Beau Hayhoe

Are you the type of guy who relishes the chance to dress casually? To slip off your jacket and roll up your sleeves? Well, we’ve got news for you.

You’ll likely have to throw on a stylish blazer at some point – and in today’s new entry in our ongoing The Perfect Fit series, we’ll tell you exactly how a blazer should fit.

It can be tough to get into the mindset of wearing a blazer for a special occasion or otherwise. And if you’re not a guy who wears a blazer on the regular, it can feel even more intimidating.

Perhaps blazers call to mind stuffy, old style and formality – think thick fabrics and poor fits. Or, wearing a blazer might not seem to fit your personal style. However, it can be done – if you know how a blazer should fit and choose the right fabrics.

If you focus on a blazer that fits well and feels great, it can feel as comfortable and natural as your favorite T-shirt or chambray shirt. It’s all part of the Effortless Gent ethos of being comfortable with personal style that works for you.

If you don’t know where to start your search – or if you’re on the hunt for a new favorite blazer – we’ll give some ideas to get your shopping search started.

And now, with no further delay… onto the basics of how a blazer should fit.

So, How the Heck Should A Blazer Fit?

No matter your body type – tall and slender or short and athletic — you should focus on some key areas to find your ideal fit.

To know how a blazer should fit, it helps to know your measurements. Just like how a dress shirt should fit, need to know your sleeve length and your chest measurement from pit-to-pit. That way you don’t get too-long sleeves or a jacket that’s too wide for your shoulders.

Blazers, like suit jackets, are typically sized in increments based on chest size – 36 inches, 38 inches and so on. And they’re often also available in either Regular or Long sizing. For example, a blazer labeled “38L” features a 38-inch chest size with a longer fit.

Before we get too far ahead… let’s focus on the basic fit and feel of your blazer. Slim (or at least tailored) fits have been the name of the game in the menswear world for some time now.

That means you want a jacket that hugs your shoulders without being too constricting (similar to the dress shirt you might wear beneath it). Your ideal blazer will have a slightly tapered fit through the midsection.

There should be just a bit of pull to it when buttoned. But as is the case with a perfect-fitting dress shirt, you want a jacket that skims, not clings. Bonobos makes slim blazers with modern, tailored fits that still aren’t too tight.

I struggled for a while to find how a blazer should fit for me, but I think I might have nailed it with the slimmer-cut GANT Diamond G blazer. I wore it to a recent summer wedding – paired with classic khaki chinos and stylish dress shoes, of course).

Most blazers are cut slimmer to begin with these days, so you should be able to find one that features these key points of fit quite easily – like the GANT Diamond G blazer seen above.

Remember, just because bigger suits are on-trend on the runways doesn’t mean that same look works for every guy. You want tailored, clean and modern – just like the rest of your outfit.

That’s true whether you team your blazer with slim light wash denim and a crisp summer polo or a rugged chambray shirt, dark denim and classic suede chukka boots in the fall and winter months. Great fit applies no matter what blazer you’re wearing.

Think Of It This Way

Blazers are cut slimmer these days – making it easier to get the perfect fit.
The right blazer should hug your shoulders and midsection while still providing room to move – knowing your measurements helps.
Whether you’re wearing a classic four-season navy blazer or a summer weight linen blazer, proper fit still applies.

What to Avoid

The pitfalls of a poorly fitting blazer are quite easy to spot. First, avoid jackets that are all-around too big. If the fit of the chest and shoulders are off or baggy, it leaves excess fabric hanging off your frame and creates a pretty sloppy look.

You also want to avoid blazers that are too long. Jackets should cover the seat of your trousers (or slightly less, if the jacket is particularly slim). If a jacket hangs lower than that, it’s not how a blazer should fit.

Length is something to watch out for when it comes to your jacket’s fit. Take the sleeves. The same rule of thumb for dress shirts applies to blazers – it should leave, at most, a half-inch of shirt cuff visible beyond the sleeve of your blazer. Any more than that means the blazer’s sleeves are too short.

And if you can’t see any shirt cuff at all? That’s too long – definitely not how a blazer should fit.

Conversely, it’s important to avoid jackets that are too tight. Even a man as gifted physically as Ryan Gosling knows this – his jacket fits slim, yet not overly tight.

If a sleeve is threatening to rip or a button is threatening to pop, your jacket is too tight. Avoid those mistakes and you’ll have a blazer that gives off a tailored, modern vibe – sans any jacket rips or lost buttons.

As with any item of clothing, it’s always best to go simple, clean and classic. Skip fabrics that feature too much polyester (either in the sleeves of the blazer or the body) and that feel stiff, starchy or shoddily made. The more of an investment you make, the higher quality you’ll get.

Of course, you’ll want to avoid wearing heavy fabrics in the summer or fabrics that are too light in the winter. A great happy medium? The Bonobos Unconstructed Italian Wool Blazer. But more on which blazers to buy in a second.

Think Of It This Way

Wearing an ill-fitting blazer – either too large or too small – detracts from the rest of your look.
Your blazer should cover the seat of your trousers – no more – with sleeves that leave about a half-inch of shirt cuff exposed.
Look for a jacket that’s slightly snug, yet not too tight – and certainly, not too large.
Avoid jackets made with low-quality, synthetic materials or too much polyester. Avoid fabrics that are seasonally out of place – too heavy or too light.

How Should I Wear My Blazer?

Some specific factors set the course in terms of styling. If you’re looking for the perfect blazer to wear during the summer or a great blazer to wear during the fall, it’s best to do two things.

1 – Buy a quality blazer in a crisp fabric and a neutral, yet stylish color.

2 – Make sure the fit is on point. That way, you can style your blazer any which way.

Take the Italian Navy Heather Wool Blazer from inimitable American menswear designer Todd Snyder. It’s made from a double-knit wool – a little toasty for summer – but it’s a great example of a wearable blazer the rest of the year.

In a classic navy color, you could wear a blazer like this with nearly anything. From a classic white Oxford and slim dark denim with leather chukka boots to an easygoing classic pocket tee and slim olive chinos. A navy blazer works wonders in your wardrobe.

It all starts with the two keys we discussed earlier – a sharp fit and quality fabric. The same crucial components come into play when styling a classic tweed blazer in the fall and winter. Look for a slim cut, quality fabrics, and neutral color. Bonus points for standout texture.

In the summer months, your styling can – and should – change accordingly. Breathable, breezier fabrics are the name of the game.

That’s where a breezy linen blazer from a brand like J. Crew is going to come in handy. Look for the same classic color and slimmer fit, but wear it with ease alongside slim off-white chinos and leather loafers.

Adding and subtracting layers through the seasons can be done easily, too. If your blazer is made of a wearable birdseye cotton, like the excellent Todd Snyder Sutton Black Label Blazer, it’s easy to style all year round.

Think Of It This Way

A crisp blazer in a multi-season weight and a neutral color works with all kinds of outfits.
The same rules of fit apply to lightweight summer blazers and heavier, cold-weather blazers.
As long as your blazer fits well, you can – and should – style it with your favorite menswear seasonable staples.

The Last Word

You’ve heard it before – if you start with the right fit, you can build an enviable Lean Wardrobe chock-full of stylish menswear essentials. Knowing how a blazer should fit and finding a great-fitting jacket should certainly be high on your list.

Look for crisp, neutral fabrics. And keep in mind that a modern fit breeds versatile wearability, no matter how often you toss on a blazer.

Established brands – from Todd Snyder to J. Crew to Bonobos – offer up excellent value for your investment. That, in turn, makes it easier to wear a stylish blazer throughout the year.

Start with the proper fit and go from there. With these tips you’ve got a heck of a stepping stone towards nailing the perfect fit.

What’s your favorite blazer in your closet right now? Do you have a favorite way to style it?

Images courtesy of Bonobos, Todd Snyder

The Perfect Fit: Blazers and Sport Coats

You might have noticed something as the seasons change – it’s about to get hot.

Like, “sit in front of the fan all day” hot. And your wardrobe should change accordingly.

In addition to shedding layers, you should rotate your jeans or chinos out for shorts. Yes, let those legs breathe and get acquainted with how your shorts should fit in the latest entry in the Effortless Gent Perfect Fit series.

Last time out, we talked about how your dress shirt should fit. This time, we take things much more casual.

