Friday, February 22, 2008

The 5 Tips

Every Man Should Know

July 2008 Issue of Men's Vogue


The Short Man
Apolo Ohno

5’8’’ 165 LBS

1 - Don’t wear a longer suit jacket. It just makes your legs look shorter.

2 - A pant leg with very little break will help you look taller.

3 - Show some cuff to lengthen the look of your arms.

4 - A peak lapel helps elongate your physique.

5 - A lower button stance creates long lines, and that essentially stretches you out.


The Large Man

Horatio Sanz

5’9’’ 250LBS

1 - Wear a pocket square. It brings the focus to your chest, not your gut.

2 - Keep your jacket buttoned unless you’re sitting down.

3 - Wear a simple, elegant shirt. Avoid plaids and checks.

4 - You can wear flat-front pants. They are engineered to be comfortable, even without pleats.

5 - Avoid super skinny ties and lapels. Proportion with your torso is key.

The Tall Man

Raja Bell

6’5’’ 210 LBS

1 - Lighter Colors add width to a narrow frame.

2 - A Two-Button Suit works great on a tall man-as long as the suit has relatively high-cut lapels.

3 - Just because your tall doesn’t mean you need an extra-long suit size. Try On a Long First.

4 - Keep The Amount of Cuff you show to a minimum

5 - Ask for A Decent Amount of Break in your trousers, so your long legs don’t look too long.

The Athletic Man

CHUCK “THE ICEMAN” LIDDELL

6’2’’ 205 LBS

1 - Don’t wear peak lapels. Your chest and shoulders are broad enough; no need to accentuate them.

2 - Two-button jackets sync up with the V shape of your torso.

3 - Low-collar shirts work well with a thicker neck.

4 - Yes, you can wear narrow-cut trousers. It’s your chest that needs room, not your ankles.

5 - Strong man, solid shoe. You don’t want anything clunky on your feet, but you also don’t want to look like you’re wearing ballet flats.


Friday, February 15, 2008

Just returned from Clothing Market

I have just returned from this years Las Vegas Clothing market which included MRket and Magic. I had an opportunity to look at the men's neckwear that is all the nicest stuff out there. I emerged having made one or two large buys and with some fresh ideas on my mind for the spring summer season. This years' tie selections I liked best will consist of many variations on stripes and paisleys. It seems like the old patterns on ties have been brought back with a fresh look. When it comes to tie patterns without a doubt the neatest stuff at the market were the patterns of old, but they have been "enlived" and fused with rich colors, especially in colors like copper, orange, light blue with brown, and lots of purple. In just a few days I will begin receiving some of the very nicest ties I've ever had! Plus we will have great new stuff arriving each month for the next two months. If anyone out there wants me to come by with some ties, just let me know. I'm your man! AV

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Slim Is In

by Alan Vinson

Suits are taking on a decidedly slimmer look both in the pants and jackets. Today's updated suit has a trimmer overall look, with clean lines and natural shoulders rather than the bit more padded extended shoulders that have been the look for so many years. Some men are even opting for plain front pants, however we still recommend pleated pants for your suits. Having said that however, you would do well to have your pants made a bit less full through the leg/thigh area to reflect todays updated styling. An updated suit should have a closer fit while still having great comfort. Also, two button coats with slimmer lapels and a higher button stance are now solidly more popular than three button suits. Last year we made more two button jackets than three button coats for the first time in several years. Side vents are still a popular style, however the center vent has regained popularity even with the most fashion forward designers. As a designer myself, for years I have been a "side vents guy", but the suit I have on order for myself right now is styled with a center vent. It is probably the first center vent coat I've made for myself in over 10 years! And, of course, don't forget the features. Make sure you ask for working buttonholes on the sleeves (surgeon's cuffs), and pic-stitching on the lapels and pocket flaps. These details really add a little something to the suit, and shows that it was made well enough to warrant the extra details. I also recommend doing a little something with the lining inside the coat. You don't have to get crazy, but give it a little thought next time you have a suit made. A burgundy, or gold lining with herringbone or paisley can add character, and I have some very beautiful new choices with which to to line your coats. Of course I hope to create something for you soon. Nothing lifts a man's spirit, and puts a pep in the step like sporting a new suit of clothes!!