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[kipperclothiers]

For Shorter Men & Women Who Like Menswear: Our Guide to Small-Size Shoes

While you can wear a suit with sneakers in some instances, situations like a job interview, wedding, or client presentation call for a polished, more traditional appearance. For the average male – roughly 5 ft., 9 in. and around 170 lbs. – finding a dress shoe isn’t a challenge. You stop at the mall, browse online, or, if you’re cash strapped, hunt down an un-scuffed pair at your local consignment shop. In all cases, you expect to find something in your size.

But, what if you’re under 5 ft., 6 in.? Or, you have small feet that feel loose in a size 6? Or, you’re a smaller-sized female with a penchant for actual menswear styles – and those menswear-inspired ones feel too frilly? Unfortunately, you’re stuck: Too small for adult sizes, wanting to avoid anything traditionally feminine, and too large for the kids’ department, you’re in that grey zone where, frankly, nothing fits.

So, what do you do? Suit up and wear all-black Converse high-tops, hoping no one notices? Suck it up and look for a kids’ shoe that’s not-quite-so childish? Or, do you relent, and compromise with a jaunt through the women’s section? The answer is – none of these. We’re here to tell you that, yes, you can find shoes in your size, without compromising your personal style.

Unsure about your foot’s exact measurements? Start with this measuring guide before you shop around.

Our focus here is primarily dress shoes – or whatever you can wear with a suit. On the other hand, if you’re in the grey zone, your shoe collection is – to excuse the pun – fairly small. Maybe two or three pairs, if you’re lucky.

Where do you begin for everyday wear? In this case, any unisex brand is best. Think skate shoes by Vans, low- and high-tops in neutral shades from Converse, Dr. Martens’ boots, and styles from Palladium. For “comfort” shoes, Oofos goes under a size 6, while Clarks hits right at this line.

And, if you see no shame in everyday athleisure, Nike makes men’s sneakers down to a size 4, as does New Balance.

Shopping Online

On the department store end, Nordstrom is frequently cited as a place to find smaller-size men’s dress shoes. Of the brands you’ll find below shortly, Grenson and Saint Laurent are available through their online store. Yet, in terms of variety, you can’t beat Zappos. Although their selection of men’s 4 and 4.5 sizes yields mostly casual options, you’ll find an occasional gem: For instance, a pair of Y-3s or a set of Wolverine Heritage boots.

For dress shoes, though, you’ve got to look past the predictable choices. For instance, Stravers – the Amsterdam-based retailer with a world-renowned brick-and-mortar store – prides itself on going to extremes. More specifically, a customer will find more than a smattering of both big-and-tall and small sizes. For the latter, your selection runs typical – think brogues, lace-up ankle boots, and oxfords in brown, tan, and black hues – and less so, with patent leather and blue alligator skin being some of the standouts.

For more technical styles, there’s BootBay.com. Born in east Tennessee in the early ‘80s, it’s another sought-after small-size retailer, with a product selection primarily covering work, hiking, and casual boots. While it’s not directly dress-shoe oriented, we all need a sturdy pair to get through the winter. As such, here you’ll find slip-resistant, moisture-wicking, and cushioned options.

Florsheim

Yes, they’ve garnered a reputation as your parents’ (and even grandparents’) shoe store, but this Chicago-originating brand has stuck around for a few reasons. One, you’ll have no trouble getting your basics – oxfords, brogues, chukka boots, and monk strap styles, with the occasional cap or wingtip detail – but its stores continue to stock more fashion-forward fare.

Case in point, at the start of the menswear craze, they partnered with Duckie Brown in 2010 to revamp some of their classic silhouettes, and five years later, they collaborated with George Esquivel on a California-influenced collection. Then, two years ago, they introduced a vintage collection, offering modern takes on their original line.

Recommendations

Richfield Moc Toe Strap Loafer ($100): All-around smooth, except for the slightly angular toe and braided detail, these loafers embody classic simplicity. Pair them with a full suit or chinos and a blazer, and in either instance, their versatile, lightly cushioned design takes you everywhere.

