Tag Archives: Style Tips

What should a groom wear to a wedding?

January 31, 2016

What should a groom wear to a wedding? How about a proper suit.

Guys should look to their bride for an idea of how casual or formal they should go. And when in doubt, a suit will always work. Whether it’s a destination or civil ceremony any stylist should be able to help you dress up or down according to your bride.

Check out some of our 2017 wedding trends here.

Should I wear a suit to my wedding?

Short answer, yes. If your bride is wearing a traditional wedding dress, and getting her hair and makeup done why should you get a free pass to not wear a suit on the most important day of your lives?

In case you didn’t know, a wedding dress is just as hot as a suit (trust me that sateen, lace, silk stuff does not breath). You only need to wear the full suit for a maximum of 2-3 hours (ceremony and pictures) then, you can take your jacket off!

Your pictures will look so much better and your bride will be so impressed with how handsome you look! (no one looks handsome in an untucked shirt, just saying).

At the end of the day you are paying good money for your wedding. You’ll want to have great pictures of you and your bride to look back on.

What should a groom wear to a destination wedding?

A destination wedding is the same as any other wedding – you’re just in another country with better weather. So remember this- if wouldn’t wear it at home don’t do it at your destination wedding.

Would you wear an untucked oversized linen shirt with wide leg linen pants? Didn’t think so. So don’t do it over there.

Please Stop Doing This

Another myth is in the fabrication. The fact is a lightweight wool suit will breathe better than wearing linen or cotton. The classic lightweight fabrics are great too however linen and seersucker will wrinkle and not look as crisp in photos. (wool, linen, seersucker, cotton).

what-should-grooms-wear

Your fabrication options: wool, linen, seersucker, cotton.

Go for a lighter color. Try light blue or soft gray. These colours will psychologically make you feel cooler. Avoid beige. Beige suits at destination weddings look corny. It doesn’t help that beige doesn’t look good on 90% of men– go light grey instead.

What should my groomsmen wear?

Stop dressing the same as your groomsmen. Your bride looks totally different than her bridesmaids – so you should look completely different from your groomsmen. You should stand out in those wedding photos!

If you want to do linen or seersucker, look for Haspel.

Our go-to brand for seersucker and linen is Haspel, the originator of the seersucker suit in 1901. We like them because they’ve kept the same quality while also upgrading their fit over time.

Linen and seersucker fabrics are naturally less stiff and will continue to wrinkle as you wear them. If you want something that will stay crisp throughout the day try a cotton suit instead.

What you should wear to a destination wedding

Haspel Gravier Seersucker Blazer $650, Oscar of Sweden Floral Print on Check Shirt $225, Haspel Bernard Seersucker Pant $195, Anderson’s Stretch Leather Belt $198, A. Christensen Pocket Square $45

Haspel Gravier Seersucker Blazer $650, Ordean Solid Shirt $150, Haspel Bernard Seersucker Pant $195, Gotstyle Tie $105, A. Christensen Pocket Square $45, Gotstyle Double Monk Strap Shoe $225

For more information on wedding styling Mallory is here to help. You can also check our our Gotstyle Weddings Instagram. If you’ve been thinking of going custom check out our gotstyle custom website.

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

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

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

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.

Sully Wong x Gotstyle Camo Shoes: $125

BLAZER LOOK #4

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

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!

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:

Industry — Would you wear the same thing to a conservative bank as you would to a casual tech startup?
Job function/department — What flies in marketing may not be greeted as enthusiastically in accounting.
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.

Paul Betenly Charcoal 2 Piece Interview Suit

Paul Betenly – Charcoal Wool Suit

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.

Oscar of Sweden – Micro Geo Print Shirt

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.

Gotstyle – Cap Toe Oxford Derby

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.

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!

STYLE MANUAL

Top 10 Dress Shirt Fabrics Every Man Should Know

October 7, 2015

Last week we discussed 9 major patterns every man should know. Today we will explore dress shirt fabrics. Understanding the difference between some of these fabrics will not only help you flex your sartorial intellect but allow you to find the ideal dress shirt fabric for your needs.

Also check out our new Gotstyle Launch program which features a line of dress shirts, trousers, suits and leather shoes. Everything you need to build your wardrobe.

Before we break down the 10 major dress shirt fabrics, it is important to point out the fundamentals of what makes a great fabric.

Step one: Identifying the core: is it cotton, man-made fibers or silk? Ideally, you want to stick with cotton as it is the undisputed king of dress shirt fabrics. A finely woven cotton fabric has all the properties a man could want from a garment worn close to the body: good heat and moisture conduction, durability, smoothness, and the ability to take shape when ironed.

Man-made fibers, on the other hand, don’t offer the same comfort as a cotton shirt but do have their own set of advantages. They are often wrinkle and stain resistant and can be ideal for budget minded individuals. Lastly, there is silk, often associated as a luxury fabric, silk offers that high sheen and light drape. It is great for bathrobes and boxers shorts but not necessarily for a shirt. The maintenance costs are high and long term durability low.

