The Distillery

As you can see from the celeb snapshots above, lapel pins are hot and one of the few accessory product categories men have to choose from when donning a sport jacket or blazer (without overdoing it). As indicated by the name a lapel pin, this pin belongs...on your lapel. Which begs the question:

What Technically is a Lapel?

A lapel is the two folds of your blazer, sport coat, or jacket that lay on your breast below the collar, and frame the first two to three buttons of your dress shirt or necktie. Lapels are typically sewn into the collar of the sport coat to have a cleaner look, but not always. To further dissect the components that make up a lapel you might notice with some varieties there are is a hole, on one of the sides of the lapel. These holes were historically to position flower boutonnieres and their stems.

These days, a lapel might have a feigned buttonhole, or possibly none at all (shawl). You no longer have to have a freshly-cut live flower for every occasion to adorn your sport coat, unless you're getting married that day. In this case, a live boutonniere is your most formal and appropriate option.

The Three Most Popular Lapel Styles

Now, not all lapels are or look the same, there are three different major lapel types which include: notched, peaked, and shawl. Each type looks very different from one another and should be worn for specific occasions.

The most common lapel form is notched it is usually paired on single breasted suits and it is what you typically see on most coats and jackets in America and Europe.

The peaked lapel is most common for a double breasted jacket. Double breasted jackets and the peaked notched are for a more formal look.  If going custom, request it with any formal coat, overcoat, and even up to the most formal, a tail coat. This lapel has a sharp peak point on it and is a little more exaggerated.

Lastly, there is the shawl lapel. Which as the name says is almost like a shawl rather than a collar and lapel.  It is when the collar and lapel are one swift curve and there is no distinction on where the collar ends and the lapel starts.  This lapel look is probably the least common lapel type. However, it can be seen on tuxedos, specific formal wear jackets, and smoking jackets.

What are Lapel Pins?

A lapel pin or lapel flower pin is the pin that you can add to your jacket for an accent or accessory. Although you can see lapel pins on different types of jackets and coats, we are going to narrow in on lapels for more formal wear and suits.  Now this does not mean that lapel pins are only meant to be worn for award shows and red carpet affairs, but they can be worn on your day to day business wear, if you choose to do so.

Lapel Pin vs Lapel Flower

A lapel flower is still a lapel pin but with a synthetic flower usually made from fabric.  You can choose a lapel flower that is simple and solid color that can go with most suits, or a more dandy one.

Knowing the difference between lapel pin and flower, and which can really make a suit or jacket go from plain to outstanding, will differentiate you as a taste-maker and fashion influencer among your friends.

How to Wear a Lapel Pin

Lapel pins are meant to add something a little extra to your outfit. Another accessory that could fall under this category would be a pocket square, but that is a completely different topic.

Here are a few quick rules of thumb:

• Always put the lapel pin on the left lapel
• Around four inches down from the tip of the shoulder is the ideal placement
• The smaller the lapel pin, the more appropriate for day to day looks.
• Larger statement lapel pins are for formal occasions

Thanks for your time and attention. Keep lookin' good.

Don't do this.

They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. However, what do you bring to Las Vegas? More importantly, what do you wear in Las Vegas? Many guys want to know. So you don't end up looking like Hunter S. Thompson with a sun hat, floral shirt, and aviator sunglasses by default, you'll want to read this guide.

Guys go to Las Vegas for several reasons: bachelor parties, vacation, honeymoon with the significant other, or for a weekend roadtrip with the boys. So you're not labeled an obvious tourist when you get there, we've got some apparel tips that will make it look like you belong.

James Bond Doppelganger

Wearing a three piece suit or formal tuxedo is a great option on a special night in Vegas. However, we don't have room to get into the particulars of formal attire in this post. This post will focus on more of our casual wear recommendations. You can head over to our custom clothing site for formal wear tips.

