style

A few years ago, one could be forgiven for thinking that business casual had replaced the traditional suit and tie. However, President Bush changed the direction of fashion with his admonishment to the media shortly after his inauguration not to attend his press conferences unless they were dressed in a suit and tie. Today, young men are wearing suits and ties at upscale after-hours social events.

The following are the building blocks for your wardrobe:

Three two button suits in solid, all season fabrics - navy, black and charcoal grey. Optional extras include three-button and double-breasted models, plus patterns such as tone-on-tone, pin, and chalkstripes, windowpane and other plaids. For really cold winter days, worsted wool fabric is best. For dog day weather, opt for light, high twist wool or cool wool blended with cotton or linen.

Seven pure cotton dress shirts - three white, four in a variety of colours and/or patterns. You can add any number of dress shirts to this collection. Just ensure they are always kept cleaned and freshly pressed.

Five pure silk ties in different colours and motifs, ranging from traditional rep stripes to solids, club and neat patterns. The amount of ties you own, of course, can be infinite. But having enough neckwear on hand contributes greatly to your wardrobe coordination choices.

Four pocket squares - two plain white linen and two silk puffs harmonized to your tie assortment. Okay, so they're not vitally necessary. Still, they give a lift to just about any outfit.

Two leather dress belts - one black one brown. Wear the black with your navy and black suits; the brown makes for a smart option with grey shaded and lighter toned suits.

Five pairs of executive length dress socks - four in black, one in brown. Socks are generally matched with one's leather goods, black with black belt and shoes, brown with brown belt and shoes. For more wardrobe interest, add in a few more pairs that are clocked (patterned in a line) up the ankle, or which pick up one colour from your tie.

Three pairs of leather lace-up dress shoes - one brown, two black. Later options can include sturdily soled dress loafers, but hopefully ones without those fussy metallic snaffles and tassel fringes, and never, ever anything in grey.

One wool, wool blend, or luxury fabric (such as cashmere) overcoat - dark blue, dark brown, charcoal grey or camel.

One waterproofed trench or car coat (with seasonal zip-out lining) - black, dark brown or tan.

How to tie a tie

For the young man who is suddenly invited for the all important job interview and Dad isn't home to help him tie his tie.
The following are websites which will help guide you through the two basic ties

• The Bowtie
• The Four in Hand: http://www.tie-a-tie.net/fourinhand.html
• The Windsor
• Half Windsor: http://www.tie-a-tie.net/halfwindsor.html