Clothes don’t make the man, but they certainly help. Dressing stylishly boosts your confidence and makes you look and feel better. So, here’s what you need to know to up your style game.

  1. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE FIT

We've said it before: Fit is everything. Even the world's most expensive suit will look sloppy if it isn't tailored properly.

Whether it’s formal, casual or anything in between, everything looks better – and will be more flattering - when it fits.

  1. HAVE AT LEAST ONE GREAT IMPECCABLE SUIT

Whether you're an office executive who needs to look sharp or a creative who dresses up every now and then simply because he likes to, the suit is, indisputably, the basic building block of looking good. And that’s why it’s imperative that you have (at least) one that, genuinely, looks the business.

If in doubt, a two-button navy suit is a failsafe option. It works during the day; it works at night. In short, it works for just about every occasion you'd wear a suit to. Review number 1 above. And, Made to Measure, is much more in reach than you think in our Atelier Munro Shop

  1. INVEST IN A GREAT PAIR OF JEANS

Finding that perfect pair of well-fitting jeans is worth the price tag. It’s not always easy and it might take time – but the right pair will pay you back, over and over again.

When selecting your denim, look for three essential qualities - a slim fit, dark wash, and sturdy construction - and you’ll be able to wear your jeans just about anywhere.

  1. BUY CHEAP, BUY TWICE

To the untrained eye, one suit, jacket or shirt might look pretty much like another, but the same eye can’t fail to spot the differences in the price of these items.

As a general rule of thumb, the life expectancy of an item of clothing has a direct correlation to how much you pay for it. A cheap one will tide you over for a few wears, certainly, but don’t expect longevity. You really do get what you pay for. Quality is economy.

  1. UPGRADE YOUR OUTERWEAR

Outerwear is something that deserves our undivided attention and investment. 

A sharp overcoat that slims your body yet has room for layering is something that deserves a place in every man’s wardrobe. Choose sensibly and it will work just as well with your business suit as it will with your weekend wear and denim.

  1. DRESS TO IMPRESS

Your school days are behind you (possibly far behind you), so it’s up to you to make sure your shirts are pressed and wrinkle-free, your trousers are pressed and your shoes are polished.

Regardless of the label on your suit, or the price tag on your trousers, if you don’t keep your clothing in great condition, you’re not reaching your style potential.

  1. MASTER THE ART OF MATCHING YOUR SHIRT AND TIE

Always start with the shirt, not the tie. First, select the main color of your shirt. The main color of your tie should contrast with the shirt, and the secondary color should complement it.

  1. EMBRACE PATTERN – BUT CAREFULLY

Embracing pattern is always encouraged - but it needs to be done carefully.

As a general rule, aim to match patterns that contrast in size. That means pairing, for example, a fine gingham shirt with a tie in a larger plaid. The resulting balance doesn't clash and, in a definite yet understated manner, shows you’ve put some thought into your look.

  1. PAY ATTENTION TO THE LITTLE THINGS

Assembling a wardrobe of fine clothing is not always a guarantee of sartorial success. The building blocks – overcoat, blazer, trousers and shoes - may all be in place, but it’s the finishing touches that can elevate an outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.

To personalize your look, consider investing in items such as a tie bar, cufflinks, and, of course, a versatile pocket square. Needless to say, your shoes, too, should be afforded paramount importance – they’re an instant signifier of your attention to detail. Rest assured: those in the know will notice.

  1. IT IS BETTER TO BE OVERDRESSED THAN UNDERDRESSED.

We’re not suggesting you wear black tie to work around the house, but it’s always preferable, style-wise, to err on the side of caution. If in doubt, choose classy rather than casual; you’ll win more points for looking sharp than looking sloppy. As Oscar Wilde famously said: “You can never be overdressed or overeducated.”

We are here to help. Ask us.

October 14, 2022 — Andrew Mallor