If I were to own only one suit, it would have to be a navy suit, designed with a soft construction, featuring a notch lapel and slim fit. This particular ensemble is one of the most versatile pieces a man could own in their wardrobe. It serves as an essential foundation when first setting out to establish your wardrobe. 

The navy suit is classic and timeless. It exudes a sense of sophistication and elegance, making it suitable for an array of occasions.

Whether dressed with a tie or a white button-down shirt, navy suits are often associated with professionalism and authority. They are my go-to option for business meetings, job interviews, and formal events. 

While navy suits are celebrated for their versatility, I would advise to never mix and match the suit jacket or pants with other separate pieces. While it is possible to do so, my approach is that a suit should be worn in full. This will also help protect the suit from unnecessary wear over time.  

When it comes to fabric selection, I recommend a super 110s, or 120s for your everyday navy suit. I personally rely on will fabrics from Vitale Barberis Canonico for their great quality. For colder weather, I recommend considering a higher count such as 150s combining wool and silk for that added comfort. 

For finishing touches, the navy suit need not be embellished. It speaks for itself. Opt for simplicity with a notch lapel, full construction, a natural shoulder, and flap pockets. Craving something unique? Consider adding a ticket pocket – after all, why not?

Ultimately, while every individual’s style preferences and needs may vary, a navy suit remains a classic I will continue to recommend. It is a popular choice due to its versatility, timeless appeal, and ability to make a strong and positive impression in many different settings.

Both suits in photos were made at Suitsupply Montreal

A few years ago, I was into Eton shirts. I was drawn to their cut-away collars, fit, and array of colors. The variety they offered included a multitude of shades, patterns, and materials that were incredibly appealing to me. I bought them in every color and my wardrobe was now a vibrant mosaic of Eton shirts! Yet, as much as I loved the variety, this palette was a challenge, especially during busy mornings. Getting ready for work can already be complicated, with kids around it can get even harder.

I began to dive into the concept of minimizing decision fatigue. I came across the stories and insights from The Minimalists where the Zukerberg’s and Jobs of our times simplified their lives by wearing the same colors. This resonated with me, which is when the idea of embracing the timeless white shirt emerged. While not a ground-breaking idea, the notion of focusing on a crisp, white shirt that effortlessly matched with suits or jackets made perfect sense. Then I discovered Proper Cloth! Explore what they offer at Proper Cloth  Now I am proud to say that my wardrobe consists of timeless, yet elegant, white, and light blue shirts. This has allowed me to not only streamline my routine but also add simplicity to my attire. 

The white shirt serves as a blank canvas that can be paired with different suits, pants, jeans, and even shorts. The options are endless!

My preferred style for a white shirt is a tailored cut, with a spread or semi-spread collar – Think along the lines of Harvey Specter’s look. For a more English flair, opt for the cutaway collar. What I find important is the collar height. Depending on your physique and neck size, ensure the collar is in proportion with your neck. A high collar may seem overwhelming, and a low collar could appear disproportionate. The collar’s point-to-point measurement is another critical factor; It can make or break a shirt’s appearance. A well-made and fitted shirt boasts a collar that sits perfectly on your collarbone and nicely tucks under your jacket’s collar. 

Through my many trials of acquiring tailored shirts, one valuable lesson emerged; a shirt that sits perfectly on the peak of your shoulders will drape nicely over your torso and mid-section.

In my next blog, I will delve into my experience with Proper Cloth; my go-to choice for made-to-measure shirts. 
A white shirt poses as the foundation of a capsule wardrobe, enabling the creation of multiple outfits from a select few thoughtfully chosen pieces.