Debunking the Myth of Strictly Casual Khaki

As you know, 9tailors now carries Khaki suits. Not just in the infamous khaki color but also in sand, wheat, mocha, slate, olive and black. But I think we should debunk the myth that khaki suits can only be worn for casual occasions. During the sweltering summer months cotton can be a life saver during more formal outdoor events. Here are some ways to wear cotton khaki suits that wont limit you.

Check out the pockets on this guy. Add a ticket pocket to your 9tailors suit and it will destroy the notion khaki is casual. The sophisticated style of the suit, pocket square, and tie bar make it fitting for summer weddings or a night out on the town.
Here is a great example of a khaki look for work. Not just for Fridays, khaki that looks this good can be worn all week. Looking sharp with a blue shirt and blue tie he pulls the look together with dark brown shoes.


Think of all the bonuses! This suit can be worn with any color shoe, no clashing of brown and black here. Choose black for more formal events or during the evening and brown for during the day. The pants can also be worn separately and the jacket looks great with jeans. Now you have 3 looks in one.

Contact a style consultant here to build yourself a suit to set you apart from all those wool suits running around. Email us at info@9tailors.com if you have any questions or would like some more information.

Top 5: Spring Gear

Spring doesn't always come in pleasantly; unexpected flurries and downpours mixed with scorching heat will make for some interesting weeks ahead. Make life a little easier by having the proper gear available. No one wants to be caught wearing snow boots when that rainy day turns into a scorcher. Just as no one wants to be without a jacket when the flurry hits. In other words, spring means being versatile.

1. Choose jackets that are water resistant at the very least. A proper rain jacket would be best, but even Scotchgard-ing your jackets will keep you drier, longer, and protect it from additional wear caused by the elements. Check out the jacket below here.

2. Choose your shoes wisely- avoid suede. When potentially dealing with rain, snow, and shine you can borrow from the ladies and keep a pair of shoes at work while wearing boots on your commute, like these. Rather not keep shoes under your desk? Keep your leather lace ups in good condition and a few puddles shouldn't do too much harm.

Another strategy is to switch out your investment pieces for nice, yet cheaper, versions. Like theses ALDO shoes for around $60, check them out here.

3. Actually keep your leather kicks in good condition! Easier said than done, try going the extra mile and get yourself some leather treatments so your shoes will last another season. An extra 15 bucks now could save you from having to drop a few bills on new shoes later.

4. Keep yourself dry. I have heard my male friends talk about how uncomfortable they feel carrying around an umbrella, as holding one instantly makes them less-manly.

Gentlemen, it keeps you dry! Plus, it could always be a great conversation starter when the woman who works in the building across from you was less than prepared and could use your assistance. Check out a standard, compact, black umbrella here from REI. Or, use a cane like umbrella for added sophistication.

5. Layer upon layer. During the winter months thick wool and heavy jackets are fine as the weather is consistently between cold and freezing. When the spring hits, it gets a little messy. So keep comfortable by having something on for every temperature. For casual occasions start with a t-shirt under a hoodie then a leather jacket, add a scarf for effect. For more formal outings try a button down with a vest under a blazer or sport coat- add a top coat if necessary. Or switch the vest for a sweater when the weather calls for it.

Here is a couple off the runway looks and another straight from the streets.

Remember; thinner clothes first, stay comfortable, and try to mix in some color.

Need some nice button downs for layering? Let us know at info@9tailors.com if you would like to set up an appointment with a style consultant.

How To: Equip your closet for Spring

Lauren Antos, Mens style extraordinaire, outlines 6 key pieces for revamped spring ensembles.

6 Key pieces to add for Spring:

1. Utility or Members Only Jacket.

Easy going enough for everyday wear, but can also be dressed up for a truly versatile piece.

2. Linen. Monochromatic white ensembles, pants, and shirts.

This trend is easily transcends the runway to everyday wear.

Below, some of the most recognizable style icons demonstrate their take on monochromatic attire.

3. Gingham and Plaid.

Best summer shirting print, keeps your look fun and fresh.

4. Great Spring shoes; sneakers, sandals, and oxfords.

Please, please, leave the tennis shoes for the gym. Try on of these options instead!

