CLOTHING

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 When it comes to clothing, there are two basic parts. Sharp, casual and more formal. I don't claim to be a sartorialist on every occasion but I have enough experience and knowledge to know that the basics always work. Keep it simple. So, here's my take. When dressing for any occasion always remember you can always dress down, but not always up. What does this mean? Say you're going to a nice bar to have drinks with a client. If you go in a suit and tie and discover that your client is in a polo shirt and nice jeans or wearing a blazer and khakis, you can always undo your tie or if it will make your client feel more relaxed, take the tie off completely. But if you go in a blazer and khakis and they're dressed in the suit, well then you look like you're unprofessional and that you don't take things seriously especially their business. Always put your best foot forward. It's the same everywhere when being Top Shelf. Something about dressing up, even if it's just a nicer shirt and dress pants that makes you feel special. For a woman, the same philosophy applies. A nice dress with heels and a bit of jewelry will always look beautiful. Plus, you know you look good so own it. Don't forget the one thing that can really separate you from everyone else. Your smile. Aren't you happy in life? Let others know that even though life can be tough sometimes, you still stay positive. When you're out, you're creating more happy memories. Enjoy life, don't endure it.

I always wanted a custom made suit. Up until then I bought off the rack. You can still find some places to get a nice suit ( I will mention my favorite below) but to be honest, nothing beats custom. If you have to save up for it, it's worth it. I have purchased a few suits and jackets over the years and I can tell you that once you buy one you know it will last forever. If I had to pick one good custom suit in a go-to color or 3-5 off the rack, I'd go with custom every time. You can mix and match shirts and ties to give it different looks. Plus, people will notice and will appreciate that you have an eye for style. Buying one and having the tailor make it just to YOUR measurements is an experience you won't forget. There are two excellent tailors in Phila that I highly recommend. Enzo and Alton Lane. Check them out if you're nearby. Worth every penny. I get compliments every time I wear one. I even had someone chase me down and ask where I got my suit and what color it was. By the way, it was blood ox. Great color for the Fall and Winter. A few final tips: no tears, stains or ripped clothing. Make sure your clothes fit properly. They should hug you, not choke you. Compliment you, not hang off of you two sizes too big.

Some basic ideas for both sharp casual and office/formal ( just my opinion) are below.

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• MEN

Casual Pants - Go for black, blue, brown and any dark colors for fall and winter. Even green or dark purple works. It adds a bit of color, especially when the winter is dragging on and you can't wait for spring.

Opt for lighter colors for spring and summer. After Memorial Day and up to Labor Day, white always looks sharp. (I'm a traditionalist. I follow the preppy calendar for my white pants.) You can wear white after, just buy "winter white". 

Shirts - Either a polo shirt or a nice print ( stripe/check) dress shirt. Solid colors work well but can be boring.

Shoes - chukka boots, boat shoes, loafers, even nice, clean white or black sneakers. Just no big logos. 

Accessories - a simple watch adds class and style. It's a lost art. Even if you don't use it to tell time, wear one anyway. It's a great conversation starter and again, it shows you pay attention to details. 

In my opinion, your belt should always match your shoe color. End of story.

 

Formal - The same basic rules apply here. If you can afford it, get a custom made suit. If not, it's ok. There are a few options. Here's the differences. Off the rack means as is. You can still have it tailored, but obviously it is as it is off the rack. Made to measure is a step up. Basic colors and fabrics, so not a lot of options for colors and patterns. You still get it tailored but it might not be a perfect fit. Still, not a bad option. Custom, of course, is exactly what it sounds like. You pick everything from the color to the fabric to ALL the tiny details that you didn't know where possible. My first time buying one I was amazed at how much goes into it. It is really is an experience. Many places get you a drink and some have a pool table while you wait. Makes you feel Top Shelf. Finally, there's bespoke. This is the most high end suit because it takes hand construction and the tailors generally have more than a decade worth of experience. The patterns are unique and never used again. It can take months to get the suit right. Obviously, these are the most expensive suits. So, what are our options for a less expensive suit? Remember, there isn't anything wrong with wearing a suit that's not custom. Just make sure it fits properly. I may get flack for some of these recommendations but here goes. Charles Tyrwhitt is an ok option. Their shirts are a decent quality and fit and I bought a 2 piece suit without any alterations and it fits me very well. (I have an athletic build). Suit Supply is one that gets mentioned although I haven't bought anything from them. What matters here is the quality of the material and how it fits. If you buy a suit for $99 special! just remember you get what you pay for. Also something that doesn't get talked about enough is consignment shops, thrift stores and many other second hand places. Don't shrug the concept off so easily. Many fine garments have been purchased there and many are the kind that were made to last. If you find a store in an affluent neighborhood, guess what? Chances are they still have the tags on them because the owners never wore them because they have so many clothes.  Ties. The options are endless. Again, my personal opinion is I try to not get too busy with the patterns. In other words, a striped suit, striped shirt and a striped tie is... a lot to take in. I'm not saying it doesn't work, you just have to know how to do it. Keep the dimensions/proportions different. When discussing accessories, the same applies. Keep your shoes polished, match your belt with your shoes, don't forget your collar stays and don't be afraid to try a pocket square. Just don't match it to the exact color and pattern as your tie.

 

 

 

 

• WOMEN

 Casual  Pants - same color scheme as men. Solid colors are your best bet, but checks and stripes should be worn with a solid color top.

Shirts - You should keep it simple too. But you also get to add more styles and patterns. Just remember you want to look classy, not like you are  trying to get backstage at a "insert band from your youth "concert. Save that for the clubs.

Shoes - wedges and heels when possible. I know. "You're a man. You don't know what it's like to wear heels all day and night".  True. But nobody said you had to wear them the whole time. There will be times when you can take them off for a bit. I've spoken with plenty of women who say it's just a matter of getting used to it. But, if you prefer not to, just wear something that is clean and neat. 

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Formal - As I've said, I don't know everything about everything but as with most things in life, the basics work. I know every woman has or should have "that little black dress". Base your choices on the event. 

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Here are some brands to consider:

Barbour, Ralph Lauren, Talbots, Tommy Hilfiger, Anne Klein, Lands End, and Lilly Pulitzer

Higher end Coach, Versace, Prada, D&G and Louis Vuitton.

 

But also keep in mind, many wealthy people do not wear big label brands. Often times they are bespoke or not listed on the above abbreviated lists. Their clothing and style is very understated. Many people who think they are rich or want to act like they are rich will wear these brands just for social status. That is why I try to give options. Making yourself broke just to walk around in a $3000 suit or carry a Prada bag worth $5000 when you can't buy food is ridiculous. This site is about promoting a luxury lifestyle but not at the expense of debt. The most important luxury item you own is your mind. Feed your mind positive, uplifting thoughts. Focus on your goals. Work diligently to make them a reality. Reward  yourself along the way. And if you're already there, then you know what I said is true. Elevate your mind and you will elevate your life.

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