Men’s Fashion

How do you shop for your clothing today?

We’re in a time where technological advances have given us options. Fifty years ago, you couldn’t instantly go to a website and order your clothing, although you could peruse a catalog and place a mail order.

Today, you might expect that technology has taken over and that perhaps people prefer to purchase their fashion online, but surveys tell us that is not true.

What has changed? What has remained the same?

How shopping has changed 

If you are of a certain age, then you probably have memories as a youngster of shopping in specialty stores that were usually locally owned in your town or village. You bought meat from a butcher, bread from a baker and fruit from a green grocer. You visited a small clothing store or tailor for your clothing needs and they were able to arrange alterations for any off-the-rack purchases.

This was normal everywhere, although in smaller towns, it may have been their only option. Larger cities might have had department stores (such as Macy’s in New York, or Harrods in London), which sold a range of products across different departments. Department stores have been around since the late 1800s, but through that early period, they were always locally-owned and independent. Compare that to today, a department store may be made up of multiple different stores, but it’s common for them to be owned by the same parent company.

In terms of shopping for clothing, stores like Macy’s offered quality clothing, quite distinct from today’s “fast fashion” that appears in department stores. In fact, vintage favorites from those days sometimes show up and are popular among thrift shoppers or clothing exchanges today – they were usually made to last! People who lived some distance from the department store could order via a catalog, and mail order was a popular choice for those who needed it.

Supermarkets started opening up and swallowing up the small, local traders from the middle of the Twentieth Century. The very first one opened in 1930 in Queens, New York City. After that, supermarkets gradually became popular. This was linked to the fact that people had cars and refrigerators, meaning they could buy more at once and store it for longer than before. This removed the need for daily shopping at local providers which people commonly did before.

In 1956, the South-dale Center in Edina, Minnesota opened up, becoming America’s first climate-controlled indoor shopping mall. In the 1980s, mega-malls started to open up, housing all manner of stores and activities. Department store brands like Macy’s were often the anchor store of the mall. It became a cultural norm to meet friends or family at the mall for a day of shopping and activities.

In terms of shopping for clothing, malls house a variety of options, but tend to lean toward the “fast fashion” brands – where clothing is made quickly and cheaply, then sold for a fashion season. One criticism of this (besides the poor-quality and environmental impacts of waste) is that all of the brands started to look the same. They were sourcing from overseas factories that were following similar patterns and using similar fabrics. It is a “quantity over quality” model.

Online shopping was introduced with the early days of brands such as Amazon and eBay in the mid-1990s. Shopping for fashion online has grown more and more popular over the last two decades, while bricks and mortar stores have seen their patronage drop off. Some stores have gone out of business, often blaming being unable to keep up with online prices as a reason for closing.

Many malls have shut-down over the last two decades too, although there is an argument to be made that they’re not “dead”, but simply need to evolve with consumer preferences. Shoppers are looking for amenities, experiences and entertainment that enhance their shopping experience.

Today’s clothing shoppers are looking for enhanced experiences Click To Tweet

What has changed?

A consistent theme that you will see is people lament the disappearance of the more “personal touch” that came with smaller, mom and pop businesses. These local owners took pride in their stores and knew everything there was to know about their products. They tended to get to know their customers, developing a relationship and offering a personal level of service.

The chain stores found in malls or shopping centers tend to be large and impersonal by comparison. The better-managed stores make an effort to ensure that staff are well-trained and know the merchandise, but many don’t and would struggle to give the same level of personal service.

As for online shopping, this can be a real mixed-bag in terms of the level of quality or service you will receive. Sometimes when you buy online you find that the clothing that arrives on your doorstep really doesn’t look how you expected it would. Perhaps it doesn’t fit well or the quality is subpar.

On the other hand, online retailers and the large chain stores have buying power. They make bulk orders and negotiate better prices. This has meant that clothing and other goods are relatively cheaper now than ever before. However, “you get what you pay for” still applies. Cheap clothing is always going to be made cheaply, with shortcuts in terms of materials, construction and even the labor that makes it.

Where are we heading?

You might expect that online shopping will be taking over, but that’s simply not true. In fact, survey data has found that Generation Z and Millenials are not necessarily opting for the online option:

HRC Retail Advisory recently compared the shopping habits of 1,350 millennial shoppers (ages 18 to 41) and the aforementioned Generation Z (ages 10 to 20). Notable findings included that while the older crowd had shifted toward online shopping, relying less on physical retailers, the younger generation was swinging the opposite way, actually preferring to shop at brick-and-mortar establishments.

Why is this? Perhaps trends with shopping malls can offer one explanation – people are looking for the experiences that can only come with a bricks and mortar shopping experience. For example, the interaction with knowledgeable people and the entertainment or other experiences they can have along the way. It’s not that technology is eschewed either – “bricks and mortar 2.0” is described as integrating technological advances with the in-store experience.

The proof is in the data – just 27% of apparel purchases are made online. Shopping the web may offer instant options, but it lacks other conveniences, such as being able to touch the clothing, examine the quality and try it on for fit. It also tends to lack the genuine personal touch and expertise that you can get from going to a small business – like your tailor.

