5 Suits Every Established Man in DC Should Own
A well-dressed man is a sign of success. The right suit can make you look and feel powerful, confident, and in control. If you're serious about showing your success, then you need to invest in a few key pieces that will turn heads and establish your authority for years to come. Of course, it goes without saying that all of these must be tailored to perfection (or better yet, custom-made by a custom tailor in DC) in order to convey the message you want these suits to convey.
The 5 suits every successful man should own are:
1. The Navy Pinstripe Suit
2. The Gray Flannel Suit
3. The Black Tuxedo
4. The Tan Linen Suit
5. The "Wow" Suit
1. The Navy Pinstripe Suit
A solid navy suit is the most versatile piece a man can own. It's appropriate for both casual and formal occasions, and it goes with just about everything. A navy pinstripe (or chalk stripe) suit, however, carries the same versatility and conveys power, wealth, and a dominating presence in any room. Pair it with high-quality dark brown or oxblood leather oxfords, a crisp white french cuff shirt, and a bold red, gold, or blue tie, and you'll command the respect of the style world and the world of wealth and influence alike.
The navy pinstripe suit can be worn in any business situation and works effortlessly when translated to cocktail attire (with a gray turtleneck or an unbuttoned dress shirt). The jacket and pants of a striped suit should not be worn separately from each other.
2. The Gray Flannel Suit
A gray flannel suit is a timeless English classic that every man should have in his wardrobe. Not only is it incredibly versatile, but it is also professional and easy to wear. This suit can also be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For example, you can wear it with a dress shirt and tie for work, or you can pair it with a sweater and loafers for a more casual outfit. No matter how you wear it, a gray flannel suit will always make you look intentionally stylish. If you don't already own one, I highly recommend that you invest in a gray flannel suit as soon as possible.
3. The Black Tuxedo
A tuxedo is a mandatory piece for an established man to own. Tuxedos are much more formal than suits, and are therefore appropriate for more formal occasions like galas, black-tie weddings, and high-end events (Think - a ballet at The Kennedy Center). There are way too many men wearing business suits to black tie occasions and it's important for a successful man to adhere to the dress code, even when it's not actively enforced. A proper tuxedo is a timeless garment. There may be style trends that vary throughout your life, but classic formalwear is a tradition that is highly revered. This means a black tux with appropriately-sized peak lapels and a black satin or grosgrain lapel, waistband, and stripe down the legs of the pants. This also means accessorizing it properly. Check out Capitol Hill Clothiers's Guide to Black Tie here. For any professional man in DC, owning a proper tuxedo is a requirement.
4. The Tan Linen Suit
A tan linen suit is perfect for summertime events where you need to look put-together but not too stuffy. It's light and breathable, making it ideal for DC's hot summer weather, but it still conveys an air of authority. Pair it with a white shirt and loafers for a classic summertime look that will never go out of style. The tan linen suit can also be used just as easily in some workplaces. We all know President Obama caught some grief from Republicans for wearing one to a press conference but he did look damn good.
5. The "Wow" Suit
This last suit is open to interpretation, but you know it when you see it. A "wow" suit is one that is decidedly not for the office. It's meant to turn heads and inspire conversations. Whether it's a textured burgundy or a pastel mint, this suit is for social occasions where you want to make an impression. You've got to be confident enough to wear it, but it's worth it when you do. Others will be drawn to you and if there are some who don't like it, you won't notice them behind the people that like it enough to approach you and tell you.
No matter what your personal style may be, every man should have a few key suits in his closet that he can rely on to make an impression and cement him as decidedly stylish. With these five choices, you'll be prepared for anything life throws your way, primarily continuing success.
