Finally, it's happened - there's been a breakthrough in menswear. Quality is being recognised and we're moving back to classic pieces and more tailored garments. We want real menswear for real men - it's been tough for a lot of guys out there that don't see themselves as 'metrosexual' or 'fashion forward', and unfortunately, this has led to the term 'no pride' now being thrown around a lot.
We all have pride, we just like what we like. And here's the great part, you don't have to spend loads of money to look the millions. We're all wise enough to not just latch onto the latest fashion craze, but there have been a few guys ask me lately about styling and what they can do to start improving their look.
First step is to suss what's the best fit for you. ie, how a garment should sit on your neckline and shoulders. For the perfect fit jacket or blazer, the shoulders should silhouette your own and stop at the crown (edge of your shoulder/ deltoid muscle). The collar shouldn't be tight, or sit off your neckline and the lapel should sit flat on your chest line. A good measurement technique is sliding your flat hand between the jacket and your chest. If it's hard to do so, its too small. If you can easily make a fist, it's too big.
Next step is then to think about the waist line and length. Another key factor of a wrong fit is having no defined waist and again, this is an indication the jacket is too big. Too small and you will get the 'X' crease across your midsection. Sleeves should not be tight against the arms nor should you have wings. Sleeve length is a personal preference but I wouldn't recommend they extend past your wrist or be shorter than your raised wrist bone, or you might as well wear something knitted by your Grandma.
Now, do the equivalent assessment for your bottom half. This is your foundation & if the foundations are solid, it's easy to build on, especially when shopping different labels where sizing becomes somewhat irrelevant. This is key - don't assume every label that says '38R' will fit the same in the shoulder, sleeve, chest or stomach.
When buying what will become your everyday core wardrobe essentials (for example, office-based workers will probably need a navy suit, grey suit, white shirt, blue shirt, brown shoe and black shoe etc) consider what you'll wear throughout the whole year. These are the pieces you should spend the most amount of money on. Think about it in terms of cost per wear. There's no point buying a jacket for $1000 if you're only going to wear it for a month or two over winter then never again. Best to buy 3 x $300 blazers and they will take you through the seasons and use the other $100 to take you loved one out for dinner...
Blazer made whilst on holiday in Thailand (As the saying goes,when in Rome!)
French Blue shirt by Oscar Hunt
Green Chino by Jack London
Sherbrooke Boots by Lacoste
Cashmere Scarf by Johnstons (Supplied by Henry Bucks)
Pocket Square by Florence Style