Meet Dua - Singer Extraordinaire

Meet Dua, an incredibly talented singer and the front man for Bad Rabbits. We met Dua awhile back and wanted to capture his individual style, while also playing up his fun side. We ultimately settled on a double breasted jacket in a gray and purple check, then accented the pockets and lapel trim in black, accompanied with black buttons, black pants, and a light grey shirt with black buttons. The sheer joy he expressed upon trying on the jacket for the first time was priceless. Once he put the entire outfit on, we were floored. Paired with his thick black-rimmed glasses, Dua looked the epitome of geek chic. 

Age: 31

Hometown: Weymouth, MA

Current residence: Weymouth, MA

Occupation: Singer

How long have you been a 9tailors client? 
"Less than one year."

Why choose custom?

"I choose custom because it makes me feel important."

What/who inspires your style? Why? 

"Yasiin Bey, Don Cheadle, Sly Stone and Kofi Annan."

What is your favorite piece from 9tailors? 

"My jacket."

What would be your style advice to other men in your professional field? 

"Always. Turn. Heads."

Sage advice, Dua. One should approach their closet with this mantra every day!

Peep the pictures of Dua below, provided by our favorite photographer, Channing Johnson.

Do you like the double breasted look or do you prefer a two-button jacket? Email a Style Consultant any of your style ideas at info@9tailors.com.

Holiday Wishlist: Mark Anderson

Name: Mark Anderson

Occupation: Defensive player for the Patriots

Hometown: Tulsa, OK

Current Residence: Foxborough, MA

How long have you been a 9tailors client: less than one year

I recently worked with Mark Anderson of the Patriots designing a suit and shirt for his upcoming events. While he was mostly easy going and open to suggestions, there were a few stipulations:

• the suit must look good with brown shoes
• the shirt and suit should be coordinated but not matching
• on trend but not over-done

Most guys are operating on a limited selection of accessories. This means ties, pocket squares (if any), and shoes. With that in mind we set to work designing an inspired outfit to give an air of effortless cool.

After looking through hundreds of options we settled on this suit shirt combo.

We chose a medium grey which will look great with brown shoes, or black once he expands his shoe collection. The fabric also has a subtle plaid pattern to it with light pink, blue, and purple accents to make it more interesting. To coordinate the suit and shirt we played up the colors with a light purple striped shirt.

Like Mark's style? Set up an appointment with a 9tailors style consultant today to design a suit shirt combo for your style. Send us an email at info@9tailors.com for more information.

Black Friday - Buy 3 Get 1 Free Holiday Gifts

Happy Thanksgiving and Black Friday to everyone!

No holiday season would be complete without the Boston-famous buy 3 get 1 free deal. Go ahead and go wild with some new shirts for a new year. Did I mention we have new fabrics? Hundreds of them.

Beat the Black Friday crowd. Contact us at info@9tailors.com or call us at 877.513.1898 if you want to want to gift the Buy 3 Get 1 Free to another person. 

Get creative, get classic, get crazy, just get some new threads. Don't forget to spread the style either. True love is wanting everyone else in your life to look as good as you- thanks to your favorite style consultants at 9tailors.

Think you might miss the deadline? Get a 9tailors gift card, design a shirt or, have a shirt designing party! Just get yourself looking fresh.

Email us at info@9tailors.com to set up an appointment today!

Terms & Conditions

• The promotion is valid now until December 31, 2011 at 11:59PM EST.
• If you do not purchase the qualifying items when the promotion is in effect, the discount will not apply.
• The promotion applies only to qualifying custom shirts in the C, D, E, and F categories.
• Unless the promotion indicates otherwise, it applies to the lowest-priced qualifying item and may not be combined with other offers.
• All qualifying items must be purchased in one order for a single client.
• If you return any of the promotion items, we will subtract your discount from your return credit. 
• Shipping and handling charges apply to all promoted items.
• Void where prohibited.

Shirt of the Week!

The creativity never stops at the studio. This shirt is the first of its kind to roll through the studio. The talented designer loved it so much he decided to do it again- the possibilities are endless. Shake up your button-downs with some exciting additions like contrast buttons or accent fabrics- anything is possible.

Don't have shirt envy, make your own! Email a style consultant today to set up an appointment at info@9tailors.com.

