Articles

Have you ever considered which clothing colors might be best suited to you?

Choosing the right colors is another part of the equation for dressing well. Colors that suit you will flatter and enhance your look. Combine that with smart tailoring and you’ll always be sharply dressed.

Understanding the colors that suit you can also help you to step outside of your “box.” Many people are afraid to experiment with color, sticking to a relatively bland palette. When you know which tones will look flattering, you can experiment with new looks.

Here are some tips to know about choosing clothing colors to suit:

Know your skin tone

Skin tone is the place to start when figuring out “your colors.” Similarly, anyone who dyes their hair or wears make-up should start with their skin tone. You can find trained associates or tailors who are able to help you pinpoint what your own tone is, or you can take a few minutes to discern it for yourself.

When we talk about skin tone for defining the colors that suit you, we’re not talking about your skin color per se, but the undertone that reflects through. Your outer skin color may change according to a number of factors (such as sun exposure or use of medications), but your undertone tends to remain constant. Depending on your undertone, there will be colors that particularly flatter and some that should be avoided.

The three main undertones are cool, warm or neutral. Those who are “warm” will have green, yellow or golden undertones, “cool” has a bluish undertone while neutral is generally difficult to discern between these tones.

Colors that suit you are determined by your “undertone” Click To Tweet

Determining your skin tone

Here are a few different tests for determining your skin tone:

1. Look at the veins on your palm or wrist. People with warm undertones have green-looking veins while people with cool undertones have blue-looking veins. Someone who has neutral undertones may have the appearance of both or simply be difficult to determine.
   
   
2. Hold a piece of white paper up to your face and compare how your skin looks in contrast to that piece of paper. Skin that looks green, yellowish or light brown will tend to be warm-toned. If your skin looks blue, pink or rosy then you are probably cool-toned. If your skin appears to be grey or ashen, you are likely neutral-toned. A tip here is that if your skin is overly tanned or you have a skin condition affecting the color, get someone else to look at the color in the crease behind your ear as this is usually unaffected.
   
   
3. Under natural light, wear gold jewelery on one wrist and silver on the other. Look at each hand to figure out which enhances your complexion better. If it’s the silver, then you are probably cool-toned while if it’s the gold, you’re probably warm-toned. Neutral is a possibility if it is difficult to determine a winner.
   
   
4. Consider how your skin reacts to the sun. People who tan easily instead of burning tend to have warm undertones. People who burn easily tend to have cool undertones, although sometimes people with dark, ebony skin that doesn’t easily burn may also have cool undertones. People with neutral skin tones may either tan or burn, however they won’t have an obvious appearance of yellow, olive or ruddy skin.
   
   
5. Eye color. If your eyes have golden flecks they will tend to be enhanced by warm-tone colors. Blue or grey flecks can be enhanced by cool tones. It is often the case that warm-toned people have brown, hazel or amber eyes, while cool-toned people have blue, gray or green eyes.
   
   
6. Hair color. Using your natural color, warm tones will tend to have red, orange or yellow undertones while cool tones will usually have silver or ash undertones. 

One thing that is important to note is that, while your overall skin or hair color may vary over time, your undertones remain constant. Also, while determining your undertones is a great place to start when choosing flattering colors, it doesn’t mean you have to slavishly stick with those colors. If there are colors that you particularly like that aren’t part of your undertone palette, then consider wearing splashes of that color, such as with accessories.

Colors for your undertone

Which colors are suited to each undertone? The table below shows color palettes that are flattering for each:

Tone	Colors to go for	Neutrals	Colors to avoid
Warm- toned	Honey, Olive, Coral, Cream, Gold, Peacock blue, Oranges, Magenta,Reds and Amber.	Taupe, Winter white, Hot chocolate, Cream	Jeweled or icy shades.
Cool- toned	Royal Blue, Bright Blue, Lavender, Rose, Gray, Emerald, Amethyst, Deep purple, Ruby, Bright rose.	Gray, Navy, Crisp White	Oranges and yellows
Neutral	Medium blue, Jade, Peach, Dusty Pink, White	Taupe, Gray, Off-white	Vibrant or bright colors. Toned-down yellows will work.

Your main skin shade can also determine which colors will look the best on you. One rule of thumb is that colors which create a contrast in brightness with your main skin tone can be flattering. For example, “jewel” tones like ruby or emerald can flatter paler skin, while oranges and yellows can flatter darker skin, no matter what the undertone is.

“Universal” colors

There are some shades that strike just the right balance between warm and cool. These colors tend to work on everyone, no matter what their skin undertone is. It’s useful to know these colors, especially if you’re looking for something to wear in a pinch or if you need to outfit multiple people (bridesmaids, groomsmen, uniforms, etc.). Here they are:

• Stone
• Teal
• Eggplant
• Sand Pink
• True Red
• Navy.

Pantone color examples (L -R): Stone, Teal, Eggplant, Sand Pink

Coordinating your wardrobe

When you’re putting together a wardrobe, selecting clothes that will mix and match is your best way to ensure you always have something to wear. This includes assessing your colors and having the right mix of them.

It’s important to understand how colors work together, so here’s a quick primer. Basically, colors are made up of primary (red, yellow and blue), secondary (a combination of the primary colors) and tertiary colors (a combination of primary and secondary colors).

The color wheel is a great tool for viewing the different colors and how they work together. When matching colors:

• Those that are directly opposite on the color wheel are complementary. For example, red with green or yellow with blue.
• Analogous colors are where two or three are matched that are immediately next to one another on the color wheel.
• Triadic colors are a combination that are equidistant from one another (like a triangle) on the color wheel.

You can often put muted tones from what you see on the color wheel together, especially if you feel that the colors on the wheel are too bold.

You might also choose to go with a monotone chromatic color scheme, which is where you select a single hue and its variations. This can be a bit bland, so it’s a good idea to spice it up with some pops of color from accessories or accents.

A monotone achromatic color scheme consists of only neutral tones ranging from black to white. Using this color scheme with one bright color as a highlight can be an effective way to dress professionally.

Final thoughts

Choosing colors that really suit you can be tricky. People often have a tendency to either just pick colors that they like or to choose “safe” colors that might not be so flattering.
Knowing the colors that suit you can help you to look sharp for any occasion and to present well professionally. We always recommend that you get the help of a seasoned tailor to determine your colors – this way you can wear the right tones and purchase clothes that are a perfect fit.

Everyone loves a good clothing sale. We skim racks for bargains and get joy from discovering a good deal.

In fact, studies show we’re wired to gravitate toward a sale. The more we want a desirable item, the more the pleasure center in the human brain lights up. The pleasure in getting a bargain also lights up our brains, outweighing the pain of cost.

