Author Archives: Ben Gottlieb

Cheat Sheet: Summer Wedding Suits

August 1, 2017

As much as we love the celebrations, finding the right summer wedding suits can be tricky. Balancing breathability and comfort with dress code appropriate style isn’t always easy in the summer months. The solution? Formal looks in lightweight fabrics.

Every year we’re seeing more and more, great options in lightweight fabrics that are perfect for summer wedding suits. Lighter wools, linen blends, and even cotton suits are a totally fair game (as long as your style is on point).

Let’s break down some top tier wedding looks that’ll keep you cool and comfy all day long; plus catch the eye of a bridesmaid or two.

khakisuit

Jonathan is wearing Baldessarini Khaki Suit (priced at 30% off $1095 now $766.50)

A light tan suit, chambray shirt, and some bright summer accessories. The formula is simple. It’s summer, so feel free to break some of the old school style rules as long as your look has a consistent theme.

Instead of matching the belt to brown shoes, we’re feeling the blue here. A lighter blue belt compliments the darker chambray shirt perfectly. A crisp white pocket square and killer shades top off the suit with timeless class.

Summer wedding suits can be that easy.

plaid suit and polo

Jonathan is wearing Hardy Amies Suit separates and Lab by Pal Zileri Polo

Versatility = key.

Especially when it comes to hot summer days. The great thing about this outfit is that it goes from button-up ceremony to dance floor in 2 seconds flat.

Bold checks and double monk strap shoes are perfect to start the day off. Lose your blazer later on and enjoy the freedom of the polo underneath. Win win.

Jonathan is wearing Hardy Amies Cotton Tuxedo (sold separately, $345 pants and jacket $795)

As much as we’re seeing many summer wedding suits head towards more casual dress codes, you’ll still encounter a more formal event from time to time.

Don’t worry — you can reserve your heavy black tux for fall. This lightweight cream option is actually cotton (though you could never tell by looking).

Great details like a single button jacket with peak lapels ensure you’re just as dapper as the guys sweating it out in their all season tuxes.

We love pairing a light blue shirt underneath for a bit of contrast that stays true to the summer vibe.

 

blue gingham suit

Jonathan is wearing Hardy Amies Gingham Blue Suit (priced at 30% off $995 now $696.50)

Yes, you can wear a t-shirt with your summer wedding suit. No, it can’t be a vintage band tee.

Here’s how to do it right:

  • Pick a classic suit in a blue or neutral tone, that’s not too boxy on the shoulders.
  • Style like you normally would — formal belt, dress shoes, watch, etc.
  • Now find a solid colour tee (this is essential) in a luxe fabric with some micro texture to it. A linen blend, premium cotton, or even a woven tee will do the trick.
  • Make sure your tee color contrasts from your suit. This is still a wedding — you’re not a club promoter. And on that note: please, no chain necklaces.
  • Tuck the tee in. Again… still a wedding.

C R E D I T S: Photographer: Christopher Massaro | Model: Jonathan Jonathan Zakus @ Angies Models | Stylist: Shaeleigh Afton

From August 3 – August 9, 2017, you can buy one suit at regular price and get one suit for free.

Ready to get started? book an appointment to shop in the store or find a store near you.

The Guide: Shorts for Every Occasion

July 7, 2017

Summer crept up on us this year. We’ve got another two months of hot & humid days ahead, which means you need to be ready to rock shorts for every possible occasion. Do yourself (and your boys) a favor — stock up on some breathable options for downstairs.

Just like with your pants, you should plan your shorts rotation with versatility in mind. What works at a pool party won’t at the office… you know the drill. Let’s take a look at every occasion you’ll face this summer and break down what you’ll need for each.

The Office

Before we dive in let’s be super clear: if it hasn’t been overtly stated that shorts are cool at your office, err on the safe side and don’t risk it. For those who are fortunate enough to work in offices where shorts are cleared, you still want to err on the safer side when it comes to the shorts you do wear. Go with classic cuts (AKA it has a button and zipper). Basically, think chinos, but shorter. Ted Baker has you covered.

Ted Baker – Exsho Geo Print Chino Shorts ($175)

ted-baker-shorts

Errands

When you’re looking for off-duty shorts, comfort is key. So is something that’s easy to pair with any shirt on the top. We love this pair from Barney Cools. They’re comfy as hell and the neutral beige colour goes with anything — from tanks to tees to patterned button downs. These will be your instant favourite.

