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Ask A Stylist: Tips For Finding The Perfect Suit

Eric Himel attended Parson's School of Design in New York and trained under "Project Runway" style guru Tim Gunn. Eric has worked with clients in both LA and New York, but is based out of Chicago. Eric has been frequently highlighted in numerous television shows and magazines due to his outstanding fashion sense. He offers services in styling for celebrities and regular people alike, with all-encompassing style servicing from full closet purges to complete style overhauls for a modern wardrobe.

Eric himel
(Credit: erichimel.com)

Eric Himel
Chicago, IL
www.erichimel.com

Pay Attention To Fit
 
"Most suits that you purchase will need some tailoring. Whether it is shortening the sleeves, inseam, rise or tweaking the jacket waist so it doesn't look boxy, it is crucial to invest in a good tailor. When done correctly, it will always make you come across as taller, thinner and more stylish. A lot of men make the mistake of buying a LONG length instead of a REGULAR. Try both, even if you are tall, because a jacket that is too long can make you appear shorter."

Stay Focused On Style
 
"Don't be a plain Jane (or John) by getting the most basic style. Try a one-button suit vs. a two-button model or even a double-breasted version. Add a vest if you are thin, button suspenders if you want more pizzazz or a subtle silk flower in your lapel. Try to skip three-button suit jackets, pleated pants and too short of a pant hem to avoid looking either out of style or too trendy."

Related: Best Jewelry Stores In Chicago

Eric Himel
(Credit: erichimel.com)

Don't Be Afraid Of Color
 
"Go with a navy suit and a grey suit as your two staples, then build out from there. White shirts are always a classic. Opt for a subtle pattern instead of the standard blue or pink solids shirts so that you can stand out from the guy in the next cubicle. Keep it classic by not buying a suit with too much sheen. Avoid yellow shirts as most men can't wear that color well with their coloring."

Comfort Counts
 
"It's important to feel good in what you are wearing. Don't get stuck on the price tag. For instance, if you try on a $2,500 designer suit and it doesn't feel right but an $800 suit makes you feel like a million bucks, go with your gut. Half of looking good is feeling good and exuding confidence."

Related: Chicago's Best Luxury Spas

Don't Forget The Accessories
 
"Women get to express themselves all the time with what they wear. For men, play with lapel pins, pocket squares, ties, tie clips and socks to stand out. Don't go all out by mixing every accessory at once. Use them discerningly to highlight the entire look. Remember, the man makes the suit, not the other way around."

When in Chicago, take advantage of the many different boutiques and shops that are far from the same old big box stores. Eric Himel has some favorites he refers his clients to in Chicago: Independence, Haberdash, Apt Number 9, Suit Supply and George Greene. Feel free to contact Eric Himel for all your style needs. He customizes his services to meet the needs of his clients, making him one of the most accessible fashion stylists in the business with both the experience and know-how to ensure you will be happy with your style transformation.

Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a Bachelor's in Communication and is currently working on her Master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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