KEYS TO SELECTING A GARMENT

Oscar Schoeffler, the editor of Esquire Magazine said, “Never underestimate the power of what you wear.” The three keys to selecting a garment that suits you are COLOR, PROPORTION, and PROPER FIT.

COLOR

Choose colors that enhance your facial coloring. Clothing is the matting on a beautifully framed picture. The combinations should not overwhelm but rather accent the subject. To create the best first impression, each individual needs to coordinate the right relationship between the colors they select and their complexion.

Proportion

Proportion is the foundation of style. An experienced tailor’s dictum says, “never compromise on proportion.” Proportion is what creates the proper balance in an outfit.

Proper Fit

Patterns:

• When combining two patterns of the same design, the size of each should be as different from the other as possible.  

Jacket:

• The collar should “lock” in around the neck. There should be a fullness in the blades so the jacket can drape comfortably, allowing your arms to move freely. Button stance and closure should be balanced to the proportions of the jacket. The sleeves should allow a half-inch of shirt cuff to show below the jacket sleeve.

Trousers

• Place the trouser at your waist.
• The rise (from the crotch to the waist) should not be too long.
• The creases of each pant leg should intersect the middle of the knee and the shoe.
• Length is a matter of personal preference, but a break is the current style.  

Shirts

• The circumference around the neck should be comfortable.
• The collar style should flatter the shape of your face.
• The yoke should be comfortable across your shoulders.
• The body can be as tapered or full as you prefer.