What Makes Custom...Well, Custom Part 2

Yesterday, we focused on the perfect fit and what it can accomplish for your look. Beyond the perfect fit however, are a myriad of options we can apply to your custom shirt, coat, suit, or tuxedo.

This is really what makes custom fun. Let's start with shirts. Custom shirts from Loring & Co. are all the same price. It is up to you just how much you want to embellish and customize the shirt. There is no additional charge for doing so. There are literally 30 options just for the collar on one of our custom shirts. There are spread collars (also including the British and even Italian styles, which are very wide), and traditional. You can chose the length of the collar, and whether or not it has buttons. Like to show some cuff? Maybe you want a french cuff so you can wear distinct cufflinks? You can add to that a mitre cuff, multiple button holes, or change the angle of the button hole stitching to accent the cuff.

One of our favorite shirt options is the pic stitch by hand. You can select a custom thread color whether it matches or contrasts the shirt fabric. This can enhance other options such as collar, placket, and cuff. We can even choose a custom button color to coordinate with or contrast with the shirt and stitching.

These details are what make a shirt uniquely yours. Often people will compliment your clothing-whether they can put their finger on what details set it apart, or not. Either way, they recognize you are dressed above and beyond.

What Makes Custom..Well, Custom?

Yesterday we featured a glimpse of bespoke clothing and what kind of look it can create. Besides looking your best, why would you want to create custom clothing?

The number one reason is fit. Today’s clothing manufacturers use a fit model to create sizing, and then generate thousands of copies of sizing to that model. Ironically, they are selling to humans of which no two are the same size. Just because two people have a size 38 chest doesn’t mean their waist or shoulders are the same. With our Loring & Co. label, we have successfully fit gentlemen of all sizes because we measure every inch. Biceps, inseams, outseams, hips, waist (even for a coat). The point is, when you try on your custom garment, it fits as it should.

It is not uncommon for one of our clients to try on their first custom shirt and say, “I look really in shape in this.” A common misperception is that “custom” or “fitted” are synonymous with “too small” and “too tight.” The fact is that proper fit accentuates your body. Even guys that aren’t in their, shall we say “high school shape,” find that custom clothing has a slimming effect.

Beyond fit, are the options custom offers for your clothing….More on that tomorrow!

Handmade (bespoke)

Loring & Co. Director of Marketing Nicky C, wearing Loring & Co.bespoke houndstooth blazer, cambray shirt, hand made wool tie and handmade knit lapel boutonniere. The art of bespoke!

This Is For Real...

No, your eyes do not deceive you.  For the second time in as many weeks, we have had a canine friend visit us to be fitted for a winter coat.

This French Bulldog Bogie is showing off a classic Barbour hunting jacket with the trademark corduroy collar.  In case you were wondering, he was very well-behaved during his fitting.  He sat proudly on the fitting stand, and patiently waited for Jeff to pin his coat to fit just right.  We can’t wait to see him again for the final fitting.

Bring your pup by if he or she needs their winter wear to fit just right- we are happy to help.  

Wesley Knight Bespoke

We are blessed in Nashville to be surrounded by incredible talented artisans.  Wesley Knight is no exception, having mastered the art of handcrafting bespoke eyewear from the horn of water buffalo.

Several weeks ago we measured Wesley for a Loring & Co. custom tuxedo. We were all excited (especially Wesley) when we got to reveal the finished product.  His artful taste created a classic tux with simple, lines. Complete with a stunning red lining, the tux looked incredible on him!

As tailoring and bespoke suiting is an art form all on its own, we have a great respect for Wesley’s work.  In fact, Jeff wears a pair of Wesley’s bespoke glasses nearly everyday while fitting and measuring clients at Stitch-It & Co.  We hope it was rewarding for Wesley to see his creation at work as Jeff worked through the final fitting.

If you have not had the opportunity to see Wesley’s hand-made eyewear, we encourage you to visit his website at wesley-knight.com and view his work.  It is also worth taking a few minutes to read from his journal.  Having been featured in the last issue of Garden & Gun Magazine, we are confident that Wesley will enjoy a fruitful and successful career!  Thanks, Wesley!

