About Styleforum Editors

The Styleforum editors are a group of gnomes that actually do all of the work running Styleforum. Ari, and Jasper play air hockey, drink artisanal iced teas, and debate whether it's harder to get bolognese or bechamel out of grenadine ties, and whether either can be used to polish shoes.

An Outfit For Pitti Uomo 91

An Outfit For Pitti Uomo

We guarantee that you’ll see at least one person wearing this exact outfit when you’re browsing the media feeds from next week’s Pitti Uomo 91, so even if you’re not going, we figured we’d give you the information you need to look as though you are. Let’s start at the top:

1. Eidos hunting jacket from No Man Walks Alone

If you want to get blogged, you need stand out outerwear. Well, that’s not true. If you want to get blogged, you need to be wearing something ridiculous – which this jacket isn’t. It is, however, ridiculously nice; the kind of jacket that you’ll reach for 9 times out of 10. And it’s perfect for wearing over a sweater and a tee or a tailored shirt.

2. Chimala denim shirt from Mr. Porter

Chambray has been a hit for a few seasons now, and a full-on western shirt is a more casual version of the same. We like this version from Chimala, which is neither too precious nor too rugged.

3. Eleventy cargo pant from Stanley Korshak

Tailored cargo pants are another item that’s not new to the #menswear circuit, but soft cotton and a hint of stretch make this pair from Eleventy the perfect match for a tailored jacket or casual outerwear. And if you really are headed to Pitti Uomo, you’ll enjoy the added comfort and utility of an extra pocket for your chapstick.

4. Braided leather belt from Brooks Bros.

Simple accessories can go a long way, and the added texture that comes from a braided leather belt is a nice bridge between the denim shirt and the sharp-but-casual trousers. Besides, it’s the kind of item that will see a lot of use in your wardrobe, no matter what you’re wearing.

5. J. Fitzpatrick Westlake button boot

We’re big fans of J. Fitzpatrick’s classic-with-a-modern-twist line of footwear, and this par of button boots is an absolute stand-out. Wear them with a suit, wear them with your favorite jeans – hell, wear them with a pair of slim-cut cargo pants. You’re certain to cut a fine figure in a sea of double-monks.

There you have it. You’re ready to watch Pitti from the Fortezza, or from your computer screen. On that note, make sure you’re following Styleforum on Instagram, because next week we’ll be keeping you up-to-date on all the goings-on from Florence.

An Outfit For Pitti Uomo

Pitti Uomo 91 Preview

Pitti Uomo is more than you can possibly grasp from looking at pictures online. Sure, it’s a peacock parade, and this receives an disproportionally large amount of the media attention that surronuds the fair. But then again, this is where you’re likely to meet anyone who’s anyone in the menswear business. As I look forward to returning for the 7th time, Pitti has begun to feel like a reunion of sorts. I’ve met a lot of people at the show who I now consider friends, although they are of course too numerous to name in this text without resorting to tedious name dropping. I think pictures speak louder than words in this instance.

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… and that’s about a third of the people I’m looking forward to seeing again.

Although the crowds milling about inside the Fortezza da Basso are the butt of many jokes, being outside the fair gives you a chance to see some of the clothes that are on display inside the pavilions being worn by actual people. It’s also the place where some of the brands and makers who can’t afford a booth at the fair have a chance to showcase their clothing, shoes, and accessories by wearing them. I’ve met some of the finest craftsmen within their trade on the square outside of the main pavilion. So no, it’s not attended only by men and women who have found fame by dressing for an Instagram or tumblr audience – not that there is anything wrong with that, in my opinion.

There are a lot of people (I think around 50,000 attended the last time around), both outside and inside the pavilions. Some are there to get a chance to get a first glimpse of new collections, to see and perhaps buy some of the finest menswear in the world, and some are there to mainly to mingle. It’s a place where you can fully engage in menswear nerdery for several days in a row, either by talking about it in detail with other guys, or by studying the actual products. From what I’ve gathered from friends who are exhibiting at Pitti, the time is equally focused on making contacts for future sales, as it is on making sales during the days of exhibition.

