The Style Journal

Mastering the Casual Suit Look for Summer

Elevate Your Summer Style: A Guide to Updating Your Suit Wardrobe

As spring fades and the warmer climes of summer approach, it's time to refresh your wardrobe with lighter, more breathable fabrics and vibrant colours. A well-curated summer suit wardrobe can elevate your style and keep you looking sharp throughout the warmer months. In this guide, we'll explore the best ways to update your summer suits, offering specific colour and pattern suggestions, along with complete outfit ideas.  Embrace Light and Cool Colours Beige and Light Gray: These timeless and versatile colours offer a cool and sophisticated look. A beige suit paired with a crisp white shirt and a patterned tie creates a classic summer ensemble. Light Blue: This refreshing hue adds a touch of personality to your summer wardrobe. Consider a light blue suit with a white or pale pink shirt for a stylish and elegant combination. Pastel Tones: Soft pastel colours like mint green, lavender, and pale yellow bring a playful and youthful vibe to your summer suit collection. Pair them with neutral accessories for a balanced look. Experiment with Patterns Windowpane Checks: Add a casual yet elegant touch with larger, open checks. A light grey or navy suit with a windowpane pattern is a versatile option. Seersucker: This breathable fabric with puckered stripes is perfect for summer. Choose classic colours like blue or grey for a timeless and stylish look. Linen Weave: Linen suits offer a relaxed and comfortable feel, ideal for warmer weather. The natural texture and breathability of linen make it a popular choice for summer suits.

Building a Tailored Wardrobe: The Investment & Benefits of Bespoke Clothing

In today's fast-fashion world, clothing often feels disposable. Trends come and go, and garments are mass-produced for a one-size-fits-all approach. However, for those who appreciate quality and timeless style, there's a superior alternative: a tailored wardrobe built on bespoke clothing. This investment in craftsmanship offers a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond aesthetics.  Beyond the Price Tag  While bespoke clothing carries a higher price point compared to off-the-rack options, viewing it solely as an expense misses the bigger picture. Bespoke garments are meticulously crafted to your specific needs and preferences. They are built to last, using premium fabrics and expert tailoring techniques. This translates to a garment that will not only look exceptional but will also endure years of wear, ultimately providing a higher return on investment.  Imagine a suit that drapes perfectly over your body, enhancing your posture and exuding confidence. This is the promise of bespoke tailoring. Unlike off-the-rack suits that often require significant alterations, a bespoke suit eliminates that need. It fits you flawlessly from the very beginning. This eliminates the frustration of ill-fitting garments and the additional cost of alterations. 

Suit Up for the Melbourne Cup 2024

Men's Suit Trends for 2024

The world of men's fashion moves at a steady pace, with each year bringing subtle shifts and exciting innovations. Here at Wil Valor, we're passionate about helping you stay ahead of the curve and craft a personal style that reflects both confidence and contemporary flair. So, what have we seen in men's suiting for 2024? 1. The Power of Playful Prints and Textures The trend for bolder choices continues in 2024. Move beyond the expected with suits featuring subtle or even statement prints. Floral patterns, refined checks, and even a touch of glitter are all on the rise. Texture also takes centre stage – explore Wil Valor's range of tweed and corduroy suits for a touch of depth and sophisticated intrigue. 2. The Year of the Vest Vests are back and more versatile than ever. Pair them with your existing suits for a three-piece ensemble or wear them as standalone pieces for a sharp look. Vests can add a layer of sophistication and style to your outfit. Wil Valor offers a diverse selection of vests that can be paired with your existing suits for added versatility. 3. A Return to Shorts (But Make it Formal) Channel the elegance of a bygone era with tailored shorts paired with a sharp jacket. This trend is perfect for warmer climates and adds a touch of unexpected panache to formal occasions. Opt for a relaxed fit and pair it with loafers and crisp socks for a truly dapper look. 4. Classic with a Twist: The Enduring Appeal of Tailored Perfection Timeless classics like tailored suits and crisp shirts remain essential. However, don't be afraid to experiment with modern variations and accessories to add a personal touch. Consider incorporating elements like slimmer cuts, unique fabrics, or statement accessories to give your classic suit a contemporary twist. At Wil Valor, we understand the importance of a well-fitted garment that flatters your physique and exudes confidence. We offer a wide range of classic cuts and silhouettes, ensuring you find the perfect foundation for your personal style. 5. Sustainable Luxury: A Conscious Choice Sustainable fashion is becoming increasingly important, and by choosing eco-friendly suits, you can make a positive impact on the environment. Opt for suits made from eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled fabrics. Make a conscious choice and contribute to a greener future. Your Personal Style Starts Here No matter your preference, 2024 offers a plethora of exciting possibilities in men's suiting. Whether you embrace bold prints or remain a devotee of classic cuts, Wil Valor is your one-stop shop for crafting a suit that speaks to your individuality. Explore our extensive collection and visit our website to book a consultation with our expert tailors today! Let's work together to create a timeless piece that reflects your unique personality and elevates your style in 2024. Locations we service include: Brisbane | Gold Coast | Sunshine Coast | Sydney | Melbourne | Los Angeles