Como Moc Toe Strap Loafer ($110): With a name alluding to Italian construction, this hand-stitched, kidskin loafer is all about the details, from the top strap and burnishing to rich yet not overbearing burgundy undertones.

Grenson

Menswear has been on a heritage kick, and Grenson fits right in. Although sizing ends at a men’s size 6, their traditional handmade designs make your search worth it. Plus, they’re one brand with a decent women’s selection featuring some unisex-leaning designs. Added to this, their versatility and quality construction mean that whatever you choose – Chelsea and lace-up boots to oxfords, in suede or leather – will last – and last and last. If you’re thinking about building your wardrobe basics, start right here. As a note, U.K. sizing is used for all styles. Reference the brand’s conversion chart to select your size.

Recommendations

Ella Boots (Women’s, $345): Excluding summer’s hotter days, the dress boot delivers the prime combination of style and coverage. Grenson’s Ella cuts out those subtle feminine details, delivering a sturdy wingtip brogue made out of black calfskin leather that’s a sure match for your suit yet is still edgy enough for a pair of jeans.

Dylan Oxford Brogues (Men’s, $330): This traditional hand-painted leather oxford features a tan stain on top of its natural base color for a richer, multi-layered appearance. Best for matching with lighter-colored suits, its wing-tip design uses a slightly longer last than previous versions.

Paul Smith

You’ll recognize this British-based brand from Fashion Week presentations. And, much like the clothing we spotted recently, designs go either way – all while still feeling traditional. Whether you’re sporting navy or a multicolored oversized suit, pair it with brogues, loafers, lace-up, or Chelsea boots, in standard leather or nubuck. As a note, the brand uses European sizing for all styles.

Recommendations

Munro Brogues (Women’s, $495): The hybrid dress shoe – leather upper with a sneaker-like sole unit – frequently looks cheap and awkward, but Paul Smith’s Munro hits the sweet spot with vegetable-tanned leather, wingtip details, and a flexible sole with extra padding by the ball.

Gerald Chelsea Boots (Men’s, $340): Now, this is how a Chelsea boot should be: Smooth all around, from the material to the almond toe, with a fit that easily slides on. It’s ready for your suit and also adds that sophisticated rocker touch to denim and patterned pants.

Frye

Another American-based brand, Frye hasn’t quite reached heritage status, but their sheer variety – including women’s and men’s styles – definitely impresses us. Pretty much, if you’re looking to build a basic shoe collection from the ground up, you’ll come across oxfords and lace-up boots, as well as a decent, non-statement-making pair of sneakers.

Recommendations

Western Chelsea Boots (Women’s, $358): Not every dress shoe has to be super-traditional, and this music-inspired style – part of a brand collaboration with Cage the Elephant’s Matt Shultz – blends a Chelsea height and Italian leather with cowboy boot elements, like a pitched heel and stitching details.

Grady Jodhpur Boots (Men’s, $398): The jodhpur boot rarely gets enough love from the dress shoe world, we have to admit. Frye’s take definitely leans more toward casual, with its distressed, matte-finished suede and thinner, strap-accented silhouette. It presents a more laid-back version of the Chelsea boot that flows seamlessly from dressier fare to denim.

G.H. Bass & Co.

While you likely associate G.H. Bass & Co. with plaid button-ups and fleece, it’s an American heritage brand in its own right – the maker of the original penny loafer. Although, in a modern setting, the style’s a bit preppy, it’s one of those staples that’s a natural match for your chinos in a pinch. Slip on something smart casual in a range of colors and materials.

Recommendations

Whitney Mirror Metallic Weejuns (Women’s, $120): Traditional construction – a “penny slot,” stitched moc toe, and a slip-on silhouette – meet up with modern statement elements. The result bridges dressy-casual territory with red carpet-worthy style that works with your suit and pretty much the rest of your wardrobe.

Lincoln Lizard Weejuns (Men’s, $120): As another statement shoe, the Lincoln Lizard brings that oomph with lizard stamp burnished crust leather and a chain detail across the top. It’s one of those styles that manages to be current yet classic and formal without feeling overly traditional.

