David August Heil: The Man Behind The Well-Tailored Suit

STYLE TIPS: RULES TO LIVE BY
Think modern, clean lines. A well-tailored suit should hug your shoulders; try sizing down. If you’re normally a 44, try a 42. The higher the armhole—without actually being too tight—the more movement and reach you will achieve. Always show a little shirt cuff: a 1/4”to 1/2” will help transform the suit from looking too large and disheveled to sleek and modern. Coat-waist suppression: don’t be afraid of it, as it will immediately take 10 pounds off your frame. Taper your pant legs; most men worry about not having enough room in the thigh area. Tapering the pant leg starting 5” above the knee will allow for comfort in the thigh, but also a sleek, modern leg line. A slightly shorter pant will make you look taller. Shine your shoes: it’s amazing what a fresh coat of wax will do to revitalize a tired pair of kicks! Nothing is worse than wearing a pair of shoes that look like you shined them with a brick.

FIND THE RIGHT STYLE FOR YOU
The message every man should be sending at all times is smart, confident and perfectly put together. What is your body type? Tall, shorter, thin, athletic, heavy? Predetermine what type of events, functions, job, travel,  and entertainment you’ll be wearing the clothing for. Who is your audience? Start with the classics. Solids are best as they are easy to mix and match giving you more depth in your wardrobe early on.

PATTERNS ARE ALWAYS IN FASHION
As you grow your wardrobe, don’t be afraid to work in some patterned suitings and sport coats. If you find yourself a little “pattern gun shy,” start with micro-checks and muted plaids to test the waters. Checks, windowpanes, stripes and plaids are extremely popular and well accepted in fashion circles worldwide.  The most important piece of advice I can give to anyone who wears any type of patterned garment successfully is that you must wear it with confidence…you need to mentally own it!

FALL COLORS
Transition from late summer into fall with deeper tones. Classic navys and greys are always on point. Another neutral that you can turn to this season is camel. Cranberry, eggplant, moss green, forest green, as well as shades of deep cobalt blue and cognac are fresh, and can complement your basics. Don’t be afraid to throw in a splash of bold orange and tangerine!

TRENDING NOW
Get ready for fall with a few must–have items, like a luxe cashmere tweed jacket, ultra light-weight quilted nylon outerwear jacket and/or vest; a dark, simple camo print or mottled leather shoulder bag; cashmere hoodie in steel grey, black or espresso; a brown felt fedora…very cool. Skinny sueded denim jeans—no, baggy is NOT coming back! A leather biker jacket—black is fine, but why not try mottled red, cognac, navy or green for a cool factor!