subject: How to Pick Seasonal Suits and Work Wear [print this page] How to Pick Seasonal Suits and Work Wear How to Pick Seasonal Suits and Work Wear
Despite the absence of a formal dress code, the suit is the stable uniform for the modern business man. Our appearance at work is vastly important as it inadvertently exhibits what kind of personality we are and how we conduct ourselves.
If you look like a respectable gentleman, undoubtedly you will be treated like a respectable gentleman.
Adding creativity or classical notes to your outfit will show those around you what kind of person you are a sure fire way to get noticed. In this how to guide I will summarise the importance of dressing for your age and condense the numerous apparel options available that will give you that all important satirical edge.
Work Horse or Show Pony?
The suit is undoubtedly the pinnacle of the working wardrobe. It defines a man in an instant as being of a gentleman status while the many subtle differences incorporated into a customised suit will accentuate his style, and personal flair.
Despite my continued allegiance to the golden rule of subtlety being the key that opens the door of sophistication, customising your cloth, colour, lining or pattern will add a dash of laissez faire and fun to your outfit.
Provided you border nowhere near the eccentric, incorporating some fresh yet orthodox patterns, such as stripes, checks, spots, paisley or gingham, will lift your ensemble above the standard formal navy or black. This splash of print can be introduced in the form of a tie, pocket square, lining or (for the especially shy) a jazzy 'Jon Snow' sock - 'Socks and ties are the only ostentatious statement a well-dressed man can make,' laments the newsreader.
To ensure your wardrobe works as hard as you do, buy the very best you can afford as your clothes will last longer and be more flattering this way. Trying to save on a suit is never advisable and will only cost you more in the long run.
Irrespective of the style or fashion you choose, a well cut suit will follow and compliment your shape. This provides a degree of elegance that only a superbly made ready-to-wear or individually tailored garment can provide.
Summer in the City
Formal wear in the summer is a tricky topic for most men, particularly if you have the prospect of sticky meetings in unconditioned offices to battle with. A wet brow and stuffy suit never suggests a controlled and cool decision maker.
The concept of the 'Shorts Suit 'has been suggested on the catwalk and is sometimes attempted by the younger and more impressionable male. But please, for all that is sane in the world, do not ever adopt this look if you are hoping to retain any degree of dignity.
The 'Smart Sandal' also falls into this category. Nice in theory, ridiculous in practice. The comforting breeze you feel around you toes will not make up for the drop in respectability which will undoubtedly occur.
Instead of trying to move away from classic attire to compensate for the heat, simply choose a suit which plays with youthful, light fabrics such as linen (yes, it is a classic suit fabric rather than a summer holiday essential.) A loose fitting blazer coupled with some powdery trousers is also an distinct option for the fluctuating weather of summer.
Cool Customer
Winterwears are an all together easier beast to tame. It also doesn't have to take a great deal of effort to look your best during the winter. Men's clothing collections show fairly little variation from year-to-year, so you can invest in a few indispensable pieces that will look great year in, year out.
Chilly winds are easily subdued by a suit made from thicker, more substantial cloth while a traditional woollen overcoat should be present in every gentleman's wardrobe.
The perennial winter overcoat has seen relatively little variation in the last fifty years; aside from the usual high fashion deconstructions. Cut long to just past the knee, a coat like this is best bought when it's made from quality wool. Buy it in a neutral colour like charcoal or black, and make sure it's big enough to accommodate you, your suit, and maybe an extra layer on the coldest days.
If all else fails, sticking to fabrics like wool, cashmere and flannel will serve you well and ensure you remain snug throughout those darker months.
Similarly, a darker colour scheme is universally adopted through the autumn/winter catalogue or collection and is comfortable territory for both young and old.
If you favour a unmatched suit rather than the formal three piece, a tweed blazer is one of those cold weather choices for men of all ages. The only catch is it requires commitment to pull it off properly; if you seem uncomfortable in it, the look will fall to pieces.
For a suitable wardrobe, established tailors Favourbrook will be able to customise the right suit for your environment. From ready-to-wear to specialist bespoke, Favourbrook tailor to the elaborate, elegant and extravagantly stylish for the individually minded.