-N

New Year's Resolutions

What is it that makes New Year’s resolutions so difficult?  It seems as if we shrug off our goals for the incumbent twelve months as all but lost before we even commit to them.  

“I want to lose 10 pounds.”  

“I want to exercise three times per week.”  

“I want to travel more.”

What’s wrong with these longings for greatness?  Simple.  They aren’t resolutions at all. A phrase that begins with “I want…” is a mere pipe dream that will fade to the background of life, and eventually disappear altogether. The most successful people in the world are goal-oriented.  Pick resolutions that are goals you can achieve even if challenging, and commit.  Fully commit.  Make your goals specific, measurable, and attainable.

“In 2014, I will work out at the YMCA Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 8am-9am.”

“By March, I will weigh no more than 162 pounds.”

“In July, I will travel to San Francisco, and in December, we will visit New York City.  I will save $150 per paycheck to pay for the trips.”

What a difference.  These goals illustrate a road map for your path to success.  Take a few minutes each day specifically for your goals, and inch towards them.  Evaluate and benchmark your progress each week or month.

We wish you a happy, prosperous, and resolution-fulfilling 2014!

-N

The Christmas Story

Let us turn now to the story. A child is born in an obscure village. He is brought up in another obscure village. He works in a carpenter shop until he is thirty, and then for three brief years is an itinerant preacher, proclaiming a message and living a life. He never writes a book. He never holds an office. He never raises an army. He never has a family of his own. He never owns a home. He never goes to college. He never travels two hundred miles from the place where he was born. He gathers a little group of friends about him and teaches them his way of life. While still a young man, the tide of popular feeling turns against him. One denies him; another betrays him. He is turned over to his enemies. He goes through the mockery of a trial; he is nailed to a cross between two thieves, and when dead is laid in a borrowed grave by the kindness of a friend.

Those are the facts of his human life. He rises from the dead. Today we look back across nineteen hundred years and ask, What kind of trail has he left across the centuries? When we try to sum up his influence, all the armies that ever marched, all the parliaments that ever sat, all the kings that ever reigned are absolutely picayune in their influence on mankind compared with that of this one solitary life…

“For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace”. Isaiah 9:6

It is with humble and grateful hearts Cindy and I and all of the Stitch-It family thank you for your love and support. May the joys of this season of love and hope fill your hearts and your homes.

“ No man is a failure who had friends"  Clarence

Good Eats!

There are eight days left until Christmas.  It’s really here!  Do you need a last minute stocking stuffer or gift?  We have just the solution.  In stock for the holidays, we have gourmet peanuts that make a thoughtful gift for friends, family, clients, or co-workers.

Our delicious peanuts are available in 18-oz cans, with two flavors: salted and butter toasted.  The debate rages on over which is the best.  You’ll have to stop by and taste-test for yourself.  We have samples on hand!  Hurry though, Christmas is fast approaching and supplies will get low!

Nuts about Nuts,

-N

Gift Guide: Nashville

Sometimes a typical gift just won’t do at the holidays.  You have someone unique on your list that deserves a gift equally unique.  That’s why we have put together a “best gift guide” for you this season.  All of these are currently available at Stitch-It & Co.

Yesterday we highlighted our Escentric Molecule 01 and Molecule 02 fragrances.  I recommend stopping in and spraying some on your wrist to try it out!

Today, we are spotlighting our collection of vintage handkerchiefs.  There are relatively inexpensive at $15 each.  We have had people give them as personal gifts, employee thank-you’s, and even as party favors!Our favorite use of these is as a pocket square.  With a variety of colors and patterns, you can accent your suit in a classic way that stands out.  Ladies also may tie these on to a handbag for a simple and elegant boost of color.

Check back for more gifts to come!

Curated Fragrances

We are excited and proud to announce that we now carry the often-heralded, award-winning Escentric Molecule 01 and Molecule 02 fragrances here in our shop!

Described as the molecular master of scents, Geza Shcoen created Escentric Molecules as the “anti-fragrance.” Utilizing Iso E Super, a fragrance molecule that enhances other scents, both Molecule 01 and Molecule 02 are known for a “your skin, but better” smell.