Have you ever experienced a sense of disappointment after making a bargain purchase though? Sometimes that clothing item that seemed like a steal at the time turns out to be just another item taking up space in your closet.

Here’s what you should be aware of when looking at a clothing sale:

#1. The clothing isn’t always what it seems

People often get excited when they see a major label on sale. You see this playing out when they flock to clearance outlets or to department store sales. However, that hot deal on a new name-brand suit might not be as much of a deal as first meets the eye.

Sometimes those pieces look exactly like the full-price alternative, but they’re really not. An investigative piece a few years ago revealed that it’s common practice among some outlets to stock label-brand clothing that has been specifically made for the outlet. This means that the pieces are often made more cheaply, such as with quicker sewing, different buttons or a slightly different cut. This makes sense – they wouldn’t want to make a more expensive version that they know is for an outlet store. Here’s an extract from that article:

“In reality, much of the merchandise at the outlets of major department stores is made or bought specifically for those outlets, with designers and vendors creating familiar-looking pieces at a lower cost that often indicates inferior quality.

Neiman, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Barneys New York, and Saks Fifth Avenue all have their own outlets; customers flock to these stores for the brand-name cachet and believe they’re shopping last season’s carefully curated inventory. However, this isn’t exactly the case. Nordstrom Rack, for example, confirms to Racked that only 20% of what it sells is clearance merchandise coming from their stores and website, while the rest is bought expressly for the outlet.”

Essentially, what you might be getting is a watered-down concept of the original design, made at lower quality in order to sell more cheaply. Outlet stores like Neiman Marcus’ talk about targeting the “aspirational shopper” – the person who wants the products that look like the full-price labels in their main stores, but don’t want to pay the regular price.

If you’re aware of the practice, you might be quite happy to purchase the cheaper item knowing that it may not meet the same quality standards. However, shoppers are often confused about what they’re getting. Look at store labeling in many of these outlets and you’ll see something like; “$120 – Compare elsewhere at $400.” Perhaps the full-price of the better-quality item is $400, but the piece made for the outlet shouldn’t be.

Clothing “bargains” may simply be more cheaply made imitations Click To Tweet

#2. You get what you pay for

A “great sale” that you spot may simply be last season’s merchandise that has been discarded by manufacturers. This is common practice and most shoppers expect it, but remember the “buyer beware” adage.

It’s not that you’re never getting a great deal on clothing – sometimes you really are getting a steal. However, remember that you’ll often be looking at very seasonal items. Perhaps the colors, patterns or style are “done” for now and you’re unlikely to get much wear out of them. 

You can try looking for the classic cuts and colors, but these tend to be the items in hottest demand. You’ll have to move quickly!

#3. That online deal may not be worth it

Roughly twenty seconds on the internet will turn up amazing “deals” that could be yours. However, shop online with great care. It’s not always easy to determine quality or things such as whether the clothing will fit you well.

We have to emphasize that looking good is all about fit and quality. Of course, every picture you see advertising garments online will look great, but that’s not always the reality of what shows up in your mailbox.

Online sales can be prone to the same pitfalls you’ll find in outlet stores, particularly if you’re looking at known labels. Outside of those, you get the bargain sites that promise amazing deals on different brands. However, a lot of these deal sites are sourcing their clothing directly from an offshore factory. The piece that looked good in pictures often turns out to be more “fast fashion”, made from cheap fabrics and with poor-quality construction. The sizing may not be what you expect either, especially when the clothes come directly from another country. That deal may not be so great after all.

#4. Return policies are often changed

It is common for retailers to change their return policy, especially for big sales. This is something to check, especially if you’re inclined to shop quickly under the assumption that you can return items later.

You will especially see this when retailers try to liquidate “as is” merchandise. Their aim is to get the inventory out of their stores and warehouses so they don’t want it to come back. 

When retailers sell “as is” merchandise with no returns, they will put out clothing that needs repairs or even clothing that is mislabeled in terms of size. This is something to be very aware of – it’s a good idea to try before you buy and ensure that you’re getting the size you think you have.

#5. They’re using psychological tricks on you

… Of course they are. Sales are all about getting inside the heads of customers and finding those little triggers that push them to buy. When you’re looking at clothing sales, any number of psychological devices may be used to push your buttons.

For example:

• Discount pricing, or the appearance of it. At sales run by professional liquidators, it is typical for prices to be marked up by 20 to 30 percent compared to what they were, then they will show a “clearance” price that may be 5% more than the original pricing. Some major retailers have faced lawsuits for doing similar things. For example, they might say that a pair of trousers are regularly sold for $200 when in fact they’re sold for $170. They then say that the $170 price is a discount (this is obviously a very dishonest practice!)
  
• Free shipping on orders over a certain amount. This is an online sales trick that tends to get people searching for that extra item so that they can have free shipping. Realistically, they probably don’t need the item and would have actually saved money by buying the item they came for, along with shipping.
  
• Multiple purchase pricing. Similar to the shipping, we’ll often work to find that extra item so we can get the “three for $200”, or whatever the deal is.
  
• Clever language. The signage may say “up to 70% off” to get you into the store, but in reality, only two items have 70% off while the rest are mostly 20% off.

Final thoughts

It’s easy to get sucked into a sale – we’re programmed to get excited about the idea of a bargain! However, when it comes to clothing or indeed any other product, remember the adage “buyer beware.”

Remember to look for the things that you otherwise would look for when you purchase clothing – good fit and good quality. Remember that it is common practice in some places to sell a more cheaply made alternative to the full-priced item as a “clearance” piece.

Importantly, know what you’re looking for and what to look for. This helps to avoid those impulse buys of items that never see the light outside of your closet.

Your tailored suit is an investment piece that can be a core part of your wardrobe.

When you first put on a newly made tailored suit, you feel confident and well-dressed. People probably compliment you on your sharp appearance. 

As time goes on though, it would be nice to keep that suit looking its best. Not only do you stay looking sharp, but you can prolong the life of your suit. Here are a few tips for making a tailored suit last:

Always hang and air out your suit

A suit should be hung on a quality, wooden coat hanger and aired out to keep it fresh and free of creases. If you’ve invested in a tailored suit, you definitely shouldn’t go cheap with the hanger! Good wooden hangers, wide enough to reach the ends of the shoulders help to keep the suit in shape and avoid any snags.

While some people get their suits dry cleaned week after week, this will quickly shorten the life of your suit. The dry cleaning chemicals start to wear away at the natural fibers.

A rule of thumb that many tailors suggest is to give your suit the sniff test. If it smells a bit ripe, definitely take it to the dry cleaners but if not, it’s probably fine with a good airing and any necessary spot cleaning.  A little water and a soft towel will usually help you to spot clean any small stains. Also, pressing a suit instead of cleaning, is a good option.