Pants that Changed the World

Fads come and go but some make an impression that lasts. Check out the pants that changed the world, even if their brightest moment was fleeting-thankfully.

Probably the most memorable pants are those that MC Hammer famously flaunted.

Their unflattering silhouette makes for a diaper inspired look even on the most toned bodies. These should only make an appearance on Halloween.

Another fad tragedy was Zubaz. Created by a couple wrestlers on the road who wanted something more comfortable, and fashionable, to work out in these pants took the world by storm. Usually worn with a mullet and equally ostentatious shirt these pants guarantee to please even the most discerning of fashionistas.

The company went bankrupt a few years after its birth and was subsequently named in the top three horrible things to happen to sports that year. What a legacy for zebra print.

The most recent of the three would be this...Sagging.

Why must boys show off their underwear? There is nothing flattering, or practical, about wearing your pants well below your backside. And, why is he wearing a belt?

If you wore any of these, or worse, still do, please contact a style consultant at info@9tailors.com to make an appointment. We will get you some good fitting slacks that complement your shape, and will stay put while you walk.

Defining Fit

When buying a suit, either off the rack or tailored, it is imperative to understand the different forms of fit available that way you are better equipped to describe your requirements. While custom suiting offers more versatility in terms of shape and structure there is still basic terminology that will help you get your preferences across.

At 9tailors we work with our clients to make garments that fit exactly how they imagine their clothing to fit. For some this means a roomier fit, others want it to feel like a second layer of skin. Whatever your preferences, we have a fit to suit you. Now I will break down the three basic choices.

American: This is our roomier option. This is for men that prefer more room between themselves and the suit, upwards of 5 inches. It has more movement room but also looses some of its shape in the process and becomes slightly boxy. It is less tapered in the waist than its European or skinny counterpart and is reminiscent of how a suit would fit if purchased off the rack. The model in the photo below is pictured wearing a European cut suit with a red outline to demonstrate how the suit would fit had it been an American cut. The legs would be wider and the waist of the jacket much less tapered.

European: This is our most popular option. It has roughly 3 to 4 inches of ease between your body and the suit. This fit has a tailor look without becoming restrictive. The legs of the trousers are tapered without being slim and calling up images of skinny jeans. The jacket is trim at the waist without pulling and giving off the image you are wearing your younger brothers clothing. It has been described before as a confident fit. The slight taper lends itself to show off (or create) broader shoulders and a trimmer waist, making those who wear it feel confident.

Skinny Fit: This is usually reserved for the seasoned professionals of custom. It is extremely fitted and close to the body with an ease around 2 inches. The model below, featured in a European fit, is outlined in red to illustrate how a skinny would fit. As apparent in the photo, it is very slim through the legs of the trousers and the body of the jacket is trim against his waist.

These are just templates to allow your style consultant to gather your preferences. The beauty of custom suiting is having the ability to get your suit to fit your body properly. But by understanding the underlying fits offered you are in a better position to make decisions to fit your body and lifestyle.

Email us today, at info@9tailors.com, to set up an appointment with a style consultant who can help design a suit for you with your favorite fit!

And Back by Popular Demand... Buy 3 Get 1 Free!

With over 1,000 shirting fabrics to choose from and millions of possible combinations we thought we would make it a little easier for you to cover all your bases by extending the deadline for our most loved promotion. Buy 3 get 1 free is back, but only for a limited time, until the end of July.

Go ahead and stock up so you don't have to worry about having the right shirt when an unexpected event occurs. Send us an email at info@9tailors.com if you would like to make an appointment with a style consultant. Don't like to plan ahead? Feel free to stop by when it strikes your fancy!

Terms & Conditions

• The promotion is valid now until July 31, 2011 at 11:59PM EST.
• If you do not purchase the qualifying items when the promotion is in effect, the discount will not apply.
• The promotion applies only to qualifying custom shirts in the C, D, E, and F categories.
  
• Unless the promotion indicates otherwise, it applies to the lowest-priced qualifying item and may not be combined with other offers.
• All qualifying items must be purchased in one order for a single client.
  
• If you return any of the promotion items, we will subtract your discount from your return credit.
  
• Shipping and handling charges apply to all promoted items.
• Void where prohibited.

