Why All Men Should Have a Tailored Suit

Tommy Ton (GQ.com)

So by now I am sure that everyone can sense my infatuation for a beautiful tailored suit. Though many are very expensive, there are still ways that you can get that tailored look. Getting your suit to fit does not mean that you have to go to the most expensive menswear shop in your local city. Though their merchandise is excellent, a man in an expensive suit can also wear it all wrong. There are people that I have come across who look really sharp and purchased a blazer they are wearing from a thrift shop or Goodwill. Besides the suit fitting very well, you have to have some sort of individual style to give it that custom look. I can go on for days about how a suit can make you feel, but until you try the tailored look for yourself you will never have a clue.

Personally, whenever I wear suit, it gives me a certain confidence in my appearance. At this point in time I do not dress up every day but I am getting the feeling that I may have to in the near future. There would be no problem if I had to everyday, I like the look. I also noticed that young women out-dress men when it comes to public events. Let us use a night club for example. If you were to go to a club in your major city or town you will find that the women are always in dresses and high heels of some sort. This is definitely not the case for men. I want to be the exception to that notion. If women can throw on their best for a night at the club so should we. It only makes sense being that what you put on is the best way to interpret who you are as an individual. I can almost guarantee that if you stroll up to a club in a nice tailored suit, you will be treated differently as you would if you were in regular casual clothes. I plan to try this out one day. Not that I am a flashy person, but I like to stand out. If I show up in a suit I will get treated with respect. Overall that’s the whole idea. It is all about the image. I want to be perceived as the gentleman I am. So it is only right that I dress and look the part.

Why Less Is Sometimes More

Sometimes we over think what we want to wear.  Me personally I have this problem in the morning.  I do not know why I choose to wait until then to pick out what I want to wear.  Maybe it is because I really don’t know how I am going to feel until the day actually gets here.  Emotion plays a big part in what we decide to wear for the day.  It also shouldn’t take us half of an hour to figure out what we are going to wear.  We are men, and men are simple human beings.  So it should be a simple task for us to get dressed.  Like every other situation that we approach, we should just go with our gut instinct.  When I take a while to figure out my outfit for the day it never comes out the way I wanted it to.  Then again the days that I am like half asleep dressing my self while I step out the door are the days where I feel the one with what I put on for the day.  There may also be problems with comfort ability of the clothes that you choose.  

With me comfort is everything.  Comfort is easier to pick as well because you can familiarize yourself with comfort in the early mornings.  Simple works well for just about any event or occasion.  If you decide to attend a dinner party, just throw on a black suit and a pocket square.  Keep it easy and refined.  I feel comfort connects with the concept “less is more” cohesively because you never over do your self or the image that you want to perceive.  When you have a lot going on with your outfit it may be too much for someone to interpret the style and image you are trying to perceive.   Your style tells a story, so you don’t want what you are wearing to tell the wrong story about you.  If you are true to your self what you wear will show that.  You do not need expensive brands or labels all over your clothes for people to see or think that you are well dressed.  It is all about how you carry yourself and how you are away of how aesthetically pleasing your clothes look on your body.  In a way the art of a well-dressed man is a science.  Though it can be complex depending on your interpretation, it is not rocket science.  Keep it simple keep it sharp and always remember that less is more. 

My 10 Most Stylish Men Of All Time

Michael Jackson

There is something that I always loved about Michael Jackson’s wardrobe.  Not that I would wear most of it, but his clothing was always intricately made.  I mean all of his clothes were custom.  Hey, he had the money to pay for things like that.  I think a lot of people underestimate the vision and work it takes to make his costumes and wardrobe.  They never looked that exaggerated because his normal wardrobe was very similar.  From a gold plated chest plate or that infamous crystallized glove, Michael Jackson was the man.

The Rat Pack

The style of the Rat Pack has been attempted time and time again.  That alone gives this crew of stylish friends a reason to be on my list.  Besides loving the original Ocean’s 11 and Frank Sinatra’s classic music, The Rat Pack more than anything were well-dressed gentleman (all the time).  That is the real reason why they made my list.

 Justin Timberlake

There are some people that look great in just about anything. Justin Timberlake is no exception.   The young Timberlake is one that shows how style is suppose to be effortless.  Though people pay close attention to it, the best just exude it with no thought or regard.  You can never go wrong with a suit, and to be able to perform and dance around in one and still look cool is also a plus. 

 Kanye West

Kanye has not been in the entertainment industry as long as the other members of my style list.  That goes to show you the impact he has had on men’s fashion in the last 7 years.  When he first started out as a rap artist he followed suit by saying he was the best dressed.  Some people may have looked at this as a arrogant act of self glorification, but honestly he was right.  Mr. West seems to always be 10 steps ahead of everyone.  His love for fashion has even landed him design gigs for Louis Vuitton where he had his own collection of luxury sneakers.  Kanye’s style is an important part of his image, and he is becoming a trailblazer for men’s fashion.