If you’ve got a favorite pair of slim chino shorts to wear all summer, good for you.

Still searching for that perfect pair – and that perfect fit? We can certainly help there, too.

Make no mistake: We’re looking for upgraded fabrics and slimmer fits. No baggy cargo shorts that most of us went for in high school and college. *raises hand*

So, who’s with me? Let’s get to it.

Prefer video?

I covered how shorts should fit, which colors to pick, and what to wear with shorts in this video from the Effortless Gent YouTube channel.

By the way, if you haven’t subscribed yet, you can do so here!

How Should My Shorts Fit?

Today’s key question — How should your shorts fit? — doesn’t have a straightforward answer – not least because we’re all different heights, roughly.

Yes, one of the keys to look for when shorts shopping involves length. And that’s also an easy place to start when it comes to how your shorts should fit.

For all but the very tall among us, shorts with an inseam of 7 or 9 inches do the trick in terms of length.

That brings us to our first key point: Avoid shorts that hit below your knees. Their baggy, sloppy appearance just looks odd visually.

A shorter pair of shorts (pun intended) brings another benefit. Less fabric = a slimmer fit.

Think of it like this: When you tailor your suit trousers to hit the tops of your shoes, you create a clean finish and slim fit.

It’s the same with shorts that hit above the knee. They’re instantly more polished, whether you pair those shorts with a slim chambray shirt or a classic pocket tee.

That’s the case with your average, everyday shorts – like a pair of slim cotton shorts or more versatile shorts made with casual fabric blends – but more on all that in a second.

One more thing to look for – rather than reaching for “relaxed fit” shorts, opt for something slim.

Retailers like J. Crew are making modern, relatively affordable, and tailored cotton shorts that fit the bill nicely. And hey, that particular pair in the link features the coveted 7-inch inseam! Not too shabby.

Now, that doesn’t mean that you want your shorts to fit as tight as tailored swim trunks. Go for a pair that gives you room to move, sit, stand, and maybe even take on a game of beach football (don’t get too crazy, though).

Finding the perfect fit could require trying on a few pairs, but practice makes perfect and it’s well worth it.

Think Of It This Way:

Reach for shorts with a shorter inseam – 7 or 9 inches ought to work nicely.
Look for shorts that feature a slim-yet-mobile cut.
Avoid cargo shorts or shorts that hit below the knee.

What To Avoid

OK, class is still in session. You know how your shorts should fit for summer. But what about how you don’t want them to fit?

Pay attention, because this one’s a doozie (I kid, I kid).

But in all seriousness, there are a few mistakes to avoid when it comes to how your shorts should fit.

For one, excess fabric – usually through the thigh and toward the knee – is a killer.

Excess fabric makes your shorts hang too low or hit below the knee. Both are great ways to wreck an otherwise solid outfit. And baggy shorts with too many pockets detract from all the high points of summer style.

Whether the focal point of your outfit is classic white sneakers or a slim printed shirt, you want style that’s on-point.

You should absolutely avoid those outfit-killers. And if you want your shorts to stand up to repeated wears and washes over the summer, avoid paying for shorts on the cheap – as we always discuss here at Effortless Gent.

It pays to invest in a quality pair of shorts. Retailers like Bonobos make consistently excellent and versatile chino shorts that are built to last. And companies like OLIVERS Apparel go the extra mile with tailored shorts made from performance-ready fabric.

Brands like Bonobos also offer a range of fit and fabric options (we particularly love the plethora of colors and fits available via the brand’s Washed Chino Shorts).

If that all sounds simple – pay for quality and look for a great fit – know that it takes time to get it just right.

Think Of It This Way:

Baggy shorts with excess fabric and too many pockets detract from your style.
Shoddy fabrics and construction should be avoided – reach for quality instead.
Look to brands that make shorts built to last through multiple wears and washes.

How Do I Style My Shorts?

Answering this question is a rather pressing matter as it gets warmer outside. There are a few ways to go, each of them simple and classic.

If you’re reaching for a pair of tailored cotton shorts for an easygoing Sunday brunch or a day at the park, the world is your oyster. Menswear staples like a slim polo shirt and classic white sneakers are your very best friends here. Crisp-yet-casual leather boat shoes also get the job done nicely.

You can also layer up with stylish outerwear if need be – a classic piece like a suede bomber jacket provides a nice top layer if it gets cool and breezy.

What about more casual shorts – like the technically minded, terry cotton Mack Weldon Ace Short? Match them with pieces like a simple broken-in pocket tee or a slim, rugged short-sleeve henley.

Once again, classic, understated sneakers are fair game – just leave the flip-flops at home.

The terrific thing is that once you nail how your shorts should fit (tailored shorts that fall above-the-knee, to start), the rest is easy. When you grab a neutral pair of navy chino shorts or a slim pair of khaki shorts, the styling potential is nearly limitless.

Think Of It This Way:

Slim shorts in a neutral color can be styled any which way – from a slim pocket tee to a crisp white polo.
Accentuate neutral-colored shorts with classic touches like leather boat shoes or clean white sneakers.
Pair shorts in more casual fabrics – like French terry cotton – with casual staples (like a short-sleeve henley), and style chino shorts with dressy-yet-casual staples like a cotton polo.

Clean, Slim, and Stylish

Once you’ve figured out what you want in a pair of shorts – be it casual versatility or laid back style – it’s easy to go from there. Dialing in how your shorts should fit (tailored yet not too tight, free of pesky cargo pockets, etc.) makes it easier.

Experiment with fabrics and colors — from cotton chino to soft French terry cotton — for more variety and styling potential. Reaching for well-made shorts from quality brands is always a smart decision.

What shorts length do you prefer? What’s your favorite way to style your summer shorts?

The Perfect Fit: Shorts

We’re here today with the latest entry in our ongoing series – The Perfect Fit. Last time we covered how your suit trousers should fit.

Luckily for those who like putting complete outfits together in a cinch, today we’re looking into how a dress shirt should fit.

Even if you don’t wear one every day, it pays to know how to wear one – and how a dress shirt should fit your body.

If you are in the habit of wearing a dress shirt daily, you could use a refresher on key men’s style essentials.

Coming from a guy who dresses casual day in and day out, it helps to get reacquainted with dressier style principles from time to time. Once you’ve got down the basics of how a dress shirt should fit, it’ll always be top of mind.

That same dress shirt can team up with a stylish V-neck sweater, a classic winter suit or a slim summer blazer with ease.

But’s let back up a few steps and make sure that your shirt’s not wearing you. On the contrary, we’ll help you achieve that hard-to-find perfect fit.

How Should My Dress Shirt Fit?

Look around any office and you’ll see varying examples of poor dress shirt fit:

Too baggy
Too loose through the arms
Too tight around the shoulders

We’re going for the sweet spot in terms of fit, though. Tailored, yes. But not skin-tight.

Oftentimes, shirts are too long or baggy through the middle. You should aim for a dress shirt that, when tucked in, doesn’t billow because of excess fabric. The same general rules of fit apply to dress shirts and sweaters.

Our man Dwight Schrute is not someone to emulate for how a dress shirt should fit.

Dialing in the fit through the chest is crucial. This helps ensure the rest of your shirt has clean lines.

A higher armhole prevents excess fabric on the top half of your body. Again, we’re going for tailored, not tight.

Through the arms, you want a dress shirt that skims but doesn’t cling. A fit that’s as tight as a T-shirt around your upper arm won’t do.

Aim for a happy medium – take, for instance, actor Eddie Redmayne. Although he’s wearing his crisp white shirt in casual fashion, it’s trim through the sleeves and waist, avoiding excess fabric throughout.

Finding the perfect fit for your dress shirts might take some experimentation. If you hit the gym a lot, a size Small shirt in a slim fit from a retailer like Bonobos will fit you differently than, say, a menswear writer like myself.

That’s why knowing your measurements is so important. You’re going to want to know both your neck (circumference) and sleeve (length) measurements when shopping.

Big-name, trusted brands like J. Crew offer dress shirts in sizes Small through Extra Large. Sizing charts come in handy. And never rule out trying on a shirt or two – or three.

There are other methods that aim to be error-proof. For instance, custom shirt-makers Black Lapel can match the fit of your dress shirt to the precise measurements you give them.

