How to Monogram Your Custom Suit

We had the honor of suiting up Jeremy Lin for the 2012 Time Magazine’s 100 Red Carpet Gala. Jeremy chose to get his first and last name monogrammed in gold script, a perfect compliment to his Charcoal Herringbone suit. 
What is monogramming and what is its purpose?  

Historically, the use of monograms were limited to nobility or the rich and famous. Romans and Greeks first used them on coins to mark the reign of their leaders. During the Middle Ages, artisans began to use them to claim authorship of their works. They were later adopted and popularized by the Victorian English upper class and placed on all manners of personal property, as a symbol of their place in society.
Today, monograms are limited to wedding invites, family heirlooms, and, lucky for you, custom clothing.
Why should I get monogramming? 
Getting your custom suit monogrammed is the modern day equivalent of claiming your own place amongst the sartorial elite. It tells the world that just like your name, your custom suit is just that – yours. It was made just for you and hence, it will fit no one else as well as it fits you. For someone who enjoys a well-crafted, perfectly-tailored suit, there is nothing quite like the understated pleasure of seeing your name beautifully embroidered into the inside of your suit jacket.
How do I pull off monogramming?
In the past, monograms with three initials were generally in the Victorian format of first initial, large last initial, middle initial. These days, the rules for monogramming are much more flexible—there is no right or wrong wear to pull off monogramming in your suit. Just keep the style tasteful, make it personal and meaningful and rock it confidently.
At Black Lapel, we believe monogramming should be a part of every custom suit and encourage all of our customers to opt for it, which is why we include it as a standard customization option and will never charge you for it.  Our monogramming come in three colors (gold, white, silver) and three typographical styles (block, script 1, script 2) as seen here:

As for the text itself, it’s really up to you. Customers choose anything from their full name or initials to the crazy nicknames they earned in their youth or even meaningful phrases that inspire them. Here are some examples from our customers: 
This customers opted to have his full name beautifully scripted out onto his Solid Black Suit. 
Another way to pull off monogramming on your custom suit is going simply with your initials. Many prefer block lettering with initial monograms.
Like a discrete tattoo hidden under your clothes, a monogram on the inside of your jacket rarely sees the light of day, unless the wearer chooses to reveal it. Some opt for this privacy to give a quiet nod to a piece of sartorial perfection bearing their name, while others seize this unseen real estate as an opportunity to be a little more liberal (and fun!) with their expression:   
Childhood nickname perhaps? Wherever it came from, he never imagined it would look this fancy on a suit. 

This customer wanted to open up his suit to see a constant reminder of what he wakes up for each morning. 
Or with this customer, the official anthem to a night out with the bros.
In the end, the choice is completely up to you. After all, the custom suit is made just for you. Have fun with it!

How to Tie a Bow Tie

Q: I’m attending a friend’s wedding and I want to mix it up and wear a bow tie for once. Unfortunately, when it comes to bow ties I’m a total newb, and I’m a bit embarrassed to say that I even considered buying a cheap clip-on because I don’t know how to tie a real one. Since a clip-on would never do my custom Black Lapel tuxedo justice, can you please enlighten this long-time fan on the art of tying a bow tie? – Kevin K. 

A: Kevin, you’re not alone buddy. There are many men who suit up and knot up every day for work but don’t know where to start when it comes to getting down with the neck tie’s more formal cousin – the bow tie. Don’t be intimidated. We’ll break it down for you so you can notch it up at the wedding.
It definitely takes some practice to get the bow tie down properly. Don’t get frustrated. Budget at least 30 minutes and have your sweat band and a bottle of Gatorade handy. To get you started, watch this excellent instructional video provided by The Hill-side. We’ll then provide a play-by-play breakdown with the salient points.
9 Steps to Bow Tie Nirvana

