Just like cufflinks, you can find reasonably-priced tie bars at plenty of department stores and online retailers. Again, opt for a muted option (gold, silver, pewter) so that you can wear it with any suit.
4) Lapel Pins
Believe it or not, the lapel pin is a classic clothing accessory, derived from the collar pin and cousin to the brooch and boutonniere. Within the last few years, the lapel pin has grown increasingly popular. From simple and small to oversized and ornate, a lapel pin can add some "zest" to your suit and be a creative way to let a bit of your personality shine. We've seen lapel pins popping up at lots of department stores. Some of the best selections have come from online retailers like The Dapperdude Collection.
5) Belts
Of course, in professional men's dress, the belt (or suspenders (to be addressed in a different blog)) is a requirement. Not only do they hold your pants up, but they provide a finished look, especially if you decide to remove your coat. You probably have two belts--brown and black--at least. Great! Now, here's the game changer: your belt and your shoes don't have to match, although they should complement each other; AND, you can get away with belts that aren't just brown or black or shiny leather. Trust us.
We've witnessed great examples: a charcoal grey suit, white shirt, a deep suede blue belt, and brown shoes; or a brown charcoal suit, traditional blue oxford shirt, a two-toned (blue and distressed brown) belt and brown shoes. Just like the aforementioned accessories, a belt can enliven your look, but in a way that is translatable in both professional and casual spaces. Of course, you can find belts at department stores. If you're thinking about donning a more "unconventional" color, search for some online retailers.
At W&L, we believe that your clothing should be an outward expression of who you are. In some small way, incorporating one or more of these accessories into your daily look ensures that the world gets to see who you are. Now, go forth and shine.
Take risks. Tackle life. Wear William & Lauren.
Suggested Retailers for Accessories:
Your wedding day is one of the most special you will have, you should look your best. The best-looking suits are custom, made to your measurements and will be polished and make you look extremely dapper. When buying a wedding suit for men you do not need to view it as a splurge just for the big-day, but something you can wear long into the future. A custom suit or tux are a great investment as well as memory for the groom to have, so make sure it’s something you will want to wear again and again.
When buying a wedding suit for men, here are some tips to ensure you love it.
The most important thing to remember is fit, fit makes all the difference. It doesn’t matter if your suit is name brand or off brand, if it does not fit your body it will never be right. A great suit should be made for your body, not someone else’s. You can achieve this by getting a suit off the rack and having it tailored, but there is no substitute for made to measure. Even having your suit altered at a tailor, there is no replacement for something measured and cut to your exact measurements. That fit is unmatched and will make you feel like a million bucks.
Add some personality to your suit so you remember how special the day was every time you wear it. With custom you can do that with a fun liner and/or a monogram on the inside with a saying or your wedding date for example. You do not have to sacrifice personality, the advantage of custom is you can add personality, but when doing so keep in mind something you would wear again and keep it classy.
Don’t be afraid of color. Obviously if you are planning to wear the suit to the court room after your wedding, ignore this section. However, if you want to have some fun with color- do it. It is your wedding day, if you have always wanted to wear a green suit (and your bride is ok with it of course) wear a green suit. You will be surprised how great it looks and how good you will feel.
Your wedding day will be one of the best days, make sure that you feel your best. Every wedding detail is precisely thought through, don’t forget how important the suit is. You should feel like a million bucks when you see your person walk down the aisle!
/so͞ot/ /ˈtroumə,ˈtrômə/
noun
a deeply distressing or disturbing experience, of or related to suits, and the incurring damage that results
"Suit Trauma" is a very real thing and is often the reason why many men (and women) have expressed disdain at wearing a suit, let alone shopping for one!
We hear story after story about the dreaded invitation to a wedding or social event where the required attire is professional dress or semi-formal. What should be excitement at the thought of getting new threads is often the opposite--complete irritation that morphs into cold sweats, indigestion, fatigue…and in some cases, declining the invite altogether. If you decide to be brave and attempt to go shopping, for many, there is the never-ending frustration associated with fit, cut, style, etc. Sometimes, the issue is pricing--too expensive, not worth the money. For the creative, it might be the abundance of basic color palettes and lack of individuality. Whatever it is, the building agitation is just too much and, unsurprisingly, people give up, making the declaration: "Suits are stupid."
Here's what everyone needs to know:
Off-the-rack/ready-to-wear suiting is about convenience. That's it. The idea is that the customer has little time and/or monetary constraints and can't get a custom suit. AND, that he (or she) as an "average body"…whatever that means. Well, most of us have time and monetary constraints, and not "average" bodies. So, this is already a lose-lose situation. (It's not you, friend, it's the suit.)
Speaking of "average" bodies: Off-the-rack suiting doesn't consider broader or smaller shoulders, athletic or slender legs, high waists, barrel chests and any other attribute that makes us individuals. The search for the "most accommodating" size can be stressful and intimidating.It can cause a person to "go inward" and regret how they look, which can place them onto a path of body shaming.Far too many know what this feels like. (Remember, it's not you, friend. It's the suit.)
God bless the department store sales associate, but sometimes even they don't know what the hell they're talking about. Sadly, there are those who have been the recipient of bad advice and walked away with a suit that they weren't excited to wear; it didn't make them feel or look their best and they KNEW it BEFORE they left the store. But they suppressed their feelings at the perceived expertise of the sales associate. The associate knows better, right? Well sometimes, they just don't. (Again, it's not you, it's the suit AND the associate.)
Lots of off-the-rack/ready-to-wear suiting lack quality. It won't "hold up" as long as a high-quality, custom-made canvassed garment will; one that is designed to incorporate structure, which provides a smooth, crisp silhouette. (So, when you try on an off-the-rack suit and you find that it just "hangs" on you, it's probably not a well-made, quality garment. Say it: "It's not me. It's the suit.")
Of course, we want you to overcome your "suit trauma." We want you to experience the feeling of wearing something that fits well; something that speaks to who you are and tells YOUR story. We want your suits to bring you the confidence you need to face your daily hurdles and the assurance that you'll be the victor. Because whether you're slender, full-figured, athletic or big-and-tall, your size shouldn't determine your access to quality, well-fitting clothing. Your clothing should be made with you in mind. This is why there's a William & Lauren. Let us help.
Take risks. Tackle life. Wear William & Lauren.
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