#fcychim

They say that the devil is in the details. While we don't know who "they" are, we're sure that they're right. It's the small things about an outfit that make it unique and shows your individual style. This week's segment won't highlight specific things we suggest you wear. Instead we want you to think about the small things you can add to make yourself stand out.

              Whether it be a nice watch, a few bracelets, monogramed cuffs, or a cloth belt with a design, add something different and eye catching to transform your everyday fashion. Throw on an old ring, wear some nice frames, and figure out what it is you like about yourself that you want to express with accessories. For once, listen to "them".

As fall and winter approaches, it's time to consider jacket options. Here at F.C.Y.C., we're big fans of the classics so we'll choose to highlight a few favorites: leather, pea coats, and trench coats. Cooler weather is a perfect time to highlight your personal style, since you have to layer and bring multiple items together.

Leather Jackets

                                                                      Ralph Lauren Leather Bomber Jacket - $1,195

Not your dad's leather jacket, the bomber jackets of today are much better cut and much more stylish. Black or a rich brown are your best bets, since they're easy to match and look even better when they've been worn in a bit.

Suggestions: Avoid getting something that looks weathered, half the fun is making your own scuffs and marks.

Pea coats

                                                            J. Crew Authentic Bayswater Pea Coat - $255

Military inspired and timeless, you can't go wrong with a wool pea coat for the colder weather. They come in a variety of colors and styles, mostly neutral colors and double breasted jackets.

Suggestions: When deciding on a length, go for a jacket that falls right at the middle of your palms. It'll cover a suit jacket but work look too large and bulky. Also, when trying them on in the store, bring a suit jacket. This way you can judge the fit of the coat with a suit on under it.

Trench Coats

                                                               Burberry Short Cotton Gabardine Trench Coat - $1,695

Another military inspired jacket, the trench coat is a vastly unexploited member of a wardrobe. It's extremely versatile when cut correctly, and can be dressed up or dressed down. A very timeless and classic style for men, and the colors can be contrasted well with bolder patterns and fall colors.

Suggestions: DO NOT just let your belt hang. Either tie it in front, or with jackets with nicer buckles, fasten it up. If you want to wear the jacket open, it's okay to leave the belt at home or tie it in the back.

There's not much that look better on a man than a suit. With that said, a well-cut suit in and of itself makes a bold and clear statement: a man who knows how to dress. While a suit speaks loudly, don't stop there. There are several ways to accentuate your tailored suit with subtle accessories.

Tie Bars

                        Tie bars are classic, 1920's era fashion and they replaced the now outdated tie tack. Tie bars are simple and sophisticated, while very functional. They come in various colors of metal and lengths, usually a half or full bar. Slide yours between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt and remember that the purpose of a tie bar is simply to keep your tie in place. Don't get it too close to the knot just so it can be seen.

Pocket Squares

                  The F.C.Y.C. stance on pockets squares is this: If you have a suit or sport coat on, it needs to have a pocket square in it. Pocket squares come in a multitude of colors and fabrics, as well as sizes. The general rules are:

Your pocket square should match the colors in your tie, but not the pattern. If you have a patterned tie, wear a solid square and vice versa.

ALWAYS have a silk white pocket square. It matches every tie, every suit, every time. 

Don't confuse a handkerchief and a pocket square. A pocket square is worn in the front of your jacket. A handkerchief is a smaller, usually cotton square of fabric tucked into the inside of the coat for hygiene needs, such as when a lady sneezes.

For tips on folding a pocket square, click here

  On the way to Turtle Bay (987 2nd Ave) and 49 Grove (49 Grove St)

Pleated or flat-fronted slacks: the age old question of which is better looking for men. As with all fashion decisions, pleats are up to your personal preferences. Here at FCYC, we prefer the slimming look of the flat-front pants. Pleats tend to make your waist look wider, while flat-fronts follow the natural line of the leg.

Flat-front slacks

Pleated slacks

Again, it's all up to personal preferences. You can find a great fitting pair of either style. Just remember, during the tailoring that pleated pants always should be cuffed and flat-front pants should not.