MR. ETIQUETTE

WHEN AN INVITATION SAYS COCKTAIL ATTIRE, WHAT DOES THAT MEAN TO A MAN? TIE OR NO TIE?

Cocktail attire for men simply means “elevated.” Depending on the situation, a suit or sport coat will usually suffice. Certain cocktail parties are going to draw out the dinner jacket crowd. But, no matter the occasion, ties tend to be optional these days. You can rock a tuxedo with no tie and no socks, for that matter, and remain “in compliance”. For a nice cocktail party, opt for at least a nice jacket, button-up shirt, slacks, loafers or oxfords, and a pocket square. Cocktail implies evening, so don’t go whimsical. Keep it darker and classy.

CERTAINLY, GOLF APPAREL HAS COME A LONG WAY, BUT IS IT APPROPRIATE TO WEAR A GOLF POLO WITH A LOGO ALL OF THE TIME? WHAT ARE SOME ALTERNATIVES TO WEAR OFF THE COURSE?

There are many men in an office setting or who I see at dinner that could transition immediately to the golf course. While I understand the comfort factor and that golf wear is an acceptable everyday look, I recommend diversifying a bit. You can opt for the wash and wear ease of Peter Millar pants all day, every day. But, switch up the shirt. I prefer non-logo polos and shirts. Add in nice performance fabric button-down wovens that are just as comfortable, but pair better with slacks and a jacket than a golf shirt when going to dinner or a meeting.

WHEN THE LATE AFTERNOON TEMPS HIT 80 BUT THE EVENING TEMPS COOL OFF TO THE 60S, HOW SHOULD A MAN LAYER FOR AN EARLY DINNER?

John Craig carries a variety of options for those unpredictable Florida temperatures and for going from air conditioning to outdoors. We love the Italian-made vest by Waterville that comes in a variety of fabrics and colors that add a little warmth and a lot of style to an outfit. Some vests even have chest pockets that you can add a pocket square to, if so inclined.

We love our “shackets” and “swackets”, too. These are sport coat alternatives, typically lighter weight, and offer function and style.

WE KNOW YOU HAVE A LOT OF PET PEEVES WHEN IT COMES TO MEN’S APPAREL. TELL US SOME AND HOW DOES JOHN CRAIG MERCHANDISE TOWARDS MAKING THEM BETTER?

Our biggest pet peeve at John Craig is an improperly fitting garment. We spend about $500,000.00 on tailoring each year to ensure what is purchased at John Craig, Current, or Carter and Finley actually fits you the way it should. Before our clothing consultants put something on you, they have already taken a tape and measured your neck, chest, or waist to ensure the garment you try on is the right size.

The phrase, “the customer is always right” is up for negotiation when it comes to fit. We will give our strong opinion on the length and width of your pants, how long your jacket and sleeves are, whether or not you look like you’re wearing your dad’s suit....or your son’s.

Properly fitting clothes make all the difference in the world.