Saint Laurent

While Hedi Slimane’s since left for Celine, his mod rocker-influenced looks left an impression on this seminal French brand. As such, while critics have been mixed on Slimane’s vision for Celine, they can’t deny he ushered in a new era for Saint Laurent – one of thinner, more androgynous silhouettes that are ready for the boardroom yet have enough punch for an all-nighter in New York. And, as a bonus, you’ll find men’s casual and dress options down to a size 5.

Recommendations

Miles Boots (Men’s and Women’s, $1,195): This unisex-styled boot precisely embodies the post-Slimane Saint Laurent brand, from its thin profile and carefully chosen buckle detail to its clean lines and light hand-distressing.

Laced Army Boots in Kangaroo-Look Leather (Men’s, $1,095): A slightly matte and smooth lace-up upper and a low heel give these boots a light dash of military style. Yet, if you’re going to spend top-dollar on a pair of dress boots, they should also grant you the most mileage, and that’s precisely what this style does, matching everything from intricate printed suits to skinny jeans.

Church’s

Luxury, high-fashion brands aside, this is your apex. High-quality traditional designs – with the occasional trendy piece, like a military-influenced or two-tone boot – define the “cost per wear” concept. You’ll find all the usual suspects – brogues, oxfords, derbies, monk straps, and a range of boot silhouettes – in versatile shades of tan, brown, and black, complete with details in key places. While this English-based brand originally started as a family business, expansion resulted in brick-and-mortar stores throughout Europe, plus a partnership with Prada. In the U.S., you can find them through Saks, as well as through other luxury retailers like Mr. Porter and Farfetch. 

Recommendations

Westerham Oxford (Men’s, $560): It’s quite literally the smoothest oxford you’ll find around, from the blind eyelets to the finished calf leather. Goodyear construction ensures it’ll give you more than a few years’ use, while the cap toe adds an elegant yet neutral finish.

Bessy Buckle Chelsea Boot (Women’s, $814): Masculine and feminine elements fluidly merge in what feels like a true either-or boot. A block heel and buckle strap give it a touch of flair, while the mid-height and finished calf leather elevate it above the typical fashion boot.

Sutro Footwear

Based in San Francisco, Sutro has strived to create a reasonably priced shoe that you’ll wear frequently and that also uses a smaller carbon footprint. To do this, the company works with artisans in Mexico to craft each pair, while the leather, from free-range, U.S.-based cattle, is tanned without chemicals. Instead, natural oils and creams bring out the material’s beauty and highlight its individuality.

Within this approach, craftsmanship remains paramount. Shoes – men’s and women’s styles, with some unisex silhouettes tucked away – are constructed out of full-grain premium leathers, with minimal finishing. For this reason, styles appear simple – lace-up and Chelsea boots, oxfords, and a handful of heeled styles – yet are made to hold up to everyday wear.

Recommendations

Vermont Boots (Unisex, $218): At a glance, can you tell this is a “comfort” shoe? From the leather to the stacked outsole, it deceptively looks like any other dress boot. Yet, this unisex shoe based on Sutro’s best-selling Alder has a few tricks up its sleeve: Mainly, ultra-sturdy Goodyear Welt construction and rubber placed at key pressure points for extra support.

Mendelle Lace-Up Boots (Women’s, $188): Utilitarian details characterize many of Sutro’s styles, and here, the taller height, seven-eyelet front, and smooth, rounded toe give off subtle workwear vibes. Yet, ultra-rugged and clunky, they’re not, and that burnished, straightforward upper makes for a solid, three-season dress boot.

Shoepassion

Don’t be put off by the name. We know it seems like a cheesy, fast-footwear ecommerce site, but behind it is handcrafted, meticulous production and some of the finest materials you’ll find around. Designed in Berlin and manufactured in Spain, this brand utilizes Goodyear-welted construction – known for superior strength in work boots – and breathable, French-tanned leathers. Although far from inexpensive, the price justifies itself: For men’s and menswear-styled women’s shoes, the durability and versatile silhouettes are meant to last you years.

