We’re getting closer…

After the other day’s meandering rant on the unattainable joys of a custom shirt, it seems we’ve already begun to move in the right direction.  Valet has an interview with tailor Carl Goldberg of CEGO on the benefits of custom made shirts, starting at $95 a shirt with a minimum order of two.  Interestingly, he opines that too many men are going overboard with the slim shirts – no need to turn them into spandex muscle shirts.  With that we wholeheartedly agree; however, we haven’t quite seen this in the streets much firsthand.  Another point we second: non-iron may be great for convenience, especially when traveling, but they can never truly compete with a high quality 100% cotton.  Besides, with a $20 investment in a steamer, we’re only talking two minutes out of your day.

The price point is MUCH more reasonable and accesible.  But this still can be an overwhelming process for a guy, walking into a store and being presented with books of thousands of sample fabric swatches.  What fabric actually looks good when made into a shirt?  Do we want a straight or spread collar?  When are French cuffs appropriate?  Color buttons?  Monogram – and if so, where?  Pocket?  These are the simple questions – there even more considerations in the actual cut of the shirt.  So, the point is – do your homework.  If you want to replicate the designs you see being worn on tv, on models, or in windows, it pays to have a discerning eye.

If you're creating your own custom shirt and you know you want a contrast collar, be sure you're looking for something like this from United Bamboo...

...or this pink from the Asos store...

...but not this