Both of the elusive scents softly fade only to return later. They can linger in the air for others to notice as well. Don’t be surprised if you get asked, “What are you wearing?” or if you attract the entire room to you!

Stop by and grab a sample or a bottle!

Christmas Windows

What gets you in the Christmas spirit this time of year?  Singing your favorite carols?  Baking? That awesome Mannheim Steamroller album you used to dance around the house to?

I was lucky enough to experience New York City for the first time this past weekend.  While the city is always incredible to take in, I think we saw it at the best time of year.  I can’t say that I’ve seen another city get in to the Christmas spirit quite the same way that New York does!

I knew about the tree at Rockefeller Center, but what I did not know about before my visit were the incredible window displays.  All down 5th Avenue, Broadway, and Madison, retailers create magical scenes in their shop windows. 

From classic to whimsical, they all reach deep in to your heart to make you remember why this time of year is so wondrous.  I have included a link ( http://www.essential-new-york-city-guide.com/christmas-windows.html ) that shows off some of the highlights, and I encourage anyone who is able to go see them in person to fully engage yourself in the Christmas spirit.

Cheers,

-N.

Thankfulness

We love traditions, and for us, Thanksgiving embodies all the richness of what that means.
We hold dear to old traditions with family and friends, but embrace new ones as well.
Cindy and I are blessed and thankful today for all who have sat at our Thanksgiving table and grateful for all who sit at the table today.
We are thankful for family, great friends, and for the support of all of our Stitch-It L&Co. friends.
May your day be blessed with love and rest!

With love

Cindy, Jeff and the Stitch-It family

"That's Interesting..."

To get an earlier appointment, I recently elected to see the nurse practitioner rather than my primary care doctor.  After the ceremonial solitary wait in the sterile white room complete with a two year old issue of People Magazine, in walked the nurse.

She greeted me and then sat at her computer to ask me questions.  She paused, then turned to look at me again and said, “Do you dress that way for work?”

“Yes, I do.”

“That’s interesting.  What is it you do, exactly?” she inquired.

I thought to myself, “THAT’S INTERESTING?!?”  Insecurity set in quickly. What did she know?  She was wearing a well-used white lab coat- quite the trendsetter.

I explained to her what Stitch-It is, and the incredible Loring & Co. line of custom menswear, and my role in helping with the business.

After I left the doctor’s office, I had my drive to the shop to ponder her comment.  I looked myself up and down.  Dark denim and boos, check.  I typically wear denim on Fridays.  Light blue collared shirt, brown blazer, check.  Navy tie, and a plaid vest with grey, brown and a hint of blue to tie it all together, check.  I felt better.

Then it hit me.  The nurse hadn’t meant “That’s interesting” in the way your spouse means it when they say “Is THAT what you’re wearing out tonight?”  Rather, she meant, “That’s interesting” because she noticed an array of color and patterns that somehow worked together.

Dapper is what we do every day.  The vast majority of men, however, do not dress the way we do at Stitch-It.  In fact, I imagine my nurse was fascinated by my outfit because most of the gentlemen she sees in her suburban doctor’s office dress casually. If they do wear a coat and tie, it’s modern and edgy clothing rather than traditional timeless looks.

Take my advice, and don’t let one misinterpreted comment make you second guess your style.  If you look good and feel good, go for it.  If you mess it up- we’ll let you know!

Cheers,

N.

Quote of the day

Quote of the day:

“ I fear the day technology will surpass our human interaction. The world will have a generation of idiots.”

Prophetic words come to pass!

-J

Where's the scotch?!

 Look at these guys! Where's the scotch?!

 …. maybe it was the dogs fault.

Originally, the name of the cloth was tweel, (Scottish for twill) being woven in a twilled rather than a plain pattern. Around 1830, a London merchant received a letter about some tweels. In which case, the merchant misinterpreted the handwriting, understanding it to be a trade-name taken from the river Tweed that flows through the Scottish textile area… So the goods were advertised as Tweed, and the name has remained ever since.