Barney Cools – Chino Drawstring Short ($100)

chino-drawstring-shorts-barney-cools

Nighttime BBQ

Your buddy is hosting a BBQ that will no doubt turn into an all night rager… and it’s 34 degrees & climbing. You’re going to need shorts that are basically the more breathable equivalent of distressed denim — stylish, comfy, and definitely nowhere close to anything found on Middle Class Fancy. Just like on the denim front, the guys at Kollar have got you covered.

Kollar – Coated Denim Moto Short ($149)

kollar_clothing_Moto_Shorts

Poolside

Poolside is where you can have the most fun and earn some real style points with your shorts. When it comes to bathing suits, we’re all about the prints. Because you’ll be rocking them sans-shirt (or with just a basic top)… go wild! If you’re comfortable in them, you can pull them off. Just make sure they hit somewhere above your knee and a good couple inches below your junk. Within that range, it’s up to you how much thigh to show.

Handsome Me – Flamingo Trunks ($75)

flamingo-shorts-handsomeme

Bonus: Pro Tip

When you’re wearing shorts, all of a sudden your boxer game becomes a whole lot more important. The risk for accidental undergarment appearances skyrockets. And it goes without saying that your boxers need to be skintight (for your sake and others’). Grab a pair of SAXX. You can’t put a price on ease of mind, let alone comfort.

SAXX Vibe Boxer In Pineapple Bomb ($33.95)

Saxx-Modern-Fit-Boxer-Pineapple

 

• Shop a bigger selection of men’s shorts here.

Airport Style | How To Travel Right

June 22, 2017

When it comes to airport style, it’s easy to tell apart the novices from the pros who know how to travel right.

Don’t be that guy with the terrible airport style. You know the one… wearing a t-shirt from the last location he visited tucked into jean shorts. With high socks and sneakers that should’ve been left in 1997. A rolling suitcase that could double as a coffee table. You’re better than that.

Airport style is surprisingly easy. The key to success? Focus on clean, comfortable, and versatile fits. Let’s check out some well-executed travel looks and break down how to do airport style right.

David Beckham

david-beckham

A seasoned travel vet, Beckham nails this functional & comfortable airport look. Notice how he skips the large baggage for a knapsack and duffle — both easy to carry-on and a huge time saver when you land. A comfy crewneck sweater works well with his slim denim. He tops off the look with the smartest move of all: chelsea boots that slide on and off with ease. Shoelaces and airport security do not mix.

Shop the Look

Vitaly – Classic Crew Sweater with Ribbing ($99)

vitaly tan crewneck sweater

Gotstyle – Sleek Chelsea Leather Boot ($295)

chelsea boot gotstyle black

Idris Elba

idris elba

Comfortable? Versatile? Check and check. Elba keeps his baggage light with a simple backpack. A Henley and light wash denim makes for a clean, masculine airport style that takes all of 0.2 seconds to put together. Don’t overthink it — this is perfect.

Shop the Look

PYA – White Long Sleeve Henley ($95)

Nudie Jeans – Lean Dean Indigo Spirit Denim ($239)

Lean Dean Indigo Spirit

Rains – MSN Backpack ($110)

Ryan Reynolds

ryan reynolds airport style

Sensing a trend here? Reynolds skips the suitcase in favor of a carry-on duffle. The Canadian keeps his outfit minimal: well-cut chinos and a v-neck sweater. Comfortable for a long flight and fresh enough to confidently step out afterward.

Shop the Look

Monte & Coe – Wool Felt Duffle Bag with Leather Trim ($489)

monte and coe duffle bag

John Varvatos – Knit V-Neck Sweater ($125 – on sale)

Aziz Ansari

aziz ansari airport style

We’ll give Aziz a pass on the big suitcase (his flight was transatlantic). On his way back from Italy, Ansari kills this classy/casual airport look. Loafers and lightweight chinos embody sharp Italian style while remaining comfortable and functional for a long flight. A simple t-shirt and low-key accessories add some polish. This look works for literally any guy.

Shop the Look

Clae – Navy Winston Loafer ($150)

Blue Industry – Beige Cotton Chino ($155)

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Got any airport style questions? Let us know in the comments below!

