Novelties | J. Kent Ltd.

Odd Vests

Dec 01 2016

There’s nothing odd about odd vests! The phrase simply refers to wearing a vest outside of a three-piece-suit ensemble—a great strategy for adding visual appeal and stretching your clothing budget by increasing the number of mix-and-match options in your wardrobe. Light-colored vests, such as sand or dove gray, look fantastic under a suit. You may choose to build your vest of the same material as your trousers or sport jacket, or instead select a coordinating fabric. The back of the vest is often constructed of thin lining fabrics to avoid adding bulk and heat. Wearing matching trousers and vest with a contrasting coat makes a striking ensemble. The vest should be long enough to cover your waistband. Braces are a good choice with a vest, as a belt will push the vest fabric away from your waist, creating the appearance of thickness. The armholes of your vest should be large, to allow...

J Kent Erickson

Shirts, Vests, & Blouses

0 Comments

Ask Kent

Creative Coat Linings vs. Traditional Coat Linings

Sep 01 2016

I received this question from a reader: Every once in a while, I catch a glimpse of a coat lining that’s bright and flashy instead of the traditional solid gray, brown, navy, etc. What do you recommend I line my next coat with? This is what I shared with them: Your coat’s lining doesn’t show often, but it does make an appearance now and then. That gives you a wonderful opportunity for an expression of your own personal style. You can certainly go with a traditional lining fabric—but if you prefer something bold (or even outrageous), we’re here to help! Our extensive fabric supply gives you access to lining fabrics that create a bold statement with a contrasting color, or add elegance with coordinating stripes or prints. The myriad possibilities include novelty prints, hobby- or sports-based prints, paisleys, jacquard weaves, and more....

J Kent Erickson

Ask Kent

0 Comments

Image & Lifestyle

Crafting Your Individual Style: A Quiet Rebellion

Feb 01 2016

When you create a customized wardrobe that showcases your unique sense of style, you’re stepping away from the crowd’s choices, and charting your own course. There’s a bit of rebellion in creating something truly unique—you’re giving the subtle but unmistakable message to the world that you know your own mind, and you refuse to bend to the whims of others. Your favorite style may be one of timeless elegance, or you may choose to set trends. Traditional or edgy, demure or bold: no matter your preferences, you’re letting your own voice be heard instead of merely being an echo of others....

J Kent Erickson

Image & Lifestyle

0 Comments

Collars, Cuffs, & Lapels

Contrast Cuffs and Collars

Dec 01 2015

A shirt that uses a different fabric for the cuffs and collar offer an interesting variation from the traditional single-fabric shirt. Because they are somewhat unusual, they allow you to make a statement. Many gentlemen never try wearing shirts with contrasting elements, but for those who enjoy using their wardrobe to express their unique sense of style and image, it can be a good option. Building a custom wardrobe allows you to build this type of shirt using precisely the colors that you choose, along with giving you the perfect fit you enjoy on your other custom shirts. This style is most often seen as a blue shirt with a white collar and white French cuffs. Other color combinations, such as using printed fabrics as the contrast, will look more casual than the white-and-blue option, so consider the occasion and environment it will be worn in before you make your decision. You’ll look...

J Kent Erickson

Collars, Cuffs, & Lapels

0 Comments

Ask Kent

How to Choose Cuff Links

Oct 15 2015

I received this question from a reader: How do I choose cuff links? This is what I shared with them: There are several good approaches to choosing cuff links. You may want to wear cuff links that carry personal meaning, such as an heirloom set or gift from a loved one. Your cuff links can also show support of a group you value, such as your political affiliation, your alma mater, or a philanthropic cause you support. Or, you may choose cuff links as a tribute to your culture or geographical region. Ideally, the best cuff links have visual appeal on both sides, instead of having one decorative side and one plain side. However, a fantastic design may be worth having a standard swivel on the back side....

Daring and Sparing: How to Wear Unusual Colors

Jun 01 2015

The basics play an important role in a wardrobe, but sometimes you may want to wear unusual colors to add life and vitality to an outfit. When you’re deciding when—and how—to incorporate these colors into your ensemble, keep the following concepts in mind: A little goes a long way. Whether you’re considering lime green or sunshine yellow, be careful not to let it overwhelm the rest of your ensemble. A bright, bold pocket square or tie will usually serve the purpose better than a coat of the same color. Know your purpose. Are you trying to stand out in a job interview or showcase your inner creativity? A wardrobe piece that shows off your fashion savvy at a luncheon with those in a creative industry may not work as well in an interview setting. Keep unusual colors higher on the frame. A violet vest or tie is generally preferable to violet trousers, unless...

J Kent Erickson

Image & Lifestyle

0 Comments