5 Different Suit Styles for your Graduation

Are you graduating from college this year? Do you want to stand out from the crowd? The style experts at Saville Menswear have pieced together five of their favorite suit styles for the Autumn Winter season to give you a little bit of inspiration for your momentous occasion!

1. Burgundy

 

Channel your inner Ron Burgundy with a timeless burgundy suit. This style is perfect for that Autumnal look. Pair with black shoes & a black tie for a classic day time look & swap for a dicky bow for celebrations later that evening!

2. Check

Check suits are becoming increasingly popular in Ireland these past few years, as seen on celebs such as Conor McGregor & Darren Kennedy, and are guaranteed to make you stand out from the crowd.

3. Classic Blue

Blue suits never go out of style, but they can seem quiet cliche. Wear with a statement check/pattern shirt to bring this timeless classic back to life.

4. Grey

Yet another timeless classic, grey suits never go out of style. Accessories with your shirt and tie to add a finishing touch of class.

5. Turtleneck Suit

Not for everyone, only the most dapper chaps can pull off this look. Perfect for the Winter season, simply replace your shirt with a polo-neck and hey presto!

The 5 Essential Rules for Layering in Menswear

Are you totally thrown by the term “layering” in menswear? Don’t worry, most men are. The Saville Style Blog is here to help fix that.  Follow these five simple guidelines and you’ll become an expert in layering in no time (Although you may think the timing is a little off for a layering post, remember that we live in Ireland, after all, and layering is vital for our ever-changing climate.)

What is layering?

It’s not just for women you know. Layering can and should be done by anyone with half an interest in style. It is the practice of wearing multiple layers of clothing in a balanced, fashionable, harmonious manner. While layering isn’t for everyone (some guys prefer to don a large, bulky, bog-standard coat), most people agree that layering relishes the idea of adding new dimensions to their look, with the option of adding/removing layers as the weather changes. Those, after all, are the two fundamental purposes of layering: for warmth and for style.  

Basic rules of layering

1. Each layer should be something you can wear on its own

This is vital, as a key function of layering is the option of adding/removing items. Starting off the day, you will need to wear most (if not all) layers, as the mornings are always coldest, e.g. a t-shirt-shirt-bomber-coat-scarf. As the day progresses and the weather gets warmer, you will want to take off a layer or two (this is why it’s a bad idea to just wear one really warm layer!) so it’s vital that your comfortable showing each layer.

2. Always wear thinner layers first

This is straightforward and fairly logical. The closer the clothing to your skin, the thinner the layer. Make sure you start with slim-fitting, thinner fabrics such as a cotton t-shirt, turtleneck or a slim-fitting dress shirt, and then layer over these with heavier items such as a waist coat, sweater, blazer, jacket, etc. Also, keeping inner layers fitted will ensure your outfit doesn’t look too bulky!

3. Mix in some color

Just because the weather may be dull doesn’t mean your dress sense should be. Be fearless and don’t hesitate to mix & match your colors. Navy tones work best with blues and browns, but try to splash in a vibrant red or green. Don’t fade into the background.

 

4. Scale your patterns from subtle to strong

It’s important to ensure that your layers don’t clash in both pattern and color. You can go in either direction for this one, but remember never to mix contrasting patterns. For example: if your overcoat is strongly colored with a heavy tweed pattern, you should wear a more restrained blazer and a single-colored shirt so that you have less and less patterns as you move closer to your core. Alternatively, if you have a flannel/tartan pattern shirt, wear a jumper/sweatshirt with minimal texture and finish with a smooth, solid overcoat. Which ever way you choose, ensure there is a smooth transition from subtle to strong.

5. Experiment with your layers

The options are endless when layering. Most layers consist of a t-shirt/shirt/jumper/jacket……boooooring! Mix it up with these items:

Dare to denim 

Denim is the perfect item to add that trendy edge to your layered look. Denim shirts and jackets work with most outfits but make sure they fit nicely and can be worn under a coat.

The Classic Cardigan 

Perfect for colder days, cardigans are an essential to any stylish man’s wardrobe. Rugged fabrics like tweed and thick wool, when matched tailored items look incredible. For example: try wearing a dress shirt & tie with a tweed waistcoat, thick wool cardigan and a pair of dark denim jeans/chinos with brown dress shoes.

