The End of the Ultra-Slim Wedding Suit For several years, men’s formalwear was dominated by narrow lapels, short jackets and trousers cut close to the leg. The style created a sharp outline, but it often left little room for sitting, dancing or eating comfortably. Current tailoring is moving towards a more balanced shape, with cleaner shoulders, a defined waist and trousers that follow the leg without gripping it.This change does not mean that wedding suits have become oversized. The newer approach sits between skinny and loose. It keeps the structure expected of formal clothing while allowing the cloth to hang properly. For grooms, that balance is useful during a day that may involve a ceremony, photographs, dinner and several hours on the dance floor. Look For Shape Rather Than Tightness A well-fitted suit should create a clear outline without relying on tension. Collections of Marc Darcy suits include tailored three-piece designs, checks and textured fabrics that suit the current preference for visible structure and considered proportions. The jacket should sit close enough to define the waist, but the front button should fasten without pulling the cloth into an X-shaped crease. At the shoulders, the seam should finish close to the natural shoulder point. Extra width can make the jacket look borrowed, while a shoulder that is too narrow may cause the upper sleeve to collapse. Fit should be assessed while moving as well as standing. Reach forward, sit down and raise both arms. A tailored jacket will never feel like casual sportswear, but it should allow the groom to carry out ordinary movements without sharp restriction across the back or chest. Give The Jacket Enough Length Very short suit jackets became common alongside skinny trousers, but they can disrupt the proportions of a three-piece outfit. If the jacket finishes too high, the waistcoat may appear longer than the outer layer and the trousers may look as though they begin too low. A more traditional jacket length usually covers most of the seat and divides the body more evenly. This can make the legs appear longer without shortening the jacket excessively. The correct length depends on height and body proportions, so two men wearing the same chest size may still need different jacket lengths. View the suit from the back and side rather than relying on a front-facing mirror. The vents should lie flat, and the hem should not lift away from the body. A side photograph can reveal an unbalanced jacket more clearly than the changing-room mirror. Choose Trousers That Fall Cleanly The move away from very tight tailoring is most noticeable in suit trousers. A modern tailored leg can still be neat at the ankle, but it should provide enough room through the seat and thigh for the fabric to fall without horizontal lines. Trouser pockets offer a useful fit check. If they pull open while standing, the waist or hips may be too tight. The fly should lie flat, and the waistband should remain in place without depending on an overtightened belt. Higher-rise trousers can work particularly well with a waistcoat because they reduce the chance of shirt fabric appearing between the two pieces. The hem should make gentle contact with the shoe rather than gathering heavily around it. A short hem can work with narrow trousers but taking it too far may make the suit look dated once the current cropped style moves on. A slight break is easier to wear with different formal shoes and tends to look balanced in full-length wedding photographs. Let The Waistcoat Support the Silhouette A waistcoat adds structure through the centre of the outfit, but only when it fits correctly. It should lie flat against the shirt and cover the trouser waistband. Tightening the back strap cannot correct a waistcoat that is the wrong size or too short. Current three-piece styling often places greater emphasis on the waistcoat. Double-breasted designs, contrasting fabrics and wider openings can distinguish the groom without requiring a brightly coloured jacket. When the groom removes the jacket later, the waistcoat keeps the outfit looking complete. Allow room for a full meal and several hours of wear. A waistcoat that feels acceptably close during a brief fitting may become uncomfortable at dinner. Sit down with every button fastened and check whether the lower edge presses into the waist or causes the front to bow. Use Stronger Lapels Carefully Wider notch and peak lapels are returning after years of extremely narrow designs. A broader lapel can frame the shirt and tie, balance the shoulders and give the jacket a more formal character. Peak lapels create a particularly strong line on double-breasted jackets and evening suits. The lapel width should still suit the wearer. A very broad lapel can overwhelm a smaller frame, while an extremely narrow one may look out of proportion on a broad chest. The shirt collar, tie width and lapel should relate to one another without matching exactly. A wider lapel also leaves less need for decorative extras. A simple buttonhole flower or plain pocket square may be enough. Large lapel pins can crowd the upper part of the jacket, especially when the cloth already contains a check. Avoid Buying According to the Size Label Alone The same labelled size can fit differently across designs because cut, fabric and construction affect the garment. Begin with accurate chest, waist, inside-leg and approximate jacket-length measurements. Compare those figures with the retailer’s size information rather than ordering the size worn in another brand without checking. If the jacket fits at the shoulders but needs slight shaping through the waist, a tailor can often make the adjustment. Sleeves and trouser hems are also commonly altered. Major changes to the shoulder line or jacket length are more difficult and may not be economical. Do not choose the smallest size that can be fastened. A suit that looks tight in the fitting room is unlikely to become more comfortable during a long wedding day. Cloth should skim the body and return to a clean position after movement. Balance a checked suit with simple styling Texture and checks remain popular in wedding tailoring, particularly for country houses, converted barns and traditional venues. These fabrics already add depth to the outfit, so the cut should remain controlled and the accessories relatively quiet. A plain white, pale blue or cream shirt gives a checked suit a clear foundation. Choose a tie from one of the secondary colours in the cloth rather than introducing another strong pattern. A white pocket square works when the suit contains several shades and does not need further decoration. Shoes should support the proportions of the trousers. A very slim shoe may appear too small beneath a fuller hem, while a heavy casual sole can pull attention away from the tailoring. Oxfords, Derbies and refined brogues usually provide enough visual weight without looking bulky. Coordinate the wedding party without forcing one fit Matching groomsmen suits can become difficult when every member of the party has a different build. Insisting on an identical close fit may leave some men comfortable and others visibly restricted. A better approach is to keep the cloth, colour and main design consistent while adjusting jacket and trouser sizes for each person. The groom can stand apart through a waistcoat, lapel shape or accessory rather than wearing a suit cut much tighter than everyone else. This creates a connection across the group without treating one silhouette as suitable for every body. Arrange fittings early enough to identify size and alteration issues. Group orders should be checked well before the wedding, particularly when trousers need hemming or jackets require sleeve adjustments. Each person should try the complete outfit with the intended shirt and shoes. Judge the suit by the whole day A wedding fitting often lasts less than half an hour, while the suit may be worn for twelve hours or more. Comfort should therefore be tested under realistic conditions. Sit for several minutes, walk upstairs and check the waistband after moving around. Pay attention to the parts that cannot be seen clearly in a mirror. The collar should remain close to the shirt at the back of the neck. Jacket vents should not pull apart, and the trouser seat should follow the body without sagging or strain. The current move towards balanced tailoring gives grooms more room to choose clothes that look formal without feeling restrictive. Clean shoulders, a shaped jacket and trousers with a natural fall will outlast extreme proportions. A suit that allows the groom to stand, sit and celebrate comfortably is also more likely to look composed in photographs taken throughout the day.