The Perfect Fit: Dress Shirts — via Black Lapel

Think Of It This Way:

Minimize excess fabric through the waist and sleeves
A higher armhole creates clean lines
Don’t go too tight or too baggy

What To Avoid

When shopping for dress shirts and trying to find that elusive perfect fit, beware this trap:

Current fashion trends generally dictate that tighter is better. But a dress shirt that’s too tight becomes nearly unwearable.

There’s a difference between a skin-tight fit and a tailored fit. Daniel Craig gets it mostly right, even if his shirt’s a little rumpled.

You might argue, “If I’m wearing a jacket, why does it matter how my dress shirt fits?”

A well-fitting dress shirt opens up versatility. It should fit so well that you you can wear it sans jacket, sleeves rolled up, ready for business ( like the impeccably tailored Hugh Jackman).

Don’t make the mistake of thinking a jacket can hide all your style sins, either. Instead, let’s nail that perfect fit.

It’s all too easy to go hog-wild and buy up handfuls of dress shirts on the cheap in an effort to find a great fit. Retailers who specialize in “fast fashion” should be avoided.

These brands make their clothing on the cheap, using lower-quality fabrics. That results in dress shirts that don’t fit, wash, or wear well.

Reputable brands like Ledbury specialize in excellent tailored wear and can even help you stock up on other style essentials.

There’s also some debate over the quality (and safety) of non-iron or wrinkle-free dress shirts. That’s because they’re usually treated with a chemical like formaldehyde.

However, brands such as Twillory are bucking the trend by making shirts that wear better and last longer. For instance, the brand’s SafeCotton shirts are made without dangerous chemicals.

Is there anything better than a crisp white dress shirt with a standout fit – courtesy of neck and sleeve measurements? Not quite.

Remember, the road to a great fit is filled with pitfalls. Watch out! Avoid the common mistakes most guys are making and nail the fit of your dress shirt.

Think Of It This Way:

Don’t buy too tight – go with a tailored fit for your body that allows for easy comfort with or without a jacket
Avoid “fast fashion” brands that use cheap fabrics
Look out for non-iron dress shirts treated with dangerous chemicals

How Should I Wear My Dress Shirt?

You’re stocked up on crisp, classic dress shirts from trusted retailers like Bonobos or the budget-friendly Uniqlo. Now, how are you going to wear that shirt?

As all of us EG readers know, starting with great fit makes things easier in terms of styling potential.

If you’ve got a clean and crisp dress shirt, you can style it with ease under a stylish V-neck sweater and alongside versatile suit trousers for an everyday tailored look. Maybe finish it off with suede Chelsea boots.

When the occasion calls for a tailored ensemble, your well-fitting dress shirt is going to do some damage. Combine your dress shirt with a tweed blazer at the office or on a more refined occasion.

Ties and other accessories are an entirely different ball-game. It all depends on the type of dress shirt you’re wearing. Still, that doesn’t mean fit falls by the wayside.

Keep your fit dialed in. Here’s a quick crash course:

If you’re wearing a classic blue or white dress shirt in a cotton fabric, a slim black or navy knit tie is the ultimate finishing touch.

Silk ties are another good, classic option – but beware the trap of always reaching for a predictable red silk tie. Like a certain political leader…

A slimmer, subtler tie – like a navy knit tie – makes it easier to ditch your jacket and roll up your sleeves – provided you’ve got the right fit.

If you’re wearing a dress shirt with a rougher fabric, such as a chambray dress shirt, a tie with a more substantial texture (like wool) will play off the shirt nicely.

You want to tie a knot that’s about the same proportion as your shirt collar. For more, check out the tie knots we suggest (you really only need to know these two).

Of course, you’ll want to make sure your shirt plays nicely off your suit jacket or blazer. That means the suit jacket’s lapels are about the same width as your shirt collar (note how the width of James Bond’s collar matches his suit jacket lapels, for example).

This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are plenty of variables in terms of accessories to match with dress shirts. But keep this in mind: It all starts with great fit.

Think Of It This Way:

Styling your dress shirt with everyday classics is easy if you start with the perfect fit
Look for accessories that complement the weight, texture, and color of your shirt
Match the proportions of your dress shirt’s collar with your jacket and tie

Start with The Basics

The more you try your hand at perfecting the fit of your everyday essentials – and it’s still something I struggle with from time to time – the easier it becomes to build upon those principles.

Start by learning how a dress shirt should fit. That will lead you to a better-fitting blazer. That gives you more confidence at work…

You get the picture.

Perfecting the fit of your dress shirt is like any other basic item. If your dress shirt fits as well as your favorite T-shirt, you’re going to be more comfortable wearing it and more open to styling it with your favorite essentials.

Sometimes, the smallest building blocks make the biggest impact – especially in terms of style.

What are your go-to dress shirt brands? How do you style your dress shirt in unexpected ways?

The Perfect Fit: Dress Shirts

We’re back here today with another entry in the Perfect Fit series as we continue the ongoing quest that is improving your menswear game.

If you caught the last entry in the series – how your sweater should fit – you’ll see that we’re stepping forward into dressier territory today with men’s suit trousers.

How should your suit trousers fit? It’s not all that easy to answer. But we’ll try our best anyway.

As you go about your day-to-day, odds are you’ll need to suit up eventually. When you do, make sure your men’s suit trousers look great.

Of course, a better fit leads to more versatility. Those same trousers can be worn with seasonal classics, like a suede bomber jacket or a rugged chambray shirt just as easily as they can with the matching suit jacket.

But, let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves. Read on for how to get the perfect fit.

How should my suit trousers fit?

This is a broad question. The answer comes down to personal preference and body type.

There are certain rules to keep in mind as you shop around and try on tailored looks.

The general movement in the menswear world is toward slimmer silhouettes. That’s across all types of suiting. It applies whether you’re reaching for a year-round worsted wool suit or lightweight linen-blend suit for summer.

The same principle – that of a slimmer fit all-around – is certainly one you should keep in mind.

We’re not asking you to buy skintight men’s suit trousers. Think of a great-fitting pair of suit trousers like you might a classic pair of denim.

We’re ultimately going for a solid middle ground. It’s the suiting version of a slim-straight cut that skims, not clings.

If you’re starting with the basics, you’ll ideally want a minimal break (the area where your pant hem meets your shoes).

See this GQ feature for an example of what not to do.

Extra fabric around your ankles makes you look shorter and sloppier. A taller, longer silhouette with a minimal or half-break is the way to go.

Need to learn more about finding the right trouser length? EG definitely has you covered.

See how Mr. Ryan Reynolds nails the fit of his trousers in terms of break? That’s what we’re shooting for, folks.

We’re not all blessed with his handsome good looks, but it’s a style worth emulating.

For instance: Daniel Craig as James Bond favors a suit jacket and trousers with a minimal break and slim fit.

It’s certainly one option … if you’re blessed with secret agent-type good looks, that is.

The rest of us are better off with a more middle-of-the-road cut.

You’ll also want to ditch the excess fabric through the thigh and seat of your pants. Avoiding that extra bagginess contributes to a more flattering silhouette.

If you’re unsure of what the best fit might be for your frame, getting to know a great tailor is helpful. He or she can offer up helpful suggestions for your body type.

Think Of It This Way:

Look for slimmer-cut suit trousers with a minimal or half-break for style that’s both classic and current.

Excess fabric through the thigh and at your ankles is no good.

What To Avoid

When finding proper fit, beware of a few common pitfalls.

Buying quality goes that much further to ensuring a great fit. So – as with most menswear pick-ups – avoid budget brands that use poor fabric and will require extensive tailoring.

There are plenty of excellent menswear brands making top-notch, affordable men’s suit trousers.

It’s tough to go wrong with a staple brand like J. Crew. Consider the Ludlow suit trouser. It’s an excellent starting point in terms of quality and proper fit for the guy who needs a slimmer suit.

If you hit the squat rack frequently, the brand still has you covered. The Crosby suit trousers feature a more athletic cut.

Can’t get enough of Bonobos – like the brand’s Washed Chinos? They make plenty of stylish suiting trousers with a reliable fit, too. Remember, quality is key.

The road to a great fit doesn’t stop there.