Fashion as History: Suit Sleeve Buttons

At 9tailors we get all sorts of clients coming in the studio. Some want to be dressed properly with minimal amount of involvement and some know exactly what they want. But it's the curious clients that push your knowledge farther. They want to know what a sleeve placket is, if french cuffs come with a sleeve placket button, why suits have sleeve buttons and the questions keep coming. The last question was slightly vexing. Why do suits have sleeve buttons? Clearly for decoration now and in ceremony of tradition, but how did they get there in the first place?

After doing some diligent Google searches it seems there is no consensus. A few different tales exist as to why suits have sleeve buttons.

Theory #1: The commander tends to change throughout the stories, but the foundation remains the same. It goes something like this: An army commander was tired of the slovenly appearance of his troops. How they wiped their noses, wounds, and all other sorts of bodily fluids on their sleeves. To prevent his troops using their sleeves as Kleenex he had buttons sewn on the sleeves to it would scratch their noses and deter the men from unnecessarily dirtying their coats.

This is refuted because the placement of the buttons would not be enough to prevent using your sleeve as a handkerchief as you can simply rotate your wrist and have a space free of face-scratching hazards. But some claim the original placement of buttons was around the cuff rather then up the sleeve, this may have had slightly more impact on the nose-wiping phenomenon
Above is a photo of British military uniforms used in the Revolutionary War. The cuffs on the jackets are encircled in buttons which simply adds to the evidence in favor of theory #1.

Theory #2: This is a double whammy. Essentially for the versatility sleeves had buttons, working buttonholes mind you- a surgeons cuff. Some said it was for surgeons to be able to unbutton and roll up their coat sleeves as to keep them out of blood and guts. Another idea, quite similar, was for soldiers to roll down their sleeves, made purposely longer, during the winter to cover their hands for extra warmth.
Here is a photo of a surgeons cuff. It would make it much easier for medics to roll up their sleeves on the battlefield to keep clean.

Theory #3: Another idea as to the use of sleeve buttons was for handkerchiefs or gloves. It was a place where men, and soldiers, could hook their items. Possible, but not nearly as cleaver or entertaining as the first theory.

Theory #4: This has been floating around simply because of its common sense approach to the whole idea. Some have said it was just a place to store extra buttons. This is feasible. Although, why wouldn't tailors put the buttons in a safer place (inside the jacket) as they do today?

Had anyone heard anything else that may be the cause of buttons on suit sleeves? Let us know!

Want to pick your own special buttons out? Contact a 9tailors style consultant with your ideas today! Email us at info@9tailors.com with your vision of the perfect suit button.

Try This: Linings We Love

Custom has many perks. Not only do you get to design the fit and style of your garments but you can also add some touches that make your garment extra special. From monograms to linings we have plenty of options to satisfy your appetite for one-of-a-kind clothing. Below are some linings that really went beyond the standard.

This paisley number was actually sought out specifically for this client. Remember, if you can dream it up, chances are we can find it for you.

This pinstripe number didn't shy away from a print either. With zebra lining and a red welted edge this really makes a statement. No chance of mixing up your jacket with another when it is this personalized.

It may seem somewhat irrelevant to some, placing patterns and colors inside a jacket, but its all part of creating something that is so uniquely you it boosts your confidence and is the beginning of an inspired day.

Let at 9tailors style consultant know if you have an idea for the lining of your jacket that can't be found off the rack! Send us an email at info@9tailors.com to get some more information.

In the Know: The Custom Process

With all the style tips and ideas coming your way we thought it would be important to let everyone know, who hasn't worked with us before, how the Design It Yourself process works. Sam, the founder and CEO, like to refer to our work as, "build a bear for custom clothing." Essentially we help our clients, men and women, sift through all the options to find exactly what they are looking for based on the events they plan on wearing their new garments to. So, let me walk you through the process.

1. The Meeting- As a first time client we like to get to know you. Asking questions about your work culture and lifestyle you live is crucial to helping us help you. By finding out what you wear to work, the fundraising events you attend, the number of weddings you frequent and, the types of events you participate in gives your style consultant a better idea of what you are looking for.

2. Choosing the fabric- After the initial meeting you and your style consultant will begin looking for the desired fabric. We have somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,000 swatches of suit material and nearly 1,200 shirting fabrics to sift through. Your style consultant will make it a manageable process by searching for specific styles to match your preferences and fit your lifestyle.