Shopping for men’s fashion with a tailor is synonymous with quality and being well-dressed. There is no substitute for one-on-one service and clothing that has been sewn to fit your own body well and to last. As people become more conscious about where their clothing comes from and how they might dress well and reduce waste, the tailor remains an obvious choice to meet these requirements.

Final thoughts

They often say that fashion comes in cycles, so it seems does our preference for how we shop. Over 50 years, we’ve gone from mom and pop, to mall or department store, to online shopping.

More recently, especially as people have expressed the desire to be socially and environmentally conscious, they are looking back to small local stores. The shopping malls are having to “evolve or die” so to speak, accommodating a preference for the experiential.

Throughout all of this, some things have never changed. One of those is that you can’t beat the personal service from a professional tailor when you shop for men’s clothing. It’s about quality, after all.

Sweaters for Men & Women

There was a time when black tie dress code was de rigueur, especially among the aristocracy.

If you’ve ever seen an episode of Downton Abbey, you’ll note that while “downstairs” wear the uniforms and livery of household servants at all times, those “upstairs” dress for the occasion, including changing into either black or white tie for dinner every night.

The interesting historical twist is that the tuxedo style we know today as black tie actually began as a “less formal” way to dress for dinner, adopted by the Prince of Wales in the 1860s. Gentlemen were tired of always having to mind their tailcoats and the Prince’s adoption of the new style ensured it was exported around the world (whereupon “tuxedo” was coined from the New York club of the same name).

These days, there are few expectations when it comes to dressing for dinner, especially in your own home. On the other hand, there are occasions where you’ll be expected to don black tie.

In fact, we’ve flipped the notion of “less formal” so that black tie is now one of the most formal ways of dressing (aside from white tie, where you still need your tailcoat). For many men, black tie will be the most formal way in which they’re ever expected to dress and it will only come up for occasions such as weddings, balls or formal fundraisers.

What are the “rules” for black tie in modern times? Let’s take a look:

Definition of black tie

In general, most black tie affairs will be in the evening, although you may strike an afternoon wedding or premiere that is designated black tie. The bottom line is that the event is “fancy” and men should wear a tuxedo.

For some common examples, look at pictures of awards ceremonies such as the Academy Awards or the BAFTAs. Most of the time, you will see men dressed in black tie, although you will also see some interesting variations. Fashions have changed and it’s not essential to wear all black, all the time.

If you’re not used to this level of formality, dressing for the occasion can seem daunting, but it’s a great opportunity to look your best. The key lies in the details – the fit of the tuxedo, the tie of the bow tie, to wear a cummerbund or not? 

The origins of black tie actually have it as a less formal way of dressing Click To Tweet

Required black tie clothing

If you’ve got a black tie invitation waiting, here are a few essential items:

1. The dinner jacket.

The most traditional form of dinner jacket is black with black silk or satin lapels. The lapel type of the traditional jacket is usually a notch lapel. Alternatively, you might find shawl or peak lapel jackets. Your old wedding tuxedo will not work in today’s fashion environment. Don’t think you can get away with something that is outdated.

Depending on the event, you may have some leeway with the color of your dinner jacket. Traditionally, it was more a midnight blue than black as this color appears black under artificial lighting. You might also choose a white dinner jacket in the summer, or even a pattern jacket or velvet jacket in color. Again, look at those award ceremonies – people often have a different, yet still compelling take on black tie.

As you can see, color may in fact be flexible depending on the occasion, however we’d suggest taking the traditional approach unless told otherwise for weddings. There are factors such as the photos to be considered.

In terms of trousers, black is usually the safest bet, including with a white dinner jacket. In the picture above, Armie Hammer could have chosen black trousers instead of the matching velvet pair – he still would look well put-together.

Tradition has it that the dinner jacket is always worn with the top button fastened, unless seated. It is said that this is because the Prince of Wales used to struggle to button his coat if he had overindulged at dinner, so his companions undid theirs in order to avoid offending him.

Of course, the other key to looking sharp is that your dinner jacket is well-fitted to you. Fit makes all the difference – you can look good in a sack if it has been tailored to fit you. This means paying attention to fit around the shoulders, the length of the arms and that the overall body of the jacket isn’t too tight or too loose. (Again, not your old wedding tux that is in the back of the closet.)

2. The trousers.

If you’re going for the traditional black tie look, then black (or midnight blue trousers) are the obvious choice and should match your dinner jacket if the jacket is in black.

As with the examples shown for dinner jackets, you might choose to go with another color for trousers, but black is the “safest.” We’d never pair white trousers with a tuxedo jacket for black tie wear.

Again, fit is very important to achieve a polished look. Trousers should not be cut so low that there is a gap between the waistcoat and band seam of the trousers, or a gap showing shirt. Trousers should fit comfortably at the hips and be tailored to suit.

3. Dress shirt.

The traditional black tie shirt is white, pleated, has a spread collar and holes for cufflinks on the sleeves.

Most of the time, no matter the color of the tuxedo, the shirt will be white. It too should be well-fitted to the individual.

4. Bow tie.

The traditional bow tie is black, but other color variations are acceptable these days. The exception to this is white – white bow ties are reserved for white tie events. A long tie is also acceptable if pattern and color work with your date’s outfit.