Avoid men’s suit trousers that are either too tight or too baggy. The rockstar-skinny suiting look isn’t for everyone. Hardly anyone outside of runway model can pull off the ultra-skinny suit, one could argue.

Of course, buying a great pair of men’s suit trousers also starts with considering wearing occasions and the season itself.

For all-season wear, it’s tough to top classic worsted wool suiting trousers.

Fans of casual menswear tend to favor pieces like slim chinos or light wash denim in the spring and summer. But don’t rule out a four-season suit trouser.

Want to lighten your look when it gets hot out? A breathable suiting trouser featuring a cotton-linen blend – or even linen on its own – should serve you handsomely.

Think Of It This Way:

Reach for quality menswear brands that offer a variety of fit options for your body type.

Avoid overly skinny or overly baggy trousers while looking for versatile, four-season suiting trouser fabrics.

How Do I Style My Suit Trousers?

Herein lies the age-old question. The best part about a high-quality pair of men’s suit trousers is the versatility you get from ‘em.

Think of them like an extension of your favorite pair of chinos or slim corduroys. That means tailored looks – say, a classic navy blazer and a white Oxford – are fair game.

That also means that slightly more dressed-down looks – yes, even a stylish crewneck sweater and tough leather chukka boots – are good.

And if the trousers are cut well enough and made in a sharp colorway, swap out your blazer for something a little edgier – say, a black leather moto jacket and suede chukka boots.

Give it a go sometime – trust us.

Think Of It This Way:

suiting trousers look stylish with – or without – the matching jacket.

Go for combinations both edgier (the moto jacket) and more classic (a navy blazer and an Oxford).

Just the beginning

We’ve only barely begun to cover everything you need to know when buying a suit. But getting the fit of your men’s suit trousers spot-on is a big step.

It’s a process that takes practice – and probably a trip to the tailor. But once you know how you like your pants to fit and feel, it makes it easy to expand your suited wardrobe.

Great fit also opens the door for all sorts of styling combinations, from a suede bomber jacket to a seasonal blazer.

Practice makes perfect. Whether you’re an old pro at finding great suiting trousers or new to the game, we hope these tips come in handy.

How do you like your suit trousers to fit? Which brands do you prefer? What tips and tricks would you share?

The Perfect Fit: Suit Trousers

Is your winter wardrobe feeling a bit … bland? In need of something different?

Maybe a fresh layering combination – like a new sweatshirt?

Follow Effortless Gent’s board Five Ways To Wear One on Pinterest.

That’s what the latest Five Ways to Wear One entry is tackling.

We’re taking a staple piece once relegated to the gym — and bringing it into the light in a few unexpected ways (five, to be exact).

The classic crewneck sweatshirt certainly has athletic-inspired roots. But you can wear it in a decidedly modern fashion nowadays. The silhouette has even popped up recently on runways thanks to the inimitable Mr. Todd Snyder.

The Iowa-born fashion designer does a great job at appropriating sportswear classics for the modern man – including the crewneck sweatshirt seen here.

It’s part of the designer’s ongoing partnership with Champion. That means you get a nice mix of throwback style and downtown New York cool.

But don’t let all this “fashion” talk scare you away. Even brands like Old Navy are making simple crewneck sweatshirts with the best of them.

Reliable standby J. Crew also makes a nice classic crewneck sweatshirt with a pleasing heather grey color and a reliable fit.

And of course, you can’t go wrong with the Todd Snyder x Champion Crewneck Sweatshirt we’re styling today. But before we get too far ahead of ourselves, let’s dial in the fit.

Finding the right fit – and caring for your crewneck sweatshirt

If you’ve kept up with the revamped Effortless Gent Perfect Fit series, you’ll recognize that dialing in the silhouette of your sweatshirt is crucial.

As we’ve discussed, keeping things relatively trim is a wise move. That’s despite the French terry cotton fabric and casual nature of this sweater.

You’re looking for a high armhole and no excess fabric through the sides, for starters.

This way, you can layer something like an essential chambray shirt with ease under your sweater. Or you can go a more casual route with a merino long-sleeve tee.

At any rate, avoid the sweatshirt hitting too far below your belt line. Again, reference our new rules of perfect fit for help.

So, your sweater fits just perfectly. Great – but how should you care for it to ensure it lives up to your investment?

The brand recommends machine-washing this sweatshirt. Be sure to do so on cold and with like colors (wash your indigo denim separately – trust us).

Machine drying can – at times – cause shrinkage. But from personal experience, this sweater has held up just fine after running through the dryer (see, it’s EG-approved!).

You can also hang-dry it – but who doesn’t love putting on a warm sweater right out of the dryer?

How to style it? It’s as easy as the five outfits below – and all the combinations that you can dream up from there. Join us for the ride.

#1. Everyday, Rugged Classics

It’s tough to beat an outfit that merges most of your favorite men’s style essentials. Start with this classic crewneck sweater.

Then take a unique light chambray shirt and offset it with rugged, well-made dark denim from esteemed American-made menswear purveyors Buck Mason.

It’s a fool-proof combo when matched up with the rugged Buxton Boot from G.H. Bass. Your favorite pair of leather chukka boots is another way to go.

Stylish and comfortable American Trench socks are a favorite of many an Effortless Gent-approved outfit. And the reliably tough and eye-catching Timex for J. Crew watch is about as great of a casual watch as it gets.

If you’re chilly, you might want to throw on a heritage-quality, naval-inspired jacket to battle the cold.

#2. The Go-To Business Combo

Don’t think you can wear a classic crewneck sweatshirt in a business casual style situation? Think again.

The trick is layering it under an everyday classic – that would be the navy cotton blazer – and offsetting it with similarly versatile and casual touches.

So, the light chambray shirt makes a triumphant return. Slim chinos from the affordably priced menswear purveyors at JackThreads are also a great pick.

Of course, we here at EG love classic GREATS sneakers. The dressy-yet-still-laidback Royale is an easy way to tie this outfit together.

If a standout watch is what you seek, a handsome leather chronograph from Todd Snyder is the way to go. The darker grey leather provides a monochromatic look and feel.

#3. The Dressed-Up Crewneck Sweatshirt

Admittedly, the whole “crewneck sweatshirt under a suit” look has been done most capably by Mr. Justin Theroux in the pages of GQ. It’s definitely a style hack worth emulating.

First off, the heightened blue of this slim suit shakes things up from a more traditional navy option (best to hang up the black suit in this case).

The layering combo works because the Todd Snyder x Champion crewneck sweatshirt is so crisp, classic, and well-designed.

Layer up with an easygoing striped tee. Offset the look with sleek, unexpected suede Chelsea boots and dressy accessories like a brown leather MVMT watch — and you’ve got a look worth trying out.

Plus, something as simple as socks with a bit of pop are the right way to finish any outfit – be it tailored or more casual.

#4. Unexpected Layering

One of the fun things about a classic crewneck sweatshirt – because menswear is fun, by golly – is layering it as you please. You’ll notice that in this instance, the sweater itself is sliding under the chamois shirt.

This particular Abercrombie and Fitch chamois shirt might be a new favorite go-to in your wardrobe. With a pleasingly tailored fit and a dusty red color that livens up winter, it’s a great way to switch up your shirting game.

The same indigo denim as seen earlier in this post can definitely pull double-duty here. And comfortable CAT Footwear boots that mix function and fashion fit right in.

Of course, a durable, casual watch never fails – MVMT Watches makes this rugged timepiece particularly well.

In all, this is the sort of look you’re going to want to wear on a snow day or a weekend coffee date – and probably anywhere else you can get away with comfortable, casual and rugged style.

#5. Off-Duty Essentials

Need a way to look great without getting suited up? We might have just found it for you.

The trick is high-low styling. Mix a classic top portion of your outfit – the crewneck sweatshirt and chambray shirt – with a very laid back bottom half.

We’re not talking baggy sweatpants, however – Mack Weldon’s lounge pants are luxuriously made and well tailored. They’re cut more like a pair of chinos or suit trousers than any lounge pants you’ve tested out before.

Of course, a classic, tough field watch is both casual and crisp enough to work with this ensemble.

Well-made, affordably priced GREATS sneakers add a bit of go-anywhere appeal to this outfit. Leave the athletic sneakers at home, folks.