1. Keep the left side (your right) 2-3 inches longer than the right.  The tip of the shorter side should be parallel with the narrow “center” of the bow on the lower side.
2. Swing the longer side over the shorter side.
3. Loop the longer side through the opening and pull snug. This is how snug your finished bow tie will be so keep it this snug during steps 4-9.
4. Take the side that is in the rear and form half a bow.
5. Bring the other side to the front over that half bow.
6. Pinch the half bow together and gently tug away from your body so that a little loop opens up behind the pinched center.
7. Take the dangling piece in the middle and bring it up to the left rear. Gently push it bow first through the little loop in the back forming your second bow.
8. Grab both bows (not tips) and give them a tug to pull the knot tight. Leave enough length for the tips so you do not pull them out as you tighten the knot (like typing your shoe laces).
9. Hold the knot in the middle tight and adjust the lengths of the bows and tips to the desired length and shape. If this resulted in a successful bow tie, then smile, you’re awesome. If like us, your first attempt was not suitable for public display, then go back to step 1 and give it another go.

Two-Button or Three-Button Suits

Men Style is in the details. But you already knew. And there are few better examples than 1 inch in diameter perfectly disk shaped objects hanging in front of his suit. Whatever your buttons are important - real bull horn (which we use) is higher than plastic. But more importantly, the number of buttons you choose for your bespoke suit can make a world of difference. What is the difference? The difference between the appearance of a head spin, a booklet gent - one type of Ringling. we receive many questions about the buttons on a suit: 2-3-button or button suit? How many buttons should go if you're a shorter guy? And what is the problem to leave the top button undone? What is a 3 reel outfit-2?
We will answer all these questions for you. But before we begin, let's make sure we're on the same page with some basic principles:
The king had the cake and now you can too.

    Always leave the last button undone - If there is a universally accepted "rule" buttoning clothes, it is. In fact, fastening the last button, not only screams fashion faux pas, it means that you are wearing the wrong costume. Following models are really cut to reflect the last button is unbuttoned. So where does this rule even come? According to legend menswear, this trend started in the 1900s by King Edward VII, who was too big to get the top button of his vest and jacket closed. And what a king Shamu do when you can not play the final touch? He left unbuttoned for a king did all he wants to give. Company.

    Button Up while standing - Suit jackets are designed to be buttoned when standing up for the best look, fit and hang. Maintaining adequate and comfortable silhouette, buttoned jacket simply looks better. This button unless you are sitting.

    Unbutton your jacket when you sit (or dance) - Sitting with his jacket buttoned adds unnecessary stress on the button of the jacket (s) and the rest of his jacket - which can cause strange pulling and tugging at his belt. So give your computer a little love and unbutton when you sit. Of course, if you go to a few wild dance to the last tour of the Swedish House Mafia wedding or, keep the jacket unbuttoned too.

Looking for a safe single-breasted suit? Look no further. 2-button suit their classic All-American man who works hard, plays hard and gets along with everyone. While the position of the button varies by manufacturer, 2 button suit usually has an attitude lower button (eg, the vertical location of the top button of his shirt), which creates a deep "V" that has a visually flattering. Visual adulation is due to a lower button stance means more setbacks, which deepens the point where the jacket is buttoned, and lengthen the torso. And a torso lying improve visual media and thinness - in other words, it makes you look taller. This makes the choice of 2-button flattering to any man seeks to maximize the illusion of height or heavier gentleman looking for a little magic slimming. Think of it as button grilled chicken suit types: a good base for a recipe for great style and body.
How to use: Button the top button only.
Where to wear: Anywhere, anytime a meeting room at the bar.


1-button suit is the most fashionable cool brother, younger of the combination of 2 buttons. While his brother tries to slip the doorman $ 20, strutting with two beautiful women on each arm. A one button suit accentuates the advantages lengthen and slim two-button suit with a button, even more shallow and deep "V". However, you may look sweet can be considered a little too cold - that is, there is the risk that comes from a mob in a slight bit conservative work environment. That said, most people probably will not notice a button that is 1 -. And finally, with more chest exposed, one-button is ideal when you want to show more of this neat shirt / tie combo you together. So if you are in the mood to highlight a moxie dress, opt for this costume of a button.
How to use: If you can not see clearly, we're not even sure how you got now.
When a body: elegant and formal social events, an elegant desk.