For an elegant look, bow ties should be hand-tied rather than pre-tied. If wearing a bow tie is a rarity and you’re unsure how to tie a bow tie, our associates can provide lessons or tie it for you with an easy velcro or clip connection in the back.

5. Dress shoes.

Black patent leather is the classic choice here. Something a little more fancy than the black leather shoes you would wear to the office.

6. Evening socks.

Socks should always be worn with a black tie outfit. This would traditionally be a dress sock made from a silk blend, usually in black.

7. Waistcoat (optional).

A waistcoat is an optional add-on to a tuxedo and the third piece in the term “three piece suit.” Traditionally, it too would be a matching midnight blue or black for the rest of the suit.

An important point for wearing a waistcoat is its fit and length. It should be long enough that there isn’t a visible gap to the band of the trousers. It should also be well-fitted rather than loose.

8. Cummerbund (optional).

If you’re not wearing a waistcoat, a cummerbund is another option. This broad waist sash is worn to cover the waist area, again so there is no gap to the band of the trousers.

The traditional cummerbund is usually black and pleated (pleats are worn up to catch the crumbs per days of old).

9. Accessories.

You may have cufflinks to wear with your tuxedo. The key to accessories is not to mix the metals. So your cufflinks, watch and wedding ring should ideally be of the same metal.

Final thoughts

If you’re not used to wearing black tie, the idea can seem daunting at first but in reality, it’s quite a simple style. We’d suggest sticking with a traditional approach unless your invitation says something like “black tie creative,” which invites colorful variations.

As always, your tailor is in the best position to help ensure you get a good fit and look your best for your event. Make sure you book early to be fitted.

Wearing men’s casual wear doesn’t mean looking sloppy or underdressed.

In fact, you can style your casual wardrobe so that you look sharp and ready to make a good impression. You never know who you’ll run into while running errands at the weekend or going for a casual outing after work, so dressing stylishly is a valuable skill.

It’s not that you always need to be in the latest fashions from a magazine, in fact, it’s often better to stick with classic styling that gives a more timeless look. You can pull off casual-yet-stylish, and here’s how:

Start with basic bottoms

Looking stylish in casual clothing means you have to dress on the smart end of casual, rather than getting around in old sweat pants. You want to have a bit of polish about your look.

We would start with three pairs of basic bottoms. First of all, a good pair of wool trousers. Heading into fall, you’ll find wool a warmer option and you’ll appreciate its wrinkle resistant qualities. A good pair of wool trousers that are fitted to your body shape can take you from dress casual to a night out without looking rumpled. Choose a dark color to go with most top combinations.

Secondly, a pair of cotton pants with quarter top pockets are also good for dress casual wear. These types of pants are comfortable, especially if they are blended with stretch to help the trimmer models look wrinkle-free. These Brax Kapok and Cotton trousers are a good example and available in several colors.

Your third pair of basic bottoms should be a good pair of jeans for more casual outings or events. A darker wash tends to be better for giving you the ability to dress up or down.

One of the real keys to looking sharp in jeans is to choose the right fit. Slimmer fits tend to be more flattering and look more put-together than a baggy pair with cuffs dragging on the ground.  That doesn’t mean everyone should buy “skinny” jeans – this is a fit that won’t suit all. However, tailoring jeans to suit your body shape will be worth the investment.

There are three pairs of basic bottoms for a man’s casual wear wardrobe Click To Tweet

Have a selection of shirts

We would have three or four shirts that you can switch in and out depending on the occasion and the look that you’d like to achieve. Here are a few pointers:

• Dress shirt – You can wear your dress shirt as part of a casual outfit if paired with jeans to go out to a restaurant or with your pants for a dress casual look. Look for shirts with smaller patterns or in solid colors. Cotton is a good, breathable choice for any season.
• Casual or sports shirts. You might have plaids, stripes, patterns or solids. Fabrics can include things like twill, cotton or denim. The key thing for looking good is the fit. Your shirt should fit you well and comfortably trim.

• T-shirts and henleys. Cotton t-shirts and henleys that fit well and come in plain colors are usually best. It’s a matter of opinion, but graphic t-shirts tend to give a less “mature” look, while a plain, fitted shirt can look quite sophisticated. (See David Beckham’s ensemble below)

Jackets, sweaters and vests

A well-constructed sweater, vest or jacket can be the finishing touch for multiple outfits. Choosing the right outer layer can help your outfit to look more sophisticated, while maintaining a casual nature.

Layering adds interest and a new level of style to an outfit. You can layer your jacket or sweater over your casual shirt, or even layer two henleys, or a shirt over a t-shirt. Pay attention to those layers and make sure they fit well – this is how you can make an otherwise plain outfit pop.

Remember, you can also use your blazer or suit jacket to lift an outfit. Layering over jeans and a shirt immediately adds a touch of sophistication to your ensemble.

Here are some examples from our collections:

Footwear

If there’s one thing that can detract from an otherwise on-point outfit, it’s wearing the wrong footwear! If you want to look sharp in casual wear, then you need to pay attention to what you’re putting on your feet.