Plenty of Versatility

And with that, we’ve wrapped up another Five Ways to Wear One entry. Believe it or not, a crewneck sweatshirt can be among the most versatile cold-weather layering pieces you’ll add to your closet.

Seriously, there aren’t many sweatshirts that work just as well with lounge pants and sneakers as they do with a suit.

The key is finding the right sweatshirt for your build, dialing in the fit, and teaming it up with everyday menswear essentials.

Are we on the same page? Let us know how you’re planning on wearing your crewneck sweatshirt in the comments below.

Are you a fan of these looks? Any pieces you’d add or subtract?

Five Ways to Wear One: Crewneck Sweatshirt

It may have been a while since you saw the Perfect Fit series on this site, but we’re bringing it back… with a vengeance.

We’re talking about those essential layering items: men’s sweaters.

Yes, they come in all shapes, sizes and forms – we’ll get to that in a second. But whether you rock a shawl-collar cardigan or a more casual crewneck sweater, the Effortless Gent core principles still apply to all men’s sweaters and cardigans.

It’s all about fit and quality. So we’ll start there and show you the essentials to buy along the way.

How should men’s sweaters fit?

Consider the classic winter sweater – maybe something reliable like a J. Crew merino wool V-neck. You should look for a sweater that hugs your shoulders but offers room to move – and layer.

Sweater sizing is different for everyone and some brands feature slimmer fits than others. For example, an H&M V-neck sweater could be cut slimmer than the J. Crew V-neck.

Bottom line: Trying on brands as you go is a must.

The same fit principles apply whether we’re talking men’s V-neck sweaters or men’s crewneck sweaters.

Pick a crewneck sweater that allows you to show some shirt collar while maintaining the same proper fit as your V-neck. Either way, think “tailored-but-mobile”.

A visual example is helpful. Let’s go with the actor who plays everyone’s favorite secret agent, Daniel Craig.

Are we all blessed with Craig’s physique? Certainly not.

But his V-neck sweaters fit his frame well (if a bit snug). They define his shoulders with a high armhole and a slim arm.

Again, some of that is from the dude’s hardcore gym habits. But the overall example is worth following.

When on-screen, Bond knows how to rock a V-neck sweater with the best of them. Note the tailored fit and just-right length.

Think of it this way:

Avoid excess fabric below your arms and through the sides.
You should be able to comfortably slide on your sweater over an Oxford shirt.

What about thicker men’s sweaters?

The same principles apply to a sweater with a thicker knit – say, a more casual, sportswear-inspired crewneck sweatshirt.

The fabric is going to be thicker – potentially something like French terry cotton. But you should look for a sweater with a higher armhole and no excess fabric through the sides.

When it comes to equally thick knits – like a ribbed shawl-collar cardigan – turn again to our main man Mr. Craig. He layers a rugged henley under a shawl-collar cardigan to great effect.

Throwing on a pullover? It should be similar in fit to men’s V-neck sweaters or men’s crewneck sweaters – with a quarter-zip front, of course. You want higher armholes and minimal excess fabric through the sides and waist.

This can be more difficult to achieve given that some pullovers are cut a bit slouchy. Modern brands like J. Crew offer trimmer fits.

Think of it this way:

The same rules of fit apply to casual and thick-knit men’s sweaters.
Look for a slim fit through the arms and sides.

How long should it be?

Follow this rule of thumb. It works for more formal men’s V-neck sweaters or men’s crewneck sweaters in breathable fabrics. Like cotton or the aforementioned merino wool.

Ensure that the sweater hits at about the mid-point of your belt line.

The belt breaks up the look – any longer, and your sweater might appear oversized.

Any shorter, and your sweater could ride up and show excess shirt.

Again, Daniel Craig’s example is worth following.

Casual crewneck sweaters or shawl-collar cardigans feature a thicker bottom cuff with heavier stitch. That means the length varies a bit.

Take this Todd Snyder crewneck sweatshirt. Again, you still want to reach for a piece that hits at about your belt line or below. This offers a clean, polished look – definitely not baggy.

When it comes to that rugged cardigan, let’s not forget a crucial final touch:

Leave the bottom button unbuttoned, no matter how you layer up.

It looks cleaner and avoids the appearance of excess weight around your front. The number of buttons varies from cardigan to cardigan, but no more than two should be unbuttoned for a clean look.

The top button is optional. But the bottom button always stays unbuttoned, folks.

Think of it this way:

Sweaters should reach your belt line or just below – definitely not higher.
Never button the bottom button. Ever.

What to avoid

You don’t want a paper-thin sweater from a budget retailer. Start your sweater search at reputable brands like J. Crew.

There’s higher quality and better fabric in men’s sweaters from J. Crew versus a sweater from H&M, for example.

Want a sweater that stands up to multiple wears without losing its shape? You can’t go wrong with merino wool. Or something like this heathered cotton sweater (which can also be washed in the laundry).

A fabric blend like cotton-cashmere should also reliably hold its shape. It’s breathable and easy to layer, too.

How about more casual-yet-still-comfortable fabrics? Lots of vintage-inspired men’s crewneck sweaters use French terry cotton. It’s soft and makes for an easy-to-layer sweater.

Think of it this way:

Start your sweater search with reputable menswear brands.
Merino wool or cotton blends will hold their shape best.

How do I layer my sweater?

Layering is a personal choice. But at the minimum, you should be able to comfortably slide something like a rugged long-sleeve henley or a V-neck T-shirt underneath. (For a visual reference, see the photo of Daniel Craig above.)

That’s right, no bare chests. Let’s at least throw a shirt on under your sweater, ehh?

A thicker, more textured shirt like a classic Oxford is fair game, too.

But make sure your sweater isn’t too tight over the slightly thicker shirt.

Want to go dressier?

A crisp white dress shirt under a merino wool or cashmere sweater is a crisp and polished look.

Think of it this way:

Thicker, textured knits (like a classic chambray shirt) best complement thicker, textured men’s sweaters (like a rugged shawl cardigan).
Thinner men’s sweaters (like a cotton V-neck) look better with lightweight, subtly textured shirts (like a classic white dress shirt.)

That’s your crash course in men’s sweaters.

I hope we helped you get all the basics down.

As always, a tailored-but-not-tight fit is key. Lighter fabrics offer better breathability and layering potential. But thicker knits stand up to rougher base layers, like a shawl-collar cardigan and a rough-and-tumble chambray shirt.

Turn to stylish guys who get layering right if you need a place to start – i.e., Mr. Bond.

Either way, I think we should all aspire to be a bit more like Daniel Craig (or Bond, or both) when it comes to wearing a stylish sweater.

What are your questions about sweater fit? What’s your favorite way to layer your sweaters? Let us know in the comments!

Images courtesy of Bond Lifestyle, Todd Snyder, J.Crew, and Lookastic.

The Perfect Fit: Sweaters

Learning to dress well – or at least, better – can sometimes start with simple style inspiration.

Look to the past for classic styles and add your modern take. The tweed blazer is one way to do that this winter.

Follow Effortless Gent’s board Five Ways To Wear One on Pinterest.

The latest entry in our “Five Ways to Wear One” series is the tweed blazer. It’s classic, like something from an old photo of a dapper relative or a movie star.

Today, it’s found its way into our menswear lexicon thanks to its versatility. Classic, yet decidedly current. And I think you’ll find that the five outfits below nail that balance nicely.

Tweed is a hearty fabric first found in traditional British country garb. But today’s post is all about bringing it into the 21st century.

It’s got just about as much versatility as your classic navy blazer. Tweed is the perfect seasonal answer to the question, “How should I upgrade my look today?”

As you’ll see it below, you can style it with other cold-weather staples, like mid-grey flannel trousers. Or you can team it with reliable favorites like dark denim.

There are plenty of modern brands doing them the right way – from premium brands like Club Monaco to more accessible retailers like J. Crew.

You’re looking at a silhouette that’s got plenty of wearability through the colder months. So much that you just might find your head spinning with all sorts of style ideas when you’re done reading this.

Let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves. First, how should this blazer fit? And how do you ensure it lasts for seasons to come?

Fit and Care

Generally, the thinking goes – and it’s absolutely correct – that a blazer should be a multi-season investment. Particularly if you’re picking up a blazer with a higher price tag.

For starters, you need the fit to be on-point. Tweed is a hefty fabric by nature. But don’t assume you need to size up.