If you’re storing your suit for a longer period (such as summer or winter-weight suits out of season), use a good quality, breathable suit bag to store it. This will keep lint off and moths away while avoiding a “stored” smell.

Many people dry clean their suits too often. Try airing and spot cleaning first Click To Tweet

Don’t weigh down your pockets

If you’re in the habit of weighing down your pockets with an excessive inventory, it will take a toll on your suit. Weighty pockets quickly start to pull and stretch, possibly altering the profile of your suit.

Stick to the basics, or carry what you need in a satchel or briefcase. Your suit will love you for it longer!

Avoid the iron

You’re going to have wrinkles in your suit at some point, but how you manage them can either prolong or shorten the life of the suit. Ironing should be avoided if at all possible. All sorts of things can go wrong with ironing – for example a dry iron can leave a sheen on your suit or an iron that’s too hot could burn it. Excessive heat and pressure can also distort the lining of your suit, meaning it never looks the same again.

The best method is to steam the wrinkles from your suit. A steamer for home use is quite inexpensive these days, or you can hang your suit in the bathroom while showering. Alternatively, there are wrinkle release sprays that are safe to use.

If you’re getting your suit dry cleaned, they will usually press it too. However, they use professional equipment operated by people with experience. Or, just ask them to press the garment that needs it.

Be careful about storage

At the end of the day when you get home and want to relax, taking a few minutes to carefully hang your suit is another step that can prolong its life. Leaving suits draped over beds or chairs, or even in a pile on the floor causes them to gather more wrinkles. Of course, you also run the risk of dust or dirt transferring to your suit from other surfaces.

Hanging helps to not only keep your suit in good shape, but to air out any smells or dampness too. Storage should be in a clean, dry place, out of direct sunlight. This helps you to avoid mustiness or fading.

Rotate what you wear

Just like any other clothing, your tailored suit will last longer if you’re able to give it a break in the clothing rotation. A few ideas to do so during your work week include;

• Wear a different jacket with your dress pants if possible
• Have at least two pairs of matching dress pants
• Have two tailored suits that you can rotate
• Partake in casual Fridays if your company has them and wear business casual

Your suit needs a break sometimes to keep it at its best. It’s the same for wear and tear on anything.

Care in between cleans

Give your suit regular brushing with a good-quality suit brush. This helps to remove dust and restore the natural luster of the fibers of your suit. You could do this in conjunction with using a lint roller to capture any stray bits of fur or lint. We recommend carrying a small lint roller with you to work so that you can give your suit a quick sprucing whenever needed.

If your suit smells like smoke or food, try hanging it outside for a couple of hours before you rush to the dry cleaners. This is often enough to air the smell out and prolong the time between dry cleans. (Remember, you want to avoid dry cleaning too often!)

What about those times where a little food, drink, mud or other staining substance ends up on your suit? First of all, there are different treatments for different types of stains, so ensure you’re taking the right steps for the offending spillage. Secondly, time is always of the essence – prompt treatment is your best chance at successful stain removal. Thirdly, if it’s a major stain, now is the time to head to your professional dry cleaners.

Here are a few tips:

1. Try water first. If you’re unsure as to what the source of the stain is or if it hasn’t yet set in, blotting with water and a washcloth or towel is generally a safe first step.
   
   
2. Remove the stain by blotting it up rather than scrubbing at it. Scrubbing can grind the stain further into the fabric.
   
   
3. Avoid being near heat (heating vents, fireplaces, sunny areas etc.) while you’re removing the stain. Heat helps stains to set in.
   
   
4. Test any stain removing products on the interior of your suit first, rather than immediately on the front. If you’re using a stronger stain-removing product, the idea is to check that it doesn’t harm the fabric by trying on a discreet area.
   
   
5. Avoid hot water on wool suits. Hot water can damage the properties of the wool.

The table below shows some common stains and treatments:

Stain type:	Treatment:
Coffee	White vinegar
White wine	Cold water
Red wine	Denatured alcohol followed by white vinegar
Grease stains	Dry cleaning fluid or an absorbent powder such as baking soda or cornstarch
Grass, meat or egg stains	Clear dishwashing detergent or an enzyme cleaner
Juice or vegetables	One part white vinegar with three parts of water
Lipstick	Dry cleaning fluid followed by white vinegar
Beer	White vinegar
Tea	Lemon juice
Smoke	White vinegar
Sauces	Dry cleaning fluid followed by white vinegar
Ballpoint ink	Glycerin followed by clear dishwashing liquid and water
Mud	Dishwashing detergent followed by white vinegar.

As an added tip, for any stain that is “gloopy”, such as a splatter of ketchup, gently work a plastic spoon from the outside of the stain to the center first, to remove any excess.

Pack properly when traveling

Travel can be hard on your clothing, so packing it properly to maintain shape and avoid too much creasing is a must. When traveling, use a garment bag wherever possible to keep your suit in shape.

Sometimes it may not be practical to carry a garment bag, in which case gently rolling your suit into your suitcase can help to keep it free of creases. Once you reach your destination, hang it up in the bathroom for a gentle steaming while you shower.

Final thoughts

Your tailored suit represents an investment of time and money and should be looked after well. You can make it last longer by taking a few steps to care for it.

While it may be tempting to deliver it to the dry cleaners every week, remember that dry cleaning in the long term will shorten the life of your suit. The fibers are impacted by the cleaning process and it causes wear and tear.

You can often get more wear out of your suit by airing, brushing, lint rolling and spot cleaning as necessary. Always note the care instructions for your suit and ask the advice of your tailor when in doubt!

Have you ever observed someone who always seems to be well-dressed and wondered how they do it?

Some people manage to look stylish with no effort, as though they can throw on anything and look good, but the real secret is that they’ve mastered the art of dressing well. Once you do this, you can be dressed with style in minutes.

Interested in displaying your own effortless style? Here are some key style tips for men:

#1. Style is a skill you can learn

Have you ever heard someone say “I’m just not naturally stylish?” That’s what many people think, but you’ll usually find that those people who appear to be “naturally” stylish have worked on it – often with help from a trusted expert with whom they have developed a relationship. They weren’t born that way!

Look back at some comparisons of well-known people from years ago until now and you’ll see many examples. Style is a skill that they cultivate over time – many people made “interesting” choices prior to their current stylish reputations!

George Clooney – Then and now

It’s a bit like a muscle that you need to train. Most people whom you’d now consider stylish will have some regrets over past clothing choices. Practice – and a trusted advisor – is the key. If you work to understand the look that you like and that suits you well, you’ll get better at looking “effortlessly” stylish yourself.

