REVIVAL OF THE FITTEST – STYLE ESSENTIALS FOR 2009 AND BEYOND

Let’s approach 2009 with a renewed sense of vigor and a renewed vision of our wardrobes. Below are the essentials for the new-year and suggestions on how to wear them.

The Suit: A man in a suit can be hit or miss, but a man in a fine fitting suit will have the ladies swooning. The most crucial elements of a suit are fit and construction. A good fit will have you looking 10lbs slimmer. You’d never catch Mr. 007 in a baggy ill-fitting suit. Come on gentlemen, get fitted! As far as construction, go full canvass my man! A well made, fully canvassed suit, cared for properly, should outlast you. There are custom options in town offering hand tailored suits at off-the-rack prices. Seek them out. It’s a wise investment and you’re worth the effort.
The Look: Suits of today wouldn’t be out of place in London circa 1960- skinny cut, thin lapels, side vents, and flat front pants. Paying close attention to the details, this will separate you from the herd. Try adding intensely colored linings, pick stitching and functional buttons. Also, the modern suit can be worn a myriad of ways. Add a vest when buying suits (just another weapon in the arsenal). To amp up your casual look wear your suit with a t-shirt or your vest with a button down and jeans. Explore the options and rock what works best for you.

The Cuff link: For those of you who don’t know, cufflinks are for your French-cuffed shirts. The cuff link has developed into a sophisticated part of a man’s wardrobe. With a wide variety of stones, precious metals, fabrics and designs, the cuff link is a well-dressed man’s style staple.
The Look: Choose links that are tasteful and refined—don't be too flashy. Sterling silver with black enamel is classy and versatile. Cuff links look great when going casual and can add humor or interest to a shirt. Have fun and express your personality! And no, your links don't need to match your watch. (Since we are talking accessories - a silver tie bar adds punch to any outfit.)

The Pocket Square: A pocket square can add a dash of elegance and interest to a suit. The silk ones with patterns are a little more daring, so be sure of your setting. It’s great for all occasions and will complete your look.
The Look: When all business, keep the pocket square white with a sharp crisp line. I prefer cotton. Feeling a little more adventurous? Point it out and change the color. For full on personality, brighten it up with patterns and literally let it all hang out. Think outside the “box” - never buy a matching tie-and-pocket-square set.

The Overcoat: “Experts” say we are in for one the coldest winters the QC has seen in a while, so it’s time to invest in a well made, form-fitting overcoat. Start by trying the same size as your suit jacket or sport coat, including chest measurement and length. Overcoats are cut larger, but you may find a better fit one size up or down.
The Look: The best color for overcoats is navy, charcoal, or black. Stick with wool, cashmere, or a blend of both. Both can be worn with jeans or a suit; so you should invest. Keep the length above the knee.

The Tuxedo: A cummerbund, bow tie and vest set WILL NOT WORK. Retire it.
The Look: Maintain the classic style of the tuxedo – Black and White, that’s it. I like the comeback of the shawl collar. It will compliment both retro and contemporary styles and will distinguish you from the “normal black suit” crowd. The bow tie is always a winner. Depending on the event, try a skinny black tie. Please stay away from the leather ones.

To sum it up, always remember fit and construction when buying suits, overcoats, shirts and for that matter, shoes (an entire article in itself!) Invest in well made, classic pieces and the “GQ look” will be yours forever.