Go for the Gilet

Gilets, or sleeveless jackets, are another great accessory to use when layering. For a more formal look, opt. for a neutral colored gilet with a shirt or blazer. For a more casual look, wear a stronger colored gilet with a jumper or sweater. You can also mix things up and layer it under your suit jacket, adding a nice point of different to your attire while still keeping you warm.

Try the Turtle-neck 

Don’t be afraid of the turtleneck/polo-neck. These are fast-becoming a trend on the streets of Cork and the options are endless. Wear one under your shirt, jumper or blazer to add a touch of class to your everyday look.

So there you have it! Don’t be afraid to experiment with layers. The options are endless and you can mix & match in as many ways as you like. A quick tip to help you when trying it out: opt. for one strong pattern, one strong color and one neutral color and you can’t go wrong!

15 Unspoken Suit Rules Every Man Should Know

The Saville Style Blog is here to tell you how to choose a suit, how to wear a suit and, most importantly, how not to wear a suit. Follow these 15 simple rules and you can’t go wrong!

Rule No.1: The width of the tie should match the width of the lapel. 

This general rule of thumb is often forgotten about, but it is vital to ensure the width of the tie matches the width of the lapel. According to Black Lapel, the widest point of the tie should match the widest point of the lapel. Stick to this rule to achieve a more balanced look.

Rule No. 2: Your belt should be thin, and the same color as your shoes. 

Thick, chunky belts are fast-becoming a thing of the past. It’s all about the skinny belt nowadays. It is also vital to ensure the color of your belt matches the color of your shoes. There is nothing worse than a black belt with brown shoes & vice versa!

Rule No. 3: To avoid ruining your jacket, always remember to unbutton it before sitting down. 

Failure to do this means your buttons may pop off, or the jacket itself could rip, stretch and wrinkle!

Rule No. 4: The no.1 thing to check when buying an off-the-rail suit is the shoulder fit.

Shoulder pads should come to the end-point of the shoulder, not half-way down the arm or near the neck! Shoulders are the hardest part of the suit to tailor, so make sure they don’t stick up or stick out.

Rule No. 5: To achieve a more casual, trendy look, go with a single-button jacket with peaked lapels. 

This type of jacket is perfect over knitwear with jeans or chinos for a trendy semi-casual look.

Rule No.6: To achieve a more formal, business-style look, opt for a double-button, notched lapel jacket. 

This look is perfect for all formal occasions.

Rule No. 6: You should be able to slip your hand inside your suit jacket so that it has room to move, while still remaining relatively snug. 

If your hand moves too freely, it’s too big, and if you can’t fit your hand in, it’s too small!

Rule No. 7: To stop your pants from falling off the hanger, use the Savile Row fold. 

How annoying is it when your pants slide off the hanger? This fold gives your suit pants just enough grip to hold them in place without causing wrinkles. Hey presto!

Rule No. 8: Your shirt should expose about a half-inch through the sleeve cuff. 

1/2 an inch, no more, no less! For a symmetrical, harmonious look, try to match the cuff lenght to the amount of collar visible at the back of the neck.

Rule No.9: Once you have purchased a suit, you will need a seam ripper or a small pair of scissors.

Un-stitch the jacket pockets, the stitching on the jacket’s vents, and remove the embroidred label from the jackets left sleeve. Be careful not to rip the fabric when doing this!

Rule No.10: Your tie should always be darker than your shirt.

This enhances the contrast between your shirt and tie. Always remember to match your tie to your clothing, and not your clothing to your tie.

Rule No. 11: If you sweat a lot, wear an undershirt/t-shirt. 

This will absorb sweat and prevent sweat patches. Try to get a vest/t-shirt that is tight fitted with a low-neck. This will avoid excess bulk and the shirt wont peak through!

Rule No. 12: Make sure your socks are long so that there’s no exposed skin when you sit down. 

Lets be honest…nobody wants to see your hairy legs!

