Cardero Journal

Advice worth keeping.

Honest guidance on fit, fabric, and building a wardrobe, with nothing underneath it.

A man in a navy jacket and white dress shirt worn with an open collar and a white pocket square, in a wood-panelled room at night
Cardero Journal

How Should a Dress Shirt Fit?

A dress shirt fits when two fingers slide inside the buttoned collar, the shoulder seam sits at your shoulder, and the c

A tailor pinning the lapel of a charcoal jacket on a dress form, tape measure over the shoulder, in a workshop
Cardero Journal

What Does Made-to-Measure Actually Mean?

Made-to-measure means an existing pattern adjusted to your own measurements. Here is how it differs from off-the-rack an

A man brushing a navy suit jacket on a wide wooden hanger with a soft garment brush
Cardero Journal

How to Press a Suit at Home Without Ruining It

Our advice is to send a suit to a professional for pressing. If you press at home anyway, here is how to do it without s

A man in a charcoal made-to-measure two-piece suit with a light blue dress shirt, charcoal tie and white pocket square
Cardero Journal

Charcoal vs Grey Suit: Which One, and When

Charcoal is the formal one and grey is the flexible one. Here is which to buy first, what each one does well, and when t

A tailor cutting navy wool fabric from a hand-marked paper pattern
Cardero Journal

Custom Suit Alterations: What's Included and What Costs Extra

What's included in a made-to-measure suit's fit, what counts as an alteration you'll be billed for later, and why the tw

The Cardero Clothing studio building at the Westlund building in Langley
Cardero Journal

How to Choose a Made-to-Measure Tailor: A Buyer's Checklist

Six questions to ask before booking with a made-to-measure tailor, including how to catch a business calling itself besp

Close view of a suit jacket lapel, dress shirt collar and folded pocket square
Cardero Journal

What to Do When You Spill Something on Your Suit

You do not need to dry clean a suit after every wear. Here is what to actually do when you spill, sweat through, or pick

Before and after, an ill-fitting off-the-rack suit next to a properly fitted made-to-measure suit
Cardero Journal

5 Signs You're Ready to Stop Buying Suits Off the Rack

Five signs it's time to stop buying suits off the rack: the recurring fit problem, the yearly replacement cycle, and the

A man in a solid navy suit with an open collar, styled quietly in a wood-panelled room
Cardero Journal

What to Wear to a Funeral: A Men's Guide

What to wear to a funeral as a man: the right colours, what to skip, and how to dress respectfully without owning a full

A man taking a Cardero Wardrobe Plan video consultation from home
Cardero Journal

Made-to-Measure Suits Online, Shipped Anywhere in Canada

How to order a made-to-measure suit online and have it shipped anywhere in Canada, and why some "bespoke" sellers online

A man in a brown suit
Cardero Journal

How Much Does a Personal Stylist Cost for Men?

A personal stylist for men does not have to be an ongoing retainer. Here is exactly what Cardero's Wardrobe Plan costs,

A man in a glen plaid suit
Cardero Journal

Is a Personal Stylist Worth It for Men?

A personal stylist is worth it for some men and not others. Here is an honest breakdown of when it pays for itself and w

A man in a deep blue smart-casual outfit
Cardero Journal

A Personal Tailor Online, Built Around Your Budget

A personal tailor online is not a one-time purchase. Here is how the process works, from your first Wardrobe Plan to a w

A flat lay of men's accessories including a belt, shoes, watch, tie and pocket square
Cardero Journal

The Accessories Every Man Should Own

The right accessories finish an outfit without shouting. Here are the ones worth owning, from belts and ties to a good w

A suit folded in an open garment bag on a bed
Cardero Journal

How to Pack a Suit for Travel and Arrive Ready to Wear

How to pack a suit so it comes out of the bag ready to wear: folding, garment bags, carry-on or checked, and getting it

A man in a brown suit
Cardero Journal

The Right Suit Colours for Each Season

Some suit colours suit summer and others suit winter. Here is how to match your suit colour to the season so you always

A man in a navy three-piece suit with a visible waistcoat
Cardero Journal

How to Wear a Three-Piece Suit

A three-piece suit adds formality and polish when worn right. Here is how to wear the waistcoat, when a three-piece suit

A coordinated menswear capsule wardrobe
Cardero Journal

Common Capsule Wardrobe Mistakes

A capsule wardrobe only works if you build it right. Here are the common mistakes that leave men with a closet that stil

A man in a navy suit with a burgundy tie
Cardero Journal

The Best Tie Colours for a Navy Suit

A navy suit takes more tie colours than any other. Here are the best tie colours for navy and how to pick one for work,

A man in a oatmeal smart-casual outfit
Cardero Journal

The Wardrobe Essentials Every Man Needs

A short list of essentials covers most of what a man needs to dress well. Here are the pieces worth owning and why they

A man in a charcoal suit dressed for a job interview
Cardero Journal

How to Dress for a Job Interview

Dressing for an interview is about looking capable and appropriate. Here is how to pitch it right, from formal to busine

A man in a tuxedo
Cardero Journal

Finding a Wedding Suit Near You in the Fraser Valley

Searching for a wedding suit near you in the Fraser Valley? Here is how to find one that fits the whole party, and why l

A man in an off-the-rack rental suit that does not fit through the shoulders
Cardero Journal

Slim Fit vs Classic Fit: Which Suit Fit Is Right for You?