First of all, you're going to want a complete look. By complete we mean head-to-toe coordination of: button down, denim/chinos, sport coat, sunglasses, socks, and, last but not least, shoes.

What to Wear in Vegas - 3 Looks for the Discerning Man

There is a wide range of options when it comes to what to wear in Vegas. However, there are some rules of thumb. Some of these are true most all of the time, whether you're on the Vegas strip or walking the streets of Peoria, Illinois.

1. Wear items that fit you well
2. Show some personality with at least one piece

Las Vegas Look #1

Don't be afraid of color. Although most men like to steer toward the basic color scheme of blues, blacks, and grays adding a pop of color whether it be with a pocket a square, or a shirt. If you really want to be the confident man you are, wear both. The pop of color shows that you know what you are doing when it comes to style even if you really don't. Now this does not mean to wear every color of the rainbow at the same time. Just pick a statement color and stick with it. Add extra accents of the color with sock, pocket squares, and sunglasses if you have them. Keep it consistent. If you want two statement colors, then try to make everything else a little more neutral.

Las Vegas Look #2

This look is really easy to recreate on your own. It's comfortable, easy, and still looks great. It also shows you that a simple basic outfit can really look like a level up when you add some accessories. Accessories make you stand out, in a good way. This look is also so easy to accomplish. Now since it is Vegas and can get outrageously hot, some stylish shorts are a great alternative to rooftop or pool parties. Another option that can come from this outfit is keeping it all the same, but switching out the pants or a pair of shorts is up to you. This way you still look great and be weather appropriate.

Las Vegas Look #3

Every guy needs his ball out look. An outfit for an epic night out, for the big celebration, for whatever reason he is there.  However, instead of wearing your only nice suit, or the suit you need to wear to work next week, mix it up with something only slightly more casual, but still look great. Take a nice black pant you have, a white button down, a comfy pair of shoes, and add your own touch of character with it. If you don't want a jacket for the night, add a cool and sophisticated pair of cufflinks to add something a little extra. If you and your group are deciding you want to don full suits, jackets included, wear a jacket that is not the typical black that matches your pants. Wear something with color, even if it is a little subdued. Since you are already wearing black and white you can pretty much add any color into that mix.

There you have it - our tips on what to wear in Vegas.

Wedding season is upon us, which means it’s time to look put together. Since it is summer, the idea of wearing a full suit to a wedding can sound like a miserable proposition, thus we've put together some alternative looks as a guest at a summer wedding. With our guidance you can lock down your looks without getting overheated.

Summer is the time to embrace the light colors of your wardrobe.  An easy way to gear this to a wedding ensemble is by taking a lighter pant and a lighter colored button down and matching them together.  You can add a blazer or sports coat also in a lighter color depending on how formal the wedding is or what time of day.  The light color bottom and top combo still look sleek while adding a summer(y) vibe to it.  

Remember it is summertime and hot out, so while you are celebrating you do not want to be uncomfortable and overheat while you are enjoying the special occasion.  This is more targeted to a morning or early afternoon very casual wedding, but feel free to embrace the short sleeve button down, even a polo.  To dress this look up you can add a smoker loafer with no sock and an exposed ankle.

If veering away from your basic day to day look is something you are not comfortable with; just adding a little something extra to a simple outfit can make a huge difference. This can be done with a lapel pin (to be places on the edge part below the collar on the breast of the jacket) or with a pocket square.  Feel free for either to be bright with colors and textures to add an accent.

Do not be afraid of keeping it simple.  It is not your day to stand out, so don’t.  Keep it comfortable with one of your favorite shirts, lightweight pant, and add your nicer belt as a statement. Do not forget if it is a morning, day, or early afternoon wedding to bring sunglasses that can add an extra flare to your outfit.  

Weddings, especially ones where you do not really know anyone can be a time where you wear something you do not go for.  It is a one time occasion where, again, they focus is not on you.  Wear a shirt that has not gotten a lot of action.  Or a pair of shoes that have yet to see the light of day.  Experiment with different styles and go out of your comfort zone to wear a non-typical outfit.

