Bond ambition
Inspired by James Bond, who is arguably one of the best-dressed men in cinema ever, we help everyday men suit up like the famous secret agent, in the first of a two-part special
All it takes is a great suit, matching shirt and tie, and of course, a dash of charm and a killer attitude.
With the new 007 sequel Spectre opening here tomorrow, self-proclaimed hipster Mohamad Zahir Abdul Latif and fashionista Erwin Mahdar undergo a James Bond makeover with the help of stylists from London shirtmaker TM Lewin.
Don't call them vain. These guys just want to look their best and there's nothing wrong with that.
US fashion designer Tom Ford once said that dressing well is a form of good manners and that's the style code Mr Erwin Mahdar lives by.
"How you dress is how you want people to perceive you," said the 35-year-old IT manager.
Mr Mohamad Zahir Abdul Latif, 31, a graphic designer, agreed.
"Dressing well is a sign of respect for yourself," he said.
Both love the simple elegance that super spy James Bond exudes, saying the Bond look is "definitely doable".
Said Mr Erwin: "Every guy looks good dapper and we all should make the effort to put on a suit."
Bond is played for the fourth time on the big screen in Spectre by British actor Daniel Craig.
Mr Zahir, who used to wear a shirt and blazer to work, said: "I like how Daniel Craig's look is understated yet stylish. He also looks comfortable and confident.
"But I've become sloppy," he said, laughing. "I'm now a T-shirt and jeans person.
"But I do make it a point to dress up a little when I go out with my wife on weekends."
Mr Erwin, who describes his style as unpredictable, enjoys experimenting and subscribes to the Outfit Of The Day concept.
"We all have to make (fashion) mistakes before we find our own style," he said.
Both agreed that every man should own at least one complete suit in black, be it off-the-rack or tailor-made, though the latter is preferred.
"Wearing a suit makes you look dignified," said Mr Zahir, who owns one suit - his wedding outfit.
As for Mr Erwin, he cannot get enough of suits and white shirts.
"My industry is rather conservative, so I need to be in shirt and pants every day.
"I have about eight suits. I'd lower the temperature in the office so I can wear my suits comfortably. My poor staff have to put up with the cold," he said, laughing.
On Mohamad Zahir Abdul Latif
Black jacket & pants: $798
White shirt: $159
Black tie: $99
On Erwin Mahdar
Grey jacket & pants: $1,348
Check shirt: $159
Red bow tie: $99
What to check when buying a suit
THE JACKET
1. Sleeve length
When your arms are by your side, your jacket sleeves should finish about half an inch above your shirt sleeve cuffs.
2. Jacket length
The suit jacket should be just long enough to cover the bottom of the zipper on your suit trousers.
3. Shoulder fit
Always double-check how the jacket shoulders fit you. The shoulder pads should end at the shoulders or you'll end up looking like an American football player.
4. Collar gap
The collar gap is the gap between your jacket lapels and your shirt collar. The line of your jacket neckline should follow the line of your shirt collar around your neck.
If you're looking for a more casual and trendy style, choose a single-button peak lapel jacket.
If you want a formal business look, opt for a double-button notched lapel jacket.
THE TROUSERS
For a more fashion-forward look, opt for a trouser length that ends right at the top of your shoe.
For a conservative look, keep your trousers longer so that they completely cover the top of your shoe.
Common errors when wearing a suit
THE WRONG SHIRT
From collar size to style, it's easy to go wrong with your shirt choice.
Dress shirts should be chosen over casual shirts for formal wear and it's essential that you have at least two or three quality shirts to match your suit.
Your shirt should be the correct collar size for your neck to help avoid the awful collar gap between shirt and jacket.
THE WRONG ACCESSORIES
Remember, less is more.
The right accessories can complete a look and bring out the best in you, but there is also the danger of over-accessorising.
A nice set of cufflinks and a good pocket square - that's a handkerchief to you and me - to add a splash of colour are more than enough.
Choose a tie that goes well with shirt colour, but remember to keep it simple.
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