3. Style Components- Shirts: Now that you have chosen the fabric that compliments you, you will choose your collar, cuffs, placket, back style, and buttons. If you wear a tie your style consultant will help you choose a collar that will not only fit the type of knot you tie but also complement your face shape. If you are planning to use it as a casual shirt your style consultant will show you some options, such as the roll tab or button down collar, that are appropriate for the occasions you plan to wear the shirt to.

4. Measurements: To ensure a proper fit we take, at minimum, 14 measurements for shirts and 24 for suits. Another thing to consider is bringing in a suit or shirt that you really like so we have a better idea of how you prefer your clothing to fit.
For suits the wait is somewhere between 3-4 weeks. It is slightly longer for shirts taking 4-5 weeks. If you have ordered more than one shirt and it is your first time working with 9tailors we will only submit one to start with. That way we can ensure we have your measurements and fit preferences perfect before making more.


5. First fitting- After your items come in we will ask you to schedule a fitting. Now we are open 7 days a week to make it even easier to find time to come in. The fittings last for no longer than 30 minutes. You will come into the studio and try on your garments and your style consultant will walk you through each component of the suit or shirt and check on the fit. This way you can be confident in the fit of your new clothing.
For suits first round alterations are common. These are done locally and will typically take about a week to be completed. At that point you can come back to the studio for a second fitting.

6. Second fitting- After all required and requested alterations have been completed on the suit or shirt you can come back for a second fitting to confirm the fit. If you are satisfied with the fit you will be able to take it home and begin wearing it! If not, we would be more than happy to alter the item again or reorder it to your specifications. With a 100% satisfaction guarantee the risk is eliminated.

7. Take it home- After you take it home you have 30 days to test drive it. Go ahead and wash your shirts, we suggest you launder rather than dry clean them to prevent unnecessary wear and tear. Get the suit pressed and wear it out. This is the best way to really decide if something fits you properly. Go dancing, go to those client meetings, go traveling, that way you can really decide if the fit you chose fits your lifestyle and comfort preferences. If you find there is something you want to change feel free to bring it back to the studio and we will make any necessary changes, all alterations within that 30 day period are included.


8. Repeat steps 1-7. Now that you know the process don't be shy about designing all your shirts yourself. Get creative!

Contact a style consultant today at info@9tailors.com to begin the DIY process!

Try This: The Roll Tab

Summer brings the addition of more casual components to one's wardrobe. Keep it classy while not overheating with this sneaky little tab, the roll tab. Hidden under your shirts sleeve it makes its entrance to prevent excessive sweating and constant fidgeting to keep your sleeves rolled up. Yet, despite its casual appearance this tricky number can be converted into a more formal dress shirt, by hiding the tab so conveniently under the sleeves, to be worn with slacks or under a suit if necessary.




Have it made in a contrasting color for a more fun shirt or do one in all white for a sleek version of this summer staple.

Contact a 9tailors style consultant to make any version of this shirt you can dream of at info@9tailors.com!

Try This: Stripes and Plaid

The beauty of custom is being able to design something that truly fits, in every way, you. Below, one of our clients paired a thick orange stripe with a bold blue plaid contrasting fabric.

By keeping classic design components such as a mid spread collar and single button mitered cuffs the shirt is not overwhelmed with accents.



Email a style consultant, info@9tailors, to design a wardrobe infused with your personal style - without breaking the bank.

Get This: Stopping the Stink

New England rarely transitions nicely from winter to summer, here we are with 90 degree weather right after a week of chilly rainstorms. Because of the erratic weather it may be hard at first to ditch the bulky sweaters and thick leather boots but they will quickly look out of place among the Sperrys and polos. Much of the summer footwear is not designed to wear with socks. Gross, you may say, but if done right there is no problem, or stench, that comes along with going sock-less. Here are a few tricks that will stomp out the funk that could be your feet.

If at all possible, don't wear the same shoes two days in a row. They will not completely dry out overnight and will leave you putting your feet back into an already damp environment where bacteria can grow.

Another trick is to get shoe trees. Go ahead and splurge on the high quality cedar ones which absorb moisture and control odor. It will keep your shoes in good condition for longer. Treat your loafers and slip-ons to some relief from your sweaty hoofs.
Another tactic is to get odor absorbing inserts. Cheap and easy to come buy at the local pharmacy, these will save you money on ruining shoes and prevent watery eyes when you take your shoes off.