5 ways to elevate office style

5 Ways To Elevate Your Office Style

February 1, 2016

Cover photo credit: Van Gils

You know the guy that’s a little bit too obvious about being on a 5 day work wardrobe rotation? Don’t let that guy be you. It may be easy to get caught in the trap of wearing a boring office uniform, but dressing for success is key to showing professionalism and ambition. Switching up your style and taking things to the next level can be easy. I’m here to help with 5 ways to elevate your office style.

OFFICE STYLE TIP #1: GO CUSTOM
When it comes to suits, great fit matters over everything. Even if you don’t wear a suit every day, it’s important to have a perfectly tailored suit in your repertoire for meetings, presentations, and events. Think of your best suit as your go-to for when you need to step things up —  and nothing will fit (and look) better than a suit made expressly for you.

For details on the made to measure process, pricing, and advantages, Gotstyle’s tailor extraordinaire Konstantine has got you covered.

OFFICE STYLE TIP #2: ACCESSORIZE
The easiest way to elevate your office style is to add new accessories to your existing office wardrobe. It’s simple addition by, well, addition. Lapel pins, pocket squares, tie bars, shoe laces, and even work bags are all ways you can add pops of style and colour.

HOOK + ALBERT RED POLKA DOT FLOWER OFFICE LAPEL PIN
Hook + Albert Red Polka Dot Flower Lapel Pin: $30

A CHRISTENSEN RED PAISLEY PRINTED OFFICE POCKET SQUARE
A Christensen Red Paisley Printed Pocket Square: $45

Weber Slim Office Tie Bar
Weber Slim Tie Bar: $40

Sully Wong Burgundy Leather Laces
Sully Wong Burgundy Leather Laces: $35

URI MINKOFF FULTON LEATHER OFFICE BRIEFCASE
Uri Minkoff Fulton Leather Briefcase: $438

OFFICE STYLE TIP #3: ADD A VEST
A vest is a simple way to class up any office look. Wear it with one of your standard 2 piece suits to add complexity, texture, and contrast. Or, just roll up your sleeves and wear it over a well fitted dress shirt as a more casual look (this looks good on literally every guy).

contrast office vest
Photo Credit

One thing to watch out for: don’t try to match a new vest colour to an existing suit. Unless you have the exact same fabric, it won’t work, and will look off. The solution? Go with a contrast vest, and introduce a new colour to the suit entirely. It’s an unexpected look that shows off your style chops. Grey and blue (like in the photo above) always pair well, and can be used interchangeably between vest and suit.

CIRCLE OF GENTLEMEN KENYON HERRINGBONE SHAWL DB VEST office
Circle of Gentlemen Kenyon Herringbone Shawl Double Breasted Vest: $175

OFFICE STYLE TIP #4: WEAR A TIE
If you don’t normally wear a tie, step up your office style and wear one! There’s no better way to show you mean business.

If your office is casual or you don’t see yourself as a “tie guy,” try a knit or textured tie as a casual midway point between your usual laidback style and something that’s too formal.

THE COMMON FOLK YURAKUCHO INDIGO DYE HOUNDSTOOTH TIE office

The Common Folk Yarakucho Indigo Dye Houndstooth Tie: $100

OFFICE STYLE TIP #5: SUITS WITH BOOTS
Wearing a suit with boots is an awesome way to switch up a stale office rotation, but you need to do it right. If your suit fits well (which it should), the boots you pair with it need to be sleek and slim fitting. You want the outfit to look well put together and intentional — and not like you haven’t changed yet from your morning commute. The best way to achieve this? Chelsea boots.

gq suit office chelsea boots
gq office chelsea boots

Both of these looks (courtesy of GQ) add some rocker edge to a suiting look, without being too chunky or out of place. It’s a menswear power move, and you can totally pull it off. Reserve this look for fall and winter, and make sure to match your belt and boots to keep everything tied together.

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Ready to step things up? Gotstyle’s stylist team has got you covered. Book your appointment today at 416-260-9696 or info@gotstyle.ca.

Maximize Your Blazer: 5 New Ways To Wear A Classic

January 26, 2016

A great blazer is one of the most reliable and versatile pieces in any guy’s wardrobe. The classic way to wear a blazer is similar to a suit jacket — with a dress shirt and tie — but slightly less formal (the jacket isn’t a matching set with the suit pants). The differences between a blazer, sport coat, and suit jacket can be subtle, but they’re important to know.

Think you’ve got the classic blazer look covered? Great. Let’s step up your style to the next level, and explore 5 new looks to make the most of your awesome blazers that have been trapped in the confines of nine to five.

