Key factors for a well-fitting suit

Even the world’s most expensive suit will look bad if it isn’t tailored to the contours of your body.

There’s no need to go down the bespoke or made-to-measure route to get a suit that fits well. Although readymade suits are manufactured from a standard pattern, most retailers offer basic alterations.   However why not consider some re-tailoring to obtain a totally perfect fit.

 Choosing a size 

There are two main considerations – choosing the right size and having alterations done correctly.

Jacket

Collar and shoulder fit are crucial in obtaining the right size when buying a suit

When trying on, look at the back of the neck and shoulders in a mirror

The back should neither stand away from the neck, nor gather up to create a little ridge under the collar

The shoulder of the jacket should go straight out, not dip (suit is too big), nor should your shoulder be visible pushing through (suit is too small) Continue reading “Fit is everything” »

Unbuttoning for shirt laundering

• Before washing undo all buttons to lessen the strain on the stitches holding them to the shirt.

• Remove the collar stiffeners before washing as this will avoid uneven wear to the points of the collar. This is also important before sending shirts to the dry-cleaners. More reputable dry-cleaners, when laundering shirts will add new collar stiffeners, and replace broken or missing buttons.

• Avoid starching as this will damage cotton over time.

• Shirts should be turned inside-out to maximise life span. This both protects the mother of pearl buttons from chipping on the steel drum and allows soap suds direct access to underarms and other stains. Continue reading “Washing your shirts” »

Be first to the finishing line

• With the look almost complete, what else is there to help you stand out in the crowd?   Get there first by finishing the look with some attention to the smaller but as important details.

Pocket Squares

• The pocket square is one of the best ways of pulling or adding colour to make a look pop!
• Invest in good quality squares and build your own collection, preferably patterns with multi colour and design as you’ll get more use, for both smart and casual dress.
• Some luxury brands have been designing beautiful and interesting pocket squares for years.
• Plain colours are best for a corporate look or more dressy occasions.
• White handkerchiefs can also be used as an alternative, especially with white collared and cuffed shirts.

Continue reading “Accessorizing” »

Wrapping up winter

It’s time to store away all those winter clothes, I strongly believe if you take care of your clothes you will reap the benefit season after season, giving you a good return on your investment.

Knitwear

The best way to store all your winter woollies is to invest in sweater bags, made of heavy gauge polythene with zip.  These will bags will protect your pullovers from moths and dust; it’s also wise to pop a moth repellent sachet in the bag as a secondary measure.    Fold your sweaters with a good quality tissue paper as this will keep the body of the sweater crease free.    Bags are also good for storage of woollen/ jersey and flannel type shirts; moths are not choosy.

 Suits, Jackets and Trousers

All winter clothing should be brushed and if need be dry cleaned before storage.   Make sure jackets are on a good wide shouldered hanger as there is nothing worse then putting on a jacket with indentations around the shoulder area, often called ‘camel hump’!    Jacket sleeves can be padded with tissue paper to ease creasing if wardrobe space is tight. Continue reading “Store your Winter Clothes” »