Meeting people doesn’t stop when the fair closes down for the day. A lot of magazines, websites and brands host nighttime events. Some of the events that we never miss are Plaza Uomo’s (Swedish menswear magazine), Ign Joseph’s (shirt & accessories maker), Simon Crompton’s Symposium (this year luckily cohosted with Plaza Uomo) and a few others. I also try and squeeze in as many dinners as possible, because…you know, Italy. If you haven’t run into anyone by the time events and dinners end, you’ll have a 99% chance of meeting them at Caffe Gilli, in the historic center of Florence. I’m no big fan of Gilli’s overpriced drinks, rude staff, and cramped space, but I’ll probably find myself there at least 3 out of the 4 nights I’m in Florence.

While at the fair I generally don’t look at all the biggest or most well-known exhibitors. I can see their wares displayed in shop windows back home, and on every #menswear tumblr and Instagram account. For me, it’s more fun to venture into the exhibitors’ halls without too much of a schedule. I’m not there to buy (mainly), I’m there for inspiration, and to write about this for you guys.

Of course, makers such as Drake’s and Ring Jacket and other equally famous#menswear brands are super inspiring, and I will definitely look up their new collections, but for me it’s usually most rewarding to head into the makers section of Pitti. I always come back to this in all my trade show write-ups, but it’s where you’ll find the most new and small brands at Pitti. The ones who try out new and weird ideas, for better or for worse. It is never boring, though.

I also like to see new and inventive ideas mixed with traditional designs. A lot of the makers I often find myself talking to for the longest time are Japanese. Like Hybrid Sensor, for example, who integrate new, man-made high-functionality fibers into traditional tailoring. Of course, this is off-putting for a lot of traditionalists, but personally I’m quite interested in technical advancements in the making of classic clothing.

Other interesting exhibitors for me are:

Camoshita United Arrows – beautiful mix of Japanese austerity and Italian flair & tailoring.
Pitti Uomo 91 Preview Yasuta Camoshita
Hestra – Swedish glove makers who offer bespoke gloves in all the most beautiful materials you can imagine.

Inis Meain – original knitwear from the island of Inis Meáin, off the coast of Ireland. Sounds romantic right? Their knitwear definitely reflects it.

La Portegna – Spanish leather artists, making some of the most beautiful leather goods around.

Le Loir En Papillon – the man behind the name, Mickael, has built his own little world consisting of beautiful and original accessories. All truly personal and quite tasteful.

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Levi’s Made & Crafted – in my opinion, one of Levi’s most interesting collections at the moment.

Loic et Gil – yet another highly unique and interesting accessory maker.

Norwegian Rain – combining high tech materials with natural fibers, in both fashion forward and more traditional designs. Very Scandinavian friendly in downplayed colour schemes and clean designs.

Sastreria 91 – this is a family owned tailor and haberdashery store from Spain, owned by my dear friends Paul and Kat. They offer some truly original tailoring and accessories, all very true to their Spanish heritage.

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Kat of Sastreria 91.

Sciamat – the Ricci brothers have really made an impact with their very recognizable house style. It’s a bit daring, but I find it quite inspiring.

TBD Eyewear – a company making handmade glasses, started by the always delightful Fabio Attanasio. They have made quite an impact in a short time. Not only because of Fabio’s #menswear fame, but also very much due to the clean and classic designs.

Viberg – classic workwear boots and casual shoes. What’s not to like?

All in all, I’m looking forward to a week without much sleep, but hopefully a week that leaves me with new inspiration, ideas and friends.

This year my fiancée can’t come along because of work, but I will try to do some coverage of the fair anyway, with @Anden doing some photography.


Erik is co-founder of EFV Clothing. You can find him on Instagram at @ErikMannby. If you’re attending Pitti Uomo 91 this January, let us know in the comments below!

Member Focus: Anden

Anden, who has graciously agreed to be the first “Member Focus” of 2017,  is a classic menswear poster who manages to bring a youthful slant to a world of men accused of dressing like grandpas. Of course, in his mind, that’s no bad thing.


