2. The Essential

As I’ve been writing about for quite some time (see way back Here), the dark navy suit is a versatile wardrobe staple – you will wear it a lot. 

One way to make it last (in addition to buying a quality product, caring for it and making sure it fits and moves with your body properly) is to invest in a waistcoat. This way, if you want to wear the suit two or three times in one week, you can switch up the look of it and know one will even notice (see here).

Bonus Tip: The bottom button on a waistcoat is similar to the bottom button on a jacket – keeping it unfastened will allow the fabric to sit naturally over the hips which flatters the silhouette and looks appropriately nonchalant.

Bonus Tip II: A 3/4 length single breasted topcoat (or trench) worn open over a waistcoat & trousers is a flattering (i.e. slimming) look on just about anybody. The waistcoat keeps your waistline in check because it drops below the waistband, which means it can mask a belly (and an ill-fitting shirt too). The matching trousers create consistency and vertical length through the body – especially in a dark solid fabric. Lastly, the outerwear open down the front of the body creates long vertical lines that give the illusion of length and slimness, not to mention a flowy jacket can distract from your shape and bring your physique to life.