What is Style

In Webster's dictionary defined the word "style" as conformity to a recognized standard; manner which is deemed elegant and appropriate, especially in social demeanor fashion.  Oftentimes, you might find yourself admiring the style of a celebrity, neighbor, friend, or family member; saying this person has style or they are very stylish in the way they carry themselves. Style can be subjective, its base on one views, opinions, or taste.  For instance,  liking the styling of an automobile, style of music, style of play in sport, however when observing style in men's fashion style takes on a different meaning.

In men's fashion, an individual sense of style can range from traditional to av-ant guard to all points in between. A gentleman sense of style can be created, developed, and be ever evolving; on a side note, a gentleman style should not confuse with the latest fashion trends.  An example of style is a gentleman wearing a suit, lets say he is going to church; wearing a well colored coordinated shirt, tie, pocket silk, sock, belt, shoes, and a hat.  This gentleman's style points would be finishing the outfit with a pin, or small flower in his lapel, or the appropriate accessories; a tie bar, bracelet, or fashion ring this becoming his signature look creating his own personal style.

Another sense of style is wearing the appropriate clothing for each occasion, albeit for work, social functions, or recreational. In creating your own individual style, several different looks that can accomplish; having a casual look, dress look, and leisure look; however the looks should be worn at the appropriate times and events.   For instance, leisure or exercise wear should not be worn as casual wear; going to the movies, or out for dinner date.  Exercise or leisure wear belongs in the gym or on the playing field.  There is much to write on the subject, in future blogs digging deeper on the subject of what to wear, and when it is appropriate, and how to create your own individual style.

Finally, one might say creating a personal style is confusing, too much work and time, too expensive, doesn't matter if I develop a sense of style;  who cares about my appearance. Individuals can be judged on their appearance; the statement a first impression is a lasting one, unfortunately is a true statement. Yes, it is imperative to create, develop your own sense of style, or if having a establish signature style, it's imperative to be evolving.  What is style?  It's wearing the appropriate, coordinated, well fitted outfits which bears to the fashion standards, adding your own personal touch, creating a signature look Style!

Foundation of a Gentleman's Wardrobe

The gentleman suit has become an essential standard garment in our society. In the Western world, the traditional men's suit has been in and out of fashion for four hundred years; starting in the 17th century France.  During the development of the men's suit, there have been many time periods; the Regency, Victorian, Edwardian, Inter-War, and Post-War each time period resulting in the evolution of the suit design.  The style we know today a coat, trouser, sometimes a waistcoat or vest has been designed for style, comfort, and functionality.

Now that we have a basic history of men's suits.  We will go on a learning expedition through these Essential Series for men, we will examine the sartorial elements of men's suits; from the use, care, functionality, design, fabrics, and how to select the right suit for every occasion. 

When building the foundation suit wardrobe, there are five major colors that are essential staples;

black, navy blue, charcoal gray, brown, and glen plaid pattern.  These colors will be great for business, non-business functions, for an example the navy blue suit can be used for job interviews, festive occasions, and for funerals. Black, charcoal gray, and brown are great colors for business environment, and can be used also for non-business attire. Finally, the glen plaid pattern or Glen Urquhart plaid oftentimes are known as the Prince of Wales pattern, it was made famous by the Duke of Windsor, Edward Vlll; glen plaid pattern can be gray or brown color, can be used for business, and all other occasions. 

Finally, when building or updating men's wardrobe, these five foundation colors are essential addition to create a well balanced functional working wardrobe. These colors will add style, longevity, and functionality to the sartorial needs of a gentleman wardrobe. In our next series, we will examining design and fabrics.