A well-constructed blazer in a heavier fabric should fit just as well as your favorite lightweight blazer. That means the jacket should hug your shoulders without being too constricting.

You definitely want room to move around. The shoulder test is a good rule of thumb here – check out our pal Joe at Dappered’s handy fit tricks.

The armholes should be on the higher side for a tailored look. But you want to be able to comfortably slip a chambray shirt and V-neck sweater on underneath the jacket.

The front of the jacket should tug just a bit. That means it’s tapered through the midsection, but not too tight. For reference, Barron’s jacket – although it’s double-breasted – gets it right in this photo.

It’s tailored and flattering, but not overly tight. Just as with the jacket’s shoulders, the sleeves should be absent of excess fabric. Think streamlined, not clingy.

You should be able to see about a quarter to half inch of shirt cuff beneath your jacket’s sleeves. Any more and the sleeves are too short. Vice versa and they’re too long.

Some guys prefer a more cropped jacket. It’s a matter of personal preference. But the blazer should nearly cover, if not completely cover, the seat of your pants.

Shorter jackets – a la James Bond’s Skyfall suits have been on-trend these past few years. But a heartier jacket calls for a bit more length through the seat. That gives a balanced, proportional fit.

Now that you’ve analyzed the fit of the tweed jacket, let’s keep the care methods pretty simple – shall we?

Play it safe. Especially with a blazer made from premium Abraham Moon herringbone wool or another high-quality fabric.

Always dry clean this jacket. And cover it up with a raincoat or a topcoat if inclement weather threatens.

This is crucial: you must help the jacket keep its shape. How? Upgrade your hangers.

Wooden hangers are a bit of a splurge, but a worthy one. Use them along with some other handy clothing storage tips from our friends at Dappered.

But don’t leave your blazer on the hanger too often. Get as much use out of your blazer as you can this fall and winter.

How, you ask? You’re in luck. We’ve got the outfits to help you do it.

#1. Cold-Weather Classic

Let’s start with two style staples you’ve already got in your closet. (Or at least I hope you do.) A classic white Oxford and durable, dependable, always dapper dark denim.

What sort of outfit do you get when you mash those up with this rugged tweed blazer? The sort of outfit that could become your new everyday uniform.

The plaid wool tie is a heck of a deal via Ties.com. And it pairs nicely with the rich burgundy wool-blend pocket square.

A stylish pair of hard-working leather boots is a fail-safe option, particularly a rich burnished pair from CAT Footwear.

A slim dress watch offers a bit of contrast to the rest of this ensemble, while a braided leather dress belt adds nice texture.

Should it get overly chilly, don’t forgo layering up with a stylish winter topcoat.

#2. Rugged-Refined Layering

Just as easily as the tweed blazer can be dressed up, it can also be dressed down. All it needs is a few rugged fashion tweaks.

This ensemble ditches the tie. Instead, go with a beautiful blue indigo chambray shirt. Then add an affordable, stylish and uniquely textured cable crewneck sweater. Those two pieces play well off the burgundy pocket square as well.

The terrific part about the rest of the outfit? One word:

Versatility.

The reliable dark denim from our first ensemble sticks around. So do the burnished brown leather boots. Hey, who doesn’t love stylish chukka boots?

A lambswool scarf adds warmth, a welcome dash of rich color and pattern, and a stylish seasonal layer .

Lest we forget about dependable finishing touches, an effective casual watch – particularly one with military style roots – rounds out this look quite nicely.

#3. Casual and Crisp

Think a tweed blazer can only be worn with collared shirts? Think again.

Shake up your everyday style with a soft, marled long-sleeve tee. A slim merino long-sleeve tee in a vibrant color works here too.

When you reach for a basic item that’s premium and well-made, you can pair it with almost anything. Take five-pocket cotton pants, for example. They’re easy to wear all year, including the colder months.

Black chukka boots add a sharp edge, as does a navy leather watch. They’re both slightly unexpected picks that lend this look a dressier vibe.

And you can hardly go wrong with domestically made socks from American Trench.

#4. The High-Low Mix

So, let’s say you want to look polished. But not too polished. How’s that done?

Ditch the tie. Keep that same durable tweed blazer. And throw in a few classic-yet-modern style touches.

We’re talking an essential chambray shirt with casual-yet-tailored five-pocket pants.

And we’re also talking unique, seasonally appropriate leather high-top sneakers that inject sporty, casual style into this look.

The finishing touches here are spot on. A simple, durable field watch works with just about any outfit. And it offsets the more rugged nature of the chambray shirt quite nicely.

#5. Sharp and Winter Weather-Ready

Perhaps the most common way to wear a tweed blazer mixes both cold-weather style and function.

There might not be a better deal out there for a quality topcoat than this versatile, slim-fitting shown here from JackThreads.

For extra warmth, a striped flannel shirt from JACHS NY combines a bit of workwear heritage and comfort with business casual style.

To bring a monochromatic touch, wool trousers from the fit masters at Bonobos are the way to go.

And water-resistant suede boots (yes, they work) round out the look in tough-yet-refined fashion. Would you expect anything less from Thursday Boots?

Just like your tweed blazer, you need accessories that don’t stop working. Take an heirloom-quality leather belt – it pairs quite nicely with a slim, refined and dependable timepiece from MVMT Watches.

The best part about this look? You can break up any of the pieces. The durable wingtip boots. The flannel shirt. The charcoal topcoat. They all work with a host of fall style staples. Start mixing and matching now.

So, those are the looks – what do you think?

Sure, it’s got some dressy connotations. But a tweed blazer still works in a ton of style situations.

From your work week to casual weekend outings, it’ll layer nicely over pieces like slim merino tees or a classic chambray shirt. And it complements everything from dark denim to refined wool trousers.

It’s also a perfect match for textured suede wingtip boots and burnished leather chukka boots. Even high-top sneakers offset the structured nature of the blazer quite well.

And don’t be afraid to pair it with more laidback everyday pieces like a slim crewneck sweater.

If you snag one in the proper fit (not too big, not too tight) and take good care of it, it’s going to keep on working for you this season, next season, and beyond.

Which is your favorite look? How will you be mixing and matching textures this season?

Five Ways to Wear One: Tweed Blazer

Grey flannel trousers – a boring pair of pants that should have no part in your wardrobe? Think again.

Today on EG, we’re talking five ways to wear mid-grey flannel trousers through late fall and well into winter.

Follow Effortless Gent’s board Five Ways To Wear One on Pinterest.

The flannel trouser – particularly with a matching flannel jacket – is wrongly pegged as a boring, safe style choice.

It might look conservative, but that’s not to say it can’t be worn in ways that are style-forward and versatile.

Who’s with me?

Thanks to modern brands like J. Crew , the flannel trouser is now seen much the same as dark blue denim or khaki chinos. You can mix and match them with nearly any other seasonal style staple.

The pair of trousers we’re talking about today acts much the same way. It’s a mighty fine menswear purchase, if you ask me.

Sometimes, you’d be surprised what you can find on Amazon. The Franklin Tailored Tyler Trouser (from Amazon Fashion’s own menswear line) is a pick-up that, at under $100, has everything you should look for in a pair of flannel trousers.

What exactly comprises that list?

We’re looking for a well-made, wool flannel trouser with premium fabric. So cheaper options are out of the running.

You can go high on the price spectrum. But more affordable will work just fine if you’re still in the experimentation stage with pants that aren’t your usual denim or chino.

The Tyler trouser checks both boxes.

But what about fit and care? That’s another matter entirely, and it’s an easy challenge to meet if you know what to look for.

Fit and Care

First things first: yes, pleats are back en vogue in some echelons of high fashion. But regular guys like you and me look better without that extra fabric along the waist line.

Editor’s note: Pleats aren’t always a bad thing, especially the modern interpretations you find nowadays in places like J.Crew, Banana Republic, even Gap.

I’ve long been an advocate for slim, no-pleat pants, but over the last year or two, have started to get back into pleats because they’re more comfortable for me and give me added ease of movement, while still looking slim and tapered.

It’s all about finding the silhouette that works for your body, with a taper to the leg opening and overall flattering shape (not too slim, not too loose).

In general, if you’re of average build, you don’t need pleated pants, though you could pull them off if you wanted to. If you have bigger or more muscular legs, pleats can be your friend.

