2019 Recap: My Most Important Style Learnings And More

My style transformed and vastly improved in 2019.

Just ask the crowd on StyleForum… I was a mess earlier in the year, but have come a LONG way.

My fits were not that – way too tight, to the point that I binned my tailored jacket collection at one point – and I was wearing proportions that didn’t work for me. I corrected that, and learned how jackets and trousers should fit.

I learned about pattern matching in classic and tasteful ways.

I learned how to push my boundaries in trying fabrics and styles that I wouldn’t normally think of.

I met, befriended and networked with some great people along the way.

And a few more things…

Fabrics

One of my most important takeaways from 2019 was learning about the best fabrics to use in summer. I acquired some linen and seersucker garments which has enabled me to comfortably wear trousers during the summer for the first time; I’ve never enjoyed wearing shorts and I finally don’t have to.

Seersucker and linens have become integral in my summer wardrobe.

I used to wear a lot of jeans and trousers with stretch fabric, but I ended the year as an advocate of not wearing stretch fabrics.

I also discovered a sweat blocking undershirt which enabled me to be way freer in my clothing choices.

Fit

This was the year that I found my fit.

I started the year wearing slim tapered pants and overtight jackets. However I learned that this was not the ideal fit for pants when it comes to my body type.

My legs are much better off with a straighter, fuller cut trouser.

Before. Look at all the pulling and the way the pants bunch at the knees.

I even binned my whole tailored jacket collection at one point. Since then, I’ve been rebuilding my wardrobe with jackets that fit much better.

Better fitting, properly proportioned jackets.

Dapper Christmas Outfit — Better fitting, properly proportioned jackets.

People

I networked with several stylish gents on Instagram, and got some great advice from people on StyleForum. I was able to successfully rework my whole approach to style in a positive way thanks to these sites.

But what was perhaps my favourite part about running STS this year was meeting and speaking with people.

First, I met Elliot from Chester Barkly and we had a good long chat. It was a great chat and you can read the interview at the above link.

I also met Blake from Blakesby Hats, a local hatter in Adelaide. We’re still in touch regularly.

The Site

I launched SamTalksStyle in June, and it’s been great to see it grow.

Across those 6 months, the site had 3590 views from 1787 unique visitors. It’s incredible to see that much interest in my writing, and I really appreciate all the support! Thanks to all of you who have read and continue to read the blog.

I’m looking forward to seeing what 2020 brings and I’m looking forward to having you all along for the ride. Cheers to the new year!