N° 5225 Oxfords (Men’s, $385): It’s all in the color. Warm, almost fiery brandy tones – created through a vegetable tanning process – pop without seeming overpowering. A hand finish, applied to soft calf leather, gives it a gradient effect and elegant shine.

N° 275 (Women’s, $465): While these could’ve been an ordinary dress boots, the wing tips and other details reminiscent of a British derby certainly elevate it. Yet, there’s still something rugged about it: Beyond just the Goodyear-welt construction, a taller height, slightly lugged outsole, and seven pairs of eyelets, although decorative, have an old-school work boot vibe.

**

Here at Kipper, we know a suit’s not complete without the right accessories. If, as a person with smaller-size feet, you’ve come across another high-quality shoe brand, tell us about it on our social channels!

[kipperclothiers]

Suiting 101: The Anatomy of a Classic Suit

To sum up the general perception of a suit, it’s simplicity crossed with sophistication and minimalism. However, trying on an off-the-rack model brings its complexities right into the limelight. Wearers have to contend with a poor fit that nearly always requires tailoring. Furthermore, what you now own might not be appropriate for every occasion.

When it comes to suiting, don’t be deceived by appearances. Several rules – both stylistic and social – belie its seeming straightforwardness. Individual features, down to the buttons and cuffs, make or break the fit and overall design.

Kipper has decided to put together a Suiting 101 guide, starting with the elements of a two-button notched lapel suit, with a waistcoat and flat-front pants.

The Big Picture

What we consider the suit today started in the early 19th century. Initial designs geared toward formal, lounge, or business wear featured a jacket, trousers, and a waistcoat all made from the same materials. In present times, though, these would seem fairly opulent, and the modern suit truly materialized following the World Wars.

Cultural contexts, material availability, and evolving styles have changed the overall silhouette. Regardless of the decade and trend, no one should settle for a poor fit. In the present, a quality suit features a jacket that sits close to but doesn’t restrict the shoulders, a slim, straight line through the hips and waist, and pants that taper down to the tops of your shoes.

Within this basic framework, a tailor uses one of three constructions to craft your suit:

Full Canvas: Synonymous with older, high-quality tailoring, this suit adds horsehair canvas under the wool exterior. Although it feels stiff initially, the canvas adjusts to your body’s shape and movements.

Half Canvas: The price and amount of work needed may make a full canvas suit less economical. The half-canvas suit has a similar look and feel without the bubbling issues of cheaper, off-the-rack models, and is reasonably priced for the amount of wear it handles.

Fused Suit: If it’s off the rack or online, the suit likely has a fused synthetic lining attached to the interior. While the price tends to be lower, so is the quality.

Front and Center – The Suit Jacket

The jacket is your suit’s centerpiece and most definitive aspect. It’s also the most reflective of the occasion. To cover your basics, think about:

The Buttons

The two-button suit jacket is the nearly go-anywhere, do-anything piece. One-button jackets are typically found on tuxedos and other evening suits. You’ll also encounter them on casual, unstructured blazers.

A two-button suit jacket gives you a solid option for work, attending formal events and, depending upon how you style it, wearing with your chinos and patterned button-downs for those dressed-up casual occasions.

Don’t button up all the buttons, however. In more formal contexts, it’s appropriate to keep the top one buttoned and the lower one undone as you stand. Once you sit, it’s standard to have both unbuttoned.

Lapels

With suit jackets, you have three choices: The notch, the peak, or the shawl. This feature sits right at eye level and is thus the most visible signifier of your suit’s character.

Notched lapels are your safest bet. They’re relatively standard in the workplace, look acceptably ordinary in formal settings, and don’t imply you want to one-up someone. A peak lapel, for contrast, points upward toward the shoulders, adding a stronger, angular element.

In all cases, the lapels should be mid-width – thinner than 4 inches. and greater than 2.5 inches. The “gorge” – the angle and depth of the opening – should sit at the midpoint between the collar and shoulder, situated along a straight line near your collarbone.