BLAZER LOOK #1

double breasted navy blazer look
Tiger of Sweden Navy Double Breasted Peak Lapel Blazer: $599, Stenstroms Slimline Basic Dress Shirt: $195, Nudie Jeans Grim Tim Organic Dry: $179, Gotstyle Double Monkstrap Wingtip Shoe: $225

A double breasted blazer with dark denim is a modern power look any guy can pull off. The double breasted blazer is bold, so pair it with a solid colour dress shirt and let the blazer do the talking. Always keep the inside button and upper outside button fastened when standing. The only time you shouldn’t do up a button is if your blazer has multiple rows of buttons on the centre. If that’s the case, the same rule as with single breasted blazers applies — leave the bottom button undone.

Make sure that when wearing jeans with dress shoes the jeans are well tapered at the bottom, like on our model above. This will add height and slim down your look. If the front cuff of your jeans covers either of the monkstraps, it’s a sign the cuffs are too wide.

It may not be what you’re used to, but trust me, tapered lower legs are the way to avoid the dreaded “dad jean flare” you may not even realize you’ve been rocking. Once you wear one pair of properly tapered jeans and see the difference, you’ll never go back.

BLAZER LOOK #2

black blazer single breasted notch lapel Strellson Black STC Travel Jacket: $598, John Varvatos Grey Eyelet Henley Shirt: $98, Nudie Jeans Grim Tim Organic Dry: $179

Throw your best dark blazer on over a designer tee, jeans, and military style boots to pull off a Justin Theroux inspired rocker look. Some tips to make sure you do it right:

  • Treat this as a casual look. A t-shirt with a blazer is cool. A t-shirt with a blazer when everyone else is wearing a suit? Not so cool.
  • Make sure your jeans are tapered right. Come on man, we already talked about this.
  • Let your boots develop some character.
  • Leave the blazer unbuttoned — with a t-shirt, better to keep it casual.
  • The t-shirt should hit just below your belt.
  • Avoid tight tees. When wearing a t-shirt with a blazer, try not to look too…slick. I like to gently tug on the collar of my shirts before wearing them under a blazer. A bit of a slouchy look is perfect. You’re not wearing this to a black tie event anyways, so it’s cool to grunge up this particular blazer look.

BLAZER LOOK #3

blue blazer athleisure joggers
Van Gils Blue Pindot Blazer: $550, John Varvatos Green Striped Hoodie: $180, Zanerobe Black Sureshot Chino: $125, Sully Wong x Gotstyle Camo Shoes: $125

Here’s where a blazer can be useful as a transitional layering piece. Pair a casual, natural shoulder blazer like this one with a hoodie, joggers, and luxe sneakers for a super comfy outfit that will turn heads. In the right way.

Make sure the hoodie is thin. Not just any hoodie will work — too thick and it won’t layer nicely with a properly tailored blazer. As much as you love your college sweater, save it for the couch and opt for a sleeker fitting piece.

Seize this opportunity to wear your coolest, boldest sneakers (as long as they match what you’re wearing above the ankles). Joggers were made popular by sneakerheads because they show off a guy’s kicks — so go all out! An eye-catching pair like these ones from Sully Wong elevate the look from good to great.

gotsyle x sully wong camo sneakers

Sully Wong x Gotstyle Camo Shoes: $125

BLAZER LOOK #4

preppy blue blazer look polo swims Gotstyle Navy Wool Notch Lapel Blazer with Metal Buttons: $695, Selected Homme Charcoal Skinny Fit Stretch Chino: $95, Swims Navy Sport Loafer: $100, Taft No-Show Socks: $60 (4-pack)

This preppy spring/summer look works best with a navy blazer. Start with a polo, tucked or untucked (I prefer untucked, but either can work). Roll up your blazer sleeves a bit, even cuff your pants at the ankle if you feel like it. Slim fit chinos are a must, especially when your loafers tie in to the rest of the outfit as well as these ones do.

Pro tip: when going “sockless,” wear no-show socks. The exact same look is achieved, minus the blisters and lingering stink. You’re welcome.

