The following question recently popped in my inbox from Tom. Instead of responding to him personally, I thought it might fun to reply to his email on my blog, since I’m sure he’s not the only guy in need of a little style advice. I would also like to give YOU an opportunity to chime in with your own opinion. How would you style Tom for his one-year wedding anniversary?
Tom’s Email:
“Hi Colin
It’s Tom here, I was paired with you on that bizarre fashion in NY commercial organized by Kendall Jackson. Hope you had a fantastic time over the holidays!
I have a random fashion question for you. My 1st wedding anniversary is coming up and to celebrate myself and my wife are going back to Australia for a week’s holiday in March. During this time we are going to have a “wedding jamboree” party in celebration of our first anniversary.
The dress code for the party is semi-casual. I am really keen to find a suit similar to the one Brad Pitt is wearing in this photo –
On the day I hope to wear on open white shirt and dark shoes like Brad in the photo along with the suit. I have looked everywhere on the net and some stores yet I’ve had no luck in finding something similar. I appreciate this suit is probably out of season by now but any suggestions you have of where I can find something similar would be most appreciated. In particular, I’m a fan of the color and cut of the suit and would consider getting something tailored if I needed to.
May 2013 be a year of personal and professional triumphs for you!
Cheers,
Tom“
Advice:
“Hi Tom-
Thanks for your wonderful email, happy New Year to you, too, and congrats on your one-year wedding anniversary coming up in March.
When deciding on what attire to wear to a destination wedding, two questions you need to ask yourself: What will the weather be like? And, what’s the dress code entail?
As you’ve noted, the event will take place in Australia in March. Temperatures tend to be on the warmer side that time of year, so you want to make sure you’re choosing pieces with lightweight breathable fabrics. For example, try and stick to materials like linen, cotton and silk, or similar blends that incorporate the following textiles.
You’ve also brought to my attention, the style of the event will hold a semi-casual type of atmosphere. So you don’t necessarily have to worry about the finer details , per say. However, adding a pocket-square or fun pair of cuff links to your look helps you stand out even more.
As far as your suit, you’re on the right track. I love the color choice you’ve picked out. My suggestion if you can’t find that exact shade, would be to go a little lighter with a more pastel blue. I also suggest maybe going to with a warmer color, for example a pastel peachy shade. If all else fails, stick with khaki!
When it comes to style, I like how you’ve chosen a suit with a larger lapel. Since you tend to be on the leaner side, this will give the illusion of a broader chest and shoulders.
A classic white button-down shirt is playing it a bit safe, in my opinion. A suggestion to help show off a bit of your personality is to go with a bold pattern like gingham or stripes.
Keep the pants fitted. Cuff them to give a pop of ankle. Don’t be afraid to show them off!
I’m not a huge fan of the black dress shoes with this particular suit. Something about it just doesn’t look right to me. My suggestion, since this is a more casual style event, stick to a classic tennis shoe in white or similar color. Also, some of my other favorites include a classic style slip-on loafer or chukkas. If you’re planning to be on a beach, a classic style sandal will work just fine.
No need for a tie or bow-tie, however, I do suggest a pocket square in a bold color or pattern. It will add a really nice touch, bringing the look together. A substitute is a fun ribbon-style belt, if you’re not feeling the pocket square. Start with one of my new favorite brands, Metro Retro. You’ll fall in love!
You also want to think about sunglasses as the sun will most likely be shining. Stick with a classic style aviator or wayfarer. Also, remember what I told you the last time we met. You have to act the part. A haute pair of shades will totally have you feeling like Brad Pitt on your special day.
As for styling, to keep it semi-casual, tuck the shirt, unbutton the collar, and pop the lapel. For a really casual look, cuff the sleeves. No more than 3 buttons! Keep in the mind, the more buttons you unbutton, the more casual the look becomes.
Stores are starting to roll out Spring merchandise as we speak, so you will start to see a greater selection. I do know you’re a fan of the vintage look. A great suggestion, would be to ask around at your local shops to see what type of suits they have available for you to try. If you absolutely love it, but it just doesn’t fit right, there’s nothing a great tailor can’t fix. I don’t suggest buying online when it does comes to a suit, as you really need to be able to physically try them on since they can range in fit when it comes to different designer names. Lastly, don’t forget, UK & Europe designers tend to run slightly smaller than US names.
BTW-I’ve created this cool inspiration board you can print out and take with you while you shop. This should make things a lot easier for you. Style guide on-the-go!
I hope I was able to shed some light. Don’t forget to send me a picture when you’ve found the perfect look. I want to see if you took my advice.;)
Good Luck!
-Colin”
© Zack Seckler/CORBIS/Corbis
stylesourcedotme.wordpress.com 
Consult your way through fashion
Among my many titles, Fashion Consultant is one. For those that ask, what exactly is a fashion consultant? It can have different meanings for different people. As for me, I consult for both individuals and designers. Most recently, I’ve created the Colin T. McDonald Agency which consists of giving direction to emerging & well-known brands, when it comes to ad campaigns, look books, website marketing, etc. For those interested in learning how to get started-click here!