This rules out dirty old sneakers or anything that looks unkempt. A nice, plain, clean pair of sneakers can work well (see again David Beckham’s outfit further up). They are casually understated but help to enhance the outfit.

One option that you will find yourself wearing often is a nice pair of brown leather shoes. These might be in any of multiple styles; ankle boots, desert boots, loafers, boat shoes or oxfords. The point is they can elevate your casual outfit – try pairing them with dark jeans and a layered henley.

Red Wing Heritage Weekender Chukka

Accessories

Just like layering your outfit, accessories can add interest and sophistication. The key is not to overdo it. Simple is best! If you’re not sure, we would add one well-chosen accessory to your outfit and leave it at that.

For example you might add:

• A scarf
• A hat or beanie
• A wrist watch
• Pocket square
• Belt
• Bow tie
• Colorful socks.

Choose accessories that complement what you are wearing in terms of colors or patterns. For example if you’re selecting a scarf to purchase, choose one that will go with most of your casual ensembles.

Putting your outfit together

Everything must be selected with color, texture and pattern in mind. We lean toward plain and dark-colored pants because you will easily be able to mix and match tops of different colors and textures, making a few pieces coordinate with multiple options.

A few tips:

• Different colors look better on different skin tones and hair colors. Learn about the colors that suit you the best. When in doubt, most men look great in light blue shirts and these can coordinate with most pant shades.
• Once you have coordinated your colors, the next vital ingredient is the
  tailoring. An outfit is made or ruined if the pieces are not tailored for
  the individual’s body.
• You don’t actually need a wardrobe overstuffed with different casual options if you choose a few pieces wisely. Look for items you can mix and match.
• For the most part, ignore “what’s hot” from the catwalk this season. Fashion comes and goes, often with some dubious choices that won’t suit the regular guy on the street. If you stick with simple classics, you can easily make them more interesting with accessories.
• How do you avoid looking sloppy if you’d like to wear something like a hoodie? Pair it with something sleek, like well-fitted jeans. This is a rule that you can often apply generally; if your bottoms are a looser fit, then a more fitted top will help you to look more sophisticated.
• Wear socks! Some advice of late has made socks optional, even with a business casual outfit. However, wearing socks just looks more put-together and helps keep your shoes in better condition.

Final thoughts

If you’re ready to rock some fall style in your casual wear, then start by taking a look at your wardrobe and seeing what you have that will mix and match together.

For a polished look, the most important thing is fit. A few high-quality, well-fitted pieces will give you options that always keep you looking good. See your tailor for advice on fit and styles that will suit you.

What does it mean to dress for your body shape?

To preface this quick guide, we’d like to start by acknowledging that it is a somewhat tricky topic. We can speak of some general tips, but of course, generalizations will not apply to everyone! 

Ultimately, dressing for your body shape is about fit and proportion – two great reasons to consult with your tailor about dressing to suit. There’s an old tailor’s dictum: “compromise on quality if you must, never proportion.”

We subscribe to this thought, taken from Alan Flusser’s book Dressing the Man. “Dressing for your body type is a subject peppered with misguided prescriptions and arcane rules.” The thing is there are some general “rules” for dressing for body shape, but it’s important to remember they’re not hard and fast. 

That said, here are some general tips we can provide:

#1. Start with knowing your body shape

Of course, this is one area where we can generalize, but you may experience variation from the “standard.” A British study revealed five different male body shapes through studying some of the world’s best-known celebrities. You can see them depicted below:

Source

• The oval is a description of someone with more weight stored in the upper half of the body.
• The triangle typically carries a little excess weight around the middle.
• The rectangle is straight up and down, with a flat chest and little tapering to the hips.
• The rhomboid is more common among male athletes. The shoulders protrude slightly in comparison to the hips.
• The inverted triangle is the least common male body shape. The upper body is very broad with noticeable tapering to the waist. This is also more typical among athletes.

How do you work out your own body shape? It may already be apparent to you, but a good way to confirm it is to take your measurements and look at your proportions. For example, if your shoulders, chest, and waist all align, then you’re probably a rectangle.

Of course, within these body shapes, you might have other characteristics that relate to proportion. For example, being tall or short, having long arms or long legs, or being of skinny, average or large build.

Five basic body shapes are identified for men; which one is yours? Click To Tweet

#2. Know some basic rules for body shape

What does it really mean to “dress for your body shape?” As Dressing Like Men puts it, “whether short or tall, portly or slim, most men aspire to look like some idealized version of themselves.” 

In other words, we seek to highlight any traits we consider “good” while minimizing those we consider to be “bad.” The image of the “ideal” male model has changed with each passing decade, but if you were to take an average view across them all, the main goal has been to affect a tall, broad-shouldered, slim-waisted appearance.

Dressing for your body shape means using clothes to emphasize your best features while distracting from anything you’re not fond of. 

Here are some basic rules depending on your body shape (remember, the best fit is always going to come from tailoring!):

Oval shape

If you are an oval, you have slimmer shoulders and chest, a wide waist and slim hips. The goal is generally to use clothing to narrow your waist and create an overall slimmer appearance.