If you really don't want to go sock-less, please get yourself some socks that sit below the top of your shoes, invisible socks. Those beloved bright white, or worse dingy, tube socks sticking a half foot above the top of your shoe is not anyone's best look. Try some of these instead.




Need something to wear with your summer shoes? Stop by our studio or email us at info@9tailors.com for an appointment with a style consultant.

Groomsmen Gifts

Those burly men traditionally protecting the bride and her dowry are now throwing bachelor parties and embarrassing you. These are your groomsmen. Get them something good to reward them for a job well done- that is if she makes it to the wedding in once piece and not all your secrets were aired during their speeches before your closest friends and family. Here a just a few ideas.

For the rustic men- cattle branders. They can go wild branding everything in sight with their initials, as long as it belongs to them.

A customized dress shirt from 9tailors. Get them the gift of style while making sure they look great all lined up behind you. Add some special details to make it personal such as a monogram or contrasting fabrics.

Unique cufflinks. Although this gift is more traditional, you can't go wrong with a good pair of cufflinks. Try to get each groomsman a set that reflects their personality.

For the TravellerFor the Sailor

For the Jock

The goal should be to get them something they will actually use. Pocket knives, engraved flasks, memberships to local clubs or a beer of the month club are just a few more ideas. We might be partial, but a custom dress shirt is probably the best gift ever. Email us at info@9tailors.com to make an appointment with a style consultant! And don't forget about the referral program.

How To: Wear Colored Suits

Yesterday we explored suit options beyond black and charcoal. So the next logical step would be how to incorporate this new look into your wardrobe. Many of these options may be too wild for the workplace so keep in mind your professions feelings towards your attire before donning an electric blue blazer in the morning before that presentation.

Simon Spurr

These two suits are great for the summer months when the thought of dark wool suits already has you sweating. The first is for the man who loves pink, yet it may not work for the office unless you're the boss or its an easygoing atmosphere. The second, white, suit could be worn by anyone. Leave out the vest if it's not your style. The classic lines and subtle pinstripe makes keep it classic and current at the same time.

Loden Dager

The contrasting monochromatic lapels are the defining part of these casual jackets. Only for the weekend, or casual Fridays. Pair the jacket with dark washed jeans or well fitting khakis.

Tommy Hilfiger

No stranger to color Hilfiger has created some bold pieces. The first could easily work for the office. Swap brighter blues- not too bright if you want them for work wear- for those navvy suits that are indistinguishable from black. The second jacket could be paired with blue slacks and worn in the evening. Pair the jacket with jeans for a daytime look.

Points to Remember:

• Impeccable fit- if your suit fits poorly, colors will call up images of the circus. Avoid this with custom made suits from 9tailors.
• Lighter colors work better for work. If you are still uncomfortable with a pink suit, try working in some pink pinstripes on a light grey suit.
• Break up bright pieces with textured neutral pieces.
• Love the looks above? They do carry designer price-tags- to avoid taking out another loan rivaling a mortgage, make an appointment here for any suit you can dream up.
  

Top 5: Colored Suits

Suits can become a little boring. That weekly rotation between your navy, charcoal, and black suits must become a little tedious. Here's to hinting at another style. Men avoid colored suits because they are in fact hard to handle. But just take a look at some of these; stripes, colors, and patterns to entice you to try something different.


Lardini Cotton-Linen White Suit
White is not a color, some would argue, but it is at the very least the exact opposite of every dark and reserved suit you have in your closet. Not appropriate for the office it serves as a great casual suit for the coming summer months.

Moschino Blue Two Piece Suit
This is the ultimate statement suit. Swap that black tux for a blue suit for those required formal events. Too fierce for the office, don't unleash this beast til after the sun goes down.

Junya Watanabe
One of a kind, only for those that really want something different.

3.1 Philip Lim

When wearing a suit that is so different from your usual, keep the other design elements the same; notched lapels, two button closure, slim lines. Keeping a consistent silhouette will make you feel more comfortable.

Timo Weiland
A shockingly bright jacket can always be paired with a muted, textured pant to keep things under control. But don't be afraid to get bold with your colors.

And #6, as always, choose your color from 9tailors. We can make suits in any shape, any color, and any fabric you can dream up. Come in today, let's get creative.