 Pharrell Williams

Some people like to be unconventional, and some people like to stay more conservative.  When the two are mashed up into one concoction of a man who feels reaching for the sky is limiting yourself, you get Pharrell Williams.  There are times that I would look at the outfits that Pharrell wears and it would make you think, “Who would wear that”? To me I would ask that because it sometimes seems bizarre, but that’s what makes Pharrell so righteous and cool.  To be honest it is expected if you know the type of person he is.  From a music standpoint his image reflects his music.  That is called staying true to your self, a key factor in having great style.

 Paul Newman

This is a man who finds that less is more.  Paul Newman has a certain aura about him that is fairly relative with all of us.  With his decisive picking of roles you can sort of gage what Mr. Newman likes as a man.  Newman is known for making a plain white t-shirt a staple piece that can be used frequently in many different ways. Though in real life he was not Cool Hand Luke.  He still remained one of the most cool, calm, and collected individuals I have come across in the entertainment industry.  I also find myself to be a cool mellow guy. Maybe that’s why I find inspiration through his style.

 Steven McQueen

When I think of Steven McQueen, I think of fast cars pretty women and luxurious lifestyles.  Known as “The King of Cool”, my rendition of McQueen’s life is everything I would imagine an eligible bachelor would like to live.  There is a certain dream we envision when it comes to the life of the actors we know and love.  Though in many of his movies he is perceived as swanky and well dressed, the man makes the clothes. No matter what the circumstance or atmosphere, McQueen always looked cool. I think that’s why I really like him. 

 Sydney Poitier

Actors are looked upon in society as these individuals who are trendsetters.  Thinking about the time that Sydney Poitier was popular in Hollywood were hard times for African-Americans.  Poitier was more than just an actor to the black community. He was a leader, visionary, and trendsetter.  He paved the way for many actors today.  Even one of my other picks for this list played one of his best roles (A Raisin In The Sun).  I feel I would not be doing this list justice by not putting him on it.  Hats off to you Sydney Poitier, a living legend.

 David Beckham

I truly have a love for the European lifestyle when it comes to fashion.  David Beckham is a prime example of a modern day young stylish European.  I think one of the reasons why I like his style is his influence from American culture.  It gives me something to connect with when I see what he wears and think, “I would wear that”.  His style is very edgy at times but is very classy when it comes to formal wear.  There has to be a balance of the two, and I think Beckham is a good example of that.

Sean Combs

When I think of Sean Combs, I of course cannot forget about his alter egos.  With the numerous images of the legend, it must take a man with a vision to keep up with them all.  In a way ego plays a big part in a man’s style and confidence.  Besides always looking sharp, Combs is also an entrepreneur managing an enterprise.  He is the epitome of a modern black businessman.  He has come a long way from the shinny suits.  

How To Make The Most Of Any Wardrobe

It is very important that your wardrobe is in a way extensive.  When I say extensive, I mean that you have articles of clothing that are suitable for just about any situation.  Yes this may take a little money depending on your taste of quality or craftsmanship but when you don’t have the discretional income to keep up with today’s trends, basic and timeless pieces will keep your wardrobe relevant for quite some time.  When I say timeless, I mean pea coats, trench coats, cardigans and salvage denim.  Those are a few items that I feel every man should have in their closet to make their wardrobe well rounded.  Garments that you see year after year are staple pieces in wardrobes that pull outfits together.  It is sort of like necessary articles of clothing that keep you sharp and modern.  The best way to put it is that there are some traditional items of men’s fashion that just stay around forever.  This is not a hard task to complete being that the changes in men’s fashion have been minimal.  For instance the style of a suit has not changed since the 1930’s or even the Romantic Era.  

With minor changes to cut and style, what we were wearing then is just what we are wearing now.  In these modern times the only difference is the fact that we have this avenue of a casual/dressed down approach to style.  Style is what you make it, but keeping up with the times is also important.  Being fashionable is not being outdated.  That’s the difference with following trends or using your own approach to style.  A good way to stay current is to look at the people around you that are fashionable and grab inspiration from their looks. No, you don’t want to copy them just record what you like in your mental file cabinet and I can guarantee that you will create a part of that look through your own style.  The easiest way to make the most of your wardrobe is completely up to you.  I am just here to make suggestion.  Let me know what you think folks.