Single or Double Breasted

Fabric shortages during both World Wars impacted jacket construction. As a result, since the mid-20th century, the single-breasted suit jacket – specifically, two halves that button right in front – turned into the economical choice. It’s fairly prevalent in the boardroom, at weddings, and anywhere you need to dress up. In general, single-breasted, coupled with notched lapels, lays down a solid, reliable foundation.

The counterpoint is the double-breasted suit jacket. Aside from seeming slightly retro, it’s also a more advanced piece, with more specific style rules and features. The front typically sports six to eight buttons, peak or shawl lapels, and a double fold.

The Right Fit   

With suit jackets, never go to extremes. In terms of the fit, garments tend to be cut:

On the Loose Side: The Brooks Brothers look, as it’s occasionally called, harks back to the power suiting of the ‘80s and ‘90s. In a modern context, the extra space takes on a shapeless appearance and may project a dated character.

Structured: The structured cut, partially influenced by military uniforms, appears like an angular hourglass, with defined lines, a slimmer waist, and just enough padding at the shoulders.

Fitted: While also structured, “fitted” suit jackets – also called “tailored” – have higher armholes and less padding.

In all cases, pay attention to where and how the suit jacket falls:

If you straighten your arms, the suit jacket should fall past your knuckles.

Avoid any sagging in back below the waist.

With your arms straight, you should be able to cup your fingers right under the sides of the jacket – no stretching down or reaching above.

Suit Pants

Suit pants are relatively straightforward. Although suiting trends shifted from voluminous and pleated in the ‘80s and ‘90s toward slim and tailored in the ‘00s, a “good fit” ultimately means the pants aren’t pulled tightly around your hips and the fabric doesn’t bag around the ankles.

Instead, a pair should hit right at the tops of your shoes, give your legs just enough room to move, and fall just below the waist without any straining or stretching around the hip area.

The Waistcoat

The waistcoat is gaining momentum, beyond period ensembles and vintage suiting.

The piece has long served a practical purpose by adding an extra layer under your suit jacket. However, it also plays an aesthetic role by slimming down your midsection. For this reason, how it fits determines if it has that effect:

The waistcoat should hit right at the waist – neither above nor below.

Look at the shoulders: The armholes should fit close, without any straining around the shoulders. Make sure the material sits right below your shirt’s collar.

Think about your shirt. A loose, billowy cut, once tucked into your suit pants, may have a ballooning effect above and below the waistcoat.

Your waistcoat and pants should create a clean, straight line – no bulges and without your shirt breaking up the continuity.

The vest, when worn with a suit jacket, should form a clear “V” underneath. If it’s not there, the vest is cut too wide, causing the jacket’s lapels to obscure the shape.

Beyond just the cut, a classic three-piece suit keeps the same material and colors throughout – and, like your jacket, the waistcoat’s bottom button is worn undone. Today, however, a contrasting waistcoat goes a long way, adding that extra “pop” of color to break up the monotony.

**

Kipper’s Classic Collection is a perfect starting point for suiting, offering quality, substantial basics for the beginner that will get you off to a confident start. We’ll give your wardrobe the cornerstone it needs with a two-button notched jacket, flat-front pants, and an optional vest. To begin, set up an appointment to talk with a stylist about our process.

[kipperclothiers]

3 Ways to Give the Gift of Kipper, 2018 Edition

‘Tis the season for style. And, by that, we mean it’s a time to dress well (think of all those holiday parties between now and the New Year), and to give the gift of good taste – whether for the person developing their fashion legs or already off running. In any case, turn to Kipper Clothiers for the finest suiting, seasonal accessories, and plenty of gift opportunities.

 Get your Kipper holiday shopping started with promo code GIFTED48. Enter code GIFTED48 for:

15% Off all Holiday Collections

Buy 1, Get 1 50% Off Site Wide at Kipper SF

Sale starts now, and ends Wednesday night – 2 days only!

How can you give the gift of Kipper?

1. A Custom Suit for the Holidays and Every Occasion After

Whether it’s for yourself or the sharply dressing person in your life, a suit just isn’t the same when it’s out of a box.

A custom suit, by contrast, is ready to go for this holiday season and plenty of work and formal events in 2019. This year, when you purchase one of our 4 custom suit holiday packages, we will not only mail the card to redeem your package but also a little gift for that special someone to unwrap for the holiday. 

