Tailoring is an age-old tradition that has long been associated with sophistication and style. While a well-tailored suit or shirt can drastically improve a man’s appearance, not all gents seem to benefit from this sartorial advantage. This article delves into the reasons why some men don’t look as dashing as they could in tailored attire and offers solutions for those aiming to master the tailored look.
Poor Fit
One of the primary reasons men don’t look their best is because they’re wearing clothes that don’t fit properly. Whether it’s an oversized jacket, trousers that pool at the ankles, or a shirt that billows, a poor fit is a cardinal sin in tailoring. A tailored fit that’s neither too tight nor too loose is the look you should be aiming to achieve.
Wrong Fabric Choice
Men sometimes compromise on fabric quality to save a few pounds. However, cheaper fabrics might not drape well, leading to a less polished appearance, no matter how well it’s tailored. Always choose high-quality fabrics that also offer durability and practicality, particularly if you’re a little haphazard with the care of your clothes. For example, choosing merino wool over cashmere, or choosing a ‘high twist’ wool is a more sensible choice than investing in super luxurious fabrics which need your utmost care and that can be creased within seconds. Always avoid polyester, as it traps heat, making you feel like a boiled potato plus it’s horrendous for the environment. Investing in beautiful yet practical fabrics make you look and feel a million times better about yourself and the world you live in.
Neglecting Personal Style
Blindly following trends without considering if they match one’s personal style can be a sartorial pitfall. It’s essential to strike a balance between current trends and what resonates with an individual’s style. A key to understanding what suits you is by starting with what key pieces in your current wardrobe that you really feel good in, or that people have complimented you on. Alternatively, seek advice from an expert (nudge, nudge, wink, wink) or browse through Pinterest to find someone who looks similar to you and seek inspiration from them.
Skimping on Tailoring Costs
While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s worth investing in a skilled tailor. An expert will have the knowledge and skill to make any garment look impeccable on you. Not only do they have expertise in the best fabrics and fit for you, they can also advise on styles that suit you. Some can, some can’t so just be mindful of that. Choose a tailor who you feel will help you to look your best without it all feeling like too much hard work. Investing in tailoring should be an enlightening and enjoyable experience.
Inconsistent Maintenance
Tailored clothes require care. Regular dry cleaning (but not too often), proper storage, and occasional mending are all part of ensuring that tailored attire remains in top-notch condition. It’s great to initially invest in great tailoring, however, if you look after your clothes poorly, they’ll punish you for it. Luxury doesn’t mean easier to look after, it deserves mutual respect.
Not Paying Attention to Detail
The beauty of tailoring often lies in the details – the perfect cuff length, the break of the trouser, the lapel width. Overlooking these can compromise the overall look. Even fine delicate stitching and natural horn buttons vs flat plastic all make the difference. Your tailoring shouldn’t scream ‘I’m in the tailoring club’ It should just ooze that je ne sais quoi.
Avoiding Feedback
It’s always helpful to get a second opinion. Whether from friends, family, or the tailor themselves, feedback can highlight areas of improvement and elevate the overall appearance. However, with truly great tailoring the compliments should flow effortlessly, people will notice something different but won’t quite be able to put their finger on why. This is what you should be looking to achieve, a subtle yet impactful change which oozes class and an undertone of sex appeal. (Yup, tailoring is the sexiest form of clothing there is and why we love it so much here at Alexandra Wood)
Final Thoughts
Looking good in tailoring isn’t just about the clothes but how they’re chosen, tailored, and maintained. By avoiding common pitfalls and emphasising a harmonious blend of fit, fabric, and personal style, any man can shine in his tailored attire. The keyword here is attention to detail, and with the right approach, tailored clothing can be a game-changer in every man’s wardrobe. Utilise tailoring at its best and it’ll pay you back in dividends!
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