#2. Always shop for your suit in-person

There are some things that you should never buy online without being fitted, and your suit is one of them. A good suit is an investment piece. It’s a staple in the well-dressed man’s wardrobe and should be of good quality.

Being fitted properly is essential. This is why it tends to be better to head into your tailor and be fitted in-person for your suit. At the same time, your tailor can help you with your style choices, ensuring you’ve selected pieces that you’ll love for a long time.  You really can’t beat consulting an expert!

#3. It’s all about fit

Here’s another “secret” of the stylish – fit matters. When you hear people say “he/she would look good in a paper bag,” it’s probably because they’ve nailed the concept of clothes that fit well.

The most basic of outfits takes on a whole new quality when it has been carefully chosen for fit and personal style. The humble jeans and t-shirt ensemble looks classically cool with the right fit, but sloppy and overly casual when the pieces are ill-fitting.

Good fit helps you look tailored. On the other hand, clothes that don’t fit well can give you odd-looking proportions. You can end up looking bigger, smaller, shorter or taller than what you really are.

A key mistake that men often make is to lean toward bigger-fitting clothes, usually with the perception that bigger means more comfortable. Clothes that are a good fit are comfortable too, and they look better!

The most humble outfit can be stylish with the right fit Click To Tweet

#4. Go for high-quality key pieces

Most people have a few wardrobe staples that they always turn to. These are the pieces that can quickly get you between different dress code occasions, or that you’ll typically wear often to work.

It is worth investing in high-quality, well-fitted pieces for those wardrobe staples. Typically, you might pay a bit more for tailoring and for high-quality materials, but this pays off because you not only look stylish, but your clothes last longer.

Consider fabric choices when you look at investment pieces. When will you be wearing it and what is the weather likely to be doing? We recently wrote about fabric choices for seasonal wear – these ideas are good to consider when you’re choosing your staple pieces.

As a general rule, go for the highest quality wardrobe basics that you can afford. Also remember that in the fashion world, high price does not always mean high-quality. Your tailor can help guide you toward clothing that is well-made and worth the price.

#5. Invest in some good-quality accessories

Sometimes it’s the accessories that really polish off an outfit. It’s worth investing in some good-quality basics that will help you to look stylish for any occasion.

For example, consider that bag or briefcase that you carry to work every day. If you want to maintain a stylish look, carry a classic style in good-quality leather. Avoid carrying gym bags or totes.

Other accessories that are worth doing well include leather belts, neckties, cufflinks and watches. The most stylish men don’t tend to be ostentatious with their accessories, but usually take a “less is more” approach with a few well-chosen pieces.

#6. Go for the classics first

If you’re relatively early on your style journey, don’t feel that you have to find a look that is wholly unique to yourself. Think classic looks and techniques first. We mentioned that style is something that can be learned – it’s always easiest to start with the basics, much like you would in any profession.

A key mistake is to try to hop onto every trend that comes by. There’s a difference between style and fashion; the former tends to be more classic and timeless, while the latter is often fleeting. Style says something about the wearer and tends to include looks that will last.

For example, a classic suit in a timeless color and fabric choice will last the distance well beyond a suit made with a “trend” patterned fabric. A tip here is to keep your basic pieces in a timeless style, but dabble in trend items if you’d like to. For example, by adding a trend accessory.

#7. Pick neutral colors

As a general rule, start with classic colors and patterns, avoiding graphics or any sort of wild print. This is especially essential for key pieces; suits, jackets, shirts, t-shirts and jeans or chinos.

When you have a good base of neutral colors, you find that you can easily mix and match your wardrobe to pick a stylish outfit every time. It’s hard to match bright colors or loud patterns with anything else, whereas having options with your neutral colors can have you dressed quickly.

Neutrals to consider include: navy, grey, black, white, beige, olive, khaki and brown.

#8. Polish your appearance

Polish is a big part of dressing with style. This means looking after your clothing, having it laundered or dry cleaned according to the instructions, hanging on good quality hangers and (of course) being acquainted with an iron!

Clothing should be free of stains and loose threads. Use a lint roller to get rid of any lingering fluff or fur. Should a laundering accident shrink or stretch any favorite pieces, there are often ways to fix them up. There are a few examples to be found on Google (such as a soak in water with hair conditioner for any shirt that has shrunk), but be sure to check on the specific treatment for your fabric type.

Shoes should be kept clean and polished. Scuff marks take away from your overall appearance. Consider this on any other leather accessories too.

Your hair and facial hair should also be well-groomed. It’s important to learn what looks good on you. Some men look great with a bit of “designer” stubble, while it is not a good look on others.

#9. Dress as though you have plans

When you consider style overall, it never hurts to dress as though you have plans. Are you going to a club or restaurant? Perhaps you have no plans to right now, but dressing as though you might ensures you look stylish and that you have options.

It’s no secret that the way you look can open doors. The nicest, smartest or most competent person can miss opportunities when someone makes a judgement based on how they are dressed. It sounds terribly shallow, but it has been proven repeatedly. Dress for the opportunities that you would like.

Final thoughts

Style is a skill that can be learned, no matter what level you are at right now. If we were to highlight any basics of style, they would be to go for fit and for classic, staple pieces.

You don’t need to have a vast wardrobe to be stylish, but you need to have a few good pieces that you wear well. Invest in quality cuts and fabrics that are best-suited to your own body type.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to take steps out of your fashion “comfort zone.” Once you’ve mastered some basics and determined your preferred style, try starting with small switches to change it up occasionally. You just might discover some new favorites.

Are you looking at your warm weather clothing options?

Look in almost any clothing store and you’ll usually see many items of summer clothing that can be described as “fast fashion.” This is the sort that you wear for a brief period, then are likely to discard.

We get the temptation. Fast fashion tends to be cheap. It’s often styled from looks you have seen in recent catalogues. It’s accessible and a quick solution to “what to wear.”

Now, of course it’s our profession, but we believe a visit to your tailor is a much better solution for several reasons. Let’s take a closer look:

Characteristics of fast fashion

Fast fashion can be characterized as cheaply made clothing, which often borrows ideas from current fashion trends. It tends to have been made quickly to capitalize on those trends, but not made well.

You can find “fast fashion” in any department store or over the internet. For some chains, their entire business model is fast fashion, with pieces being quickly made, usually in a country where labor is cheap. These stores rely on getting clothing that is inspired by the latest trends onto their racks quickly, at prices the average consumer can afford, so there are often corners cut in order to do that.

Impacts of fast fashion

The first and perhaps most obvious corner “cut” is the overall quality of the garments. Most are not put together with any sort of durability in mind. They’re sewn quickly using mostly cheap, synthetic fabrics. These rapidly look worn and the clothing itself often starts to unravel or generally look unkempt after just a few wears.