A general rule here is to create vertical lines to balance everything out. For example, you wouldn’t pick a pattern with horizontal lines as this can give the appearance of widening your waist. Dark hues (not necessarily just black) can assist with a slimming effect.

Trousers and shirts of the same color can also have a slimming effect, whereas contrasting shirts can emphasize the size of your waist. 

Triangle

A triangle shape means that you have narrow shoulders, a wider chest and a waist that is wider than both. You may have heard this shape referred to as a “dad bod.”The triangle can give a “bottom-heavy” appearance, so a goal with your clothing can be to bulk up your upper body.

Jackets with shoulder padding and a narrower fit can emphasize your upper body, helping to bulk up its appearance. You should always ask a tailor to ensure the shoulders of your jacket are correctly fitted.

Single-breasted jackets and vertical patterns can help to slim out your lower body, similar to the oval shape.

Rectangle

A rectangle body shape means that your shoulders are in-line with your waist and hips. The goal is often to emphasize the shoulders more, creating the appearance of a more athletic build and avoiding a “flat” appearance.

Anyone with a rectangle body shape should generally avoid vertical stripes as they will make a slight frame look even slimmer. Besides that, the color spectrum is wide open as a rectangle doesn’t usually have to consider slimming colors.

Wide collar shirts and wide lapels on jackets can help to create the illusion of broader shoulders, as can jackets with shoulder pads.

Rhomboid

A rhomboid body shape describes broad shoulders and chest with narrower waist and hips, although not disproportionately narrower. This tends to be a highly desired body shape and the main goal is simply to emphasize your shape with well-fitted clothes.

There are no hard and fast rules for rhomboids, any style or color combination may work. If you are on the shorter side, you might choose vertical patterns to emphasize length.

Inverted triangle

This is the very top-heavy body shape associated with bodybuilders and other athletes. For example, consider Arnold Schwartzenegger in his hey-day of bodybuilding as a good example of the inverted triangle.

A challenge of this body type is that clothing that fits the shoulders often sags heading southward. The inverted triangle may rely upon good tailoring to have clothes that will flatter their body shape.

You can create the illusion of balance by drawing the eye toward the middle of your chest. For example, V-neck sweaters are a good choice.

#3. Dress for the body you have now

It’s common to want to make changes to your body. For example, maybe you’d like to do work to bulk up your chest and shoulders, to lose weight or to gain more muscle tone. 

It’s also common for our bodies to change over time. As you grow older, you don’t have the same metabolism you once did, or perhaps you’re not able to be as physically active. It can be difficult to realize that your body has changed and that you may need to make wardrobe changes to accommodate it.

Which brings us to an important point. No matter what your goals are for your “future body,” if you want to look good, you need to dress for the body you have right now. Clothing bought small to accommodate weight loss, or broad to account for bulking up will create an unpolished appearance on your current body.

If you’re concerned about spending the money on clothing then having to buy more, there are a couple of things you could consider:

1. Buy cheaper clothing that fits properly (as we said earlier, “compromise on quality if you must, never proportion.”)
2. Buy clothing in consultation with your tailor that has the ability to be altered. As long as alterations won’t be too dramatic, this is possible.

#4. Get clothing altered

This is our last, but probably one of our most important tips for dressing your body shape. Get your clothing altered to fit your body.

Whether you’re having clothing made from scratch or buying off-the-rack, tailoring to suit you is always flattering. A good tailor understands body shapes and can advise on the types of clothing you should look at. It is well worth getting fitted if you care about having a polished appearance.

Final thoughts

This has been a very brief guide to dressing for your body shape. As we mentioned at the start, it’s worth remembering that, while there are generalized rules for different body shapes, there are always exceptions to those rules.

One question you may ask is “do I feel good in this?” There are plenty of “rule breakers” out there who pull it off in spite of their body shape because they feel good and exude confidence.

Remember, any body shape can look good with clothing that is made to flatter and fit well.

The men’s trouser, pants or whatever you prefer to call them are a staple in the wardrobe.

These days, you have your pick of a number of different styles which can take you from professional, to business casual, to that informal function after work. 

When we use the term “trousers” it usually refers to garments that have been tailored with a fitted waistline, zipper (or buttons) and pockets. The term “pants” is widely used but is more broad – it may include trousers, but also items such as breeches, sweatpants or jeans. People often interchangeably use the terms, such as by saying “dress pants” or “dress trousers.”

Here we’ve created a quick guide to men’s trousers – take your pick from the different styles:

A brief history of trousers

Trousers have an interesting history. Some ancient artifacts, such as pottery, show that cultures throughout ancient Asia, the Middle East and the Amazon wore trousers, particularly as they were more comfortable and practical for riding a horse.

The Greeks and Romans however, snubbed trousers, looking upon their wearers as ridiculous and “unmanly”. To them, civilized people wore tunics. As the Roman Empire spread, however, trousers saw a surge in popularity. Their warmth and practicality, especially for horseback riding and in colder, northern climates were undeniable.

Trousers were initially a military garment and saw several changes with fashions between the thirteenth and nineteenth centuries, including fitted and more “pantaloon” styles. The styles more like what we wear today were first seen in the nineteenth century – looser fit with a button fly and worn in neutral colors. Edward VII was a trendsetter for wearing trousers similar to how we know them today.