BLAZER LOOK #5

preppy blue blazer look polo swims Without Prejudice Charcoal Flannel Blazer with Elbow Patches: $525, Blue Industry Purple One pocket Crew Neck Knit Sweater: $105, Horst Black Ceratex Herringbone Knit Pants: $128

This is a great transitional layering outfit for fall days when you don’t quiiite need a jacket yet, or the end of winter when you’ve ditched your parka for the season. The different textures (fuzzy flannel on the blazer, herringbone pattern pants) complement well and are way comfier than you’re used to for a look this sharp. The thin crew neck sweater under the blazer gives you some flexibility on whether to button or unbutton.

Last thing — show some cuff. Having that sweater peek out from both the chest and sleeves may not be something everyone notices, but those who do will appreciate the attention to detail.

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Ready to pull the trigger on your new blazer look? Our team of stylists is here to help, with private appointments and free wardrobe consultations. Book your appointment today at 416-260-9696 or info@gotstyle.ca.

Remember to bring your blazer(s) with you when you shop. Try layering them with different pieces, and see what works best for you!

ace your job interview

How to Ace Your Job Interview

January 19, 2016

Your resumé was polished and they loved your cover letter. Perfect. You got the interview. You know you can nail it, but one big question remains: what are you going to wear?

Dressing well for an interview shows professionalism and that you understand the culture you’re going to enter. It’s a great way to make the right impression and be memorable to the interviewer. It’s not rocket science, but there are some things you need to know.

Consider three things when picking your outfit:

  1. Industry — Would you wear the same thing to a conservative bank as you would to a casual tech startup?
  2. Job function/department — What flies in marketing may not be greeted as enthusiastically in accounting.
  3. Seniority — Younger guys should err on the safe side, versus someone more established in their career who has “earned” the privilege to dress with a little more flare.

The common theme here? Know your audience.

Unless you’ve been specifically told not to, wear a suit. You’ll look your best and most professional. It shows you respect the interviewers’ time and take this seriously.

Now, let’s get into the details.

THE SUIT
When dressing for a job interview, the safe play is a dark charcoal or navy blue suit. Charcoal tends to be the more conservative of the two — but you really can’t go wrong with either. If you’re having trouble deciding, once again: consider your audience. Paul Betenly makes an awesome starter suit in both charcoal and navy.

If you’re interviewing for a more senior position or a job in a more creative industry, a brighter blue or lighter grey suit can work too. A black suit is never okay unless the job is in the funeral business.

One last thing — please, please make sure your suit fits.

THE SHIRT
Your interview shirt should also fit great. Check out our video guide for finding the perfect shirt to make sure you’re doing it right.

For the style details, go with normal cuffs (not french), and a spread or semi-spread collar.

In terms of colour, solid whites and light blues are most conservative. These go well with any suit. Stenstroms and our own Gotstyle-Lipson shirts are both fantastic options.

For a bolder look, try a micro pattern. A geo pattern like the one below from Oscar works well.

THE SHOES
Never, ever wear a square toe dress shoe. Say no to square toe.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, I recommend black or brown leather oxford dress shoes for an interview. You can’t go wrong with an oxford shoe in a business setting. The Gotstyle Cap Toe Derby Shoe is a perfect example.

Double monkstraps are a riskier alternative. Only consider these in situations where — you guessed it — you’re interviewing for a senior or less conservative role. And again, keep the colour to black or brown.

No matter what shoes you choose, make sure you give them a good shine and that you’ve worn them before. Often a new pair of dress shoes takes some time to work in, and the last thing you need is blisters on the day of your interview.

THE ACCESSORIES

Belt
First things first, your belt should match your shoes. Black with black, brown with brown. Keep your belt sleek and simple — no big buckles. Anderson’s black or brown pebbled belts are perfect.

Tie
Here is your chance to show some personality. Choose a colour or pattern that’s stylish and memorable — just make sure it’s setting appropriate and that it matches.

For creative industries (especially in the winter), add versatility to your formal look by trying a more casual, texturized knit tie. When choosing a tie knot, go with a half windsor or four-in-hand. Knots are not the place to experiment.

tie

Google Images

Socks
Have some fun! It’s fine to show a little colour or pattern, as long as they don’t clash with the rest of your look.

Watch
If you’re going to wear one, keep it sleek and understated.

Everything Else
Save the funky lapel pins, cufflinks, and tie bars for once you get the job.

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Got any more questions? Our team of stylists is here to help, with private appointments and free wardrobe consultations. Book your appointment today at 416-260-9696 or info@gotstyle.ca.

Good luck (not that you need it). You’ve got this!