Suiting 101: Two-Button or Three-Button Suit
Men’s style is all in the details. But you already knew that. And there are few better examples than those 1-inch-diameter disc-shaped objects hanging snugly from the front of your suit. What your buttons are made of is important – real bull horn (what we use) is superior to plastic. But even more to the...
Suiting 101: An Introduction to Suit Jacket Construction
When you think about suit quality, what are the first few things that come to mind? How killer it makes you look (fit) is obviously numero uno. How nice it feels (fabric quality) is an obvious second. But what about construction? Unlike fit and fabric quality, you may not care about the construction of a...
Ask a Black Lapel Stylist: Saving Money with Traditional Wet Shaving
Q: “I really enjoyed reading your guide on traditional wet shaving. But I was wondering, do you really save money using a safety razor as opposed to a normal catridge razor?” – Jeff M. A: Yes, while you’ll spend a little more initially acquiring the supplies, you’ll save in the long-term primarily because the costs...
Guide to a Better Shave: Wet Shaving
Like most guys, you probably shave 4 or 5 times a week. You do it because you need to and because the Geico caveman look hasn’t been “in” for the better part of two centuries. It’s routine and things done in routine are often done complacently, without much care. So why should you deviate from...
Valentine’s Day Gift Guide
There’s this perception out there that guys have it easy on Valentine’s Day. That somehow, all you have to do is buy some flowers and a box of Godiva chocolate truffles and you’re good to go for the next 364 days. While flowers and chocolates are nice, it’s a gift more played out than Gangnam...
Ask a Black Lapel Stylist: Belt Alternatives: Side Tabs & Suspender Buttons
Q: “Ever since discovering custom tailored suits, I’ve warmed up to the idea of forgoing the belt. Still, I feel a little awkward wearing suit pants with empty belt loops just hanging there. What are your thoughts on not wearing a belt on suit pants with belt loops?” - George M. A: As Glenn O’Brien once...