To make the experience even more special, Kipper has exclusive appointments around the holiday reserved for clients redeeming their purchase.

But, be sure to purchase by Dec. 20th to receive the gift by Dec. 23rd.

What options do you have?

Classic Collection

Call it “Suiting 101” – or an introduction to your very first custom suit. Just like your college English lit class, Kipper’s basics stick to the classics. Whether grey, navy, or black is more your style, the result is ready to make an impression in an interview, take you to prom, or stand out at graduation.

Texture Collection

Holiday parties, here you come! Whether that’s a New Year’s Eve bash, late-winter wedding reception, or something corporate and moderately casual, our Textures – to excuse the pun – perfectly suit the occasion. Stand out, in good taste, with checks, plaids, windowpanes, and more boundary-pushing prints.

Palette Collection

If you could cross the fashion cliché “pop of color” with an impeccably cut suit, our Palette Collection would be the hybrid. For the trend-dabbling statement maker or for someone wanting a non-traditional tuxedo, these solid, saturated ensembles further covering waistcoats and blazers always turn heads.

Flannel/Tweed Collection

How does your suit say “cold weather”? When the temperatures dip, don’t always resort to puffers, parkas, and sweaters. Rather, flannels and tweed, for their thicker, somewhat warmth-retaining composition, transition your typically adventurous style for the chillier months ahead.

2. Accessorizing with Kipper SF

Suits are your canvas, but accessories are the details giving your look that distinctive, finishing touch. Our sister site Kipper SF touches on the full range of possibilities.

The Standards

Whether for you or that special someone in your life, a menswear classic often makes a solid starting point for developing your fashion personality. Where to begin? How about with Gold Plated Knot Cufflinks, matching Tux Studs and Cufflinks, or a timeless Wool Flannel Tie?

Something Quirky and Eccentric

There are style novices, and then, there are aficionados ready to blaze a new trail. The latter has already discovered and established their tastes, and it’s up to everyone else to catch up. While particular and occasionally difficult to shop for, this natty dresser is always looking for the one piece – perhaps a patterned shirt, catchy shoes, or an otherwise out-there accessory – that keeps them standing out from the pack.

That’s where Kipper SF’s selection comes in. We’ve got cufflinks that satisfy your need for speed, a collar chain that’s just as seasonal as eggnog, and a brooch that’s already in bloom for spring. Shop these and plenty more gifts between $15 and $100.

3. A Gift Certificate for (Nearly) Limitless Style Possibilities

When someone’s style can’t be pinned down, that’s where a gift card comes in. Available from $25 to $1,000, in increments of $25, our gift certificates don’t expire, have no processing fees, and, best of all, let that fashionable person in your life select whatever they want – a custom suit, a better-fitting dress shirt, or an accessory (or two) right in line with their tastes. Keep in mind that physical gift certificates take up to 5 business days to ship, and digital gift certificates are available upon request.

[kipperclothiers]

Kipper Holiday Packages

A Custom Suit & Something To Unwrap

This year when you purchase one of our 4 custom suit holiday package, we will not only mail the card to redeem your package and a little gift for that special someone to unwrap for the holiday.

But be sure to purchase by Dec. 20th to receive the gift by Dec. 23rd.

Questions? Contact us at info@kipperclothiers.com or 415.658.5438

[kipperclothiers]

Flannel & Tweed Collection

Flannels and Tweeds are the perfect fabrics for colder seasons. Not only do they bring they excellent comfort and warmth, but they make you look outstanding.

The Flannel and Tweed Collection is at a versatile weight (12 oz) so that it can be warn country-wide during your cold season. This collection bring some bulk to your wardrobe during a season that.

Our holiday packages are the perfect gift if you are looking to buy a custom suit for that special someone.

The package comes with our renowned custom suit experience* plus a card and small gift in the mail for them to unwrap for the holiday.

*Please note that this requires at least 1 visit to our showroom in San Francisco.