I have always been interested in clothes, and I remember my grandfather always being well dressed – even when taking me to the playground. How I have dressed in the past has been a matter of context, so I haven’t always worn a coat and tie (even though I always loved my wine DB jacket from Givenchy – my 90’s Christmas jacket). 

My employment for the last decade as a lawyer led me into the world of classic menswear. I work in a mid-sized firm and I have the freedom to dress as I like most days. There are days where the dark worsted suit, white shirt, and black shoes together with a soporific tie is the only available option, but the rest of the time I can dress in a variety of formal suits and less formal sport coat and odd trouser combos. 

When I started working in the firm I got me a new blue suit. Having no real clue, I ended up with one that was too large all over and I wore it with an ugly pair of black shoes from Lloyds. Those shoes and the bad fit of the suit were’nt the worst part… I spent a summer in Chicago prior to graduation, and while there I picked up a pink tie from the Trump collection. I was so proud of this splash of color that I wore it a lot. When writing this I tried to find it, but it seems to have gone missing in my latest move.

What a pity.

When I was in law school I purchased a pair of cognac chukkas from PRL (the lower grade stuff) that I wore extensively for roughly a decade. They developed a great patina, and I decided to get something similar but in black. This was my first contact with Styleforum – researching which model from RM Williams to buy. After this purchase I decided to get a better dress shoe, and influenced by the current #menswear trends at the time I went for a double monk from Crockett & Jones. This pair has seen a lot wear, and is among my most comfortable shoes. This was in 2010-2011, which is when I feel my sartorial journey started, and without SF I wouldn’t have been able to acquire all the knowledge. Posting in the WAYWRN thread is the best way to get honest feedback on your fits. 

After some purchases that I regretted, I decided to make a list of what I would like to have in my wardrobe, and my wardrobe-building started. I spent a lot of time looking for a perfect navy jacket, which I think is one of the first items to get. Well – I thought I got the perfect jacket but that has been revised since – and now I am in a place where I have almost everything on my initial list (and quite a lot more items too…). 

What defines my style? I wear sports coats with an OCBD, wool or cashmere tie and flannel trousers almost every day during autumn, winter and early spring – and very rarely without a vest in wool or cashmere. I get to hear that I dress like an old man, and to me that is a compliment. I have done my experimenting and I know what I like and feel comfortable to wear. 

I will be going to Pitti Uomo in a couple of weeks as a correspondent for SF so you will hear more from me soon. I’m looking forward to meeting those of you who will be going too. 

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You can find Anden on Instagram at @flannels_and_tweed 

A 2016 Hangover Outfit

hangover outfit styleforum

As we finally wave goodbye to 2016 and watch it dwindle in the rearview mirror, it’s not a bad idea to face the New Year (and any lingering headaches) with a sense of humor. In that spirit, we’ve put together a 2016/2017 hangover outfit that’s a combination of predictions for the year ahead, as well as a gesture to the one that just came to an end.

Let’s start with shoes. Zespa became a forum favorite overnight, thanks to clean design and some very timely sales shared in the Official Sales Alert thread. Expect to see a lot of these in 2017, as people grow ever more bored of Common Projects. We’re certain that, along with Zespa, ESK knits will continue to grow in popularity on the forum, especially since there hasn’t been a de facto piece of required knitwear since the SNS Herning “Stark.”

Second, track pants have been making another weird resurgence, thanks both to the continued rise of athleisure and some canny marketing on the part of several large streetwear brands. Kappa, in particular, featured at Gosha Rubchinskiy’s s/s2017 show this past June at Pitti Uomo, and we wouldn’t be surprised if the 90’s logo’d side tape makes a comeback as hype for nostalgia brands reaches a fever pitch. On that note, don’t forget your Calvin Klein branded trunks, which are ideal for showing off over of the top of your track pants.

Finally, a printed shirt and a really loud coat will give your hangover outfit the presence it needs to let your admirers know that you don’t take yourself too seriously. And combined with everything else, it’s a mishmash so calculated you’re bound to end up on at least one streetstyle blog, because even in 2017, those are still a thing.

