Menswear Myths
Setting the Record Straight
Certain ideas linger in the air. They might settle in and threaten to be accepted as received wisdom. The next thing we know people are running around calling something a modern classic when it’s merely pretty good.
So here are some sartorial truisms that end up being not that true at all.
1/ Bespoke is Better. A bespoke suit can be a thing of artisanal beauty. So is a vintage Jaguar. But you don’t drive the Jaguar everyday. Why is that? It’s expensive, it’s special, it’s a little rarefied, and it requires a certain amount of effort to get in the mood. Same with a bespoke suit. Most men will look perfectly good in a made-to-measure suit (or off the rack, if tailored correctly). There’s nothing inherently redeeming in wearing the most expensive thing you can buy. By all means, if you are passionate about tailoring then aim high. But that’s not the only way.
2/ A White Shirt is the Best Dress Shirt. A bright white shirt can wash out the complexion of many a fair-skinned male. Pale blue is the ticket. And you should have one (probably two) in your arsenal. And, this may be a leap for some of you, but off white, subtle cream is also good. There’s a reason Charvet has bolts of off white fabrics on their exalted second floor. Go take a look sometime.
3/ Creative Black Tie Should Be Fun. When BLACK TIE appears anywhere on an invitation then wear a tuxedo. But don’t get whimsical on us. Don’t try to be funny. Put on your tuxedo, the way God intended, and don’t get all irreverent. If you want to lighten the mood then wear a good silk scarf or velvet slippers. And if an invitation says BLACK TIE OPTIONAL wear a tuxedo and be the one who sets the standard.