[kipperclothiers]

Classic Collection

This introductory collection is perfect for the suiting novice. This limited collection of greys, navys and blacks is perfect for a graduations, interviews and proms.

If you are looking to begin building your suiting wardrobe, this is where to start.

Our holiday packages are the perfect gift if you are looking to buy a custom suit for that special someone.

The package comes with our renowned custom suit experience* plus a card and small gift in the mail for them to unwrap for the holiday.

*Please note that this requires at least 1 visit to our showroom in San Francisco.

[kipperclothiers]

Palette Collection

This collection invites you to make a statement. This collection presents a rainbow range of plain fabric, including all those colors that pop.

This collection is perfect for standout non-traditional tuxedos and outfits rich in color. The Palette Collection makes suits, blazers, waistcoats, trousers and tuxedos.

  Our holiday packages are the perfect gift if you are looking to buy a custom suit for that special someone.

The package comes with our renowned custom suit experience* plus a card and small gift in the mail for them to unwrap for the holiday.

*Please note that this requires at least 1 visit to our showroom in San Francisco.

[kipperclothiers]

Texture Collection

Are you looking to make a splash at your next event? This collection is for you.

Vivid colors in rich textures in statement checks, plaids and windowpanes are the specialty of this collection. Not for the faint of heart, this collection is for those wanting to expand the boundaries of their wardrobe.

[kipperclothiers]

Ideal Timeline To Create Your Custom Suit

Do you have a big life event coming up? Or dreaming of your dapper wedding suit? You are definitely going to want the perfectly put-together Kipper look, and we know you have some questions about how the process works and how long it will take. We are here to tell you not to worry. Just follow the timeline below for a stress-free experience for your big event.

12-4 Months Out:

1) Make your Kipper Clothiers Custom Suit Appointment. Or still have questions? Talk With A Stylist to see how we can work together!

2) Make a Pinterest Board of looks that you like. If you don’t know where to start looking, check out our Facebook or Tumblr for ideas.This Pinterest Board will let us better articulate what types of materials, pieces and fits you want from your custom look.

3) Make sure you know what your partner and wedding party are wearing. Also, this is the time to choose wedding colors and think about how you want to incorporate those into your outfit.

At Least 3 Months Before Event: Come to your appointment with us with all of your materials and ideas. This appointment takes about 1.5 hours. For more information about this check out our blog post on The Kipper Experience

4-7 Weeks Between Your Appointment and First Fitting:

Choose accessories and shoes that match your outfit. We suggest taking of advantage of the Put-Together Promise if you need to! Our Put-Together Promise is a guarantee that we will guide our customers through the finishing touches and the finer details of a polished look.

Once you have those accessories, be sure to take great care of them!

At Least 2 Months Prior To Event:

Come to your first fitting with our expert tailors. You will try on your garments for the first time and evaluate the fit of your pieces -- be picky! This is your time to voice your opinion about the final fit of your garments. For example: Do you like the taper on your pants and are you showing enough sock when you sit down? Does the body of the jacket give you your best silhouette?

This fitting should take about half an hour. It takes place at our tailors store -- we will let you know where to go when the time is near.

At Least 4 Weeks Out:

Final pickup. Come pick up your garments with your friends and family! At this fitting we make  final choices on accessories and any minor adjustments, if any.

1 Month After Your Special Event:

Share your wedding photos with us and write a little blurb about how awesome it was to work with us. We will post them all over our social media and make you Instagram famous :) Email your event photos with the name and URL of your photographer to info@kipperclothiers.com so that we can give credit where it is deserved. Check out our blog of some photographers and couples we’ve already gotten to work with!

[kipperclothiers]

3 Ways To Give The Gift of Kipper

Want to Give the Gift of Kipper This Holiday But Don't Know How? Here are 3 perfect ways to Give The Gift of Kipper This Year!

#1 Exclusive Appointments During The Holidays!

Bring in your special someone during on December 23rd or December 26th and get fitted for their custom garments. During these special appointments, you can cozy up on our couch while drinking some whiskey, while creating custom garments that will make your someone feel like their most confident selves.

We have very limited appointments on these days so be sure to book quick!