Once a modern man with disposable income starts seriously researching and developing his own personal style, he may turn to several sources for direction, including, but not limited to: men's magazines, stylists, mentors, male friends with great fashion sense, and his own memory.

In recounting models of success, he may recall his dad saying when he was younger, "There's nothing like a good pair of khakis." Although khakis have stood the test of time as far as durability and practicality, for the modern man that understands style, fit and fabric details, he should opt for a pair of chinos.

What are Chinos?

Contrary to first impression, the word "chinos" is not a brand name; it's a general term to describe a style of cotton-based trousers. One way to describe what chinos are, is to explain what they are not. They aren't khakis. A pair of "khakis" is often used to describe another style of pant that is similar.

The generic description of khakis earned this moniker because they often come in the color khaki. Although, they do not have to be. Other common colors are black and navy. In the U.S. when people refer to chinos or khakis they are talking about a certain type of pant regardless of color. In other countries, this may differ.

This question of chinos verses khakis has been posed all over the Internet. It's a common question in men's fashion forums, as well as even sites like Yahoo! Answers or Quora. When posed the question in an open forum, this is how one Quora user answered:

"If you look at the words 'chino' and 'khaki,' chino means a kind of heavy-duty twill woven textile and khaki is a tan color. [Competitor] sells chino pants, also known as chinos, in navy, dark brown, and sometimes other colors as well as tan and taupe. Chinos are a little stiffer and more rugged, more suitable for physical work. Chinos often have extra wide belt loops to hold heavy duty work belts. Khakis are often cut like suit pants; it's just that they are made in a soft cotton twill or flat weave fabric." - Stephanie Vardavas

Chinos vs Khakis

Chinos are usually made from a more lightweight 100% cotton, although some companies use a small percentage of other fabrics or mixes for stretch, and khakis carry a heavier blend.

*More form fitting/tailored look

*No center crease lines

*Considered dressier (at this point in history)

*Comes in more a much larger variety of colors than khakis

*Concealed side stitching

Quick History of Chinos

"Developed in the mid-19th century for British and French military uniforms, chino cloth has since migrated into civilian wear. Trousers of such a fabric gained popularity in the U.S. when Spanish–American War veterans returned from the Philippines with their twill military trousers.

Etymology

The etymology of the term chino is disputed. Some sources identify the root as the American Spanish language word chino, which translated literally means toasted. Because the cloth itself was originally manufactured in China, the name of the trousers may have come from the country of origin." - Wikipedia

You can pickup brown, navy, or black chinos on RYE51.com.

We were recently visited by Lubiam Senior Account Executive Larry Lentini. He made his seasonal visit to Texas all the way from Lubiam's 52nd street New York office. He gave us an abbreviated history of the Lubiam brand, as well as showed us the latest in deconstructed jackets and blazers.

A little over 100 years ago, founder Luigi Bianchi Mantova created several Lubiam brands including: L.B.M. 1911, Su Misura, and 1911 Lubiam Cerimonia. Each specialize in a different clothing category. For example, 1911 Lubiam Cerimonia is their formal attire line. L.B.M. 1911 is the label they use for their typically more casual, deconstructed jackets.

What is a "deconstructed" jacket? Sometimes referred to as "unconstructed", deconstructed means the jacket does not come with lining on the inside. This makes the fit more relaxed and casual. Secondarily, it helps give more room for layering.

L.B.M. 1911 Deconstructed Jacket & Blazer Breakdown

• *Handmade in Italy
• *All don a unique signature lapel pin
• *Athletic fit that tapers nicely in the middle
• *Excellent for travel

Someone asked in the online men's fashion forum Dappered Threads, "Is L.B.M. 1911 the 'Holy Grail' of unstructured [sic] blazers?"  The thread initiator posted neckdown photos of himself in his L.B.M. 1911 blazer, and explained how this piece has not received any alterations or tailoring, but fit perfectly and looked great.

