August 1, 2008  ·  mail  ·  style

Mailbag: Necktie Alternative?

Mark J. writes: "I appreciate the suit shopping options, and find that Ben Sherman works well for an athletic build, but I am confused as to what to wear under the jacket if I am not a banker or candidate. If the tie is over, what is appropriate?" Answer: Former Gucci designer Tom Ford has done a lot of good things for us, from reintroducing glamour into fashion to the famous Keira Knightley and Scarlett Johansson Vanity Fair cover. But particularly in the summer months, we appreciate that he's taken the unbuttoned shirt + suit combination mainstream. We'd go with just 2 buttons open instead of Tom's usual 3 or 4, but regardless: Chest hair is the new necktie.

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