Accessories for the Suit

Some time ago, while my wife and I were getting dressed in something other than casual wear, she asked me which  necklace and earrings to wear.  After providing my opinion I commented on the vast selection she had in the way of accessories and that men have very few.  However, I have also learned that being aware of the options available and selecting among them wisely can truly make or break an otherwise perfect wardrobe selection. 

In this posting I will mention a few of the categories that today’s gentleman should consider when creating a wardrobe.  Future posts will deal with some of the specifics in choosing for the type of statement being considered.

The tie is obviously one accessory to be considered.  Selecting the right tie can send messages of power and confidence. The selection can also show how in step with fashion the wearer is.  Classical or Retro, chic or staid, no one tie is perfect for every situation.

Along with the tie goes jewelry intended to be worn with the tie, such as tacs, chains, collar pins and the like.

If one is wearing a French Cuff shirt, certainly thought must be given cuff link selection. Cuff links are not just about holding the ends of the sleeves together ; to the contrary, they are a wonderful opportunity for the wearer to show personality and flair in a way that is quiet and somewhat subdued.

Another item that should be considered carefully is the pen to be worn in the shirt pocket.  Even if an gentleman is simply going out for dinner or to another social function, the gentleman always carries a pen with him.  And a pen is for the gentleman what the necklace is for the woman. 

Shoes are also a matter of taste, flair and style for men as with women.  When dressing with a suit, leather shoes are normally called for.  Additionally the color of the leather should not only compliment the suit but should also match both belt and watch band, where appropriate.

Finally, details like lapel pins and pocket squares need to be considered.  While not necessary for all settings, either can provide a mark of distinction.

A lot to think about.  Are there any accessories for the gentleman’s suit that I have left out?   What do you think?

Weddings!

Today, one of my brothers-in-law got married!  It was a wonderful and beautiful ceremony, with both the bride and the groom looking happy and hopeful. And why shouldn’t they?  They are taking a wonderful leap of faith during difficult times, but it is a leap that parents and siblings before them have successfully taken so they have a pattern to follow.

As the day wore into evening and we prepared for the reception, I took a few moments to reflect on my own journey through marriage.  And as I gave him my only piece of advice, I knew that I had found my next post topic.

My bride and I married nearly 21years ago.  That certainly isn’t a record, bit it is substantial none the less.  Those years have seen highs and lows, joys and sorrows, petty arguments and epic quarrels and wonderful moments of making up afterwards.  It’s been a journey with a fair share of bumps along the way, but it has also been filled with joy and happiness borne of our working together. And that was what formed the context of my advice to him.

I told him that a wedding marks the beginning of the greatest and hardest adventure of a lifetime. I also told him that had I known all the ups and downs along the way, I would still have gone ahead just as planned because it has all been worth it.

Weddings are certainly a high point of style and are also a testament to the changeable nature of style.  But marriages are created through substance, through love and determination and grit and an unyielding trust that puts the good of the couple ahead of the good of the self.  And with that going for this couple, or any couple for that matter, I’m sure they’re marriage will be happy and long and full of substance.