There's Always a Silver (or Paisley) Lining

Hello again! This entry can be subtitled "Going Custom part Deux", as once again I will be singing the praises of a gem of a custom clothier, Astor & Black. My most recent suit from these guys met all of my expectations, and after establishing a relationship with my local representative, I felt open to being a little bit more creative (and might we say... daring) than I had when designing my last suit.

The beautiful Bemberg lining is my favorite part; in a custom suit, the details that I care about are all hidden.

A wild lining is hidden until you want it to be. This one, I fell in love with (see picture). One of the cool things about Astor & Black suits is that the lining is also used as the interior of the breast pocket, which when turned inside out, can serve as a pocket square. How cool is that?

In addition to a bitchin' lining, I was able to choose slanted pocket flaps, and had the shoulders cut in the neopolitan style, with a natural slope and slightly ruffled sleevehead. I also chose contrast stitching for the first buttonholes on my surgeon cuffs. Choice.

And the best part is... I've paid more for off-the-peg suits. This one is bespoke. Rock on! Visit astorandblack.com to setup a no-obligation consultation with your local representative, and check out some of their wares. The site has pics! This is not an advertisement, but rather an endorsement for a firm that pairs custom clothing and affordability, making exceptionally high quality available to any man. If your job requires you to buy suits at all, you can afford a suit by Astor & Black. This is a company that I believe in.

Until next time, Cheers!

Paul

Put a Lid on It!

Even those with full heads of hair are prone to scalp burn this time of year, and with summer picnics and grill out sessions commencing, one needs to take care not to scorch the crown. This calls for protection in style! Many designers are offering lightweight straw versions of popular hat designs, available in delightful retro vibes with older styles such as porkpies, trilbies, and fedoras.

This straw porkpie by Original Penguin is a great example. The right hat can jazz up your casual wear exponentially. Hipper, younger-styled straw hats have been gaining popularity in recent years, partially due to popular singer/songwriter Jason Mraz's affinity for them, but also because over four decades after JFK "killed the hat," folks are realizing that the right headwear goes a long way in enhancing one's personal style.

Finding the right hat takes experimentation. Since everyone's head has its own unique shape, along with its own unique facial structure, certain hats will be more comlimentary than others. Play around and try a few on. It can't be too big or too small, so make sure the hat is right for you. You're looking for "comfortably snug." This season, go for straw or cotton. There are nice driving caps available in seersucker or madras. There's no need to break the bank either. Stores such as Target and T.J. Maxx have fine offerings to keep you cool this Spring and Summer.
Have fun!
Cheers!
-Paul