Rule No. 13: Match your shoes to the color of your suit, using this guide:

There’s nothing worse than when a perfectly good suit is ruined because of non-matching shoes. You can’t
go wrong with this guide!

Rule No. 14: Pocket squares are the perfect accessory to add attention to detail and a polished, finishing touch to your suit, but remember; make sure they don’t match your tie’s pattern or fabric. 

Rule No.15: Finally, never EVER wear a sports watch with a suit. 

Just don’t do it. Keep it classy with a decent watch. You are wearing a suit, after all, not a track suit.

The classic white shirt. Often taken for granted, we tend to forget that it is a timeless, seasonless, masculine garment that goes with almost everything. The team at Saville are very excited to introduce the largest white shirt collection to date by premium Swedish shirt designer, Eton. Eton have held their position as innovators of fine shirting since 1928, and remain the top selling shirt brand at Saville Menswear for the past 37 years. In keeping with Eton’s latest campaign; 7 Days, 7 Ways, The Saville Style Blog is here to showcase seven different ways to wear the classic white shirt:

Monday 

Sharp Suit 

Start your week on a strong note with this classic business look. Eton’s classic, signature white Cambridge twill shirt with extreme cut away collar and stand out accessories help you master the office dress code.

Tuesday

Creative Meeting

Let creativity fly and master the art of layering by going from thin to thick, starting with Eton’s timeless white button-down in durable oxford. Add a cashmere blend cardigan and top it off with an unconstructed wool sport coat.

Wednesday 

Power Business

Navigate the board meeting with style and confidence. Match Eton’s white pin collar shirt with a checked waistcoat and unique details like a silver tie bar and hot pink tie.

Thursday

Streamlined Encounters

Go for a trim and tailored look including Eton’s super slim white shirt and skinny black tie. Building a basic modern business wardrobe doesn’t have to be harder than this.

Friday 

Date Night

Keep it clean, crisp and confident tonight with Eton’s white subtle embroidered polka dot style in fine twill.

Saturday

The Perfect Black Tie

Stick to the basic rules of black tie but update your traditional tuxedo with Eton’s white luxury pique shirt and ribbed silk bow tie.

Sunday 

Family Dinner

Family gatherings require relaxed looks. Combine Eton’s white garment washed pique with a sleeveless cashmere knit cardigan. Unique textures and refined comfort at its best.

Eton Display at Saville Menswear

For a full selection of Eton’s white shirts, ties and accessories, along with this seasons Spring/Summer ’15 collection, visit Saville Menswear. Our Eton display is located on the Corporate Level, the first floor at Saville Menswear.

Loafers are Back!

That’s right, the classic male loafer has most definitely made it’s way back to the market, and we predict loafers will be huge for spring/summer ’15, but what exactly are loafers?

According to the Gentleman’s Gazette, loafers:

• Are Lace-less shoes for both men and women
• Low-style shoes, displaying the ankle
• Separate sole, typically with a low heel
• Often contain a buckle or leather strap across the front section

History of the Loafer:

Loafers first appeared in the 1930’s, with a variety of styles appearing in shopfronts worldwide for both the male and female market. These lace-less slipon’s were originally designed for casual wear, traditionally worn with socks, however in the 1960’s, according to an article posted by Zappos, the sockless trend came about. In the 1980’s, men begun to sport loafers with a suit but no socks. Thankfully, this trend has finally returned.

Loafer Style:

Nowadays, loafers are used to dress down the traditional business suit. Worn with no socks, loafers go perfectly with almost any outfit, but work best when paired with chinos or suit pants. Here are our top three favorite loafer looks:

1. Smart-casual Loafer 

Seen here with a a pair of navy chinos, grey jumper and dark blazer jacket, these loafers add that finishing touch to make this outfit that little bit more casual. This look is perfect for casual spring business meetings or for a fancy lunch.

2. The Casual Loafer 

Worn with khaki chinos and a shirt with no tie, brown colored loafers are the perfect accessory for casual attire. This look is great for BBQs and outdoor events. Tip: roll the trouser ends up twice for summer looks.

3. The Business Loafer

Loafers also go will full suits. As featured in the image, these are the perfect accessory when worn with matching suit pants & blazer, teamed with a t-shirt. This look is perfect for the office, especially during those hot summer months!