King Edward VII (L) with Kaiser Wilhelm II c. 1908 – WikiCommons

Modern trouser styles

There are now many different styles of trousers that can suit a range of occasions, formal or otherwise. If you have a selection of different styles in your own wardrobe, you’ll be prepared for anything. Our key factors for looking good in trousers:

1. That the trousers are appropriate for the occasion.
2. That they have been tailored for a proper fit to your body type and preferences.
3. Coordinate your selections with matching accessories in colors, textures and weight to create an outfit that looks great in the setting in which it is to be worn.

Special Offer: Bring in an outdated trouser and receive a $20.00 credit towards a new pair in the model of your choice.* 

*Limit one per family.

Here are a few top picks:

The wool trouser

Worn in a year-round weight, the wool trouser will be wrinkle-free, breathable and a traditional choice for business-wear. It is a versatile choice in that you can pair them with a matching suit jacket, or choose tailored separates for a more “business casual” look.

The wool trouser is available in different styles to accommodate various body types and preferences. Some examples include a pleated, traditional fit, plain front with a traditional fit and plain front with a slim fit.

What’s the difference between the pleated and the plain front? Well, as it sounds, the plain front trousers are flat in the front and do not have a pleat. Interestingly, this style dates back to wartime rationing, when the pleated pant was considered extravagant due to the extra fabric required to achieve the look. Since then, there has often been debate about whether pleated or plain is better.

Our answer? It depends upon your own preferences and what looks good on you! For example, if you are very tall and thin, plain front may be a better option for you because the pleated trousers can appear to balloon around the waist. It’s about fit and proportion.

Wool trousers are a versatile option for business and business travel Click To Tweet

Traditional fit, double-reversed pleat

Casual(er) slacks

If you’re dressing for business casual, a less formal occasion, date night or any other event where you need to look well-dressed but not overdone, then a more casual style of slacks will be well-suited to the occasion.

These may be in cotton, a cotton/stretch blend or pattern or even a wool blend. When we define slacks, we usually mean pants that are not jeans, khakis or chinos, but that make you look slightly more dressed up.

You will find different styles, colors, textures and weights. A few examples include; tailored trousers in a patterned fabric, Brax Kapok cotton stretch, relaxed leg trousers (a Levi’s 501-type cut) and linen blends (especially good for warm weather). 

As always, your style should be determined by fit – relaxed leg trousers tend to look better if you can get away with a slimmer fit on top, for example.

Brax Kapok trousers

Weekend casual wear 

The field is wide open in terms of styles, fabrics and colors for weekend casual wear pants. Here are a few options which lend both style and comfort to your wardrobe:

Jeans

Different cuts and styles of jeans will suit different body types. You’ll find fits in skinny, slim, regular, relaxed and loose cuts. You might go for classic denim, colors or even corduroys for winter. 

In some workplaces now, jeans are acceptable wear for a smart casual dress code. If yours is one of them, we’d recommend a darker wash for a tidier look.

Here are some examples from our catalog – you can get any of these adjusted to fit:

Chinos and khakis

Chinos and khakis are classic wardrobe staples for casualwear. What’s the difference? It’s based on origin and construction. Khakis originated as part of British military uniforms in 19th century India. They are made from a cotton twill. Stitching and pockets are visible on khakis, which is one way to tell them apart from chinos.

Chinos are a version of khakis that were made in China for soldiers in the Philippines during the Spanish-American war. The stitching and pockets are hidden, they tend to be more lightweight and cut to a slimmer fit than khakis. Chinos always have flat fronts, whereas khakis may be flat or pleated.

If you’re choosing between the two for a more formal look, we’d go for the chinos. Below are a couple of examples from our catalog:

Final thoughts

Every man’s wardrobe should have a selection of these different types of trousers to be prepared for formal or informal wear. Consider different weights for the seasons and branching out with colors or patterns where you can.

The most important thing for looking good in business or casualwear is the fit of the trousers. Look for cuts that are flattering to your body type and fit you well. Your tailor will be happy to help you get the best look for your tastes and body type.

Preparing your wardrobe has never been more challenging or exciting for men. As fall fashion season is upon us, we wanted to take a look at some of the changes as well as the timeless pieces for a fall wardrobe.

Keeping your closet current can require some effort, or otherwise some professional help! We have a plan for multiple outfit options, keeping you prepared for every occasion this fall. Here are our essentials:

Some men’s fall fashion “rules”

Men’s fall fashion actually has very few real “rules.” For the most part, looking your best follows the same core tenets:

• Dressing for your body shape
• Wearing clothes that fit well (preferably tailored)
• Accessorizing wisely (fall brings in possibilities like scarves, hats and gloves)
• Looking after your clothing and your overall appearance.

As we enter fall though, more colors are introduced to the fashion palette. These tend to mimic the colors you are seeing outside – olive, burnt orange, shades of brown and darker hues of blue and grey. 

The only other advice we’d add is that you need to consider fabrics that will take you through fickle fall weather. It’s the time of year when you might experience “four seasons in one day.” Consider good quality fabrics offering both warmth and breathability, for example a cotton shirt with a lightweight wool blazer.