Madisnville, LA bathroom renovation featuring open concept design, large storage space, granite counter tops with same material window sill and shower ledge, frameless heavy glass shower enclosure and much more. Call or click for free design tips and estimate. 504.322.7050 or www.mlm-inc.com

The hangers have a rich natural finish and polished chrome hook, which add warmth and sophistication to any closet décor, all while providing convenient storage and organization. These wide, rounded shoulder, wooden hangers prevent garments from unsightly hanger bumps and help maintain your garments’ natural shape. They also help to increase hanging space in your closet, by keeping coordinating components stored on a single hanger. The skirt/pant hangers, with the no-slip grip clips, also allow you to conserve closet space, as well as prevent unwanted wrinkles. With 4 large shelves, each supported by an innovative hanging system, this unit is well equipped to store all types of accessories, caps, sweaters, crafts, etc. Made from heavy duty polyester canvas material, this durable fabric breathes and neatly stores all of your items. Quick and easy installation (no tools required), on a standard sized closet rod. This system is the perfect organization solution for your home, dorm room, or office! These handy storage solutions are just a small example of the many products by StorageManiac and J.S. Hanger. The innovative and sophisticated styling and design of each piece make these a welcome and useful addition to any home. These products allow you to keep everything tidy, neat, and in order, while providing a modern and sleek look. No matter the space, these products are bound to fit any need you may have! Photo Credit: Lambert McOwusu

The Fido is one of Aquatica’s uniquely sculptured models, which has drawn a portion of its inspiration from traditional freestanding slipper bathtubs, but with a subtly refined and elegant finish. The ergonomic and comfortable design of this model is ideal for one or two bathers, featuring an extended backrest crafted at a comfortable angle to support the head and shoulders of bathers. Constructed using Aquatica’s cutting-edge AquateX™ material, The Fido provides lifelong durability and heat retaining qualities. This tub is available in a red matte, black matte, blue matte or white outer finish.

The rich brown/gold tones in the Juparana Delicatus granite coordinates beautifully with oak cabinetry. The subtle shading of travertine provides a complimentary backsplash. Tops and backsplash by Chippewa.

