If you're just starting out building a tailored wardrobe you love, this page is for you. You'll find a curated selection of posts that cover some basic knowledge that can guide you on your way, from the abstract to the very specific.
You'll also find the tailored brand reviews I've done all linked in one place—Anglo-Italian, Ring Jacket, Spier & Mackay, SuitSupply, etc. These are all companies who make a tailored jacket I would recommend to anybody who wants to dress well in a contemporary context.
And finally, don't miss out on my eBook (linked at the bottom). It will give you an even better foundation of knowledge for how to build a trend-proof tailored wardrobe that'll make you excited to get dressed everyday.
Advice in Action
The Tailored Menswear Starter Kit
A practical, useful guide to help you put outfits together for professional settings, social settings and special occasions, using a tailored approach.
5 Ways to Wear a Navy Blazer
The navy blazer is the unassailable go-to tailored jacket at the foundation of your wardrobe. Here are a handful of ideas for ways to wear it in different circumstances.
The Superiority of Dark Gray Trousers
Gray trousers are the most versatile options. But I submit that the best-looking are dark gray. Read why here.
Why You Want a Long Lapel Line
The buttoning point of your suit jacket or blazer determines how long the line of the lapel is; find out why you want a long lapel line here.
An Object Lesson in Jacket Length
Two similar jackets in the same size show how much better-looking a longer jacket is.
The Unassailable Appeal of the Oxford Cloth Button-Down
A century-old classic, invented here in the USA, the OCBD is an ideal shirt for so many reasons. This post breaks down why.
Is the Year-Round Suit a Myth?
There's a strong and appealing argument for dressing seasonally, and the year-round jacket has been rightly maligned for being boring. But let's examine these ideas more closely.
The Perfect Coat
The balmacaan has a rightly earned position as an excellent coat to wear dressed up or dressed down. I got ahold of my "grail" coat, talked about why it's great, and link to a bunch of similar ones.
The Coziest of Sweaters
A chunky shawl collar cardigan is one of the best, most comfortable things you can buy. And it can serve as a stylish alternative to a tailored jacket.
How to Tell Whether You Can Wear a Suit Jacket Separately
A suit is a tailored jacket and trousers made from matching fabric; when is it OK to wear the jacket on its own?
Jeans and a Sportcoat
Kind of my whole schtick is wearing sportcoats that look good with jeans—and jeans that look good with a sportcoat. It's a look that fits well in the world we live in. I have some thoughts about how to do it well, however.
Get Yourself a Black Dial Steel Sports Watch
You want one watch that's wearable with a casual outfit as stylishly as with a suit and tie? Look no further than the black dial steel sports watch. It was good enough for Don Draper, so it's good enough for you. Read this post for why, and to find links to many, many great options to fill that role.
My Guide to Denim and Chambray Shirts
I love denim and chambray shirts for how they pair with tailoring, bringing formality down a touch.
Add Visual Interest to Your Outfit With Cotton-Linen Shirts
There are many great weaves of shirts with plenty of great texture, but cotton-linen fabric is one of my favorites year-round for adding a bit of that great slub of linen without being totally rumpled.
Try Cotton-Linen Trousers for Summer
I favor cotton-linen trousers in summer for their breathability, texture and washability. Sure they're not as dressy as wool, but they wear cooler than chinos, and aren't as loosey-goosey as pure linen.
Two Tips for Nailing Your Trouser Fit
Tailored trousers can look sleek and clean, or billowy and frumpy. Here are two tips to help you discern why you might not be happy with the way yours fit.
How to Wear a Scarf in a Non-Pretentious Way
Scarves are a functional item that can be meant to keep you warm, but in certain lighter fabrics can also be worn as an alternative to a necktie.
How to Wear a Pocket Square
Similarly to a scarf, a pocket square can be used to sub in for a necktie in this casual age we live in. Here are some basic tips for wearing a pocket square stylishly.
Should You Wear Tassel Loafers?
Kind of a fussy, somewhat dainty pair of shoes—are they manly enough? I argue yes, embrace the ornamentation.
General Advice
Learning To Use Color and Contrast
Most people have heard of the color wheel, and how complementary colors are visually pleasing; add contrast and you have a framework to use when deciding what things to pair with what.
The Joys of a Seasonal Wardrobe
Variety is the spice of life. Having a rotation of clothes you store away, then pull out for their appropriate season, gives you not only satisfaction but is a practical way to reduce wear and tear.
Balance Utility With Style
Balancing the utility of clothing with its style is the number one most important consideration I think men need to learn to make.
Satisfaction in the Unquantifiable
Beyond the basic aspects of fit, quality and fabrics, what brings satisfaction?
Bring Some Drama Into Your Clothes
There's nothing inherently wrong with slim fit, slim lapel, narrow shouldered jackets, but allowing fabric to drape on your body with a little more drama is all together a much more interesting experience.
Try to Keep an Open Mind About Brands You Usually Don't Wear
It's easy to live comfortably in the preconceived notions we have about brands, never venturing outside those notions. But don't do that! Expand your horizons!
How to Up Your Style Game Without Looking Like an Old Man
Tailored blazers and suits are great because they’re flattering and can therefore boost your confidence. However, one pitfall is they can make you look older, and not in a good way. You want to look sophisticated and mature—not like a grandpa. Here are some tips.
The Radical Act of Perfecting the Basics
Anybody working in a creative endeavor is constantly pushing themselves to do better, to do more, to find new horizons. Without growth there is only death. Yet there is a powerful case to be made for understanding the basics of a good wardrobe and perfecting them.
Adjusting Your Perception of What Fits
Two specific aspects of a tailored jacket's fit and how they impact the overall silhouette.
Why I'm Still Wearing Tailored Clothes in 2022
The pandemic threw everything into uncertainty, and world instability between nations is hugely concerning. Here's why I'm still wearing tailored clothing despite it all—and why I think you should, too.
Darker Tonality in Dress
Taking inspiration from some well-dressed guys who pair darker individual pieces to create a moody, sophisticated outfit.
Tailored Clothing Brand Reviews
Over the last few years I've been showcasing makers whose clothes I think fit well in our contemporary context, are stylish, good-quality and hit a mid-range price point. If there's a brand you'd like to see reviewed, feel free to reach out and let me know!
You can find all my reviews, including shoes, shirts and other brands here.
Kickstart Your Style With My eBook
If you're looking for more guidance, you definitely want to read my eBook. Building a wardrobe that makes you look good, feel cool and which express your style doesn't have to be overwhelming. In my eBook you'll find extremely practical, real-world tips for building a tailored wardrobe you'll be excited to get dressed in every single day.