This lends itself to a slimmer look, too – and that’s how your pants should fit.

Look for pants that are tailored but not overly tight. And you need room to move in the seat and thigh.

Reach for a slim, tapered, or modern slim-straight cut. Think the difference between J. Crew’s 484 denim and the 770 jean.

This brings us to another important point. Knowing your measurements is essential. That goes for which waist size and inseam size fit you best.

If you’d prefer to dial things in completely, get measured by your local tailor. This is a guy you ought to have in your corner to begin with. That will make it easier to take the plunge and order these trousers online.

So, the pants are ordered and shipped.

They’re at your door, in your hands.

How do you keep them lasting through all the style scenarios you have in mind? Here we go.

The consensus – and the instructions – dictate that 100% wool pants should be dry-cleaned. And also treated with care before that.

What does that mean exactly?

Coming from a guy who’s run through too many plastic hangers, investing in some closet storage upgrades – like option #4 on that list – increases the longevity of your trousers.

What if you spill something on them?

Spot-cleaning it or blotting the trousers with a small amount of soap and water might stave off the inevitable in a pinch. But dry cleaning is certainly the way to go.

Now that we’ve put the abject horror of spilling on your new flannel trousers out of mind – onto the outfits! You’ll love them – promise!

#1. The Tailored Classic

The natural way to wear tailored flannel trousers is alongside tailored style staples. That’s the way we’re going in outfit #1.

For the perfect top layer, we’ve got a quilted jacket in a handsome shade of navy.

For extra comfort and warmth in the chill of fall, a premium cashmere zip sweater is a solid choice. Go with a shade of tan/camel that contrasts with the navy jacket.

That rock-solid combination is grounded nicely with a seasonally appropriate burgundy tweed tie.

Worried you may need to chase villains through the street? Rugged-refined leather hikers give this outfit a bit of an English countryside air.

And if you haven’t caught on yet, a classic white Oxford is a four-season essential that grounds the whole look in classic style.

Lest we forget, a slim, refined timepiece (especially one from MVMT Watches) is a low-key, stylish finishing touch.

Pop the collar on the jacket and enjoy that stroll to Sunday brunch even more. That’s where we’re going, right?

#2. The Rugged Throwback

Thought flannel trousers could only be worn with more tailored looks? Think again.

An essential chambray shirt is the perfect contrast to mid-grey flannel trousers in terms of texture and style. It’s polished-meets-casual, especially in a cold-weather fabric like chambray.

If you’re wary of trying a vest, reach for one that eschews the typical all-black construction. Go with a heavyweight wool vest in a striking plaid pattern.

Layer up with the above quilted navy jacket, while you’ve got it handy (you bought it, right??). Yes, the look conjures up throwback, vintage-inspired style – but the flannel trousers give this ensemble a bit more polish than dark denim would.

Ditch the pocket watch in favor of a rugged wristwatch. Add in textured charcoal socks that are made in America.

And strongly – I mean strongly, – consider reaching for a pair of deep brown suede longwing boots. Their texture and color are perfect for fall. They’re wearable with mid-grey flannel trousers as well as slim chinos. And they ground the outfit quite handsomely.

#3. Casual and Cool

Don’t reserve you flannel trousers for dressy, tailored wear only. You can take that same staple and pair down your look – within reason, of course.

So while you won’t see a graphic T-shirt alongside your mid-grey flannel trousers, you will see other essentials that straddle the line between laid-back and formal.

Take the classic white Oxford. It’s crisp and sharp, yet it pairs nicely with a deep indigo crewneck. Feel free to untuck the shirt a bit and roll up the sleeves.

The focus of this piece is the flannel trousers. But you’d do well – extremely well – to pick up those beautiful tan leather sneakers.

Did you write that down? You certainly should.

Striped red socks add comfort and a dash of color. And what’s better than a brown leather watch made from Red Wing shoe leather?

#4. Classic and Tailored

Just as easily as you can go casual with your flannel trousers, you can dress them right back up in the blink of an eye.

Take a classic navy jacket and team it with other straightforward, reliable staples.

A white twill shirt from Twillory is a nice place to start. And an essential Ties.com pocket square is another small touch that offsets the navy sport coat nicely.

Where’s the real star of this outfit? That vintage-inspired, visually appealing windowpane vest. It adds just the right amount of pop without taking too much away from the outfit.

Beautiful wingtip boots from the heritage footwear makers at Johnston & Murphy seal the deal. They bring both seasonally appropriate texture and a bit of durability to the look.

And a slim, refined dress watch falls right in line with the fine tailoring of this ensemble. Again, don’t forget made-in-America socks. Your feet will thank you.

#5. Fashionable and Functional

You didn’t think we’d get through this entry without bringing a chambray shirt into the fold, did you?

A classic chambray shirt is the perfect match for flannel trousers – especially in terms of texture and color.

The shirt will pop nicely against that beautiful suede jacket. It’s rich in color, well-made, and affordably priced from the folks at Beckett Simonon.

The deep brown suede jacket and blue chambray shirt are offset nicely by super-sleek black Chelsea boots.

Keep the contrast going with other like-minded accessories. Like a slim black leather dress watch. And sharp-as-heck Aviator sunglasses (from a place you might not expect – MVMT Watches).

Finally, striped red socks complement the blue chambray shirt and grey flannel trousers quite nicely.

Versatile and Stylish Trousers

It’s not essential to own every single one of the pieces mentioned above. But there’s a lot that can be done with a pair of well-made, slim-cut, versatile flannel trousers.

From the casual to the formal, there’s little that can’t be done when it comes to seasonal style.

If you snag the right pair (like the one featured in this article), it will add a dose of unexpected variety to your wardrobe.

After all, we all need to shelve our dark blue denim and chinos every once in a while, yeah?

Take good care of your flannel trousers. You’ll be able to test out these five outfit combinations again and again next fall and winter. Plus a few more after that.

How do you style your flannel trousers? Would you add or subtract any pieces from the ensembles above?

Five Ways to Wear One: Mid-Grey Flannel Trousers

Few designers embody the surging interest in menswear over the last several years as well as Todd Snyder.

Don’t believe it? Consider this resurgence the next time you see a guy wearing as something as simple – yet stylish – as a chambray shirt and slim chinos.

There are other factors at work, to be sure. But consider this designer’s work at J. Crew as Senior Vice President for men’s design. And his excellent present-day work at his namesake brand.

Snyder’s vision and work embodies how lots of guys dress today. For you, dear Effortless Gent reader, that’s something to be “in the know” about.

(Nudge, nudge.)

Shop my favorites from Todd Snyder

Classic American Style

Born and raised in Iowa, Snyder blends classic Midwestern style and heritage with a healthy dose of downtown cool. He’s been praised by everyone from GQ to the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

But don’t let the “F” word scare you off. His clothing is approachable, wearable, and never too fashion-forward.

Not sure where to start?

Grab a Todd Snyder Pocket Sweatshirt. It’s a modern update to a classic style, slimmed down and made in Canada from a soft cotton-poly blend.

This is the sweatshirt to wear on a weekend coffee date or layered under a fall and winter blazer.

In the Know: Todd Snyder - pocket sweatshirt

SHOP TODD SNYDER POCKET SWEATSHIRTS

Snyder’s collaborative design efforts are just as approachable – and even more coveted.

The Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch (read Beau’s post here) was so popular, it sold out of its initial run. But as of today’s update, it’s back!

Browse TS x Timex Watches

It’s easy to see why it’s popular – Snyder worked with Timex to update a classic ‘70s dial on a slate NATO strap. This watch is so clean, you could easily wear it with a blazer and stone chinos or classic dark denim without missing a beat.

If you think that’s neat, wait ‘til you see the rest of Snyder’s offerings…

His approachable, classic-yet-modern design ethos also shines through in the Todd Snyder + P.F. Flyers Grounder High-Top (see all Todd Snyder sneaker collabs here).

This recent fall sneaker collab merges the retro cool of a Sandlot-esque high-top with the easy wearability of your favorite pair of white sneakers.

And the rest of Snyder’s main collection is just what your closet needs this season. It’s luxurious and well-made – without blowing your bank account.

In fact, the designer’s Sutton Suit in Light Grey will set you back just under $700 at the most.