Slim, classic, or something between? Here is what each suit fit means, who it flatters, and why a fit built to you beats

A man wearing a charcoal waistcoat over a white dress shirt and tie
Cardero Journal

How a Waistcoat Should Fit

A waistcoat that fits pulls a three-piece together. Here is how it should sit at the shoulders, the front, and the lengt

A man in a windowpane suit
Cardero Journal

The Most Common Suit Fit Mistakes

Most suit problems come down to a handful of fit mistakes. Here are the ones to watch for and how to get each of them ri

A man in a tailored evening suit
Cardero Journal

The Best Wedding Suit Colours

The right wedding suit colour depends on the season, the setting, and the photos. Here are the best wedding suit colours

A man in a tuxedo
Cardero Journal

How to Choose Your Wedding Suit

Choosing a wedding suit comes down to a few clear decisions. Here is a simple order to work through so you get it right

A man in a herringbone smart-casual outfit
Cardero Journal

How Often Should You Buy a New Suit?

You need a new suit less often than you might think, if you buy well. Here is when to add one, when to repair, and when

Finely woven wool suiting fabric
Cardero Journal

What Is Made-to-Measure? A Plain Explanation

Made-to-measure sits between off-the-rack and bespoke. Here is a plain explanation of what it means, how it works, and w

A man in a glen plaid suit
Cardero Journal

How to Tell a Well-Made Suit

A few details separate a well-made suit from a cheap one. Here is what to look for in the cloth, the construction, and t

A man in a navy double-breasted suit
Cardero Journal

The Double-Breasted Suit: When and How to Wear One

A double-breasted suit is bold and elegant when worn right. Here is who it suits, when to wear one, and the rules that k

A suit jacket being steamed with a handheld garment steamer
Cardero Journal

How to Get Wrinkles Out of a Suit

Wrinkles in a suit usually fall out with the right care, no iron needed. Here is how to freshen a suit at home and while

Three folded suits in navy, charcoal and mid-grey side by side
Cardero Journal

The Most Useful Suit Colours for Men

If you are building a wardrobe, some suit colours earn their place faster than others. Here are the most useful suit col

A man in a navy suit with a burgundy tie
Cardero Journal

How to Match a Tie to Your Suit

Matching a tie is simpler than it looks. Here are the few rules that make a tie work with your suit and shirt every time

A man in a navy sport coat with grey trousers
Cardero Journal

Sport Coat vs Suit Jacket: What's the Difference?

A sport coat and a suit jacket look similar but are not interchangeable. Here is the difference and why you want both in

A man in a light grey houndstooth suit with a white dress shirt and white pocket square
Cardero Journal

How to Wear a Grey Suit

Light and mid grey suits are endlessly wearable. Here is how to wear grey, with the shirts, ties, and shoes that work be

A man in a business-casual blazer, polo and chinos
Cardero Journal

How to Build a Business Casual Wardrobe

Business casual confuses a lot of men. Here is a simple, coordinated set of pieces that covers it, so you always look pu

A man in a charcoal smart-casual outfit
Cardero Journal

How Many Dress Shirts Does a Man Need?

You need fewer dress shirts than you think, in the right colours. Here is how many to own and which colours cover the mo

A man in a houndstooth sport coat
Cardero Journal

Where Do Chilliwack Men Get Custom Suits Made?

Chilliwack has no made-to-measure studio of its own. Here is where local men actually go, how far the drive is, and what

A menswear consultation with fabric swatches at a studio table
Cardero Journal

What Happens at a Custom Suit Consultation

Never had a suit made? Here is exactly what happens at a custom suit consultation, from measurements to choosing cloth,

A man in a windowpane suit
Cardero Journal

How Long Should Your Suit Sleeves Be?

Suit sleeve length is a small detail that changes the whole look. Here is where the jacket sleeve should end and how muc

A man in a suit and overcoat
Cardero Journal

How to Store a Suit So It Lasts

Good storage adds years to a suit. Here is how to hang it, give it room, and protect it between wears so it keeps its sh

A man in a suit and overcoat
Cardero Journal

How Often Should You Dry Clean a Suit?