Loafers at Saville Menswear Cork:

Take a look at these limited edition navy suede loafers, by Hugo Boss. These just arrived in-store today and we are absolutely crazy about them! This pair in particular would be perfect when teamed with navy chinos. Get yours now at Saville Menswear, 43 Oliver Plunkett Street, Cork.

Bespoke Tailoring

Are you ready to take a leap into the world that is bespoke tailoring? Have you always wondered how celebs such as Daniel Craig, David Beckham and Conor Mcgregor look as if their clothes have been hand-crafted from scratch, stitched to perfection to suit their specific body proportions? Well, that’s because they have, and it’s a fast-growing service trend that seems to be appearing in destination menswear stores all over the country.  But it’s not as intimidating as you think. Let the Saville Style Blog give you the low-down on everything you need to know about bespoke made to measure tailoring.

What is bespoke made to measure tailoring?

Bespoke made to measure tailoring is a process whereby the customer creates his very on tailor-made suit from scratch. At Saville, no detail is surpassed as our team ensure everything from the fabric lining of your suit to the positioning of your jacket pocket is tailored specifically to suit your needs. Your personal specialist will work with you from start to finish to ensure that your suit is tailored to perfection, suiting your every need. Made to Measure at Saville gives you the opportunity to create a tactile expression of your own personality because, after all, each suit should be as unique as the man who wears it!

1. The Tailored Fitting

The journey begins with your initial fitting consultation. This process involves custom measurement and sizing, whereby our team will carefully detail your measurements, establishing the perfect style, size and fit for you. Even a few millimetres can decipher whether or not a garment of clothing fits well, or fits perfectly. It is not just about making the best even better, is it about giving each made to measure suit an individual shape. Every single millimetre counts at this stage of the journey. The result? A made to measure garment that feels like proverbial second skin.

2. The Fabric Selection 

We will then exhibit our fabric selection for the exterior of your new custom-made suit. With over 1000 luxurious fabrics to choose from, our specialists will allow you to browse our very own hand-crafted fabric display books, showcasing our variety of patterns, colours and materials from the finest Italian mills. With our expert knowledge and your unique vision, we will help you to choose a fabric that best suits the purpose of your new suit, be it for corporate or leisure usage.

3. The Finer Details 

This stage of your made to measure journey encompasses the inclusion of your individual, distinctive style. Our specialists will guide you through all of the possible options in relation to the overall style of your suit. Our hand-crafted display books will assist you in determining the precise details of your suit, covering everything from the pocket size, type and location, to the closure and lapel style, the waistband length of your trouser, all down to the inclusion of a mobile phone pocket inside your suit jacket. You can even create your own unique button style, or chose to embroider your wedding date on the inside of their jacket.

4. Collection of your Bespoke Masterpiece 

The final stage in your bespoke journey is the collection of your very own, custom-made suit. Our team will make arrangements so that you can collect your new bespoke piece the day it arrives in store, just six weeks prior to the initial consultation. Your specialist will meet with you on the day of arrival to ensure the suit not only meets, but exceeds your expectations.

So there you have it! Everything you need to know about bespoke tailoring at Saville Menswear Cork. To book an appointment with one of our specialists, call us on (021) 427 0334 or visit us at 43 Oliver Plunkett Street, Cork City.

Our First Post….Goodwin Smith Footwear!

So we’ve finally started a style blog! We have been meaning to start one but have been so hectic after the Christmas season, but we’ve finally jumped on the band-wagon. Since their release on the market for the AW14 season, we’ve noticed these eye-catching brogues positively flying off the shelves, so what better way to start our blog by showcasing our personal favorite footwear brand, Goodwin Smith. 

Goodwin Smith introduced this stunning Weir and Baldwin range last season. Featured here in a contrasting two-tone brown leather/grey suede, these brogues are an absolute essential for every mans wardrobe. Pair these with dark denim jeans and a check shirt for that classy smart/casual outdoors-man look. Retailing at €95.90, the Weir & Baldwin style brogues are available for purchase in store now at Saville Menswear, Cork.