A tailored suit is in-fashion in any season Click To Tweet

#1. Professional business attire

What should your professional business attire include this fall? Here’s our shortlist:

• Suits with or without a tie
• Sport coat and trousers
• Shirts
• Sweater vests
• Long sleeve polos
• Pocket squares and other accessories.

Your suit

The classic workhorse of professional business attire is the two-button suit. This provides the sort of versatility that can be dressed up for an event such as a wedding, or dressed down for a business casual day.

In terms of fabric, a crease-resistant wool is a good choice to see you through the different weather patterns that fall can bring. Look for something mid-weight as that is very adaptable. For example, our Canali suit in either grey or navy will keep you looking sharp at any time.

Shirts

When it comes to dress shirts, we favor easy-care options. Your shirt is an absolute wardrobe staple so the easier it is to maintain, the better for your day-to-day look. 

In the fall you may still stick with the summer staple of 100% cotton. This ensures breathable comfort on any given day. For an example, see our customer favorite, the Eton dress shirt. See also the Stenstrom shirt for a fashion-forward style and pattern.

A sport shirt can also be a good option, especially if you’re in a less-traditional sort of office environment. See our Peter Millar Anderson Micro Tattersall shirt.

Sport coat

The sport coat is one of the most versatile pieces for any wardrobe. You can wear it in a professional business setting, but also dress it down for a more casual look. In terms of fall wear, look at the weight of the coat for its versatility in different weather. For professional formal-wear, look for a more constructed design with a lining.

For example, the Samuelsohn soft travel coat is a blend of wool, silk and linen providing a soft feel but with enough weight for some of the more chilly days.

Consider your coat color in terms of ability to mix and match with your shirts and trousers. For example, an oatmeal or beige color will go well with blues, browns, greys and greens, covering some of the most popular fall color schemes.

Sweater vests

Need a quick and simple fall wardrobe update? The sweater vest can be an excellent choice for an added layer of warmth under your suit, or on its own when it’s still a bit too warm for your jacket. Sweater vests are acceptable for formal business attire when worn with a dress shirt and tie. Our pick would be a soft wool blend that you can wear with or without a tie.

An argyle or neutral shade are traditional picks, but you also might like to showcase a bit of personal style with a pop of color. If you’re wanting a little color but not a bold splash, look for a sweater vest that has a pop of color along the neckline.

#2. Casual business wear

Casual business wear has become more and more common as an overall dress code in many workplaces. This often leads to questions about what “business casual” really means!

In terms of fall business casual, here are our picks.

Unconstructed sport jacket

Just like it’s slightly more formal, lined cousin, the unconstructed sport jacket is a very versatile fall option. You wouldn’t wear it in a formal setting, but it will easily get you from business casual to laid-back social occasions.

For example, take a look at this JKT Windowpane jacket, made with a soft construction. This particular jacket will go well with any blue shirts you have:

Slacks

In a business casual situation, you could pair your sport jacket with your regular suit trousers, or you could opt for a pair of slacks that encompasses the casual vibe. Remember, business casual means you’re dressing down your business attire rather than dressing up casualwear!

Our pick of slacks outside of your dress trousers would be a comfortable pair of chinos. These are suitable for after-work occasions too. Our example is the Luxury Brax Chino, which will take you from work to leisure:

Pair your slacks with a sport coat, dress or chambray shirt, or even a good quality wool sweater to pull off a more relaxed, yet professional look.

#3. Weekend ensembles

Fall might see you touring a winery during the day then catching an evening concert before the colder weather sets in. Or perhaps you’re going from a day time activity to date night. One “secret” of fall weekend ensembles is making an outfit go from day to night.

Some basics for this include:

• Good quality plain t-shirts
• A tailored blazer in a mid or lightweight wool
• Dark wash jeans
• Chinos or tailored trousers
• Simple cashmere or wool sweaters.
• Denim and/or flannel shirts
• Dress shoes and nice sneakers.

Here’s an example of a day to night outfit: During the daytime, wear your jeans with a plain white t-shirt and a denim or flannel shirt over the top. Wear sneakers on your feet. To change for night, switch the shirt for the tailored blazer and the sneakers for dress shoes. If you need an even more polished look for the night event, switch the jeans for chinos or tailored trousers.

#4. Formal attire for special occasions or events

Fall may bring weddings, business, or holiday events that you need to be looking your best for. Of course, the go-to for anything formal can be your tailored suit, however, there is a different look if, for example, the event is black tie. You then need to look at a tuxedo and accessories to go with it. 

The regularity with which you attend such events should determine what you purchase for your wardrobe. If you’re only going to very formal occasions once each year, your wardrobe budget may be better spent on getting very good quality suits that you wear more often.

Fall also brings cooler weather and a need to dress for the elements. You may need additional pieces such as outerwear, gloves, hats and scarves.

Final thoughts

There’s also a good chance that you have clothing in your wardrobe already that will work for fall wear. Why not consider a wardrobe consultation with an expert? This will help you to understand how to integrate the pieces of your existing wardrobe and add any that you may need for fall.