While the 1-key is the freshness, the brother-scene in less than 2 buttons and 3 buttons, is tough guy, eccentric abroad. A 3-button suit has a high position button, creating a deep "V" and, therefore, seems more "buttoned". Literally. Without the effect of extending natural suits two button or a button, three-button is less forgiving and flattering visual (in our humble opinion) of all types of buttons. 3 buttons, is also the type of button that seems most likely is elastic, had his career and finished the race ... in 1995.
Ok, ok, so this is old school and does not flatter most body types ... but there must be a reason why some guys get along? Yes, if you are a big guy (think like 6'4 "and up) These guys do not have the effect of lengthening the downward direction button -. Indeed, the position of a button 3-button suit high balance its height a little and make them look more proportionate. So, if you are over 6'4 "or wait for the grandchildren or both, 3 button up. Otherwise, caveat emptor.
How to use: Button in the upper and middle buttons, or simply the means, never the bottom button.
Where to use: Anywhere other 3-button suit carriers congregate. NBA or Grand Banks Club International (TCI) is a good place to start.


The 3-roll-2 (or 3/2 roll) is the cool guy who lived abroad and returned with a lot of funny stories to entertain you with. Think of it as a hybrid of costumes 2 buttons and 3 buttons.
The 3-roll-2 is a combination of three buttons raises a game with 2 buttons. The top button unbuttoned is designed to stay with a way back to achieve this look. In fact, the opposite is exactly the form of a 2-button suit, offering the same deep "V".
How to use: Button the middle button and let the top and bottom unbuttoned.
Where to use: Where do you wear a suit with two buttons, but want to dress a little more punch.
Note: The 3-roll suit-2 is available in black lapels special order.


4-button suits
Yes, everyone wanted to be like Mike back in the day. And now you can. Simply put a 4-button suit and a smile.
You just read about a thousand words on the buttons. And you are great and best for him. Now, when it comes to choosing your next outfit, you know why you want this costume ____-button rather than a receptacle for excess inventory of a store. Choose wisely the buttons, and as an intelligent man (well, it

The General has you covered

Fall is not far away and we can’t wait. It’s the perfect “in between” season. It’s warm enough to keep your heavy pea coats tucked away but cool enough to put on that beautiful wool blazer and scarf. The best thing about fall, besides the layering, is that you have the opportunity to play around with fabrics and accessories. I’m a fan of accessories for men; it’s how you express your style. We always talk about the ever essential navy or grey suits. But if everyone has navy or grey suits how do you standout? TIES! Ties are that one piece of a man’s wardrobe that truly expresses personality and your style. Its such a small detail but a detail nonetheless and trust me when I say women notice.
In the tie world; closing in on 2 years now Andrew Payne of General Knot & Co. has been creating some of the best ties on the market. This time around General Knot Fall 2012 serves up everything from Plaid & Italian Chambray to Floral Print Grey Heather & Tonal Check. This is just the first drop off for General Knot for the upcoming fall season. We cant wait to see what else the General has in store.

Why He's A Style Icon

The 23rd Bond movie, Skyfall, will hit theaters in October 2012 and will star style icons Daniel Craig and Javier Bardem. Meanwhile, a trend that everyone's talking about this fall is retro revival, specifically the '70s. So, we put two and two together, because, if there's anyone that illustrate how to pull off this look it's '70s Bond.

