Linen

Made from flax fibres extracted from the flax plant. As the fibres are soft, flexible and stronger than cotton fibres, it creates a durable material in linen that dates back thousands of years. It’s the perfect fabric for summer clothing, as it often leaves the skin feeling cool and refreshed. Labels often state that linen can be hand-washed, but that would result in a lot of ironing having to be done to remove all the wrinkles and creases. However, too much heat from consistent ironing for long periods of time will result in permanent scorch marks. If you choose to hand-wash your linen garments, be sure not to use too much water, as it can loosen the flax fibres and cause the material to lose its shape.

Rayon

Unlike other synthetic materials that can be washed at home, rayon runs the risk of damaging more than just itself. Only semi-synthetic in its fibres, rayon is made from a natural substance called cellulose. This fibre creates a silk-like feel to the fabric but doesn’t do much when it comes to holding its dyes through a load of laundry or two. Not only will the dye bleed from the clothing item, but it’ll likely ruin whatever other items you’re washing with it. By taking your rayon clothing to a dry cleaner, you avoid this issue completely.

Silk

As one of the most durable materials around, silk is constructed of natural fibres that at so strong they were once used in the construction of parachutes. However, because of its hefty fibres, it’s hard for dyes to be absorbed into them. That’s a good thing if you’re worried about watching it with colours that tend to bleed. But on the other hand, it’s easy for the silks dyes to leak from the garment. By taking it to a reliable dry cleaner, the chances of that happening are minimized quite a bit.

Wool

Much like silk, wool is an extremely durable material. Unless you decide to submerge it in water too often. By doing this, the molecular level of the fibres will be altered, misaligning them and resulting in a much smaller clothing item than what you started with. Both hot and cold temperatures can cause shrinkage, so take it to dry cleaning if you want your wool garments to last you for years.

For over 70 years, Extoggery has provided the Toronto community with designer clothes at a reasonable price. Our designer consignment clothing store specializes in high-end brand-name clothing and accessory items. You can find clothing pieces, shoes, purses, jewellery and more. Discover something new and unique to us! From ladies to men’s options, we offer the finest collections from the best brands. Stop by today or visit our website to learn more.

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Dress Shirts

Unless you are super young and thin as a rail, stay away from extra-skinny fits altogether. They aren’t exactly flattering on most guys, no matter how you wear it. Instead, stick to the classic, modern, or occasional “slim” fit. How do you know which one is right for you? That all depends on what you want.

Classic Fits

It’s called classic for a reason; this style has been around for ages. They are boxier and roomier, meaning they are more comfortable to wear all day. Good for men who are constantly mobile and favour comfort over fashion. Also a great choice for those who prefer to wear a jacket or guys who aren’t very slim.

Modern Fit

A tapered look that is not as form-fitting as a slim cut, nor as boxy as a classic. This newer style of dress shirt is comfortable, yet stylish, because it was wholly designed to be so. It’s flattering for most body types and can be worn with or without a jacket and still look great.

Slim Fit

The choice for those slim guys who can pull it off. It’s not nearly as comfortable as the other two on this list, but it is highly fashionable because it has less fabric and creates a perfect silhouette. Not a good choice for those of us with extra lumps and bumps, but super in-shape younger gentlemen might find the style highly appealing, especially if they aren’t fond of wearing jackets.

Polo Shirts

For a more classy yet casual look, the polo is the go-to prep look for those weekend get-togethers. Polos come in a range of styles and colours, so it may take a bit of searching to find the perfect one for your physique. Stay away from tightly-fitted cuts unless you are an athlete or male model. (If you are, congratulations.) Instead, look for something that is comfortable, but not too loose nor too close-fitting.

Collars, Cuffs, and Pockets

No matter which style you choose, these accents can make or break the over-all look you are going for. Take these tips to heart to achieve your perfect style.

Collars

• Pointed – The most common collar, elongates the face, should have the points close together with an angle of 60 degrees or less for maximum effect. Good for guys who want a thinner-looking face.
• Cutaway – Smaller points with a wide-angle of 90 degrees or more. Good for those with long faces that want to spread out their features.

Cuffs

• Button – Single cuffs with either a single button or adjustable with two or more buttons. Includes casual looks and the more formal barrel cuff design. Good for men who want to easily go from formal to casual and back again.
• French – A double cuff always fastened with cufflinks. A more formal option that is suited to well for distinguished events and some formal career industries. Good for times when looking your very best is crucial.

Pockets

As a standard, the more pockets on your shirt, the less formal you are. For high formality, choose a shirt without pockets at all. A single pocket is informal, but rather stylish, especially if you aren’t wearing a jacket. Two pockets or more is very casual and should be left out of the office, but can be a good choice for a night out with friends.

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Beat the winter blahs with bright spring colours.  With our Hermes, Burleigh, and Kelly bags, you’re ready for an updated, fun look.  Our designers work with your needs in mind, whether you’re heading to the office, a garden party in a flowing dress, or gearing up for your gym workout.  Our bags will give you the polish your looks needs and will be a centrepiece in your closet for years to come.

Here are some of the best reasons to avoid cheap knockoffs and invest your money where it can give you the best return;

• A designer bag shows that you’re a woman of good taste, and you know how to put an outfit together to suit the occasion. This can even increase your credibility and bring a perceived sense of capability on the job or in a meeting.  It can be a great way to increase your professional look and get you noticed.
• Your look will instantly be elevated by a gorgeous spring bag, whether you’ve decided to wear jeans and a t-shirt or you’ve opted for a dressier shirt and heels. A good bag will allow you to change your wardrobe and can compliment you in all of your options, making it one of the most versatile accessories in your closet.
• Designer bags are built to last a long time, and they’ve become heirlooms along with precious family stories. When you consider the difference in price between a bag that you’ll have to replace after a season due to wear and compare to one that you’ve invested more into but will be with you for years to come, a designer bag can be the most cost-effective option.

This spring has brought on some bold colors and materials.  On the runway, you’ll find supersized hats and wide headbands while in the handbag department, some designers have veered entirely in the opposite direction.  Think tiny, micro handbags like the Hermes offering of a Thumbelina-like matchbox purse.  Travel and duffle bags are also hot for spring, this year in a wealth of bright, floral designs that serve as both fashion statement and a practical accompaniment.  Expect to see the metallic chain as straps, and the continuation of adorable bag attachments – in tassel, pom, and some creative shapes, in a variety of different materials. Visit Extoggery, your choice in Men’s and Women’s Clothing.

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