LESSON XI.
HOW TO DRESS AND WHAT TO WEAR.
How to dress well. The first thought to consider in supplying our wardrobe, is the material. Let it be of good quality. Cheap stuff is never good unless it is good quality at a low price.
One good suit of clothes, or dress, gives better satisfaction (in lasting qualities, appearance and general makeup) than two suits at the same price.
A well selected piece of goods, tailored by a reliable tailor, always looks well, and may be kept repaired, cleaned and pressed into shape occasionally, a fact that few men properly understand. While the low priced suit never has the look of that of a well fitted tailored suit, and cannot be kept looking as neat.
Made to order garments are always fitted and made better (if by a reliable maker). In this way, one has the privilege of trying on and be fitted; then when a perfect pattern has been made for you, your future garments may be made from that pattern (changing the style of course, but keeping the fitting points the same as the pattern.)
Men and women have their individual peculiarities, such as one shoulder low, or one may be sloping shouldered, another square, erect and stooping, etc. All these different variations must be taken into consideration when making custom made garments (or garments made to one's individual measurements), and all well dressed men and women should have their garments made to order. They are more easily cleaned, pressed and repaired, for their building and make up has been studied and put together by skilled mechanics.
Men of limited capital who do not wish to spend much money on dress, should wear dark materials for suitings. Dark morning suits may be worn on many occasions when a light suit would be bad taste. Fashion should be followed, but avoid extremes. The wrinkles and bags at the knees should be pressed out frequently. Close woven cloth keeps its shape in garments better. The vest should always be buttoned. Remove buttons on all garments as soon as they show sign of wearing, and replace with new.
Skirted coats and vests should be made to fit closely around the waist, and loose over the chest to give the wearer that athletic appearance. This tends to make the wearer stand straighter.