As the incarnation of every man's ideal of himself, Agent 007 always looks suave and sophisticated, even while battling diabolical villains. Throughout the ‘70s, Roger Moore's perpetually impeccable wardrobe as James Bond was stocked with the latest threads, and a look back at the Bond movies from this era is a bit like taking a crash course in the most popular styles of that decade. Interestingly, while ‘70s fashion often appears over-the-top and cheesy to modern-day viewers, as James Bond, Roger Moore's ensembles exemplified only the very best in styles from that period, remaining true to Bond's smooth and polished look and encouraging men everywhere to up the elegance and tone down the disco. For instance, while pants in the ‘70s became increasingly ridiculous with massive bell bottoms, James Bond showed men how to wear this style more tastefully by donning pair after pair of figure-flattering, boot-cut trousers. And when bold, colorful patterns became de rigueur and polyester dominated as the most popular fabric, Bond stuck to a more understated color palette and favored natural fabrics like wool. Though many men came out of the ‘70s with a closet full of Halloween costumes, Roger Moore's Bond managed to survive the decade with his dignity and style intact, continuing to be a style inspiration even today.

Dress The '70s Bond Way

Dressing the Bond way in any decade means taking the latest styles and adapting them to create a sharp yet timeless look that is still somehow fashion-forward. As ‘70s Bond, Roger Moore stuck to Agent 007's trademark neutral color scheme, favoring black, navy blue, gray, brown, white, and various shades of tan and khaki. To keep his look updated for the time, Roger Moore slipped into double-breasted coats and blazers, white tuxedo jackets, slightly flared trousers, French-cuff dress shirts, and turtlenecks. However, even by today's dress standards, much of Moore's wardrobe as James Bond still looks relevant with ‘70s styles staging a fashion comeback every few years. A black, fitted turtleneck, for example, will show off a toned physique and can be worn for a variety of occasions. For a stunning, monochromatic look, team your turtleneck with impeccably tailored black dress pants that look like they were made especially for you. And, as Bond knows, when traveling, these two pieces are easy to pack and offer a great deal of versatility, meaning they'll be just as phenomenal paired with everything else in your suitcase as they will be worn together.

In terms of accessories, ‘70s Bond veered on the side of classic with black leather gloves, striped ties and, of course, Rolex watches to help enhance his magnetic allure. Stylish down to the last detail, ‘70s Bond never left home on business without his ultra-stylized grooming kit, so get yourself a retro-looking toiletry bag complete with a stainless steel razor and your transformation into Roger Moore's iconic Bond is complete.

http://www.ausuit.com.au/index.html

5 Winter / Fall Fashion Essentials For Men

As October continues to bring its seasonal chill, it’s time for GuyStyleGuide to take a look at those essentials every gentleman will need to dig out of his wardrobe before the weather descends any deeper.
So if you’re trying to build up your cold climate closet, give the following five essentials a thought. Oh, and as a bonus hint, don’t forget to pack an extra pocket umbrella in your glove box; you can thank me for this one later…

Overcoat/Topcoat

Be you a mackintosh fan or a trench lover, you’re going to need a durable coat to see you through the harsh rainstorms and snow expected this year.
Try to avoid the classic trap of going too thick or heavy; layers are more effective in the cold weather, so use a slightly lighter exterior to circumvent that stuffy feeling when wandering between venues this winter.
Large men should keep away from baggy excess and busy design. Slot pockets and bolder lapels will help, and be cautious of pea coats and double breasted varieties – a single-breasted military design will be far more accommodating but still offer a similar look.
Skinny gents can neutralize their slight build by using intelligent tailoring; slimmer fits will avoid billowing, and chunkier topcoats like the duffle help give depth to the silhouette.

Scarf

Some love cotton and some love wool, but never rule out the luxurious feel of silk and cashmere. The humble scarf is oft overlooked, but will add untold comfort when standing around in an exposed bus terminal or train station.
Length is all-important; if you have a thick or athletic neck, avoid short and slender weaves, otherwise the scale will appear too incongruent. The reverse also holds true – those with pencil necks should shun anything too long or too thick in order to retain an elegant poise.
Should you find yourself unable to find the perfect length, try a different looping method – some knots will require more fabric than others.