Shop Todd Snyder Sutton Suit

Considering that certain brands make off-the-rack suits that top a grand, this is a bargain for the quality, fit and style.

Browsing through Todd Snyder’s outerwear is a treat in and of itself.

You’ll find a run of seriously beautiful, soft-shouldered topcoats. And quilted vests that call to mind the English countryside.

There are plenty of great options, even if you have to save a bit – or a lot – in between purchases.

Fun and Accessible

What might first have seemed inaccessible or too pricey can be quite affordable. Plus it’s fun to buy and fun to wear – particularly if you know where to start.

Here’s the good news: With menswear from Todd Snyder, there’s hardly a wrong way to go.

Have any Todd Snyder designed pieces in your closet? Which are you looking to add?

Images courtesy of Todd Snyder

In the Know: Todd Snyder

Have you seen our other Five Ways To Wear One articles?

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We talk a lot at Effortless Gent about building a lean wardrobe filled with versatile, stylish pieces. It can mean different things to different people.

For some, it’s a rotation of classics like dark denim, leather chukka boots and a classic Oxford. Or pieces that share a similar four-season wearability while incorporating a bit more … zing, if you will.

Follow Effortless Gent’s board Five Ways To Wear One on Pinterest.

In that regard, the chambray shirt stands out. It’s the pick to choose if you’re shopping for a stylish chambray shirt.

Especially in a washed fabric like the excellent Bonobos Dark Wash Chambray Shirt you’ll see below.

Why is variety important?

The best chambray shirts on the market today incorporate style, a slim fit (more on that in a second), and versatility. They just look good on any guy.

Although there are chambray and denim dress shirts on the market, today we’re going with the more casual iteration of chambray buttondowns.

A rugged henley adds toughness and edge whether you’re built like Cam Newton or not. The chambray shirt does the same thing in a classed-up vibe.

It caught on again with the resurgence of brands like J. Crew in the mid-to-late aughts. Still around today, the trend has proven to have some serious staying power.

You can go casual or dressy, sharp or rugged. And you can do it affordably with this JackThreads chambray shirt or at a higher price point.

Look for a color that’s not too dark, or too faded. A nice, medium blue chambray like this classic J. Crew chambray shirt is the end goal. The color will stand out vibrantly in the spring and summer. In the colder months, it pairs easily with darker shades.

Ultimately, there are a lot of brands making this great staple – and making it well. It’s perhaps never been more wearable.

So once you snap one up, how do you keep it working for you all year-round?

Fit and Care

Concerned about fit? Keep it simple.

You know that classic Oxford you’ve got in your closet? Perhaps it’s perfectly lived-in and maybe a bit rumpled. Yet it fits like a charm, with a slim body and higher armholes. That’s how your chambray shirt should fit.

Remember, it’s a thicker, more textured fabric. You can wear or layer it throughout the year. So take your regular size. If you search for a slim-fit chambray shirt, you should end up with a nicely tailored fit.

It should skim across the shoulders and through the body, not cling as if it’s painted on. And just like your favorite printed short sleeve-shirt, you should look for an option that works both tucked-in and untucked – particularly untucked.

Go with a shirt that hits below your belt, but doesn’t hang beneath your fly. Luckily, chambray is a more casual fabric. So the tail won’t be too long to wear untucked either.

How do you make sure it’ll last?

Well, the fine folks at Bonobos put it pretty succinctly on that product page: Machine-wash this bad boy with like colors in cold water, and tumble dry on low.

Conversely, you could hang-dry this shirt. That will save a bit on the wear and tear of the dryer’s heat.

If you look to a reputable retailer like J. Crew or Bonobos – brands with their chambray shirt game in good order – you should be looking at getting plenty of wear out of it.

That’s a great thing indeed, because we have five very stylish looks cued up below.

#1. Classic Fall Style

Great style, even once you get the hang of it, is still a never-ending process. And when the seasons change from the heat of summer to a brisk and crisp fall (and winter), you need a #menswear ensemble that just works.

Enter the classic combination above. The navy sweater falls right in line with the texture of the chambray shirt, contrasting nicely in the process.

Slim tan chinos – particularly from Dockers – are fool-proof no matter the time of year.

The beautiful wingtip boots from Johnston & Murphy are a fall-ready update (although your favorite pair of wingtip boots would also suffice here).

Finish it off with American-made socks that add a shot of color to the outfit. Then reach for a brown belt that ages over time.

Of course, a watch that’s so minimal and crisp as to work with outfits both casual and dressy is absolutely the right way to go here. The rose gold and brown dial combo is one-of-a-kind.

#2. Rugged, Cold-Weather Layers

A textured navy sweater is classic. But sometimes, you want to project a bit more of a rugged vibe.

From a park hike to a bar crawl, it can be fun to throw on a few extra layers – especially American-made, investment-worthy pieces like a tough-as-heck chore coat and a soft henley.

The slim stretch denim adds both a dash of affordability and a lot of style to the look.

Keeping things rugged, mixed-media boots that offer traction, comfort, and durability are the way to go.

Ever get tired of wearing plain leather gloves? (It happens.) A pair that mixes beautiful indigo denim and leather brings a touch of toughness and a nice change of pace.

Every rugged outfit can do with a great finishing touch or two. A watch made from Red Wing shoe leather gets the job done admirably.

Last but not least, a made-in-America weekender bag. It’s your top pick for all the gear you might to take with you on a day trip and beyond.

The fact that this sturdy bag is made from military surplus materials and helps employ veterans throughout every stage of the production and design process are both huge positives.

#3. Sharp Office Style

The same chambray shirt that can be worn rugged can also lend itself to a crisp, office-ready look.

This ensemble works for chilly fall breezes or light spring and summer weather thanks to the breathable navy blazer and four-season khaki chinos. If you’re going to start somewhere, chinos from Taylor Stitch might just be the best in the business.

Top it of with affordable accessories – like an eye-catching, refined watch and a tipped pocket square.

Ground it all firmly in casual territory with clean sneakers that epitomize casual cool.

Of course, a sturdy leather belt you can wear for years on end only adds to this ensemble. It’s classic, yet offers a dressier look than a webbed belt.

#4. Daring and Dashing

Hybrid style is all the rage these days. Be it pairing sneakers with a suit or a tee and blazer, it’s easier than you think.

It doesn’t have to be outrageous – in this case, we’re swapping your classic navy blazer for a cotton bomber jacket ideal for the early days of fall. Of course, it’ll get the job done in the spring too.

Other than that, the outfit’s construction stays largely the same. Slim, dark denim grounds any look in nearly any situation.

A cotton tie adds a welcome bit of texture. Rich and sharp brown leather wingtips – priced darn affordably too – are a suitably tailored footwear choice.

Add this looker of a watch. The rose gold offsets the brown leather shoes and belt nicely. For fall, striped socks in a neutral color are the way to go.

Try this look out at the office, on a slightly dressier date, or when heading to Sunday brunch.

#5. Warm-Weather Weekend Getaway

Chambray calls to mind heavyweight fabrics and chilly breezes. It’s truly the ideal four-season shirt – particularly in a wash that’s not too light or dark.

With this outfit, we’re working with other multi-season staples – grey chinos, a vintage ball cap, and classic aviators.

What move pushes it into warm-weather territory? Crisp leather sneakers. White sneakers work all year (yes, even after Labor Day). Yet they still fit best in spring and summer.

Of course, those are two optimal times to hit the road with some stylish menswear in tow. That same highly versatile, refined watch is going to carry you on the road and beyond.

So will a durable navy weekender bag with some beautifully crafted leather accents.

Keep things casual and comfortable with a textured navy belt that offsets the rest of this outfit’s neutral hues nicely.

One-of-a-Kind Style for Any Season

Think a chambray shirt is like any other blue shirt in your closet?

Think again.

The slim cut, proper fit, and unique texture of a chambray shirt give it nearly limitless styling potential.

A standard blue dress shirt wouldn’t work with some of the more casual outfits seen above. But an easygoing chambray shirt can do both dressy and laidback situations.

The neutral color makes it easy to pair with all kinds of colors and fabrications, from olive chinos to dark denim. It’s starting point for outfits across all seasons.

That versatility can only be bought if you know where to look – and how to get that shirt fitted and cared for properly. Now you’re on the right track.