While informal attire has been all the rage since the pandemic, every stylish gentleman needs a solid foundation of suits—but where to start? Here, two of Philly’s suit experts share the most important pieces and trends every man should have in his closet now.
Blue suits (specifically navy) are a suggested jumping-off point from Robert Fung.
Robert Fung
Robbini Bespoke, robbini.com
Using his large collection of wools, worsted wools, linens, cotton and cashmere blends from the finest mills in Italy, Robert Fung outfits Philly’s most stylish gents, like Philadelphia Eagle Brent Steven Celek. His top basics?
1.Navy Suit
“This is what I call the ‘go-to’ suit. Whether you have an important meeting or a classy event, a well-tailored navy suit makes a great impression. Every man should have this in their closet.”
2.Black Suit
“The classic black suit has always been a historic staple in men’s fashion. It has been prominently used for weddings and funerals. Nowadays, if paired correctly with the right shirt and shoes, the black suit can be more versatile and super stylish.”
3.Double-Breasted Suit
“The double-breasted suit has enjoyed a full-on resurgence. This is not your grandfather’s old baggy hand-me-down suit anymore. Today’s modern fit and custom tailoring has revitalized this once classic and elegant suit.”
4.Pinstripe Suit
“The pinstripe suit was most common for bankers and gangsters in the 1980s. I am pretty sure your father had at least one in his collection. Today, I call it ‘the statement suit.’ Whether you are trying to make a grand entrance or close a big-money deal, this suit will have your peers mesmerized.”
Ventresca Ltd. has been in business for over 40 years.
Frank Ventresca
Ventresca Ltd., ventresca.com
When looking at trends, third-generation tailor Frank Ventresca emphasizes that now, more than ever, gentlemen need to update their wardrobe because of recent workplace and social attire changes. What’s old is always new again, but with a twist. Boasting a roster of clients like former Philadelphia Eagle Jon Dorenbos and WWE Wrestling script writer Ed Koskey, you’ll be in good hands.
1.Suit Without a Tie
“In the post-pandemic, people went from wearing a relaxed T-shirt and Lululemon to now interacting with people again and being in an office or business travel environment. So it’s gotten more common for the jacket, whether it’s a sport coat or suit, to be worn with a shirt and no tie.”
2.Monochromatic Palettes
“Monochromatic is really popular, which means pairing a darker-color shirt with a darker suit or jacket and more neutrals, whether it’s navy, charcoal gray, medium gray or black. It was very popular in the ’90s, and now you have a whole new generation that either hasn’t seen it or hasn’t worn it.”
3.Dress Casual Shoes
“Instead of wearing a true dress shoe, people are wearing dress casual shoes. It could be leather, a woven mesh shoe with a rubber bottom, like a wide white bottom; it could be suede, slip-on or lace-up.”
Photography by: HERMES RIVERA/UNSPLASH; PHIL KRAMER