There are two types:

Harris Tweed was originally handwoven by the islanders on the Isles of Harris (Scotland) and hand dyed.

Donegal Tweed was handwoven and manufactured in County Donegal, Ireland. Where they would use Blackberries and moss to dye the wools.

Because Tweed is so durable and moisture resistant; in Ireland and the UK, it was famously worn for outdoor sport and hunting.

…Sherlock Holmes wore it.

If Tweed could get any more awesome it would be used on Scottish bagpipes. Oh, wait. It is.

So even if you aren’t suiting up for a good old fashioned fox hunt, or putting together clues in a dark alley…This season you must have some TWEED! We can help you with that.

-C

Photo credit: www.sehkelly.com

Link Up

When ordering a custom suit from Loring & Co here at Stitch-It, there are a lot of choices to make: collar, buttons, pattern, and cuffs. These small nuances are what can make the shirt or suit your own. With 26 different collar styles and 30 different cuff styles, the combinations are practically endless.

You can select standard cuffs, double-button, mitre, french cuff, formal cuffs, you name it! French cuffs allow for even more personalization with each wear. Cufflinks it seems, can be tricky to pick out. It can be a challenge to determine if your cufflinks are professional enough, appropriate for the occasion, or even in-style.

Here are some hints to keep you on the right track:

1) Keep it classic. Would your grandfather wear these cufflinks? Would your son? The answer to both should be YES! Keep your cufflinks timeless so that you don’t find yourself cleaning house and searching for new ones every few years.

2) Flashy is not better. Cufflinks can show your personality, even your interests. A word of caution, though: Stay away from logos and branded accessories or cheap materials. Are you a pilot or aircraft enthusiast? Art-deco airplane cufflinks in gold or silver could fit you perfectly.

3) Steer clear of cheap souvenir shops! Cufflinks can be sourced from plenty of great places. Check your favorite local men’s store. Dig through your father or grandfather’s old collection that he no longer wants or wears. One of the most fun places to look is an antique store. Again, keep it classic and find something that fits you!

Romance of Timeless Fashion

Men of society used to dress as role models. They would wear a suit and tie to work, to travel and even labor in. Here we see Henry Ford chopping wood in a pair of slacks, dress shirt and a bow tie. This was the way life was once lived.

What if things were still that way? Can we recapture the spirit of style, responsibility and purpose in the way we dress? Would we want our children to see this standard? What does our clothing suggest about who we are? How do we put the romance of timeless fashion back into our lives? These men dressed with purpose, carried a strong sense of who they were and what they stood for.

What can we learn from Henry Ford? If he walked around in cargo shorts, t-shirt and flip flops… would he have been inspired to revolutionize the car industry?

Michael Shane Neal Self Portrait

At Stitch-It / Loring & Co. bespoke we believe the traditions we share with our family and friends are priceless. The friends we’ve made over the years and the new friendships we make each day are God’s rich reward.

One of those priceless friendships for me  began about 20 years ago. I had an interest in the art of portraiture. I signed up for an art class at Cheekwood in Nashville taught by local artist Michael Shane Neal. The rest, as they say, is history. Shane is now a world renowned Portrait artist and more importantly, a dear, dear friend. 

He is also a man of great taste and style. I am honored to have Shane’s self portrait as the official logo for Loring & Co. bespoke.

Please check out Shane’s website at http://michaelshaneneal.com.

Navy Tuxedo

Our stunning navy tuxedo. We can make you one, too!

Black Tie Optional

In six weeks, we will be ringing in 2014. Can you believe it? Coincidentally, it takes five weeks for one of our showstopping custom made-to-measure tuxedos to arrive. That means it’s time to get on it!

We have an incredible selection of fabrics for both suits AND formalwear. One of our favorites here at the shop is this navy tux with black lapel. Add your unique touch with a pocket square, suspenders, and classic black bow tie. (Don’t worry, we will make sure you know how to tie it- free of charge).

After New Years celebrations comes a parade of events in Nashville. We promise to have you looking your best for #BalletBall, #SymphonyBall, or #SwanBall!

What are you waiting for?

-N