Ask Spry… Evening Wear For Men???

Hey Spry,

I wanted your advice on what to wear to a fundraiser/fashion show, being held by my church.  It specifies “evening wear”, and as a 30 year old man, I want to look elegant, but with some edge.  I guess it’s apparent that I have no idea what would work to give this effect.  Any suggestions?

-Elegant Edge

Dear Elegant,

First of all, because evening wear is specified, I hope you already know that a (dark) suit is required; and as a 30 year old gentleman, you should already own one!  There was once a time where only black suits were acceptable for evening attire. However, we now have an opportunity to play with different colors (brown, gray, navy, etc.).  Depending on how far outside of the box you want to step, you have a few options.

My first suggestion is for the man that is somewhat conservative.  I encourage  you to try a basic black suit, a black shirt, and skinny black tie. Add a pop of color with a jazzy pocket square.  The bigger your personality, the brighter the square should be. Avoid trying to match, by choosing one with “black” in the pattern(s).  This look will say “I’m classic, yet stylish!”

The second look would be for the guy that wants to express that he understands fashion, and isn’t afraid to show it! Compliment your favorite suit with a colorful tie and pocket square.  However, stay away from matching sets!  Try mixing prints with similar colors.  If you’re baffled, try a solid tie with a print pocket square, or vice versa. 

The last look is for the dude that is up on all the latest trends, and will set the pace for seasons to come! Your dark suit will come in colors like purple or burgundy.  Keep in mind that although you want to stand out, the shades should be very dark. Accent it with a complimenting print or solid button down (depending on your taste).   No pocket square required here, because the suit speaks for itself.

Whatever direction you choose to go, the most important tip to remember is to make sure the suit is tailored to your physique.  This simple step can make an average guy look like he just stepped off of the runway.  Have fun at your gala!

Ask Spry… Men’s Shirt Collar?

Hey Spry,

I am doing a photo shoot and will be wearing a suit and a shirt with no tie. I would like for my collar to stay up during the shoot and hold its shape. What type of shirt should I be looking for or what do I do to make sure I have that “look” that Im going for?

- Luke

Hey Luke,

Although you want to purchase a shirt that is of high standard, the type of shirt that you buy is not as important as what you do to it to make the collar stand on it’s on.  When buying a shirt, look for good quality cotton blend shirts.  If you’re prepared to dish out some dollars, Brooks Brothers or Thomas Pink is the way to go.  However, you will find that stores like Nordstrom’s or Express (love thier colors) also offer shirts with good craftsmanship, at lower price points.

Whatever shirt you choose, what’s most important is that you properly prepare to allow your shirt to give its greatest performance.  Using a spray starch when ironing will increase the stiffness of the shirt.  Also, the type of collar stay you use is important.  Grown men do grown things!  Therefore, it’s time for an upgrade.  Throw away the plastic ones that come with the shirt!  Step your game up by purchasing brass collar stays.  I buy mine as a set, and get different sizes for different shirts.  Finally, we turn to one of my favorite “must have” items for assistance; double-sided tape! Take a small piece, and put it behind the collar.  This will allow you to manipulate the collar, and place it where you need it to be.

Hope this helps!

Spry Lee Scott