9 Key Details That Will Elevate Any Outfit

Menswear is often a game of subtleties. While trends come and go, it’s the small, thoughtful details that separate good style from great style. These finishing touches might seem minor at first glance, but they can elevate an outfit, showcasing your taste, personality, and attention to craftsmanship.

These are the details that make all the difference when getting dressed each morning.

Buttoned Up

Buttons are often overlooked, but they’re the unsung heroes of well-made clothing. Mother-of-pearl buttons on a shirt or horn buttons on a blazer add an instant touch of luxury. The feel, shine and durability of high-quality buttons are worlds apart from their plastic counterparts.

The positioning also matters. A perfectly placed collar button ensures your shirt lies flat, while functional sleeve buttons on a jacket (known as surgeon’s cuffs) hint at impeccable tailoring. These small choices speak volumes about the garment’s quality and your sartorial standards.

Stitched Up

You can tell a lot about a garment by its stitching. Fine, dense stitching along seams suggests durability and craftsmanship, while sloppy or uneven threads are a red flag. Look for details like pick stitching on lapels or hand-finished hems, which are hallmarks of high-quality tailoring.

French seams on shirts or selvedge edge denim are not just practical but add subtle elegance. They’re signs that the maker has taken time and care, ensuring the piece will last and look sharp for years to come.

The Perfect Collar

A well-constructed collar frames your face and sets the tone for the rest of your outfit. The right collar shape—whether it’s a spread, button-down, or club—can complement your facial structure and add character to your ensemble. Pay attention to stiffness and structure; a collar that lies flat and holds its shape shows quality craftsmanship.

Don’t underestimate the importance of collar stays either. Metal or reinforced stays keep your collar looking sharp all day, turning an ordinary shirt into a wardrobe essential.

Peaks And Troughs

In tailoring, the lapel is where function meets flair. A lapel that’s proportionate to your frame and outfit signals balance and sophistication. Wide lapels channel vintage charm, while slimmer ones lean toward modern minimalism. Whichever you prefer, the stitching along the lapel edge (known as pick stitching) is a subtle indicator of a quality garment.

The lapel is also an opportunity for individuality. A peak lapel makes a bold statement, while a notch lapel is understated and versatile. It’s these details that can subtly set you apart in a room full of suits.

Pocket Perfection

The way pockets are styled and constructed can elevate a garment’s design. A blazer with patch pockets feels casual and modern, while flap or jetted pockets lean more formal. Functional pockets, like ticket pockets on jackets or watch pockets on trousers, add a touch of practicality and heritage charm.

Even a simple chest pocket on a shirt can make a difference. Whether you choose to accessorise with a pocket square or leave it empty, the choice adds personality to your look.

Fabrics That Speak Volumes

It’s impossible to overstate the importance of fabric. High-quality materials don’t just feel better — they drape more elegantly and age more gracefully. Fine cotton, linen, wool, and silk have textures and finishes that elevate even the most straightforward designs.

Pay attention to seasonal appropriateness, too. Flannel and tweed in winter or lightweight linen and seersucker in summer show an understanding of both style and practicality. When your clothes look and feel right for the weather, you’re halfway to mastering men’s fashion.

What’s Inside Counts

What’s inside your clothing says just as much as what’s outside. A blazer with a vibrant lining adds a hidden splash of personality. Similarly, well-finished interiors, such as taped seams or subtle monogramming, indicate that the garment was crafted with care and attention to detail.

These hidden details don’t just look good; they make your clothing more comfortable and durable. A great lining or expertly finished interior is where practicality meets elegance.

Accessorise Accordingly

As the saying goes, the devil is in the details. Accessories like cufflinks, tie bars, and pocket squares might be small, but they pack a sartorial punch. A simple silver tie bar or a silk pocket square in a bold print can transform a look from predictable to polished.

Even everyday essentials like belts and watches matter. A belt that matches your shoes or a leather strap on your watch that complements your outfit shows you’ve thought about the entire ensemble. These small additions signal confidence and style.

Fit For Purpose

The greatest detail of all? Fit. Even the most luxurious fabrics and elaborate craftsmanship mean nothing if your clothes don’t fit properly. A well-tailored blazer that hugs your shoulders or a pair of trousers hemmed to the perfect break instantly elevate your appearance.

Don’t overlook minor adjustments. A slightly nipped waist, shortened sleeves or tapered trousers can make off-the-rack feel bespoke.

Find yourself a good local tailor and make him your best friend. Your look and wardrobe will thank you.