The old adage “you get what you pay for” holds true here. When was the last time a twenty-dollar shirt lasted you more than a few months with regular wear? At the very least, these items tend to quickly look shabby and lose their appeal. If it’s a piece that is very “trend” related, that particular fashion may quickly be over too.

What happens then? Of course people throw that clothing out. EPA figures show that landfills in the US received 10.5 million tons of textiles in 2015, while 3.1 million tons were combusted. Many of the “fast fashion” pieces we throw out simply aren’t worth donating because of the state they’re in. While a certain amount gets recycled, these figures show there is still a huge amount going completely to waste.

The second concern is also environmental. Constant demand for quickly consumed fast fashion means constant need for production of the materials that make up the clothing. Research shows that the fashion industry is second only to the oil industry in terms of global carbon emissions. The habit of purchasing fast-fashion may seem like a quick fix to an immediate want or need, but it’s a long-term hazard.

Thirdly, there is also much concern about where the fast fashion pieces are sourced from. We mentioned that they’re often produced in countries with cheap labor; the “sweatshop” issue has been one highlighted in the fashion industry. Many people raise concerns that anything they consume is ethically sourced, and of course poor wages and miserable working conditions are the opposite of this.

This third issue obviously depends upon the particular moral persuasion of who you talk to about it, but most people can agree that exploitative conditions in the name of fast profits are not okay. Many companies, including some that sell fast fashion, have made pledges to only work with factories that meet certain conditions for their workforce, however not all have. Most consumers won’t know what is behind that shirt they pick up off the rack, whether standards were met or not.

What you get from your tailor

Thinking of seasonal clothing and warmer weather again, summer generally has a more relaxed dress code than what would be appropriate in the fall. This doesn’t mean you should relax your standards for quality clothing – for reasons we have already listed, it pays to steer clear of fast fashion.

Don’t relax your standards for quality clothing during the warmer weather Click To Tweet

Better quality and comfort

One of the first benefits you’re going to see from going to a tailor instead is that your overall look is better. Your clothes are made to fit, they suit your body shape and they give you an air of polish. Whether you’re in the office or headed to an outdoor gathering, you can stand out for your sense of style.

Your own comfort in the clothes is also likely to be much better. No one enjoys button holes that pull, sleeves that are too short or hastily made items that are just not constructed for comfort. We suggest men and women instead invest this summer in quality pants, shirts and jackets that are tailored to fit. These will stand up to hot weather and help you look cool and comfortable instead of wrinkled, ill-fitting and disposable at the end of one season.

Professional knowledge

When you visit a tailor, you’re seeing a professional that knows the little details that add up to make good-quality clothing. Items are made with precision and care, not in a hasty assembly line. Even the off-the-rack items we source are held to high standards and we suspect other tailors do too. Our reputations depend on being able to back the quality of our wares so no “fast fashion” is going to pass muster.

Besides the way your garments are made, your tailor can advise on the best styles to suit your needs and body type. When you buy “fast fashion,” you are at the mercy of whatever sizing they have opted to use. Often, this is arbitrary and isn’t a great match for common, standard sizing either. Besides that, many of the trends copied from the catwalk don’t come across so well in mass-produced clothing. Corner-cutting can ruin the original intent of the catwalk design.

In our article on “fashion vs. style” we talked about the key differences and how style is more enduring and personal. By working with a knowledgeable sales associate and tailor, you can get pieces that denote your own sense of style and are made to last. A good jacket in a timeless style that has been tailored to suit you will be worn season after season.

Your tailor can also talk to you about appropriate fabric choices for the seasonal weather. There are several (mostly synthetic) fabrics that are best avoided because they don’t absorb moisture. In hot weather, this can mean you end up drenched in sweat which is never the best look! Most fast fashion choices you come across will be made up of a large proportion of synthetic fabrics – another reason you won’t want to wear it for long!

Final thoughts

How you source your clothing is of course, a personal choice. However, if you’re looking for better quality, better comfort and garments that are made to last, your tailor is always going to be a better choice than fast fashion.

There are a number of issues associated with fast fashion that you’ll find on the racks of most department stores, including quality, environmental and ethical issues. Putting aside any moral issues, they’re simply not well-made.

Throwaway fashion is about chasing trends, but you’re unlikely to achieve a polished look. Visit a reputable store and their tailor for timeless elegance, no matter the weather.

A relaxed dress code sounds easy. You think about weekend-wear and comfort, or “smart casual” for the office.

The reality is that a relaxed dress code is far from no-effort, not if you want to keep making a great impression. It involves putting some thought into your overall appearance, even if the final result looks “easy.”

We’ve seen a shift in dress codes for men over recent years with a trend for more relaxed formality, often including some of the most formal situations. This may be good or bad, depending on your point of view, but it doesn’t mean you should let your appearance go.

“Clothes make the man,” said Mark Twain. Even earlier than Twain, the priest and theologian Erasmus said “vestis virum facit,” (literally “clothes makes the man”). It doesn’t matter if the dress code is relaxed, it’s still worth paying attention to a few rules for pulling it off well:

Get coordinated

In a world where fewer people now have to wear a full suit for work, don’t miss the chance to stand out for the care you take with your appearance. Relaxed formality should NEVER mean sloppy or unkempt. In fact, a coordinated, well-appointed ensemble matters now more than ever.

You may not have to wear a suit (although every gentleman should own at least one tailored suit!), but you can still coordinate a polished look. A sport coat, slacks and an open-neck shirt give a more relaxed impression, but also a look of being effortlessly stylish.

With the rapid change in accepted dress codes for men, remember the maxim that putting on a coordinated ensemble can elevate the spirit, extol your sense of self and help define you as a man to whom details matter. Looking good automatically makes you lift your head up and exude more confidence.

So make sure your outfits work well together. Choose trousers and shirts that you can mix and match with a sports coat for a signature look.

A coordinated outfit helps to define you, without having to say a word Click To Tweet

Pay attention to the details

Including accessories in your outfit can convey something about your personality and show that you pay attention to detail. We take a “less is more” approach – choose the two or three accessories that complement rather than overpower the outfit.

Consider jewelry such as rings or watches to go with your business casual or more relaxed outfit. A nice leather belt is always a good complement to your trousers.

You probably don’t need the formality of pocket squares, ties or cufflinks, but adding one of these is a quick way to spruce up a more casual outfit. You might need to rapidly go from your regular relaxed setting to a more formal one (such as with business meetings), so think about how you might quickly change to fit in with the new environment.

