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Writer's pictureTom Goedhart

3 Secrets to Choosing the Right Clothing

For many, fashion often feels like an abstract concept, especially during shopping seasons. It’s common to forget your size, feel uncertain about what fits well, or question the quality and suitability of garments. All too often, we end up with items that languish at the back of our closets - clothes that didn't fit right or caught our eye but weren't truly suitable for us. Shopping can become a perplexing and frustrating endeavor when you’re unsure where to start.

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Here, I’d like to share some straightforward yet effective tips inspired by Artofmanliness. With these insights, you’ll confidently navigate clothing stores with clear ideas and intentions in mind.


At the core of effective shopping lies the "Style Pyramid," consisting of three essential criteria: Fit, Fabric, and Style.


If an item fails to meet any of these criteria, it’s not worth your time or money. Let’s break down these elements further:


Fit

Fit is the foundation of any wardrobe choice. No matter how stylish a piece may be, if it doesn’t fit correctly, it loses its value. A well-fitting shirt or pair of pants should allow for comfortable movement without being too tight or loose. Here’s what to look for:


Shirts and T-Shirts

  • The collar should fit snugly around your neck without choking you.

  • The shoulder seam should align with the point where your shoulder meets your arm.

  • Cuffs should cover your wrist and lightly touch the wrist bone. Avoid shirts with cuffs that are too short if you're wearing a blazer.

  • The shirt should extend beyond your hips to allow for tucking if needed.

  • It should hug your body without feeling tight. A slim-fit style is currently the standard, but adjustments can always be made by a tailor.

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Jackets

  • Shoulders need to fit similarly to shirts as mentioned above.

  • The chest should feel comfortable when buttoned.

  • The waist should be wide enough to prevent bunching when buttoned.

  • Sleeves should extend slightly beyond the shirt underneath.

  • The back length should cover your waist adequately.

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Pants

  1. Hem should fall just past the ankle or lightly touch the top of your shoe.

  2. Waistbands should neither be too tight nor too loose; ideally, you should be able to pull them up easily without unbuttoning.

  3. The area from the waistband to the crotch should feel comfortable and unrestrictive.

  4. Choose pants that are comfortable both when sitting and standing.

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Fabric

Understanding fabric quality requires some knowledge, but here are key points to consider:

  • Pure Fabric: Aim for 100% cotton when choosing cotton clothing. While blends can enhance certain items - like spandex for stretch in skinny jeans - ensure the main fabric is at least 95%.

  • Appropriate Weight: Different clothing types have varied weights. Summer clothes should be lighter than winter fabrics. Be cautious of flimsy items that may not hold up.

  • Stitch Quality: Look for tight, even stitching; loose threads often indicate poor construction.

  • Seams: Wrinkled or uneven seams typically signal low quality.

  • Details: Check zippers, buttons, and snaps. Trusted brands often partner with reputable manufacturers like YKK for zippers.

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While these tips are helpful for in-store shopping, they can also apply when shopping online:

  • Choose Familiar Brands: Stick with brands you know and trust.

  • Understand Return Policies: Before making a purchase, read the website's return policy. Opt for sites that allow hassle-free returns without extra shipping fees.


Style

Defining your style is crucial. It helps you avoid impulsive purchases that don’t align with your aesthetic. Before making a new purchase, assess your current wardrobe. If the new item can seamlessly blend with your existing clothes, go ahead and add it to your collection.


Remember, changing your style involves significant consideration and investment. Ensure you’ll consistently wear new styles before committing to a wardrobe overhaul.


By focusing on Fit, Fabric, and Style, you can simplify your shopping experience and ensure your wardrobe reflects your personal aesthetic without unnecessary headaches.

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