You see, this year is going to be the year of the ignoring individual trends in favor of showing a middle finger to your Instagram followers. We’re all looking for the visual long-tail-keyword to define our individual fashion alt-text, and specificity – both on social media and in our wardrobe choices – is the new meta. So wear what you want to wear, and damn the consequences.

  1. Ann Demeulemeester sheep fur coat from FWRD
  2. ESK Jim cardigan
  3. Marni print shirt from East Dane
  4. Kappa Track Pants
  5. Zespa ZSP4 from END.
  6. Damir Doma x Mykita sunglasses from SSENSE
  7. Calvin Klein Trunks

How to Look Great on New Year’s Eve

At Styleforum’s global headquarters, we’re exposed to a great deal of really bad advice on how to look great on New Year’s Eve. It’s understandable – we’re constantly exposed to a great deal of really bad menswear advice in general. However, when we see suggestions as egregious as, for example, “Dress up your business casual by wearing a dinner jacket with chinos,” we do feel compelled to intervene.

Now, there’s no foolproof way to look great on New Year’s Eve, just as there’s no longer any foolproof way to look great all the time, period. After all, we don’t know what your plans are. You could be attending one of the ubiquitous 1920’s balls that pop up year after year. You may plan to arrive at a costume party festooned in peacock feathers (in which case, please invite us). You may be headed to a frat party (in which case, you have our pity). You may plan to spend the evening at home with loved ones. Our point is that there are no hard-and-fast rules for New Year’s Eve, aside from what you find written inside your party invitation. Frankly, that’s what makes it kind of fun.

Nevertheless, for those of us without glamorous balls to attend or kegs to stand upon, there may be a happy medium. New Year’s Eve is a chance for revelry and – dare we say it – hedonism, and at Styleforum we recommend you embrace that spirit in whichever form you see fit. Here are a few tips on how to look great when the lights go dim and the champagne starts to flow.


Outfit Tips

Avoid Office-Wear

Maybe this isn’t the time to wear a charcoal notch-lapel jacket and your well-worn chinos. It’s New Year’s Eve! Live a little! We’re not saying you have to wear a purple velvet suit (although you certainly could), but at least a pair of black jeans will look more festive than khaki trousers.

If you’re looking for a simple way to elevate your existing wardrobe but you don’t want to wear a tuxedo, consider sporting a trim black turtleneck under your sport coat. These look great with both solid colors and subtle patterns, and it’s an easy and inexpensive way to gussy up what you’ve got already.

Ditch your beat-up selvage denim

Bet you never thought we’d say that, but unless you’re taking cues for our most recent holiday outfit suggestion, consider hanging up your well-worn denim in favor of something a bit more polished. The aforementioned black jeans are one option, as are, y’know, trousers – black or navy are a good bet.  And on that note…

Embrace Dark Colors

Eveningwear tends to be dark, and for good reason – deep, lustrous colors pick up on the limited light sources that accompany a festive atmosphere without looking washed out or gaudy, have a more formal appearance, and are generally more forgiving under harsh light. That doesn’t mean you have to wear black, though – in fact, we recommend against it unless you’re wearing a tuxedo. Navy is a far more appropriate color for evening than grey, and midnight blue is a true classic for a dinner jacket or tuxedo. If you’re after something a bit more spirited, deep purples, navies or burgundies are rich and eye-catching without being gaudy. Options for your consideration include velvet and sharkskin, both of which look fantastic after dark.

Pay Attention to Your Shoes

We have read, on websites that shall not be named, that shoes don’t matter because nobody is going to look at your feet. Wrong, wrong, and wrong. Shoes are one of the few areas in which we regularly encourage our readers to engage in what could be construed as irresponsible spending, and one of the reasons is that people absolutely do notice what’s on your feet – including you. New Year’s Eve is an occasion that asks a bit more from us than our beat-up Converse sneakers.

