In my tireless internet browsing, I found this article on Details Magazine’s website with some pretty valuable style advice.

A little background: Paul Surridge is the Creative Director for the sportier line of Ermenegildo Zegna that we carry, Z Zegna. Details did a little Q&A with him, and he gave some great advice for transitioning your wardrobe.

EMBRACE THE ITALIAN PRACTICE OF CLEANING YOUR CLOSET WHEN THE WEATHER CHANGES
“Since living in Italy, I do it. It’s something so inherent in the culture that you don’t even question it. It’s not about space, it’s about making the wardrobe accessible. I dry-clean everything apart from pants and socks. I’m also a big fan of chucking things out. Look at yourself in the mirror and make a judgment: ‘Am I going to wear this in the next year? Yes or no?’ If it’s a no, it’s time to get rid of it and make space for something new.”

YOU’LL NEVER GO WRONG WITH A WHITE BUTTON-DOWN
“Since I’ve taken on the creative-director role, I’ve become a fan. It just frames you and makes you look more put-together than a T-shirt. Plus, coming from England, my skin is almost transparent, and I think the white gives my face a bit more color.”

KEEP YOUR SUIT SIMPLE
“Go for a color that won’t make you look like a bank clerk, and a performance fabric, like anti-crease. Choose a two-button, because a three-button goes in and out of fashion, depending on trends, and you’ll get tired of a one-button.”

WEAR A SWEATER UNDER YOUR SUIT JACKET
“Most people don’t want to sit in a jacket all day, so the idea is to take it off and still have an undercover besides a shirt. Knitwear adds personality to the corporate uniform.”

A GREAT SHOE IS A GAME-CHANGER
“Invest in one. Even if it costs three months in rent, it will change your life. It’s what carries you—your motor. You can look undone in a T-shirt and jeans, but if you have that expensive shoe, you look done. I don’t have a watch. I don’t have jewelry. I have very little excess, but if I find a shoe I like, I’ll buy three pairs. My favorite is a classic, heavy derby.”

EASE OUT OF WINTER
“Change the outer piece. Get rid of the coat and introduce a lighter piece of outerwear, which makes it a little more fresh, and have a warmer layer underneath. Don’t rely on the cover, rely on the layer.”

To read the full article or see more Details Style Advice, click here.
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