Dressing For Success

(Tips On How To Nail That Important Interview)

Tommy Ton

First and foremost I would like to say that a sharply dressed man speaks volumes. When I say volumes, I mean that everyone that is around him and comes in contact with him recognizes how well dressed he is. Might I add that when you are clean and spiffy, you also feel different from when you would be dressed casually. When you enter the room you command attention. That is a key factor in the beginning of an interview. After all it is all about you anyway. Interviews are ways people can sell themselves to employers to let them know they are the perfect candidate for the job.

The main key is to find a nice fitting suit with a shirt and tie to match. These are essential to creating the perfect business professional look. Though shoes are important too, the interviewer will be more focused on the upper half of your body. That does not mean you wear sneakers and jeans with you suit and tie. Fit is key to pulling off a great classic professional look as well. When your suit is comfortable and fits to the shape of your body, you are more relaxed. When you are more relaxed, you interpret confidence through your actions.

In certain situations it is the little things that count. There is no need to over over do it. In many cases less is more when it comes to business attire. You do not want to seem plain but, you also do not want to be over the top in you appearance. It is important to find a middle ground. Use small accents of bright colors to show you have personality and style. Never over do it because the last thing you want is your interviewer in a daze from looking at your multi-colored shirt and tie number. Instead of over saturating yourself, try a multicolored hankerchief, or tie but keep your base color (shirt) a plain solid. Blue or white are preferably good for business setings. Black and blue suits are traditional for interviews also. If your the type that loves a grey Banana Republic 3 piece suit, that will do just fine. The key is to not over-do it. Do not step outside of your comfort zone, but you also owe it to yourself to look good and nail that interview. Keep it sharp keep it simple.

Its pretty cool to see how much Ralph Lauren has influenced menswear designers and entrepreneurs ....:RR:. (Via Twitter.com)

What Is Men's Urban Clothing?

GQ

When people think of the term urban, they automatically associate it with street culture. Which is fine but it is also just a facet of this broadly used adjective. Even when I went to look up the  definition "Urban" they even had The Urban Dictionary. Besides that, "Urban" really means relating to or located in a city which means just about anything or anyone that lives or associates themselves with a city area. So when we bring up this popular term it is only right to not be biased. There are too many assumptions being thrown around when it comes to the term urban. When in all actuality it is everything that has to do with a city or whatever pertains to it. So when you see a man in a business suit or white collar work apparel, he is just as urban as the self employed contractor with Red Wing boots on. If by chance you see these two men in the same place means that they are equally "urban". To me the term is just used loosely with no regard,  but in a way you can not fix what we do not know or understand. I think we should all embrace everyones true character and dig deeper when explaining what we see as individuals. I am all for everything intellect. So if you see a lawyer, accountant, or a business man call it how you see it. Though they are in fact "urban", lets not get lost in the terms definition. In fact an eclectic man may be insulted when described as urban. This is just my spiel. Let me know how you all feel about this folks!

Men's Fashion Tips:

OI Polloi x Henri Lloyd Viking Smok

1. Anorak: There is no doubt in my mind that there will be rain in the seasons to come. Making sure your prepared for it is very important as well. Being prepared for it fashionably goes without saying. Well at least for me it does. In many situations I tend to stay true to what I know works for me and I suggest you do as well. Ever since I can remember I had an Anorak on stash for those tumultuous unexpected rain falls that surprise us in the spring. They are light and comfortable and will serve its purpose by keeping you nice and dry.

Norse Project Sailor Striped Sweater

2. Nautical Sweater: Some people hit the deck when it comes to horizontal stripes. Well yes, I know they do not look good on everyone, but a nautical sweater can be a great transition piece from day to night. Do not worry about looking like a sailor because more than likely you won't. Unless that is the look you are looking for. As long as you are not sporting rubber gloves, duck boots and a rain coat you should be fine. Pair one of these with a faded wash denim and canvas sneakers for a relaxed weekend look.

Nike Sportswear

3. Varsity Jacket: Lets just be honest, in some places it is just a lot colder than other places in the spring. Though we have seen varsity jackets layered as key outerwear pieces in the winter, it can also be a go to item for the spring. No, I do not mean your letterman's jacket from your glory days of high school, though some people prefer the vintage look. Aim for one that is a tad bit cleaner and simpler. It will keep you warm during those spring nights but not as heavy and bulky as regular wool or leather coats.

Vans x A.P.C Capsule Collection

4. Canvas Tennis Shoes: With me comfort is key. Then again this is not about me. A man in comfort usually means two things, he is happy and confident. If a good attitude and confidence does not exude style, I do not know what does. Some men are unsure about sneakers because it may give off a immature look. To be honest I could care less because I will always wear Air Jordan's. If Jordan's are a bit on the athletic side for you, try a pair of canvas tennis shoes. They are light in weight and extremely transitional with just about every casual outfit. We can not always walk around in wingtip shoes and designer suits. Enjoy your spring and relax a little!