Men's Style Icons: Timeless Inspiration from Legends of Fashion

Fashion is a constantly evolving landscape, but some elements of style transcend trends. Men's fashion, in particular, boasts a rich history filled with iconic figures who set the standard for generations to come. These trendsetters, from the dapper dandies of the past to the modern style mavericks, offer a treasure trove of inspiration for the modern man.  The Tailored Titans: Masters of Refinement  The early 20th century saw the rise of the "gentlemanly" style, defined by sharp tailoring and timeless elegance. One need not look further than Beau Brummell (1778-1840), a man whose meticulous attention to detail and focus on fit revolutionised men's fashion. His signature look – a perfectly tailored suit, crisp cravat, and polished boots – remains a cornerstone of formal wear even today.  Fred Astaire (1899-1987) embodied the epitome of suave sophistication. His on-screen charm was matched by his impeccable off-screen style. Astaire's signature was a well-tailored tuxedo, always perfectly fitted and showcasing his graceful movements. This classic look translates beautifully to modern formal occasions.  The Rebels with a Cause: Redefining Cool  The mid-20th century witnessed a shift in men's fashion, with a rebellious undercurrent emerging. James Dean (1931-1955) epitomised this change. His signature look – the white t-shirt, worn leather jacket, and rolled-up jeans – became a symbol of youthful cool that continues to inspire. The key takeaway? Simple pieces, worn with confidence, can create a lasting impression.  Steve McQueen (1930-1980) added a touch of rugged individualism to the "rebel" aesthetic. His iconic look – a cool leather jacket, faded jeans, and a white t-shirt – exemplified effortless style. McQueen's ability to make even the most basic items look cool reminds us that confidence and attitude play a significant role in personal style. 

Mastering Effortless Style for Everyday Wear

In today's fast-paced world, achieving a polished yet effortless style for everyday wear is more important than ever. It's about looking put-together without appearing overly dressed, striking the perfect balance between comfort and confidence. This guide delves into the concept of "casual cool" for men, focusing on key pieces like chinos, t-shirts, and bomber jackets, and providing tips to create stylish everyday looks that require minimal effort.  The Philosophy of Effortless Style Effortless style isn't about following fleeting trends; it's about embracing classic pieces that exude timeless appeal. It's about understanding your body type and choosing clothes that flatter you. It's about feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin, allowing your personality to shine through.

September 2024 Update: Cashmere & Wil Valor Woman

Wil Valor are thrilled to announce the addition of 7 new world-class mills to our fabric stable, reflecting our ongoing commitment to improving our offering for our discerning clientele. I look forward to introducing my clients to some incredible new luxury cashmere.Wil Valor now have access to the largest selection of Fabrics in Australia...This expansion means we can confidently say we now have the largest selection of fabrics in Australia, giving you access to a range like never before.I recently had the privilege of visiting some of the world’s leading mills—mills that supply cashmere to iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, and Burberry. The colours and textures I encountered were simply unmatched, and now, these stunning fabrics are available to you. If you’re curious, we’d love for you to drop by the store and see them for yourself in person.You can also check out the behind-the-scenes videos, inside the Italian Cashmere Mill on our Instagram. I invite you to visit our showroom or book an appointment. We’d love to help you create your next bespoke piece.Wil Valor Woman is Re-Launching...In other exciting news, we are relaunching Wil Valor Woman with a completely new offering. Keep an eye out—this new collection will surprise and delight. Sneak peek in the photo above.Reach out with any questions. I look forward to introducing the new collection to you very soon.- Mark Ferguson, Director of Wil Valor

Wardrobe Essentials for Every Climate: Adapting Your Style for All Seasons

Outfit Variations:  Casual Layered Look: Layer a long-sleeved t-shirt under a chambray shirt and top it off with a bomber jacket for a relaxed yet stylish look.  Smart Casual Layered Look: Pair a button-down shirt with a lightweight sweater and chinos for a polished yet comfortable look suitable for many occasions.  Weekend Outing Outfit: Layer a graphic tee under a denim jacket and pair it with dark wash jeans for a classic weekend look. 