Forego the chukkas, forego the pristine Common Projects, and try a pair of sleek black boots or even evening slippers for a more celebratory tone (or pumps, if you’re in a tuxedo). If you’re wearing a suit or tux, black wholecuts are always an elegant option, although oxfords – without a toe-cap – are also a solid choice for a formal occasion, and are much more versatile than a patent shoe.

Try Not To Overdo It

Seriously. Go ahead and wear that snakeskin-print dinner jacket if you want to. We can’t think of a more fitting occasion. However, we do feel compelled to warn you of the perils of over-accessorizing. The horrible truth is that you’re probably not as cool as Captain Jack Sparrow, and that few of us look nice when dripping in sparkly things.


Further Advice

Know Your Audience

Remember when we said we didn’t know what your plans are? You’re going to have to make your own judgement calls on what is or isn’t appropriate for your NYE plans. f you’re having people over for a night of board games, maybe don’t wear a tuxedo. Likewise, if you’re going out to a nice dinner with evening plans, don’t go in PJ’s. See what we’re saying here?

Wear Something You’re Comfortable In

Every year, we see photos of revelers in ridiculous themed outfits, star-shaped stunna shades, and intentionally absurd get-ups. In many of these images, tucked away in a shameful back corner, you can spot a party-goer who wasn’t quite feeling it. Maybe they didn’t really think they looked all that good in a fishnet bodystocking. Maybe they weren’t sold on the “Warning: May Contain Alcohol” t-shirt their friend insisted they wear under their jacket. Feeling uncomfortable in your own skin doesn’t lend itself to great style, and more importantly, it doesn’t lend itself to having a great time. If you really want to look great on New Year’s Eve, make sure that your outfit, even if it’s a party outfit, feels like you.

If that means ignoring everyone one of these pieces of advice, you have our blessing. We’d rather you have a great time in untied sneakers and a pair of gym shorts than feel like a schmuck in the finest tux.

 

Last, But Not Least

If you’re going to a black tie event…wear black tie.


From all of us at Styleforum, have a happy, stylish – and SAFE – New Year’s Eve!

Holiday Sales Roundup

It’s time for our Holiday Sales Roundup! End-of-year sales are now on at many of Styleforum’s favorite retailers. They are listed below for your shopping ease. We’ll be updating this list through year’s end, so check back frequently. If you’re a retailer, please email [email protected] to share your end-of-season deals.


ACNE Studios – up to 40% off (UK and Australasia)

Barneys – 10% off sale prices

Barneys Warehouse – 40% off, up to 60% off clearance

Blue and Cream – 15% off sale with code “MERRY”

Brooks Brothers – semi-annual sale on now plus 15% off sale prices

Calculus Victoria – Please enjoy an additional 15% off store-wide. Coupon code EXTRA15.

Caliroots – 30-50% discount

Capsule Toronto – up to 30% off

Coggles – up to 50% off

Dents – sale up to 60% off.

East Dane – Get up to 75% off with code TREATYOURSELF

Edwin  – Our Winter SALE starts this morning with 20% OFF selected items from the Autumn/Winter 2016 Collection

End Clothing – Sale up to 50% off

Epaulet – Extra 30% off sale items with code: Holiday-30-Off-Sale

Esk Cashmere – Seasonal sale, varied discounts

FEIT – 50% off a selection

Flannels – up to 50%.off

Frances May – up to 60% off

FWRD – Expanded sale selection

Graduate Store – Boxing Day Sale up to 70% off outlet

Grana – The No Mark-up Sale

Gravity Pope – 20% off sales prices, 25% off winter (Click to see codes)

Haven – Up to 70% off, no code needed

Isaia – 50%+ sale. Suits for ~$2k, shirts $275.

J Crew – an additional 50% off sale styles with code THEBEST

La Portegna – up to 50% off

Lost Found Shop – Take 25% off using code ‘miketyson'(even the sale items!)

