Style Buzz: Men's Style + Styling a Plaid Blazer

Eugene Stylist
Jul 17
4 min read

Ideas to Inspire Your Style This Week

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I"m over 50, overweight,

and over it!"

My husband, on why he wanted to find a style uniform that would work for his photography business as well as everyday style. Clothes are a tool for making you look good and feel good, but they also need to be practical. Establishing a uniform eliminates the decision-fatigue that comes with getting dressed and shopping. When you know exactly what fits the parameters and stick with it, getting dressed is easier, and so is finding new pieces.

xxx rachel

FINDING A UNIFORM

When I first met Bob, I was seriously impressed by his colorful patterned shirts, but as his photography business grew, he traded those in for practical, solid polo shirts that could handle his backpack of gear and heavy camera straps, or lying on the ground to get the perfect shot. He also had to factor in how well he could move in his shirts, and found that when getting overhead shots, his shirts would often ride up, so he wanted ones that could stay put. That's a lot to ask of his clothes!

We recently went to Chicago and headed up Michigan Avenue to the UNTUCKit store so he could try the brand on in person. Half and hour (and a sip of whiskey!) later, he was a fan. Their model is brilliant. They focus on casual shirts that are designed not to be tucked into pants, and thus are cut a bit shorter than typical men's dress shirts. The crew at the store had him try on samples to determine his size (Small - 3X) and the best cut (slim, regular, relaxed, tall slim, or tall regular). Any combination of those factors make for a great fit on any body.

Once he figured out what size worked best, it was just a matter of picking which materials he preferred, so he's comfortable in any weather or situation, and - my favorite part - they have a fun range of prints, bringing back his personality to his style.

All of a sudden, Bob had a uniform! The shirts are comfortable and well made, they are easy to care for, and their style has aligned with how he prefers to dress. And since the sizes are consistent, he knows exactly what to order and doesn't need to try each piece on for fit.

If you're ever confused about dress shirt fabrics, here's a great resource that explains all the different types and what they're typically used for, helping you find the perfect one for your needs.

MEN'S LOCAL STYLE OPTIONS

While I am a huge fan of shopping locally, Bob needed to supplement what he can find here, but there are several great options nearby for men who want to elevate their style and find a balance between sporty and business attire. Everyday style is readily available at these boutiques and their staff is incredibly patient with helping men discover their own look. Of course, I'm always available if you want to spare (or surprise!) your sweetheart.

Mr Meers

Oakway Center, Eugene

They describe their clothing as elevated men's casual, and they really hit the mark. They've got quality brands for shirts, blazers, jeans, pants, shoes, and accessories in a great range of sizes. The store is comfortable and well-laid out for easy shopping with quality brands like Mizzen+Main and AG. I enjoy following their Instagram page, especially when they post outfit inspiration on their two mannequins, Kevin and Kenny!

Porterhouse

160 E Broadway, Eugene

The style here is classic and durable clothing for the modern man, and they focus on denim, shirting, jackets, hair and shaving products and more. Their US-made classic clothing and accessories are built to live in from sustainable materials, and they carry brands like Naked and Famous and Portuguese Flannel, bringing a quirky flair to everyday style in a recently-expanded space that inspires. I also love that the gents on their website and Instagram are of the staff so you're seeing the pieces on real local humans, not anonymous models.

The Natty Dresser

124 Broadalbin St SW, Albany

The Natty Dresser is the largest independent menswear shop in Oregon. Established in 2014, this old-school haberdashery has an ever-changing assortment of men’s clothing from casual to business attire; from hats to shoes, and everything in between. Services include a shoe shine stand, tuxedo and suit rentals, custom suits and custom shirts. They describe the space as "like stepping into the classic era of menswear", and if you've never experienced a space like this, check them out in person, online, or on Instagram.

3 WAYS TO WEAR IT: Plaid Blazer

I found this blazer for Bob two years ago and it's become a staple in his wardrobe. It works for date nights, business meetings, and special events, and I love how it polishes up even the most casual outfit. Plus its print with blues and browns makes it easy to pair up with multiple shirts.