WIWT: 01-08-2013 — Winter monochromatics I’m... | The Silentist

Suit: Vintage Cricketeer donegal tweed
Shirt: Spoon Tailor MTM white broadcloth
Tie: Commonwealth Proper dark grey flannel
Socks: <a href="http://www.landsend.com/pp/mens-wool-rib-over-the-calf-dress-socks-2-pack~233502_-1.html">Lands&#8217; End charcoal wool
Shoes: Allen Edmonds Bel Air black shortwings
Belt: Black calf strap with Sterling silver slide buckle
Square: Howard Yount white linen
Tie clip: Gift from my brother

WIWT: 01-08-2013 — Winter monochromatics

I’m trying to remember if I thrifted this grey donegal tweed suit or if I found it on eBay. Regardless of how it was acquired several years ago, I remember it being rather cheap and spending a decent amount having it altered. It’s been well worth it, in my opinion.

The tweed has tiny flecks of yellow, red and teal in it and is somewhat scratchy in texture. The patch pockets make it more casual in nature, but not quite what I’d call a “country” tweed suit. I see it as more of a casual city suit to be worn with black brogues.

For a while, I did find it difficult to decide what shirt and tie to put with the suit. White seemed like a natural fit, but could be seen as slightly too formal. I’ve opted for barrel cuffs, a front placket and chest pocket to take down the formality of the shirt somewhat.

As for neckwear, I went with a dark grey flannel tie from Commonwealth Proper (which I’m in the process of writing a review on). Normally, I only wear ties with a navy ground, but it seemed like an appropriate fit to keep the entire look monochromatic. It’s darker than the jacket and provides enough texture and visual contrast against the tweed.

In the past, I’ve tried wearing and ecru or blue OCBD along with a navy or paisley wool challis tie, but thought the entire thing was too complex and didn’t look right. Maybe I’ve watched too much “Mad Men”, but going monochromatic with grey suits just seems “right”.

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