Luisa via Roma –  Insert code AFS20 at checkout and click ‘Apply’ for 20% off your order

Marcus Malmborg – up to 30% off

Matches –  Sale up to 60%

Mohawk General Store – 30% off

Mr. Porter – Up to 50% off

Neighbour – 15% off with code UNBOXED

No Man Walks Alone – 20% off with code VORTEX

Oki-Ni – sale up to 50% off

Orlebar Brown – Up to 50% off

Our Legacy – 40% off

Rag & Bone  – Extra 25% off sale with code SALE25

Ralph Lauren –  Sale up to 65% off plus an additional 30% off sales styles with discount code 2017

The Real Real – sale up to 50% off

Saks Fifth Avenue – Sale up to 70% off

Sneakerboy – 50% sale

SSENSE  – sale now up to 70% with new markdowns

Steven Alan – 40% off a selection with code EXTRA40

Stone Island – STONEPRIVATESALE16 for 30% off

Sunspel – up to 30% off

Suspension Point – 25% off storewide with code BOX2016

Theory – Sale up to 60% off

Tres Bien Shop – WINTER SALE NOW ON, starting online with up to 30%

Understudy – Boxing Week Sale is on, Up to 40% OFF. Code: BOXWEEK15 gets you an extra 15% off orders over $300 CAD

Wings & Horns – End of Season Sale

Wrong Weather – up to 40% off

Yoox – Extra 25% off, no code needed

 

Best of Styleforum Classifieds, 12/21/2016

Every week, enterprising Styleforum member @razl takes time out of his busy schedule to search for what he can call the best of Styleforum’s classifieds. Out of that glittering company, we’ve picked our five favorites to share.


 

1. Ralph Lauren “Anthony” Shawl Lapel Tux, 699EUR – sold by @dijor (NEW)


We spent all of last week teaching you about the ins and outs of black tie, and this is one heck of a timely opportunity. This tux hits all the right notes – single button, shawl lapel, welt pockets, and a lovely trim cut – and at under 800$ (vs. $2500 at retail), this is quite a deal.


2. Crockett and Jones Connaught Oxford, Sizes 8.5 & 10 US, $349 – sold by @jreigen (NEW)

Speaking of classics, these beautiful Crockett & Jones “Connaught” oxfords in black calfskin will give you years of use if you take care of them properly. And again, for 50% of retail, you’re getting some serious mileage.


3. Begg & Co. Cashmere Scarf, $200 – sold by @dsutton (NEW)

Since 2016 is seeing itself out with a freezing blast, we definitely recommend avoiding frostbite with fine Scottish goods. Take, for example, this Begg & Co. scarf: cashmere so supple it feels almost liquid, and a pattern complementary to almost any outfit. We’re sold.


 

4. High End Fall/Winter ties (Vanda and Drake’s), $95 – sold by @TweedyProf (LIGHTLY USED)

One of Styleforum’s resident masters of neckwear, @TweedyProf, is selling what we think is a very handsome selection of ties appropriate for the winter season. They’re certainly robust enough in both fabric and design to stand up to your cold-weather wardrobe, and you’ll save a bundle over the retail price. If you’re looking to supplement your winter tie selection, look no further.


 

5. John Lobb “Chapel” Prestige Edition, $1,200 – sold by @MrVenneri (NEW)

Oh, baby. If you’ve got the budget for a pair of shoes that tops a thousand dollars, take a look at these beauties. John Lobb’s famed quality and craftsmanship, in a gorgeous and totally not Pitti-hashtag-worthy double-monk makeup. Yes, they really are that gorgeous.


 

Those are our picks for best of the bunch, but you can see @razl’s full list here.

Blue Blue Japan SS2017

The Blue Blue Japan SS2017 lookbook has just been released, and we’re pleased to share it with you. For the spring season, Okura’s house brand has gone slightly punk, with Western-style patchwork jeans, souvenir jackets, Doc Marten-style 10-hole boots, and even braces – all dyed indigo, of course.  Even the boots, which look aIn addition, they’ve showcased some beautiful gradient dye-work, which is really a house specialty. While you can still expect to find all your favorite Blue Blue Japan standbys – such as beautiful patchwork garments and hefty sashiko – it’s nice to see the brand take a more directional approach for their seasonal lookbook. As usual, there are some stellar women’s garments, and the full breadth of Blue Blue Japan’s offering really deserves a look, if only for the sheer intensity of their dye work. A slideshow selection is below, but you can see the full catalog, and even order directly via email, here.