“The details” should also include your feet. Wear nice, clean shoes! People look at your shoes more often than you might think. Dirt, scuff marks and the general condition of your footwear will be noticed. It doesn’t matter if your dress code calls for a pair of Oxfords or is casual enough to allow burnished leather sneakers – keep your shoes tidy.

While you’re at it, wear socks if you want to make a good impression. There has been a trend for going without socks and it has attracted a lot of debate. In our view, going sockless, especially with your good leather shoes is sloppy. You also have to be very careful with hygiene – going sockless can lead to smelly feet and shoes.

“Dressing well is a form of good manners,” says Tom Ford. There is definitely a case to be made here!

Pay attention to fit

How well your clothes fit will make or break your outfit. Too big or too small both come off looking sloppy, no matter what you are wearing. For this reason, it’s worth having some of your key pieces tailored. Think shirts, sport coats and trousers.

Fit doesn’t always mean looking perfectly tailored – some pieces naturally call for a more boxy fit. One thing to consider here is fit for body shape; not all styles suit all people so it’s important to figure out what will flatter your own shape.

If you tend to prefer to wear clothing that will have some longevity in terms of fashion sense, the traditionalist approach suggests that clothing with a slimmer fit or more tailored appearance will last the distance.

Keep it simple

While bold logos have been making an appearance in fashion collections, this is not the sort of trend that is bound to last. One thing that never tends to go out of fashion is simplicity.

We’re talking clothing that isn’t “fussy.” Pieces that you’d be comfortable wearing to almost any occasion. They tend to have clean lines and fit well. Think of outfits such as a plain t-shirt paired with chinos, a leather belt and a pair of loafers.

Paired-back clothing is never uncool. We can look back to icons such as James Dean who managed to pull off a timeless look that is often repeated today. Being understated in clothes that are simple, yet fit well will always keep you looking good.

If you’d like, you can give a nod to fashion trends without being overtaken by them. For example, you might include one “trend” item with an outfit that is otherwise made up of classic pieces. This way you don’t end up with a wardrobe full of clothing that will never see daylight again.

It can be about comfort too. Fashion trends come and go but you often have your own favorite “look.” It’s much easier to make a good impression when you’re comfortable and confident in what you are wearing.

“Looking good isn’t self-importance, it’s self-respect.” – Charles Hix

Stick to basic colors and patterns

One reason why many people open their closets and declare they have nothing to wear is because they have a whole lot of items that are mismatched. If you have clothing colors all over the spectrum and patterns that will clash if put together, you don’t have a workable closet.

A benefit of a more relaxed dress code is its potential for simplicity, as we’ve already indicated. You can make putting an outfit together much more effortless if you coordinate your basics.

For example, start out by considering a few base colors for your key pieces. This might be black, navy, grey or neutrals for trousers, coats, jackets and shirts. You can always mix and match from complementary colors, then add splashes of other colors (such as with a scarf or a pair of socks).

Final thoughts

A more relaxed dress code doesn’t mean the absence of thought going into your outfits. In fact, getting dressed should involve the purposeful selection of an outfit because clothes mean something.

What you wear communicates so much about you without you saying a word. You can meet a relaxed dress code, but still look well put together. You can exude confidence and competence simply because you are dressed well.

On the other hand, let’s not allow “relaxed” to go too far, especially in a work setting. If you look sloppy or unkempt, what kind of messages are you sending? It’s not that you have to be a slave to fashion or spend a long time getting dressed, but investing in a few basics that work well together will make all the difference.

Being well-dressed for any weather or occasion is about more than just the style of clothing you are wearing.

Have you ever dressed in an outfit to look good for an occasion, only to find yourself too hot or too cold? Perhaps the fabric stuck or didn’t seem to breathe very well. Fabric choice can play a big role in how comfortable you feel and how neat your appearance is.

If you live in an area that experiences the fluctuations of the seasons, then you’re going to need a mix of clothing in different fabrics to dress for the weather. In any case, it’s a good idea to understand which fabrics hold up better under different conditions.

Here is our guide to fabric choices for the seasons:

Summer fabrics: Some do’s and don’ts

When you’re heading into warmer weather, it’s time to think about fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable. The “hot and bothered” look is never a good one in a professional setting! You don’t want to be sweating or risking that your choice of clothing contributes to body odor.

The best summer fabrics are breathable, here are some to consider:

Linen

Linen garments have been popular in Europe for years, but have been slow to catch on here in the U.S. Many people here have avoided it due to its tendency to crease and wrinkle, but the fabric’s properties make it one of the most comfortable to wear in hot weather. In fact, while at first, linen fibers are stiff and wrinkle easily, they become smoother with handling and use.

Linen is a loosely woven fabric that is laboriously made from the flax plant. It is known to be one of the strongest natural fibers in the world. In fact, US currency among others uses a blend of linen and cotton for more robust bank notes.

The linen fibers are thicker than cotton and longer, which contributes to its strength. You can expect a well-made linen garment to last a long time. In terms of comfort, linen has strong moisture-wicking properties and dries a lot faster than cotton does. It also has a natural ability to prevent bacterial growth, which helps when you don’t want to end up with body odor on shirts.

Linen is also known for being a comfortable option for those with skin allergies or conditions. The properties of the fibers can make it a good option for all seasons, keeping you cool in summer and layered for warmth in winter.

Xacus linen shirt

Linen fabrics are excellent for summer wear and is one of the strongest natural fibers Click To Tweet

Cotton

Cotton is another natural fiber that allows air to circulate when you wear it. Here in the U.S., cotton is a very popular choice for warm weather clothing. The fibers aren’t as strong as linen, although strength is achieved by spinning multiple fibers into the yarn.

Good-quality lightweight cottons will also help to absorb moisture and keep you cool. In fact, cotton absorbs around 25% of its weight in water. This means it can become heavy and wet if exposed to a lot of moisture.

In terms of handling, cotton is usually soft and smooth from when you purchase it. Cotton does have a tendency to wrinkle, so many people choose to wear a blend with polyester, especially for travel.

Chambray and Seersucker

Chambray is often confused with denim, but it is actually a more lightweight cotton fabric with a plain weave. It has a finish like linen with a mottled texture.

Chambray shirts tend to be a basic item that transcends the seasons. The plain weave helps it to stay cool in the heat and it absorbs moisture well.

Seersucker is another fabric from the cotton family and is known for being thin and lightweight. You’ll often find boating attire or summer dresses made from this fabric, usually in striped or checkered patterns.

Relwen half-sleeve seersucker airtex madras shirt

Fabrics to avoid in hot weather

If we were to sum up the fabrics to avoid when you need to feel cool, it would be any fabric that repels moisture. You want summer fabrics to absorb moisture, otherwise areas of dampness are more likely to show on what you’re wearing.