Step two: Know your ply. Ply is how many yarns are twisted together to make a single thread. Dress shirt fabrics are most often two-ply or single ply. Two-ply fabrics are generally superior to single-ply fabrics.

Step three: The count. Thread count indicates the size of the thread in the fabric and therefore how many threads per square inch and is often referred to with a number like 50s, 80s, 100s, 120s, 140s 160s, etc up to 200s. For example, 140s means there are 140 hanks (1 hank = 840 yards) of yarn in one pound. Higher numbers mean that the threads are finer which results in a softer, smoother and lighter fabric.

Step four: The finish. Often overlooked, the finish of the fabric is the production process used to actually mill the fabric. A 2-ply 200s fabric sounds impressive but if it’s made with low quality cotton by a dubious manufacturer then it is no better and probably worse than a 1-ply 50s fabric made by a reputable mill.

10 Dress Shirt Fabrics

Oxford Shirt Fabric

Similar to pinpoint oxford- slightly heavier thread and looser weave
Slightly rougher texture but is more durable than most fabrics
Symmetrical basket weave where one yarn may cross two yarns
Originally developed for sports, the oxford shirt is great as a casual button down shirt

Woven fabric produced on the dobby loom
Characterised by small geometric patterns and extra texture in the cloth
Very similar to Jacquard, although technically different
Many dobby fabrics have stripes woven into them, although some are solid colors
The solid colors tend to have a faint stripe or dotted patterns woven in the same color as the base cloth

A sturdy cotton twill textile- possibly coarser twill.
Typically softer, lighter versions of the fabric then that of your jeans
Great for casual wear

A plain weave fabric with a colored warp and a white weft
Generally made with heavier yarns for a rugged, blue-collar workwear appeal
Great for casual wear

A dense, plain woven cloth, historically made of wool
A tightly woven fabric with a very simple over-under weave and slight sheen
Great for dressy occasions
Highly weatherproof and hard wearing

Is a soft woven fabric, of various fineness
Typically fuzzy in feel otherwise known as brushed twill or brushed melange
Great for cooler weather like Fall/Winter
Ideal for casual wear

Special type of construction in which each yarn is a combination of fibers that are dyed and not-dyed
Generally very thin and very smooth luxurious fabrics with a particular soft finish
These different colored cotton fibers are woven together for a feathered, intentionally inconsistent, somewhat organic look.

Pinpoint (also referred to as pinpoint oxford) has a similar weave as oxford cloth but uses a finer yarn and tighter weave
More formal than oxford cloth, but less formal than broadcloth
Pinpoint fabrics are generally not transparent and are slightly heavier and thicker than broadcloths
Great choice for business shirts

Made from a plain weave of fine yarns, creating a thin, soft, smooth, long-lasting fabric
Thin and breathable – great for under jackets or blazers
Can be slightly transparent due to it’s thinness
Does well with retaining smoothness after being ironed
Sometimes described as broadcloth (technically different, but pretty much the same)

Distinctive diagonal weave
Soft, and a bit thicker and warmer than poplin
Has a tendency to wrinkle easily for some
Works under a jacket, but not quite as breathable as poplin
Seems to be difficult to remove stains from twill

25 Men’s Fashion Hacks You Need to Know

September 29, 2015

Here are a list of fashion hacks that will make your life a little easier

When it comes to fashion, it seems like we always want more, more, more. We’re here to remind you that it’s about quality, not quantity. Most guys don’t have the time to do a major overhaul so we have a few grooming tips and fashion hacks on how to get the most out of what you purchase or what you may already own. Read on for 25 fashion hacks you need in your life.

Throw out old clothes

It seems so simple but clearing out your wardrobe of old, worn out clothes makes room for new ones. It also stops you from going back to old favourites and encourage you to try new styles. Check out Melissa’s video on closet clean up.

Photo credit: Closet Maid
Get a hair cut

Get a new or versatile hair cut.
Avoid floppy collars

Be wary of floppy collars! Using collar stays will ensure dress shirts look crisp.

(Left) Photo credit: The Times UK – (Right) Wurkin Stiffs Power Stays $45
Take care of your clothes

Clothes are an investment and say a lot about you. Take care of your clothes with proper laundering, dry cleaning and storage.

Photo credit: Priceless Drycleaners
Purchase an iron/steamer

While you’re at it, get an iron or better yet, a steamer. It may take up a little extra time but wrinkly shirts look frumpy and distract from your entire outfit. Business Insider has a great article on the right way to iron a shirt.

Photo credit: Business Insider
Try new accessories

Don’t be afraid to try new accessories like bracelets and rings. The smallest details can change and upgrade an outfit.