This medium-sized bathroom had ample space to create a luxurious bathroom for this young professional couple with 3 young children. My clients really wanted a place to unplug and relax where they could retreat and recharge. New cabinets were a must with customized interiors to reduce cluttered countertops and make morning routines easier and more organized. We selected Hale Navy for the painted finish with an upscale recessed panel door. Honey bronze hardware is a nice contrast to the navy paint instead of an expected brushed silver. For storage, a grooming center to organize hair dryer, curling iron and brushes keeps everything in place for morning routines. On the opposite, a pull-out organizer outfitted with trays for smaller personal items keeps everything at the fingertips. I included a pull-out hamper to keep laundry and towels off the floor. Another design detail I like to include is drawers in the sink cabinets. It is much better to have drawers notched for the plumbing when organizing bathroom products instead of filling up a large base cabinet. The room already had beautiful windows and was bathed in natural light from an existing skylight. I enhanced the natural lighting with some recessed can lights, a light in the shower as well as sconces around the mirrored medicine cabinets. The best thing about the medicine cabinets is not only the additional storage but when both doors are opened you can see the back of your head. The inside of the cabinet doors are mirrored. Honey Bronze sconces are perfect lighting at the vanity for makeup and shaving. A larger shower for my very tall client with a built-in bench was a priority for this bathroom. I recommend stream showers whenever designing a bathroom and my client loved the idea of that feature as a surprise for his wife. Steam adds to the wellness and health aspect of any good bathroom design. We were able to access a small closet space just behind the shower a perfect spot for the steam unit. In addition to the steam, a handheld shower is another “standard” item in our shower designs. I like to locate these near a bench so you can sit while you target sore shoulder and back muscles. Another benefit is the cleanability of the shower walls and being able to take a quick shower without getting your hair wet. The slide bar is just the thing to accommodate different heights. For Mrs., a tub for soaking and relaxing were the main ingredients required for this remodel. Here I specified a Bain Ultra freestanding tub complete with air massage, chromatherapy, and a heated backrest. The tub filer is floor mounted and adds another element of elegance to the bath. I located the tub in a bay window so the bather can enjoy the beautiful view out of the window. It is also a great way to relax after a round of golf. Either way, both of my clients can enjoy the benefits of this tub. The tiles selected for the shower and the lower walls of the bathroom are slightly oversized subway tiles in a clean and bright white. The floors are 12x24 porcelain marble. The shower floor features a flat-cut marble pebble tile. Behind the vanity, the wall is tiled with Zellige tile in a herringbone pattern. The colors of the tile connect all the colors used in the bath. The final touches of elegance and luxury to complete our design, are the soft lilac paint on the walls, the mix of metal materials on the faucets, cabinet hardware, lighting, and yes, an oversized heated towel warmer complete with robe hooks. This truly is a space for rejuvenation and wellness.

Our clients chose a modern tile was in the shower and on the floor to provide a continuous flow. We used Lanmark solid surfacing as the shower pan in this bathroom as it has no grout lines and is easy to maintain. The matching tile base trim continued the pattern in the floor up onto the trim vertically. We installed a Signature Hardware vanity made in bamboo, and replaced the countertop and undermount sink. George Kovacs Saber II lights were used to frame the new mirror. Hansgrohe shower fixtures and faucets were installed in brushed nickel. Sherwin Williams White Shoulders paint was applied to add more brightness to this lovely bathroom. Agalite sliding glass shower doors were installed with clear glass to further expand the small bathroom space. Holly Needham

Traditional master bathroom in Park Ridge, IL designed by Wendy Nobriga, ASID, with a white double vanity, freestanding tub, walk-in shower, marble floors, and floral artwork.

Our clients chose a modern tile was in the shower and on the floor to provide a continuous flow. We used Lanmark solid surfacing as the shower pan in this bathroom as it has no grout lines and is easy to maintain. The matching tile base trim continued the pattern in the floor up onto the trim vertically. We installed a Signature Hardware vanity made in bamboo, and replaced the countertop and undermount sink. George Kovacs Saber II lights were used to frame the new mirror. Hansgrohe shower fixtures and faucets were installed in brushed nickel. Sherwin Williams White Shoulders paint was applied to add more brightness to this lovely bathroom. Agalite sliding glass shower doors were installed with clear glass to further expand the small bathroom space. Holly Needham

The hangers have a rich natural finish and polished chrome hook, which add warmth and sophistication to any closet décor, all while providing convenient storage and organization. These wide, rounded shoulder, wooden hangers prevent garments from unsightly hanger bumps and help maintain your garments’ natural shape. They also help to increase hanging space in your closet, by keeping coordinating components stored on a single hanger. The skirt/pant hangers, with the no-slip grip clips, also allow you to conserve closet space, as well as prevent unwanted wrinkles. Great for jewelry and many other storage uses, this organizer has 28 soft, clear see-through pockets to easily view and protect jewelry and other small accessory items. Alternatively, you can fill the compartments with sewing or scrap-booking notions as the perfect crafting companion! The provided hook hangs over any standard closet rod or door. With this combination of space-saving shape and accessible convenience, our organizer offers a great storage solution no matter the location. With 4 large shelves, each supported by an innovative hanging system, this unit is well equipped to store all types of accessories, caps, sweaters, crafts, etc. Made from heavy duty polyester canvas material, this durable fabric breathes and neatly stores all of your items. Quick and easy installation (no tools required), on a standard sized closet rod. This system is the perfect organization solution for your home, dorm room, or office! These handy storage solutions are just a small example of the many products by StorageManiac and J.S. Hanger. The innovative and sophisticated styling and design of each piece make these a welcome and useful addition to any home. These products allow you to keep everything tidy, neat, and in order, while providing a modern and sleek look. No matter the space, these products are bound to fit any need you may have! Photo Credit: Lambert McOwusu

