Notably West Coast: The Man’s Fall Boardroom Look

Young professional men have a unique place on the fashion spectrum. Though we want to express individual style, a traditional business look often rules our workplace. To better understand how to strike a sartorial balance, our Notable Vancouver team had a one-on-one date with men’s fashion expert Peter Ty, known around YVR as The Starving Stylist, for some hot shopping tips for YPs looking to spruce up their look for fall.

As summer slips away, new colours and textures have snuck into the go-to stores we find ourselves browsing through in a good way. Though there are obvious differences in our personal styles, we collectively agree on one thing: nothing beats the look of a great power suit. 

As a young professional stylist, like-minded men make up a large part of Peter’s clientele, and he is full of creative suggestions to help them express and evolve their personal sense of style at the office. “I wouldn’t dress my clients in something that makes them uncomfortable, but it’s my job to introduce them to new ideas and styles that they wouldn’t think of on their own,” he says. “When it comes to the perfect power suit, this could mean a cleaner cut, a bolder shirt print or a textured tie.” Based on his tips (and keeping in mind the casual West Coast vibe imbued by most Vancouver offices we know), we conclude that the secret for the notable man in today’s workplace lies in honouring those timeless classics while injecting subtle hints of personality.

After some thorough browsing and a few periods of indecision, we pulled together this fashionable fall look for YP guys to take note of.

Suit
“Navy is the new black,” says Peter. That’s good news, considering a navy suit is a classic and, though perfect to complement fall’s jewel-toned colors, it can be worn year-round. A good fit is crucial, making sure the suit is well tailored to your body type.

suite

Shirt & Tie
A solid coloured suit leaves room for a bolder patterned shirt. This deep lavender adds a pop of color along with a graphic circular print. Ties are an excellent opportunity to add texture with wools, cashmeres and knitted silks. Young professionals can keep this important piece modern by sticking to a skinny or narrow width to keep proportions refined and sleek. 

shirt 

Shoes & Belt
The leather in your belt and shoes should match closely. A dark brown combination keeps this head-to-toe look bold and impactful. Brogue Oxfords add a touch of visual interest with detailed stitching.

shoes

Accessories
“Here’s where you can really play.” says Peter. A briefcase or attaché is a more professional way to tote your documents than a messenger bag, and won’t wrinkle the shoulder of your suit. Make more of a statement by picking a complementary color rather than matching directly with the belt and shoes. Finally, he suggests that YP men “add a flash of fun with bright patterned socks like these canary yellow ones.”

acc

Items Above:

Paul Smith Slim-Fit Wool-Twill Suit Jacket in Navy ($1,115)
Paul Smith London Slim-fit Printed Cotton Shirt ($295)
Drake’s Slim Woven Cashmere Tie ($170)
Gucci Leather Belt ($295)
Paul Smith Miller Leather Wingtip Brogues ($510)
Swaine Adeney Brigg Westminster 2 Bridle Leather Briefcase ($1,230)
Richard James Polka-Dot Merino Wool-Blend Socks ($32)

All available from MrPorter.com.

Photo courtesy The Starving Stylist