He received 15 comments, all of which whole-heartily agreed with him. Online research can definitely help in your quest to find the perfect deconstructed cotton blazer.

L.B.M. 1911 blazers history, fit, and how they can be worn at work with slacks or on the weekend with denim makes it a great addition to any man's wardrobe. Others will wonder why you look so good. The secret is in the fit. On the scale of uniqueness and details, these jackets get an A+; each jacket is individually dyed, so no two are exactly the same. Each is a truly one-of-a-kind piece for your collection that will surely get you noticed even in the more traditional colors.

L.B.M. 1911 Deconstructed Jacket & Blazer Fabrics

Depending on the jacket, L.B.M. 1911 sport coats and blazers are made from cotton, wool/silk blends, alpaca, flannel, mohair and warm and precious wools. In some of their lines they offer a wide range of bouclé and knitted effects, hopsack fabrics and knop yarns.

Because they are made in Italy, you'll notice the sizing differences. On the actual jacket, when 52 is listed on the label, that's actually a 42 in American sizing. A 48 is a 38,  a 56 is a 46, etc. On RYE51.com, they are converted from Italian to American sizing for ease of shopping. Browse RYE 51's latest collection of L.B.M. 1911 jackets by clicking here.

Pocket squares come in a variety of fabrics, patterns, dimensions, and uses. In future blog posts we'll show you a few ways to fold a pocket square. But before we get there, we made this video to help show you a few pocket square basics.

If you like what you see in this video, you can purchase a number of our RYE 51 pocket squares online or by visiting one of our store locations in Dallas, Oklahoma City, Atlanta, or Houston.

With the 2016 Masters Golf Tournament in full swing (pun intended) you might be wondering how you can up your wardrobe game before you hit the links this spring and summer. You don't have to be a golfer, or even a fan of golf, to look the part.

Men's Fitness perfectly describes golf attire by calling it "Fashionable, but not flamboyant. Comfortable, but not unkempt. Upperclass, but not obnoxious." Sticking to these basic rules will keep any man looking good and playing well.

While it varies from clubhouse to clubhouse, most golf courses and country clubs have a specific dress code. In almost every case, golf courses require that men wear collared shirts.

Long pants made of polyester or cotton are also common and (depending on the course) golf shorts are acceptable. Some courses will not permit jeans, but almost all courses won't allow workout, running, or basketball shorts or cut-off jeans.

Sandals, sneakers, and boots are not permitted on most courses.

Refresh your golf wardrobe by adding some colorful polos and cotton chinos. Not only will you feel comfortable, but you'll look stylish, without looking ridiculous.

The Major League Baseball season is underway and with opening week upon us, baseball fashion faux pas abound.  Here at RYE 51, when someone asks if they should wear a sports jersey as a fashion statement, our typical response is "no".  However there are always exceptions, and according to this article, jerseys are considered by some to be red carpet ready.

If you are unsure what to wear while watching your favorite team play, we recommend a classic two-colored Raglan or comfortable Henley to pay respect to the National Pastime while respecting your own personal style.  Combine this with a pair of denim or chinos and some fashionable sneaks, and you'll look great just in case you end up on the Jumbotron.

You might not realize it, but one of the major men's fashion events of the year is coming up in May.  The Kentucky Derby offers up high-stakes action with high-end fashion.  This handy guide from The Art of Manliness helps take the guesswork out of dressing for the derby.

Here at RYE51.com we offer a variety of items to help you dress fashionably and accessorize for the Kentucky Derby.  From pocket squares to custom shoes we offer spring colors that will help propel your wardrobe into the winner's circle.

According to GQ Magazine the trendiest things to wear in March are "Black, white, and pomade".  At RYE 51.com we have you covered with our clean, simple, and classic styles.

To check out GQ's entire article and gallery, click here:

GQ - What to Wear Today: March