Use of a medium Tennessee Fieldstone in a dry stack pattern along with Pennsylvania Blustone for a new pool deck and patio in a dimensional pattern. A PA Bluestone is also used for the countertop of the outdoor kitchen. A premium brown Canyon Creek flagstone is used for the chimney hearth as well as shoulders. The decorative curved masonry wall is matching Tenn. Fieldstone dry stack and Canyon Creek flagstone cap. The kitchen has electrical outlets throughout and items used for this specific kitchen are a new natural gas 4 burner grill/ refrigerator and a Green Egg. Storage is plenty with a double door cabinet underneath grill. A FANTASTIC outdoor living hardscape with plenty of area for fun and/or relaxation.

Remodel Description: This project was a full remodel of an existing pool and backyard. It began with a classic rundown brick ribbon, salt finish concrete and mottled, chipping pool plaster. The original pool was in poor condition and the spa was unusable and in a awkward location. In my remodel design, I demolished the existing spa, enlarged the size and relocated it to a more convenient location near the master bedroom. My design also organized the existing retaining wall heights and layout, created new entertaining areas, as well as adding a new built-in barbecue and bar. Photograph Description: This is a photograph of the completed new spa area with our signature 'Hydro-massage' water feature. There is an elevated seat in the spa to sit on beneath the 'Hydro-massage' and have the water massage your neck, back and shoulders. The spa features our 'Tile Ledge' detail with precast coping. The walls are veneered with Arnold Stone (a natural stone product that is cut into veneer thickness). The wood trellis detail provides decoration and a place to mount the 'Hydro-massage. I repeat the trellis detail on the Champagne terrace above the pool. Photo: Wendy Harper Master Builder: Ken Palmer

Beautiful project where client put all trust to Heritage Parquet team. Heritage Parquet main task was to bring wood in to the house and transfer each wood piece to the piece of art. Main credit to the Oak wood who is as a strong base mixed with other special woods as Sucupira, Canadian maple tree and more... Special as our client! All house floor design and work is on Heritage Parquet team shoulders. Give and get back, that is Heritage Parquet team motto. Give to our clients the best solution on floor with touch of art and to get back warmness from satisfied client. It is our honour to work with such a material as wood.

In one word: Exquisite. A landscape built into the natural banks of Calgary's Elbow river. A stunning slot overflow infinity pool surrounded by an expansive heated stone patio allow the clients to swim year round. The custom stainless steel outdoor kitchen with indirect lighting, copper tile, a bar fridge, grill and smoker ensures guests and family alike will enjoy many long days in this stunning yard with every possible amenity within arms reach. The custom fire pit sourced internationally removes the chill from our cool evenings in the shoulder season. Photo Credit: Jamen Rhodes

We changed this suburban homes front entrance from "builder special" into a contemporary masterpiece using premium hard and soft materials. Natural stone steppingstones and driveway banding lead you to a combination of natural stone and pavingstone walkways and steps to the front door. Natural stone walls shoulder your flow through the frontyard and mature plantings that flower at different time in the season add needed interest. A front patio set allows the homeowners a space to read and relax in the morning sun with a newspaper and coffee.

Narrow lakefront landscape brick paver walkway and patio sitting area, privacy property line of arborvitae and lawn restoration.
Inspiration for a small timeless side yard brick patio remodel in Milwaukee

We changed this suburban homes front entrance from "builder special" into a contemporary masterpiece using premium hard and soft materials. Natural stone steppingstones and driveway banding lead you to a combination of natural stone and pavingstone walkways and steps to the front door. Natural stone walls shoulder your flow through the frontyard and mature plantings that flower at different time in the season add needed interest. A front patio set allows the homeowners a space to read and relax in the morning sun with a newspaper and coffee.

This contemporary farmhouse is located on a scenic acreage in Greendale, BC. It features an open floor plan with room for hosting a large crowd, a large kitchen with double wall ovens, tons of counter space, a custom range hood and was designed to maximize natural light. Shed dormers with windows up high flood the living areas with daylight. The stairwells feature more windows to give them an open, airy feel, and custom black iron railings designed and crafted by a talented local blacksmith. The home is very energy efficient, featuring R32 ICF construction throughout, R60 spray foam in the roof, window coatings that minimize solar heat gain, an HRV system to ensure good air quality, and LED lighting throughout. A large covered patio with a wood burning fireplace provides warmth and shelter in the shoulder seasons. Carsten Arnold Photography