This puts synthetic fabrics among the worst choices for summer wear. Most of them do not absorb moisture at all, meaning you can end up bathing in sweat. Fabrics to avoid include:

• Nylon – This fabric repels water and will tend to trap heat and sweat against your skin.
• Acrylic – The fabric will feel hot and abrasive against your skin.
• Rayon – This synthetic will repel water also.
• Polyester – While this is often used in travel-wear, a high percentage of polyester means that it too will repel rather than absorb moisture.
• Faux leather or vinyl – You’ll end up feeling like you’ve been wrapped in plastic wrap…
• Denim – While made from cotton, the sturdy, heavy weave makes it smothering to wear in the heat.

Winter fabrics: Some do’s and don’ts

The advice for winter fabrics very much depends on where you are wearing the clothes and how cold it is. If you’re heading up into the mountains on a ski trip, you need to pay particular attention to fabrics that will not only keep you warm, but dry at the same time. If you’re in the office, you still want something breathable.

Here are some fabrics to look at:

Cotton

Yes, cotton is a good, breathable choice for all seasons. In the colder weather look for thicker weaves for some extra warmth. Of course, you’re probably layering a blazer or jacket over the top anyway.

However, if you’re heading somewhere cold for outdoor activities, cotton is a poor fabric choice. In fact, wearing it can lead to hypothermia under the right conditions. Cotton is hydrophilic, which means that it won’t wick moisture away from your skin. It absorbs the moisture and can end up feeling wet and cold.

Wet cotton may wick heat away from your body up to 25 times faster than when the fabric is dry. If say, you’re wearing a cotton undershirt up on the mountain and sweating with exertion, it will quickly soak up the sweat and have you feeling as cold as though you fell into some water.

Leather or Faux leather

This is a fabric choice which can carry you through spring and fall as well. Leather tends to get better with age and form to your body shape, making it a flattering choice. It is tough and versatile, with a history as a popular choice for body armor.

Leather is good as a wind-breaker against the biting chill and is naturally water-resistant. Water will get through wool or denim much faster than leather.

Ecru leather jacket

Wool

Wool is a natural fiber that is very breathable, but also retains a lot of warmth. It wicks moisture away from your skin, trapping it to keep you warm.

Wool creates a natural insulation due to the air pockets among its properties. Even if wool gets wet, you will stay warm due to its natural water resistance. The fabric is also known for being odor-resistant – outdoor trekkers may wear the same piece of clothing for several days without it smelling.

A good-quality wool garment can last you for years. It is easy to care for and retains its shape if looked after well. There are different types of wool to look out for, with Merino being one of the finest knits. You’ll find wool garment choices from casual to formal-wear.

Ballin wool pant

Final thoughts

Your fabric choice for the season should have you looking good and feeling comfortable. Remember a couple of general rules:

• In hot weather, you want fabric that absorbs moisture
• In cold weather (particularly when outdoors), you want moisture-wicking fabric.

Some of the natural fibers such as wool will take you through all seasons, but fabrics like cotton and linen should be avoided in situations such as ski trips. Remember that the synthetics tend to be less breathable and uncomfortable in summer, but may work just fine in winter.

The father of the bride has an important role to play in the wedding party.

You may have prepared a witty speech, practiced walking down the aisle or any other jobs related to the specifics of the wedding. One thing that is common to most weddings is that there will be photographs, possibly even a video.

Not only do you want to look your best for these keepsakes which people will reminisce over for years to come, but you want to feel good about how you look on the day. It’s no fun if you spend the day in discomfort in an ill-fitting suit or clothing that is not suitable for the weather.

So, how do we dress Dad for comfort and style? Here are a few “father of the bride” dressing tips:

#1. Follow the wedding dress code

The number one tip for any fathers of the bride or groom is to find out what the dress code is for the wedding and follow it. Talk to the bride and groom about what their plans are for attire and colors, bearing in mind that you will be in the photos too!

As an integral part of the wedding, parents of the bride and groom help to set the tone for it that other guests will follow. The possibilities for dress code are endless, often depending on the venue, season, theme, time of day and preferences of the bride and groom.

Here are some basics of wedding dress codes:

• Black tie – Wear a tuxedo or formal dinner outfit.
• White tie – This is even more formal than black tie. It generally involves wearing a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, white vest, bow tie, white gloves and formal footwear.
• Semi-formal – Wear a suit in a color appropriate to the time of day.
• Casual – Usually for outdoor or beach weddings with a more laid-back vibe. Dress pants or khakis and a collared shirt are generally appropriate. You can add a tie and sports coat, but they aren’t usually essential.
• Nighttime wedding or winter – The colors considered to be appropriate are usually black, charcoal or navy.
• Daytime wedding or summer – Appropriate colors tend to be brown, beige and navy. If it is not black tie, then a sport coat, tailored trousers and a shirt with a tie are generally good choices.
• Color themes – Sometimes the bride and groom will state a preference for a color theme – red and white is common for Valentine’s Day weddings.

#2. Style can match the groom

There is hot debate over whether the father of the bride (or groom) should match their outfit with what the groom and groomsmen are wearing. This same debate is carried through to the mothers and the bridesmaids.

As a general rule, the style of what the fathers wear should fit in with the groom. For example, if the groom and groomsmen are wearing tuxedos, then the fathers should too. The same goes for wearing suits. The important part is to match the level of formality. You wouldn’t want to go without a tie when everyone else is in a tuxedo.

When it comes to “exact match” of the outfit, this may not be necessary. Instead, you could coordinate with the groom or groomsmen without being identical. For example, you could wear a tie that matches the color of their vests or wear something in similar colors but with a different cut or accents. This can make for great coordination in photos – you don’t want to wear colors that will clash with the bridal party!

#3. It’s not the same as office wear

Another rule of thumb is that if you look as you would heading off for a day at the office, you’ve probably done it wrong. Wedding attire should look special and distinguishable from just another day at the office.

Your suit should always be tailored to fit to ensure you are presented well. You should be wearing a color that is appropriate for the time of day, although for formal attire, you usually can’t go wrong with black.

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s better to overdress rather than under-dress for the big day. A tailored suit and accessories will always look good.

Father of the bride dress tip: Wedding wear is not the same as office wear Click To Tweet

#4. Consider your accessories

Accessories may well be part of the stated dress code, or they may be left up to you. Sometimes the bride or groom will be very specific about how they’d like their parents to dress with photos in mind – in which case, that’s the way to go.

Accessories can be a great way to add your own stamp to an outfit – just don’t go overboard! “Less is more” is a good rule of thumb. There are multiple accessory options depending on the wedding venue and color scheme. Here are a few to consider:

• A boutonnière – the floral decoration worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket. This may be chosen for you when the flowers for the wedding are arranged, otherwise, a nice touch can be to match the bride’s bouquet.
  