Vitaly Kunai Pendant Necklace $50
Use a simple leather wallet

We work hard for our money so let’s keep it in a clean, simple leather wallet. Avoid stuffing receipts and too many cards in it as it can get bulky.
Get manicures

Getting manicures isn’t exactly about being pampered or having a spa day. It means having your nails trimmed and cleaned. A hand massage is usually included which helps as we use our hands all day.

Gentlemen’s Hardware Manicure Set
Travel pack properly

Save time and space when travelling by learning how to pack properly. Certain fabrics pack better by being wrinkle resistant and bags like Hook + Albert’s are designed with travel in mind. It has a built-in garment bag and slots for shoes.

Hook & Albert Saffiano Leather Garment Weekender: $639
Invest in a timeless watch

A classic watch that goes with any outfit can elevate a look instantly. It’s a good idea to invest in a quality watch that can last years.
Maintain facial hair

Keep facial hair neat and trimmed. A small detail in grooming can make a huge difference.
Make sure you have your 10 essentials

A solid foundation is crucial for building your wardrobe. With these ten pieces in your closet, you can mix and match for all necessary events and start to add variety.
Invest in a pair of essential dress shoes

Purchase a pair of essential dress shoes that are classic and timeless. It can go with a variety of outfits from going out to social parties to business meetings.
Learn to layer

It’s a technique that can extend your wardrobe and create different looks.
Invest in a well fitted half canvas suit

Have a suit that actually fits. This is a big one because a well-fitted suit can go a long way. If made-to-measure is not within your budget, no worries, get your suit tailored off the rack. Old suits can also be renewed by taking it to a tailor.

Photo credit: Evolution of Style
Wear cologne

A signature scent can make you feel like a whole new man. But remember, less is more.

Photo credit: Ask Men
Upgrade your backpack or briefcase

If a backpack or briefcase is what you carry and use everyday, make it an investment. Not only is it worth it for durability, it becomes an item that everyone associates you with. Choose one that matches your identity.
Upgrade your old shoe laces

Get more milage out of your oxfords with laces from Stolen Riches.
Add a pop of colour

Adding colour can be intimidating but start with something small and build it into your routine. We suggest starting with your tie, pocket square, lapel pin or shirt.
Upgrade your old socks

It’s the first thing you put on in the morning so start it fresh. For low sneakers and the barefoot look, get yourself some no show socks.
Update your glasses

Glasses frame your face and certain styles can give you a completely different look. There are plenty of websites that you can get custom shades for budget prices like Warby Parker.

Photo credit: Warby Parker
Have a tailor

Having your own tailor is a sign of manhood. A tailor can fix buttons and zippers, take in clothes, hem pants, etc. All these details matter when you want to make a good impression. Click the photo for a list of reasons why you should have your own tailor.

Photo credit: Express Tailor
Learn to wear a scarf

Adding a scarf as an accessory is an easy update to a basic t-shirt. Rock a waistcoat or a leather jacket with it and you’ve got a celeb worthy look.

(Left) Photo credit: Upscale Hype (Right) Photo credit: Pinterest
Hire a stylist

Gotstyle offers free personal styling services. Drop in either location or make an appointment info@gotstyle.ca.
Buy clothes that are double duty

Buy pieces that can do double duty. The jersey blazer is a piece you can pair casually with Zanerobe’s to brunch, or dress up and paired with a button down for nights on the town.

STYLE TIPS

Trend Alert: The Modern Jogger Pant

September 1, 2015

No matter where you go you’ll notice that tapered sweatpants called “jogger pants” are one of the hottest new trends in menswear. We’ve been carrying them for over three seasons and can attest to the fact that once you get one- chances are you’ll be back to get more. In today’s style video Melissa shows you some of our latest styles now available for the FW’15 season. From the famous Zanerobes to the new knit joggers from Wheelers, J.Lindeberg and John Varvatos there’s more choice than ever before which means there are more ways for you to work this hot style trend into your daily wardrobe. Press play to learn more.

What should a groom wear to a wedding? How about a proper suit.

Should I wear a suit to my wedding?

What should a groom wear to a destination wedding?

What should my groomsmen wear?

If you want to do linen or seersucker, look for Haspel.

10 Dress Shirt Fabrics

Here are a list of fashion hacks that will make your life a little easier

Throw out old clothes

Get a hair cut

Avoid floppy collars

Take care of your clothes

Purchase an iron/steamer

Try new accessories

Use a simple leather wallet

Get manicures

Travel pack properly

Invest in a timeless watch

Maintain facial hair

Make sure you have your 10 essentials

Invest in a pair of essential dress shoes

Learn to layer

Invest in a well fitted half canvas suit

Wear cologne

Upgrade your backpack or briefcase

Upgrade your old shoe laces

Add a pop of colour

Upgrade your old socks

Update your glasses

Have a tailor

Learn to wear a scarf

Hire a stylist

Buy clothes that are double duty

The New Jogger Pant