5. Light weight sweater.

For those not-quite-summer nights.

6. Relaxed casual suit in white,light blue, grey or seersucker.

Suits can be playful without looking clownish.

Let 9tailors know if you have any questions about your spring wardrobe, or if you need a more hands on approach, feel free to e-mail Lauren.

Top 5: Must Haves from Stylist Lauren Antos

There are several different ways I can help men through personal shopping and styling. One way is a complete overhaul; revamping a closet and an entire wardrobe to better fit his likes, needs, lifestyle and physique. Sort of an "out with the old, in with the new" option.

Another service offered, is to help put together outfits using what he already owns while possibly adding a few new key pieces or accessories. I also offer to shop specifically for an item or accessory that he knows he needs but isn't sure of what exactly to buy such as, but not limited to, tie, shoe, or jean shopping. Services range from a complete wardrobe makeover to guidance and suggestions to strict shopping.

5 things every man should have in his closet:

A reversible leather belt; one side black and the other brown. There's a time and a place for a "worn in", vintage looking belt, but its definitely not with a suit or a crisp pair of dress pants. I suggest reversible because it "kills two birds with one stone" and makes it easy to never be stuck with a mismatched look such as a navy suit with a black belt and brown shoes.

White v-neck t-shirts. They are such a staple piece and are so versatile. They can be worn solo, with a casual suit, or under a leather jacket, blazer, or flannel. I suggest you opt for quality ones and leave the Hanes brand for the flannels and at-home lounging. Among my favorites are LNA and James Perse.

Nice outerwear. Whether it be a rugged leather, utility jacket or a sleek wool dress coat, go-to outerwear is a must. The fit is important as well as the shape, color, and fabric. You should pick something that fits your lifestyle and personality.

A perfectly tailored suit. A classic single or double breasted suit in grey, black, or navy. Fit, fit, fit is all I can say. If you have the means, the extra cost to purchase a custom suit is well worth it. If you go with a solid or a very subtle pin stripe, it will be easiest to mix and match shirts, ties, and other accessories.

A casual blazer and cardigan. Both can be thrown on over a tee or a button up and can be dressed up by adding a tie or scarf as well. They are both good layering pieces to have in your wardrobe and can be utilized year round.

To contact Lauren for additional Spring Tips, contact Lauren by e-mail.

 

Wednesday's Get This - Not Your Ordinary Socks

 Convention tells us that our socks must match our bottoms. While this is a good rule of thumb to avoid the dreaded white, athletic socks with black shoes look, it can be a little dull. Here are some amazing places to liven up your footwear for spring (and they don't have to put a major dent in your wallet....)!

Marcoliani Socks - the ultimate in men's hosiery

Marcoliani boasts the finest yarns, perfect fit and easy care. Their spring/summer collection is made with cashmere, cashmere-silk, extrafine and fin merino wool. Soft and breathable. The best part? They come in some really lovely colors. But, if you don't want to spend $25.00 for each pair, there are still some other affordable options.

  

The Joy of Socks also have some terrific, affordable options. These are great if you are looking for creative twists to traditional patterns, such as stripes and argyle. The socks above have a small percentage of spandex or nylon giving you the stretch and comfort that you need. One of the socks above even has mustaches on them.

If you are interested in graphic socks, look no further than Urban Outfitters. They have socks with anchors, wolves and owls. Wear these with your casual footwear. Plus, they're not too expensive; these socks start just at $8.00.

If you're going with colorful socks, just remember to choose colors that complement or match with your outfit.

Need a great spring shirt to go with your cool socks? E-mail us at info@9tailors.com or go to 9tailors.com.

How To: Rock Your Socks

No longer should drab greys and bland blacks rule your sock drawer. Give your feet the attention they deserve with eye catching socks. As winter slowly comes to an end and boots are swapped for lighter loafers try a bit of a bold sock peeking out from under your pants' hem.

Below the street style expert Tommy Ton captured some of the best moments for socks this season.
































Try fire-engine red with a tailored grey suit, electric blue with a fitted black suit, stripes with a navy blazer and khakis, get creative. Go wild, they're just socks.