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW!

 #2 Creating A Custom Suit Under The Christmas Tree With Kipper Courier Have swatches, a design packet and measurement guide shipped directly to your home so that you can create a custom suit made with that perfect fit. Purchase a Kipper Courier Collection by this Saturday, December 16th for confirmed arrival by December 23rd.

SHOP THE COLLECTIONS

Not sure which collection to buy? Below are our top sellers!

THE CLASSIC COLLECTION

This introductory collection is perfect for the suiting novice. This limited collection of greys, navys and blacks is perfect for a graduations, interviews and proms.

If you are looking to begin building your suiting wardrobe, The Classic Collection is where to start.   

THE PALETTE COLLECTION

This collection invites you to make a statement. This collection presents a rainbow range of plain fabric, including many kinds of blue, red, purple, green and all of the classic colors.

This collection is perfect for standout non-traditional tuxedos and outfits rich in color. The Palette Collection is the comprehensive choice for suits, blazers, waistcoats and trousers.  

#3 Let Them Choose Their Style With a Gift Card

Gift cards are the perfect way to give the gift of Kipper. Our gift cards come in a variety of amounts so that you can decide to get them custom garments, an accessory or some personal shopping. Purchase a Gift Card by this Saturday, December 16th for confirmed arrival by December 23rd.

Click here for Gift Cards!

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Thanks to Who What Wear for the awesome write up!

The moment California repealed Proposition 8, San Francisco–based friends Kyle Moshrefi and Erin Berg knew it was time to make a dream of theirs come true: to create Kipper Clothiers, a clothing brand and custom suiting store for the LGBT community. Moshrefi, an openly gay woman, and Berg, a transgender man, saw an opportunity not only to succeed in what was sure to be a growing market—with more openly gay and trans people getting married—but also to provide a needed source of inspiration for the community.

READ MORE...

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Kicking off the weekend by building out Hannah Hart’s winter wardrobe!

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Kipper x Street: #OOTD Edition

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Kipper x Street: #OOTD Edition

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Shop the new collection of raw denim, polos, and henleys!

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The Kipper Casual Line: Henleys

Proudly introducing a new member of The Kipper Casual line, we are confident not only in the quality of its make, but also in the versatility of this garment made in matrimony between the polo and the regular t-shirt.

Dating back to when henleys were just the uniform of English town rowers (and now making a very prominent presence in daily fashion), the henley is regarded as the most popular of collarless shirts. We, at Kipper Clothiers, lean towards agreeing with this fashion theory. Why? The henley has the broadest range of versatility when it comes to wardrobe combos and scope of make -- henleys can be made in anything from cotton to thermals.

The henleys we have added to our Kipper Casuals collection are made of soft, jersey cotton. The type of material that you can lounge and get down to business in-- no matter what you’re doing, the henley is appropriate (or can be made appropriate) for nearly every situation!

Collarless and made with a three-button or four-button closure beneath a rounded neckline, smart casual outfits, like a sharp t-shirt, unconstructed blazer, and denim jeans get an extra boost of character when paired with a henley instead! That extra “lived-in” look gives not only your outfit, but also you, the untethered confidence that lets everyone know you know exactly what you’re doing even though, sometimes you might not. It’s okay, your secret is safe with us, but let’s be real here: as long as you look the part then what’s not to believe?  

Our henleys come in black, white, navy, and heather grey-- the perfect, spectrum of staple colors so you can add this piece to your daily wardrobe and do whatever you want with it!

Wear it with a pair of our custom jeans and keep it simple, or pair it up with your favorite Kipper Clothiers suit and some, clean white sneakers to make it really smart and casual! Or, make it completely your own and take that henley with you to match up with your own style combinations.

Whatever it is, we trust you -- our job is give you the right options and the accessibility to wear quality that fits. So, go ahead -- take our henley and make it entirely yours!

[kipperclothiers]

We are SO thrilled to be featured in the October Trans Issue of Out Magazine!

The fashion industry is evolving and a new wave of suiting brands like us are defying gender norms and taking fashion to the next, "expertly tailored level.”