Sweaters

If I could change one element of a man’s everyday winter/fall wardrobe, the pullover would be top of the list. When done correctly, nothing looks as elegant and refined. As always, remember the golden rule: skim the silhouette! It doesn’t matter if you’re fat, thin, tall, short, waif-like or stocky – you want the fabric to hug you gently without riding up.
The key to everyday sweaters is getting the perfect material. Avoid the cable-knit and grab yourself as much wafer-thin merino and cashmere you can afford; you get all the warmth with a fraction of the thickness. Just be careful when laundering your new jumpers – thinner textiles are far less forgiving than poly-cotton blends.
Try to buy a selection in neutral tones: grey is a given, as are black and navy. If you want to step outside the box, you might want to consider a deep plum or claret too – you’d be surprised at how well their dusky, rich tones sit against most business wear and most skin types.

Gloves

As always, you should consider supple leather your best friend; those with moral objections (or shopping on a strict budget) should try artificial alternatives. Remember, ski gloves are for the Alps, not the city streets!
If you don’t already own a pair of leather gloves, there are only three shades worth considering: black, tan and grey. Don’t forget to buy a warm, yet thin lining to avoid the ‘cotton mitts’ effect and commit to memory the following mantra: “One size NEVER fits all” – always give gloves a test run before purchase.

Ankle Boots

A pair of dress boots will save you from the horrible sensation of slush soaked ankles post snowstorm; plus, if you’re wearing your trousers with the correct break length, few at the office should even note you’re wearing dress boots at all.
Note you’re after a slim, tailored finish, so put those clompy ‘horse’ boots back on the shelf right now! Simple and unfussy beats square-toed monstrosities every day of the week. Just be sure your pair offers adequate arch support and a study sole that won’t break after a single season’s use.

More info:http://www.ausuit.com.au/index.html

Keep Your Look Up To Scratch

Learning can be hard to look respectable, but it's even harder to maintain this style without long-term effort. Over time, it can be difficult to maintain these elegant ornaments. Today, take stock of our situation and see what we can do to stay "first class" throughout the year.Keep your hair balance
Do not neglect your hair at your own risk and peril. If you think your hair becomes a little too long colleagues have noticed days or weeks ago!
Find a hairdresser and a big stick to a regular appointment cycle, do not go over a month without filling - hair disheveled ruin the dapper gentleman a few seconds more research.Keep your beard free end
Length is not always the problem of the beard - containment is! To avoid wild look sure to keep your mower to turn almost every morning. All it takes is a quick cut around the edges to prevent their whiskers to invade and take control of your face.Enjoy your extra staples
Again, it is not a question of values, costs. Although you may splash money on high quality products, must keep in mind that will bring your food every day basis throughout the season and beyond.
The areas where you should spend a little more of the following: coats, suits, jackets, coats and shoes.Keep your clothes right
To keep your clothes hangers "fresh store with good quality wood, try to find versions of cedar if you can see everything from moth larvae.
Do not forget to fold your sweaters to avoid stretching and keep clothes wrinkle free, giving them plenty of space inside your closet.Buy in bulk everyday essential
This is valid for multiple purchase your everyday objects, so when the life of a garment is an end, your backup is only a closet hanger away.
Wait sales season to maximize value; '3 for 2 'in white shirts and cotton socks will keep your clothing budget under control.Finding a good dry cleaner
If you do not already have one, make it your priority this week to find a dry cleaning. Find one that offers sewing small adjustments if you can - this way has to clean her dress with buttons, zippers and tiny tears replaced lost was restored.
Do not go too far, however, dry cleaning is hard on clothes. Limit your sessions once a month at most, or even better, a great session at the end of the season.Put your colony
A personal perfume does not need to be in life. Keep your signature cologne update on change each season, find one that suits your skin type and time of year.
Go over warm winter flavors and plenty of high notes during the summer months. Do not be tempted to experiment too - an overwhelming selection of odors can often have the opposite effect, if it ends too caviler people run a mile ...