  
• Cummerbund – A broad waist sash, usually pleated, worn with a tuxedo.
  
  
• Pocket square – A handkerchief styled in the pocket of your jacket.
  
  
• Cufflinks – Any tasteful pair of cufflinks that you desire to wear.
  
  
• Cravat – A neckband that was the forerunner to the modern necktie. Stylish fathers might choose to wear this to a more casual daytime wedding.
  
  
• Vest – Choose a vest that blends in with the colors chosen for the bridal party.
  
  
• Shoes – Always pay attention to your shoes! A smart pair is a must. Black is safe to wear with most suit colors, although it is better to wear brown with brown. Choose a style appropriate to the occasion, for example, loafers, Oxfords, Derbys or Monks.

#5. It’s all about fit

There’s an old stereotype of the father at the wedding – fidgeting and uncomfortable in formal attire that hardly ever sees the exterior of a closet. Don’t let this be you! There’s no need for wedding attire to cause discomfort.

The whole idea is that you barely notice you’re wearing anything different while everyone around you can see you looking dapper. Shirt collars, shirt size and pants should never be too tight or too loose. The same goes for your jacket.

The best solution is to get your suit tailored. Whether you have it made from scratch or tailored from an off-the-rack choice, you will notice the difference wearing something that is made to fit you and so will everyone else. Those wedding photos will show you at your best and become a precious memento.

Your tailor can help with style and fabric choices to suit the dress code and can also advise on accessories to have you looking sharp. This is something that we at Family Britches enjoy helping with on a regular basis.

Final thoughts

If we were to give one overall tip for any parents of the bride or groom, it’s to talk with them about what they would like in terms of dress code for their special day. Clear communication is the best way to ensure that the day (and the photos) come out as they envision.

Follow the dress code and match the formality of the bridal party. You don’t have to be in exactly the same clothes, but it’s nice to coordinate colors.

Finally, make sure your clothes fit well. You will appreciate having a tailored suit and looking good for the occasion, rather than feeling uncomfortable.

It takes experienced hands to provide the best possible custom tailoring.

Here at Family Britches, our tailors Munzer Ezeizat and Albert Tedesco bring many years of skill in bespoke outfitting. Both were apprenticed at very young ages where they were rigorously taught the techniques of a master tailor.

Reaching a level where an apprentice is considered to have learned the craft, takes years. The best bespoke tailors are very well-studied and have spent years honing their craft – and receive a diploma certifying completion of their apprenticeship.

Meet our old world custom tailors – Munzer and Albert:

Munzer Ezeizat

Munzer was apprenticed at 10 years old to a tailoring school in Jerusalem. There he spent three years following the master tailor’s instructions, learning the mathematics and intricacies of becoming a tailor.

Over his time as an apprentice, Munzer learned a wide range of skills: “We learned to make clothing for men and women from scratch and how to fit, stitch and sew according to the old world standards,” he says.

Following his three-year apprenticeship in Jerusalem, Munzer returned home to where he continued to hone his trade. He worked with other tailors, assisting customers with their clothing needs.

Part of his early training also involved spending time working in a number of clothing factories. “As the foreman, I was responsible for cutting, preparing the day’s work and also working with clients,” he says.

Munzer’s preferred method for working with a customer is to take the necessary measurements, while spending time interacting with the client. That conversation is important – Munzer learns about their preferences for colors and patterns. He finds out where customers are going to wear the clothes.

“I find out anything that will help me advise them on fabric and fit preferences for their selections,” he says. “Do they travel a lot? Are they hard on their clothing?” A tailor needs to be skilled at engaging with customers and finding out the small details – these often matter for the fabric selection, pattern and details of their final product.

“Like a barber, an accountant or any professional with whom you have a relationship, a tailor satisfies the customer by understanding what their requirements might be and based on my experience and expertise, completing the finished alterations.”

Skilled tailors are expert listeners - they understand customer needs Click To Tweet

Albert Tedesco

“I started my apprenticeship at the age of twelve in Carolei, Italy,” Albert says. “By sixteen I was able to construct a suit from scratch.” He moved to the U.S. in October of 1967 and took a job in a small tailor shop in the Bronx, NY.

Albert has been with Family Britches since 2001. “I believe communication between the client and tailor is essential. My advice for finding a “perfect fit” is to shop in a quality men’s specialty store with a trained and experienced sales staff and a tailor who listens!”

Traits of top tailors

Munzer and Albert highlight a few traits of top tailors that are worth looking for. Impeccable hand tailoring is not something you find on the internet, nor is it easy to come by in a store.

It takes years of training to reach a high level of knowledge and skill. Learning to sew correctly and with dexterity takes around five years, while cutting is a skill that takes about three years to learn well. Both of those skills are developed further over time.

For this reason, talented old world custom tailors like ours, provide customers with a product and experience that can’t be easily replicated elsewhere. A skilled tailor has passion for quality fabrics and achieving the right look for the customer. They have a knowledge of textiles which can only be learned through careful study and working with different fabrics.

Top tailors are problem solvers. For example, there might be any of a few different issues affecting the balance of a coat – the tailor knows where to look and how to get to the bottom of the issue. They’re detail-oriented and take pride in precision.

Tailoring is a skill set that allows the customer and his tailor to develop a special relationship – and become close friends. Customers tend to come back season after season to see their tailor and get new outfits. It’s important for top tailors to have great customer relationship skills to do their job well.

A tailor soon learns that no two people are alike. Even among identical twins you will get subtle differences in the fit of clothing. The skilled tailor knows how to fit people so that they look impeccable and so that the style is appropriate for their needs. Whether you select from hanging stock or want to purchase a garment from scratch, an expert tailor will give you the best fit you have ever enjoyed.

Final thoughts

You’re in great hands at Family Britches with the skill and experience of Munzer and Albert to custom-tailor any outfit. It’s less common to find true old world custom tailors these days – the training alone takes a lot of time before someone has reached a high level of skill.

In a world where there is so much emphasis on “fast”, sometimes it pays to slow down a little. You will never get the fit of a bespoke suit by ordering off the internet. You won’t get the relationship with a tailor who truly understands you and your needs either. Come to our store and enjoy the fit of clothes that have been truly made for you.

The role clothing plays in our modern lifestyles continues to evolve. Regardless of whether they are worn for traveling, business or leisure time activities, the updated vibe is communicated by the lines of chinos, cotton and denim.

Come in and let us introduce you to our Brax collection of pants for work and leisure time.  We will coordinate your ensembles from the bottom up.