By D.K. (dapper kid), as seen on Haute Mimi

As dichotomous as it may sound, the truth is that it is often the most basic of designs that are the hardest to perfect. A garment as simple as a blue t-shirt can be used to create a larger array of outfits and looks than one would first give thought to.

By contrast, when deciding on how to build an outfit, a visually complex and detailed t-shirt is oddly the more restrictive option when it comes to one’s own creative freedom. As such, making sure that one’s basic garments are of a high quality is essential to building a wardrobe that is fully functional and stylish.

 

The above pieces are from the debut Spring/Summer 09 collection of Spindle & Canister, created by Los Angeles based designer, Temitayo Abidoye. Seeking to create classically inspired pieces that would fit seamlessly and comfortably into the modern man’s wardrobe, Abidoye paid careful attention to getting the hard basics correct in order to create a line of investment worthy pieces.

The use of quality fabrics including jersey, thermal and cashmere provide a luxurious warmth and comfort to the collection. Indeed a combination of comfort and function is also realized in Abidoye’s employment of pre-shrunken and softened fabrics. The idea behind this decision was that the clothing retains a consistent quality and fit, a functional detail, which in itself, makes the collection even more appealing. Not only does one note the pre-shrunken fabrics. However, the smaller details, such as the worn buttons, create a more coherent look to the pieces. The slimmer, more fitted profile of the garments, which flatter the wearer and also manage to provide a more modern silhouette, means that any Spindle & Canister garment would make a perfect addition to any man’s wardrobe.

By D.K. (dapper kid), as seen on Haute Mimi

A good selection of shirts is essential to any man’s clothing collection. The shirt can be worn both dressed up and dressed down and adds an instant smartness to any outfit. Adding a simple tie can add class, yet an open collar can exude a laid back and effortless style. The key to looking good in a shirt is simply knowing which type of shirt you require for your specific outfit and some basic rules for wearing a shirt.

The most important thing any man should know, is an understanding of a shirt and the types available. This may seem pretty straightforward, however armed with this knowledge, you will find that you are able to make a more appropriate choice when shopping and when dressing generally. The construction of a shirt is simple enough to work out from visual inspection. The key parts to identify are: the collar, the spread, the placket, the cuffs, the arms, the two front panels, the yoke and the back panel. These are the pieces that make up your shirt, and the individuality of each piece will lend itself to which thickness of tie you can wear it with or whether or not you can wear it open collar, to name two examples.

Collar
The collar and spread of a shirt are undoubtedly the most important parts of a shirt, both visually and style wise. The collar has been a part of men’s fashion for hundreds of years and the modern day meaning of the word is thought to have emerged around the year 1300. However even though it has been around for this long, many men still are unsure as to the types and which to wear on a certain outfit.

The basic type of collar is actually called the ’spread collar’, which is seen most often in the shops. It tends to be between 3 and 6 inches between the tips of each respective collar, and this spacing is actually key to your look. With a smaller spread, you will want to go for a thinner tie blade and a thinner knot — for example, a basic four-in-hand. With a wider spread you will be able to go for a thicker knot, such as a half or full Windsor. These shirts are mostly worn with a tie, however, depending on the fabric and cut, you can wear casually, for example with a sweater or cardigan. For the smarter spread collar you will often require ‘collar stays’, which are placed behind the tips of the collar, usually in a pocket already sewn in by the manufacturer. Many shirts will come from the store with a plastic stay already in them, however, good quality silver or metallic stays can be bought for a guaranteed straight collar.

‘Slim Fit’ shirts mostly require a thin blade tie, however more often that not can be worn open collar. The reason for this is that the spread is smaller and that the fit is more akin to a t-shirt. In contrast, a shirt with a wider spread will almost always require a tie, looking far too wide on the chest when worn open collared. The slim fit shirt, worn either open collar underneath a sweater, or with the collar open, rolled up sleeves and a casually hung tie, will look good. The versatility of a slim fit shirt therefore makes it a worthwhile basic addition to any man’s wardrobe.

For a more casual shirt, simply paired with linen or denim trousers and footwear such as deck shoes or loafers, a ‘button down’ (usually an Oxford) shirt is worn. The button down refers to the collar, which is buttoned down at the tips, although the term is often incorrectly used in American English for a general ‘dress shirt’. The button down collar is a feature of the sports shirt, and is usually not worn with a tie, although there have been exceptions such as Gianni Agnelli (who also wore his tie outside of his sweater!). The fabric of this type of shirt is usually a washed cotton, or often a linen blend. The shirt will be more fluid and less crisp, meaning it can be a very rugged and practical shirt. For a button down shirt, a plain color is not usually a good choice. Opt rather for a micro print, plaid or washed color, to fit in with your casual look.

These are only two of the main types of collar, however other styles such as a ‘tall’ or ‘eyelet’ collar also exist. I chose these two as they are the most commonly worn collar styles, and indeed they are the most essential styles for a wardrobe.