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All photos courtesy Blue Blue Japan/ Seilin & Co.

5 Member Tips for Great Men’s Style

Styleforum’s members have built a reputation for offering fantastic, if highly opinionated, tips for great men’s style. They range from simple suggestions to take to your tailor, to complete philosophies encompassing life, the universe, and everything.

Are you looking for rules? Guidelines? Confirmation that your own way is the best way? Here, some of Styleforum’s best-regarded members give their take on how you can look great.


1. Dr. Nemo on the topic of learning how to dress:

“Fact is, we are all winging it. What matters is the fit with who you are. I’m a research engineer who is also a bassist in a jazz ensemble. No rules for that other than try what seems right and see how it feels. I’m fortunate to know Terell Stafford and Tim Warfield. Both have a great sense of style on and offstage. I just used Google Images and found a lot of shots of them in higher style and more casual clothes.”

2. @Ramuman, on the topic of what to buy:

“First, the fit of the clothes is the most important thing that people notice. When they compliment an outfit, the first thing they are likely to have notice is the fit (assuming you’re not wearing some ugly color or design). A properly tailored middle of the road shirt will look better than an off the shelf expensive shirt. Second, there are certain things worth spending more money on because they’ll stay with you. Shoes, I think fall into this category. Suits too, but it doesn’t seem you’re going that route. Third, get cloths that are still you. Just because you hear ten people here say that Levi’s Vintage Classic jeans are the best doesn’t mean they’re what you want. The same goes for looks as a whole. If you don’t feel like you can pull off a lavender shirt or a scarf, don’t go for it. A big part of this whole thing is the confidence you gain.”

3. @Berlin Report’s #1 Style Tip:

“Never try to find a substitute for something you think is financially out of your reach. You might end up buying several cheaper things in the hope of satisfying the need for that expensive one but you’ll probably end up spending the same amount and not [be] one bit happier. If I can’t buy it, I don’t have it. Less is more.”

4. @Veremund, on when to match your date’s outfit:

“Repeat after me: ‘I am not a handbag. I am not a woman’s fashion accessory. I will not coordinate my outfit with my dates attire. Ever.'”

5. @fuuma, on how to not look too put together:
“-I almost never press my jackets so they wrinkle at the elbows and often are somewhat rumpled all over. I also throw them pretty much anywhere at my place or wherever I am.

-I’m lazy so I often take months/years to do repairs most make within the week; from small rips to lost buttons.

-I don’t change to go out or do whatever so I sometimes get spills or worse on my clothes, I usually don’t get them cleaned very soon (see above).

-I scuff my shoes ‘cause they’re just shoes, I also don’t dress according to weather so often end up soaked or messy in a variety of ways.

-If I feel like wearing the same jacket three days in a row I do, remember; no pressing afterwards.

-I don’t polish my shoes often although I don’t dislike doing it. Mirror shines are for Nazis.

-I don’t have 65 jackets and 34 pair of pants, they wear in more quickly.

-Never clean up white shoes or sneakers, they look better dirty.

-I only shave once or twice a week.

-Longer hair, messier hair.

-I smoke and often spill ash on my clothes, I don’t clean up because I’m lazy and I’m going to dirty them again anyway.

-No colourful socks; you look like an anal-retentive child molester.

-Stop doing pocket square origami, just shove it in.

-A nice suit, dress shirt, shoes with a tie is being dressed appropriately, without the tie it’s luxury.

-I’ve been periodically thinking about replacing my wallet for years but always forget, it really does look trashed.

-I almost never button my shirt sleeves.

So basically be a disgusting slob and you should be ok.”


Wise words, don’t you think? If that doesn’t sate your appetite for style tips, check out Styleforum’s “What are you wearing today” threads. If you’re looking for tailored inspiration, try the Classic Menswear edition.

If you’re after the best of designer and street fashion, check out the Streetwear and Denim version of the discussion.

Below, check out some great examples from Styleforum members.

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