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How to Take Care of Your Suit
So Fresh and So Clean, Clean
One of the most common questions we are asked at BALANI is how to properly care for a suit. Your suits from BALANI are an investment, and for this particular investment, longevity is key. Sure, wear and tear is inevitable, but there are things you can do to help prevent your one-year old suit from looking like it was purchased during the Clinton administration.
First, only dry-clean your suit between 2-4 times a year. Yes, you read that correctly. The chemicals used in dry cleaning can substantially damage your suit as well as shorten its normal lifespan. Instead, have your suits machine steam-pressed regularly by your dry cleaner; which is a 500 degree blast of steam killing all bacteria, removing all odors and releasing all wrinkles.…
Read more »How to Get the Perfect Shave
Now that Movember is finally over, say goodbye to the creepy Zach Galifianakis facial hair and say hello to a razor and shaving cream. Before you groan in protest, keep in mind that a survey conducted by Schick concluded that 76% of women prefer their man to have a clean-shaven face.
Getting the perfect shave requires the right tools, preparation, and technique. To avoid the classic shaving pitfalls, i.e., razor burn and those pesky ingrown hairs, simply, incorporate the following steps into your daily routine.
Step 1: Shaving Tools and Products
Using a quality razor blade is fundamental for getting a close, clean shave. Whether you prefer 3 blades or 6, make sure that you replace your razor with a fresh one every 2-3 weeks.
Shaving cream is as essential as the razor you use. Make sure your…
Read more »Top Five Things You Should Never Wear with a Suit
While there are a lot of ways to add style and personality to your business attire, there are just some things a man should never wear with a suit. Below are the top five fashion faux pas when it comes to donning a stellar wardrobe. And be sure to post your own items that should never come near your suits on our Facebook page.
5.) Ski jacket. We cringe when a man takes great care to choose the fine fabric, thread color, silk jacket lining, and tie pattern, only to throw on his old coat over it to head into the wintery weather. Guys, the last thing you put on going out the door is the first thing people will notice, and you’re most likely to meet someone new when out and about. Don’t cover up…
Read more »Top Five Things to Look for in Your Custom Tailor
We break down the top five things that every custom tailor should have.
5. Custom experience. Your individual experience at a tailor shop is just as unique as the garment itself. The appointment should be relaxed and stress-free, with everything at your fingertips: fabric swatches, design examples, full-length mirrors and an expert tailor to guide you through the process.
4. Tradition of excellence. A great tailor should have a long-standing reputation of quality and craftsmanship, with a rich history in custom tailoring. Creating a hand-made custom suit requires a great deal of skill and client service that spans generations.
3. Awards and recognition. An excellent review from a publication or online review from a current client is one of the best testaments to a tailor shop’s expertise.
2. Outstanding client relationships. A custom tailor must understand your personal…
Read more »How to Sport a Transitional Wardrobe
Sport coat: The fundamental transition piece
Summer is not over, at least we keep saying this, fully ignoring the fact that Labor Day is right around the corner. But as we make our way into September (arguably one of the nicest months for weather in Chicago) and the temperature transitions from scorching hot to slightly cool, our wardrobe also transitions. This requires a few tweaks and additions to stay comfortable, fashionable and professional. The fundamental pieces to making this transition are the sport coat and blazer.
Many office environments become more casual in the summer, so once September hits, getting back to business professional is key. When you’re not quite ready to put away the light-colored slacks and vibrant, summery blues, simply adding a sport coat is an easy way to transition into the new season. Plus, a…
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