Cuffs
The other main part of the shirt that must be chosen with care are the cuffs. Cuffs are a very important detail in a shirt that many men often overlook. There are various types of cuff, however the main two are the ‘barrel’ and the ‘double’ (often called ‘French’ cuffs). The barrel cuff is the most simple, with a single length cuff closed with a button. This type of cuff is most commonly found on casual shirts. The smarter option is the double cuff, which as the name suggests is double the length of a traditional cuff, and is folded back over on itself. This type of cuff is usually bound with cuff links of a silk tie. The cuff is therefore a detail point where a man can use a suitable decorative cuff to finish his look.

The amount of cuff shown is also a key consideration, as it actually draws attention to the hands and can visually lengthen the arms. One example would be early Hollywood dancers, who would use their white cuffs to draw attention to their hands, where they would twirl batons of sticks. Generally speaking, you will want to show around one to two inches of cuff. One important thing to note is that when wearing a double cuff, you will want to avoid a full sleeve sweater or cardigan, as the prominent shape of the cuff will stretch your knitted top.

General Tips
Fit is a key consideration. You want something that is fitted at the shoulders and back. This is usually down to the ‘yoke’ of the shirt, which is the piece of material at the upper back of the shirt, that dictates the fit and shape of the rest of the shirt. You want the shirt to fit well, however not too restrictive when leaning forward. Equally, your sleeves ought to cover most of your watch when you put your arms out in front of you. Remember that a slightly tapered shirt will usually be your best option, otherwise the fabric will balloon around your lower torso. The length of a shirt is also a key consideration, as it will determine how the shirt can be worn. Generally, if the shirt is longer, you will have to tuck it in. If you want to wear the shirt loose, you will want a shorter length, that does not fall too low.

Ties
Ties are a natural accessory for most shirts, however, this can also ruin an entire look.

1. Generally speaking, you want your tie to be darker than your shirt, as this provides the most definition and gives a focus.
2. Color wise, go with something that complements your shirt. For example, a dark blue on a light blue shirt.
3. When going for clashing colors, make sure than the shades are correct.
4. Patterns on both shirt and tie are most often avoided, however, if done right they look wonderful. Usually a micro pattern on a shirt paired with a larger pattern on the tie will look better.
5. The fabric of the tie you want is usually determined by the fabric of your shirt and suit. You will want fabrics such as wool for a washed cotton or linen shirt and wool suit, however, for a crisper suit and shirt a silk tie is recommended.
6. The width of the tie blade and type of knot are based on the spread of the shirt and the break point of your suit, so pay careful attention to these details.

As noted for Spring 09, accessories will be big - on every level. Mainly due to the fact that the garments you see will be more about clean lines, perhaps even a little relaxed. Marc Jacobs and Paul Helbers, men’s wear studio director, complemented the look that is Louis Vuitton. Though the collection was reserved, prints made their appearance in soft ways. Trousers went from tailored to pleated — the draped effect that was all over the runway at Fashion Week in September. I loved the mix of color (when colors were introduced), even Kanye West's red sneakers (his design). And the sporty motif did a nice job of balancing many of the looks. Although, I have to admit, the white hat resembled marshmallows stacked upon the model's head, even oozing into his eyes. Poor guy.

Working with men on their personal style has confirmed what I have always believed ... men care about how they look (almost as much as women). Whether they admit it or not, men want to look stylish. And some, more than others, embrace today's fashion of trimmer cuts in shirts and pants.

The holidays are filled with parties and events, ranging from work celebrations to neighborhood gatherings. While there are many variations in dress, here are a few ideas to spark your creativity.

Some work parties occur at the end of a work day, so be prepared by bringing a different jacket to wear, like this light brown velveteen jacket or this black velvet jacket. Embrace change with textures and fabrics, as well as patterns. And add flare in your accessories — ties, cuff links, belts, shoes and watches.

You may work in a business casual environment, but that doesn't mean you can't go to the party in style. Whether it's adding color through a shirt, mixing a cashmere sweater and dress pants, or kicking your shoes up a notch, there is always an opportunity to express yourself. It's fun to experiment, however, sometimes it's best to keep it simple. We are all guilty of trying too hard at times. Choosing the right pieces for you is the key.

If there is ever a time or place to let your style genius out, a neighborhood gathering is a safe place to do it. After all, you are among friends, so go for it. Though jeans and a shirt may sound ordinary, they don't have to be. If you pick the right jeans and the right shirt to mix together, it will feel completely different (and your friends will notice). My clients will tell you, one of my top wardrobe staples for men is a black dress shirt. It's so versatile — it can go from the boardroom to a casual dinner out. And it makes a man look distinguished. If you want to go even further, look for a patterned black shirt which can be paired with jeans or dress pants.

For men, it's all about the fit. Truly, it can make all the difference. So ensure that you are wearing your correct size. And whatever you decide to wear, wear it with confidence. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.