The Handbook - How To Guides
 
 
 
31 Days: Style Tips and Tricks
 
Volume 2
 

All the tips and tricks needed to shape up for 2010. Each day brings new, expert advice on how to look your best and live life to the fullest, while having a little fun doing it.

Clothes
Day
20

The Many Faces of Cotton

You know what they say, it's the fabric of our lives. And they're right, cotton is universal. It's the way cotton is woven that determines what kind of shirt you're wearing. Here's a quick explainer.

 

Chambray

A hardy fabric consisting of warp (up and down) threads in one color, often indigo, and a white weft (left to right) thread.

Oxford

Thick and hard-wearing, this cotton cloth has a slight basket-weave texture. Named after the university, it's no wonder the shirts have become such a preppy standby.

 

Broadcloth

This tightly woven English fabric is both dense and lightweight, making it ideal for your workhorse dress shirts.

End-on-End

Similar construction to chambray, but using finer-quality thread for a smooth, dressier feel.

 

Herringbone

Also known as pointed twill, it consists of subtle chevron stripes giving the shirt a rich texture and feel.

Poplin

Originating in 15th century France, this smooth cloth has twice as many warp threads as weft threads. Sometimes cut with silk.

 

FYI

5,000+

Bolts of cotton shirting fabric at Charvet, where a custom shirt will run you about $400.

Charvet, 28 Place Vendôme, Paris

 
 
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A Month of Tips