Partial Inner Lining
Q: You mentioned “partial linings” in your recent post, How to Chill Out Your Summer Suit. What is it exactly and how is different from your normal inner lining? – Rick T. A: A normal suit has a layer of interior lining material throughout almost the entire inside of the suit jacket (Black Lapel suits...
What Shirt Collar Types are Right for Your Face?
With custom shirt options galore, how do you know what types of shirt collars are right for you? Here's a simple way to figure it out.
Learn the Difference Between a Blazer and a Suit Jacket
Confused about the difference between a blazer vs. a suit jacket? How about a sport coat vs. blazer? We've got a surprisingly simple answer.
Vest and Suit Button Rules- The “Must Follows”
We're not big on rules, but sometimes they help. Here's one simple rule for buttoning a vest that you must follow.
Tie Width – How Slim or Wide Should You Go?
Skinny tie vs regular tie? Don't worry, we're here to explain the rule of thumb for pairing skinny tie widths with a slim fit suit.
Bench the Navy Blue?
Q: “In your latest post, you guys talked about benching the navy blue suit in favor of some brighter summer colors. My navy blue suit is the most versatile suit in my closet, why would I set it aside for the whole summer?” – Kevin L. A: Of course, you should still keep your Navy Blue...
Learn How to Tie a Trinity Knot
Q: “I absolutely loved your Eldredge knot post! I’ve been looking for more unique knots like it ever since and came across something called the “Trinity Knot” which also looks really cool. Can you please have an “Ask a Black Lapel Stylist” post teaching us how to tie this one?” – Eric K. A: We’re...
How to Tie a Bow Tie
Kevin needed to know how to tie a bow tie. We explained it in graphic detail (and included a video too).
Saving Money with Traditional Wet Shaving
Don't believe you'll save money investing in a traditional razor? Think again. See how you can save with a wet shaving razor vs. disposable.
Tie Bars
Q: “I recently added tie bars to my sparse collection of accessories in an effort to add some flair to my looks, but I’m not really sure how to wear them. Is there a rule for where on the tie you should wear a tie bar?” – Jim K. A: When it comes to accessorizing...
Learn How to Match Socks
Q: “When suiting up, should I match the color of my socks to my suit pants or shoes?” – Ken J. A: As you can see from the picture above, we’re not all too serious about matching your socks to either your pants or your shoes. If we really had to choose, we’d say match...
Learn About Surgeon’s Cuffs, and Cuff Buttons
Q: “Black Lapel, can you shed some light on working cuffs? Why should I get them and also, what exactly are kissing buttons?” – Jonas S. A: When it comes a well-made suit, it’s all about the details. Why? The details can be a very heuristic tell of the suit’s quality. Perhaps the most well known...
Are $300 dress shoes worth the investment?
Q: “I recently read The Compass post, “How to a Build Your Dress Shoe Wardrobe“, and noticed that some of the dress shoes featured were over $300. That seems like a ridiculous amount of money to spend on a pair of shoes. Is it really worth spending that much on a pair of dress shoes?”...
Learn How to Wear a Vest Casually
If you're wondering how to wear a vest casually, look no further. We have a simple outfit breakdown for you to draw inspiration from to look your very best.
The Quick Shoe Shine
Q: “I don’t always have time to get my shoes shined when I’m on the road, got any tips for a super quick shine?” – Bart L. A: There are several products out there that will help you give your shoes a quick once over. Toss a couple of shine sponges in your travel...
How Do You Tie an Eldredge Knot?
Q: “I stumbled upon this image recently of a tie knot that completely blew my mind. What is this majestic thing and how do I go about tying it?” – Alex J. A: This mindblowing work of tie artistry is called the “Eldredge knot”. Its origins are uncertain (more on this later), but we do...
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...