Talk to us here at Family Britches. We can provide a professional wardrobe consultation either in-person at one of our stores, or online via a video link.

As we head into the season of family events, we know you want your family looking their best!

Whether it’s for weddings, graduations, birthdays, Thanksgiving or other key events, sometimes you need everyone to be putting their best foot forward. It’s always nice if the event photographs turn out well!

Here are a few tips to be prepared for any family occasion:

Do an inventory of what you have first

Has your family ever faced this scenario? You’re getting ready to go out when someone has an issue with their wardrobe. “Dad, my shoes don’t fit,” or “there’s a hole in my shirt!” It always adds tension to the situation when there is a last-minute mishap that needs attention. You end up trying to make do or purchase a replacement at the last minute.

Our first suggestion is that you do an inventory of what each member of your family has available well beforehand. This includes trying the whole outfit on so that those holes, stains or items that don’t fit anymore can be found early.

Knowing what you have available and what condition the items are in will kick-start you with a plan for getting everyone dressed for the event. We recommend you do this two or three weeks ahead, but not so early that younger kids have time to grow out of their outfit. 

For the adults, this also gives you the opportunity to get any needed alterations made, such as having suit jackets taken in or hems repaired. One of the top tips for looking good is to ensure that clothing fits well.

Know the dress code

As part of your planning, do you know the dress code for the event and what it means? For example, weddings are a common event where the whole family may be invited, especially if the wedding is within your own family. Some typical dress codes include:

1. Black tie – Very formal and usually reserved for evening affairs. For men and boys that means tuxedos while for women and girls, floor-length evening gowns.
   
2. White tie – More formal than black tie. It is relatively rare for any event suitable for “family” to be white tie as this is the code for events such as state dinners. White tie means full-length ball gowns for females and tuxedos with long tails, white vest and a white bow tie for males.
   
3. Casual – This may be themed in some way if it is a wedding or other type of special occasion, in which case, dress to the theme. In most cases, “casual” for a wedding will mean summer dresses for females and dress pants with a button-down shirt for males.
   
4. Beach formal – Formal summer dresses for females and linen suits for males.

If the event is taking place in a church or place of worship, there may be other aspects of dress code to consider. For example, many such places require that shoulders be covered and some also expect clothing to go below the knee. It’s always a good idea to check before going to any sort of school or religious venue.

Whatever the dress code is, one thing you should always consider, especially if you’re dressing kids, is their comfort. Think of layers that meet the dress code but are easily added or taken off to suit the conditions. Consider also the type of fabric they are wearing. Kids are less likely to fuss and fidget if they’re wearing comfortable, soft fabrics. 

Always consider comfort when dressing kids for family events Click To Tweet

Consider location and weather

When you’re planning outfits, besides the dress code, location and weather should be key considerations. Everyone will be much more comfortable if they’re dressed appropriately for the elements – for example, perhaps hats are necessary for a beach wedding.

There are also fabrics that are better suited to some weather conditions than others. For example, any fabric choice for summer or hot weather should absorb moisture and keep you cool. Cotton or linen are great choices, but most synthetics are not. In the winter, warmer fabrics such as wool or a heavier cotton weave will be more comfortable.

Consider which accessories or layers you might need for the location and weather. Strappy sandals might be an uncomfortable choice for an outdoor event that involves some walking to get there. An indoor event at a warm venue may mean you should think about light clothing.

Consider color preferences

In the case of many weddings, there may be a theme that dictates color preferences so that photographs have a uniform look. Otherwise, colors may be dictated by dress code, seasons and your own photograph preferences.

We recently wrote a piece about choosing colors that suit – if everyone in your family has different undertones, there are some colors that are “universal.” These can be a good choice for coordinating outfits while keeping everyone looking their best.

If you need some inspiration for how multiple generations pull together for event portraits, the official portraits of British royal weddings are a good example. Dress code and coordination are observed, and everyone, down to the youngest baby pulls off a chic, vintage aesthetic.

Source

Allow sufficient time

Most people would love to pull off the perfect family photographs that the British royals seem to hit every time. However, there is a not-so-secret secret to their success – everything you see is very well planned and executed.

You can take a leaf out of their book by allowing sufficient time to plan for the outfits that you need and make any necessary purchases or alterations. If you leave it too late, you won’t be able to get key items tailored or find coordinating clothing for the kids who have had a growth spurt. 

Speaking of growth, how do you allow for that when you’re planning ahead? We recommend that you have outfits ready at least a month ahead, but have them made so that they’re easily adjustable. A visit to your tailor within a week or two of the event can have any last-minute alterations made for a perfect fit.

Remember this with shoes too. Kids seem to grow a shoe size virtually overnight, so buying a “perfect fit” too far ahead may not be a great idea. Use your best judgment – a half to one size too big, but bought weeks ahead may work out for you.

See your tailor…

Importantly, when you’re visiting your tailor, make sure you give them the time and the key event information so that they’re able to ensure the whole family looks good. We can advise you on looks for dress codes, color coordinating, accessories and of course, flattering fit.

We hope your next big family event is a great success and that you have the perfect pictures to prove it!

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.

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!