Beyond the Suit: Stylish Workwear Options for the Modern Professional

The Art of the Tailored Interview Suit

An interview is always a pivotal moment in your career trajectory. It's your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and passion for the role. But beyond your qualifications, there's one crucial factor that sets the tone from the very beginning: your first impression. In today's competitive job market, standing out is more important than ever. While your resume and interview skills are vital, your nonverbal communication speaks volumes before you even utter a word. This is where the art of the tailored interview suit comes into play. Studies have shown that it takes less than 10 seconds for someone to form a first impression. In an interview setting, that initial glimpse sets the stage for the entire conversation. A well-tailored suit projects confidence, professionalism, and attention to detail – qualities highly sought after by employers. The Power of a Tailored Suit A suit off the rack can get you by, but it won't necessarily make you stand out. A well-tailored suit, however, transcends mere clothing. It becomes a statement piece that says, "I take pride in my appearance, and I take this opportunity seriously." Here's how a tailored suit elevates your interview presence: Perfect Fit: A tailored suit fits you like a second skin. No baggy sleeves, no excessive fabric bunching around the waist, and no pants that drag on the floor. This sharp silhouette exudes confidence and polish. Flattering Form: Tailoring accentuates your best features and minimises any perceived flaws. This creates a balanced and professional appearance. Quality Fabrics: Bespoke tailors use high-quality fabrics that drape beautifully and hold their shape throughout the interview. This conveys a sense of refinement and attention to detail. Confidence Boost: When you feel good in what you're wearing, it shows. A perfectly tailored suit gives you a confidence boost, allowing you to project your best self during the interview.

Around the World Twice & visiting the World's Best Velvet Mill

It’s been a whirlwind few months, and anyone following me personally on social media knows I’ve practically circled the globe twice since June. I’m incredibly fortunate to have such an understanding wife who supports these ventures. But this wasn’t just about travel—it was all part of a much larger vision for Wil Valor, one that will fully unfold in the coming months. One of the key reasons for these trips was to gain a deeper understanding of the global tailoring market and to see where Wil Valor stands within it. After these latest trips, I’m quite confident that we’re among the top 5% of bespoke suit providers worldwide. Our commitment to continual improvement led me from the storied halls of Savile Row to the grand fair that is Pitti Uomo in Florence. This journey opened up a wealth of opportunities for Wil Valor. We’ve expanded our range of high-quality accessory manufacturers, including new ties, pocket squares, cufflinks, belts, and shoe horns—all of which will be available this spring. And I’m particularly excited to introduce a Made-to-Measure option from Italy, launching this October. Italy was an eye-opener in more ways than one. I had the privilege of visiting mills that supply the world’s leading cashmere and velvet fabrics—materials that brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, and Burberry all use. The colours, patterns, and textures of these fabrics are simply unmatched. If you’re curious to see what I’m talking about, drop by the store and experience them firsthand.  In total, we’ve added seven world-class mills to our fabric options. This is a testament to our relentless commitment to improving our offerings for Wil Valor's clientele. I can confidently say that we now have the largest selection of fabrics in Australia. If you want to explore our expanded collection and see the remarkable fabrics and accessories in person, I invite you to visit our showroom or book an appointment. We’d love to help you find your next bespoke piece.- Mark Ferguson, Director of Wil ValorLocations we service include: Brisbane | Gold Coast | Sunshine Coast | Sydney | Melbourne | Los AngelesBOOK AN APPOINTMENT

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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Fabrics and Crafting the Perfect Bespoke Suit

The foundation and secret of any perfectly tailored suit lies in the fabric itself. The right fabric choice can elevate your look from ordinary to extraordinary, ensuring comfort, style, and lasting quality. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the world of suiting fabrics and select the perfect material for your bespoke creation.