Two or three times a year for a suit in rotation, and only when it is actually soiled. Here is how many wears a suit get

A man in a tailored evening suit
Cardero Journal

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

A winter wedding calls for deeper colours and heavier cloth. Here is how a groom or guest should dress for a cold-weathe

A man in a well-fitted white dress shirt
Cardero Journal

How a Dress Shirt Should Fit

A shirt that fits makes the whole suit look better. Here are the four places a dress shirt has to fit right: collar, sho

A Cardero Outfit Overview, one navy three-piece suit styled five ways, from full suit and tie to vest only and knit with no tie
Cardero Journal

How to Wear a Navy Suit: Shirts, Ties and Shoes

Navy is the most useful suit a man can own. Here is how to wear it, with the shirt, tie, and shoe colours that work and

A notch lapel on a tailored suit jacket
Cardero Journal

How to Wear a Pocket Square (Without Overthinking It)

A pocket square finishes a jacket in seconds. Here is how to fold one, how to match it, and the one rule that keeps it l

A man in a tailored evening suit
Cardero Journal

What the Father of the Bride or Groom Should Wear

Fathers at a wedding should look sharp and coordinate with the party without stealing focus. Here is how to dress the pa

A man in a tuxedo
Cardero Journal

Men's Wedding Guest Dress Code, Decoded

Black tie, cocktail, semi-formal: here is what each wedding dress code actually means for men, so you turn up dressed ex

A man in a camel smart-casual outfit
Cardero Journal

How to Build a Work Wardrobe From Scratch

Starting a professional wardrobe from nothing? Here is the order to buy in so every piece works together and you are cov

A navy suit laid out with the pieces to dress it up and down
Cardero Journal

One Suit, Five Ways to Wear It

A single navy suit can carry a wedding, the office, and a dinner out. Here are five ways to wear one suit so it works fa

A man in a glen plaid suit
Cardero Journal

A Nordstrom Suit Alternative in the Fraser Valley

Want a Nordstrom-level suit without the drive or the rack sizing? Here is how our made-to-measure studio compares for fi

Finely woven wool suiting fabric
Cardero Journal

How Much Should You Spend on Your First Suit?

Your first suit should fit well and cover the occasions you actually have. Here is how to think about the budget so you

Finely woven green wool suiting fabric
Cardero Journal

What Is Super 130 Wool?

Super 130 sits between everyday and luxury wool. Here is what the Super number means, how Super 130 wears, and who it su

Finely woven olive wool suiting fabric
Cardero Journal

Full Canvas vs Half Canvas Suit: What It Means

Full canvas, half canvas, or fused: what is inside a suit jacket, how each one drapes and ages, and which to choose for

A shorter man in a well-proportioned navy suit
Cardero Journal

Suits for Shorter Men: Proportions That Work

Shorter men are often swallowed by off-the-rack jackets and trousers. Here is how a made-to-measure suit gets the propor

A man in a windowpane suit
Cardero Journal

Why Your Suit Jacket Pulls at the Button (and How to Fix It)

That X-shaped pull below the button means the jacket is too tight or wrong for your build. Here is what causes it and ho

A man in a tailored evening suit
Cardero Journal

What the Groom Should Wear to a Summer Wedding

A summer wedding calls for lighter cloth and colour, without losing the occasion. Here is how a groom should dress for w

A man in a tuxedo
Cardero Journal

Suit or Tux for a Wedding? How to Choose

A tuxedo reads black tie and formal evening. A suit is more versatile and yours to wear again. How to choose between a s

A man in a blue custom suit worn with an open-collar white shirt and no tie, standing in a modern office
Cardero Journal

Do You Have to Wear a Tie With a Suit?

You can wear a suit without a tie, if you get a few things right. Here is when to skip the tie and how to make an open c

A man in a charcoal suit
Cardero Journal

How to Wear a Charcoal Suit

A charcoal suit works for the office, a wedding, and an evening out. Here is how to wear charcoal and what shirt, tie, a

A man in a tailored evening suit
Cardero Journal

What Is Included in the Price of a Custom Suit

A custom suit price covers more than cloth. Here is exactly what is included at Cardero, from 21 measurements to the com

A man in a brown suit
Cardero Journal

Custom Suits in South Surrey and White Rock

Made-to-measure custom suits for South Surrey and White Rock, built from 21 measurements at our nearby Langley studio. P

A confident, well-dressed professional in a tailored suit
Cardero Journal

Suits for Real Estate Agents

In real estate you are the brand. Here is how to dress to be trusted at every showing, the wardrobe that covers your wee

Two made-to-measure suits side by side, a mid blue and a mid grey windowpane, each with a white shirt and a pocket square
Cardero Journal

Capsule Wardrobe Step 2: The Core

Step 2 of a men's capsule wardrobe takes you to four suits and eight shirts. A blue suit, a mid grey windowpane, three s

A light, warm-toned wool suit styled for a relaxed setting
Cardero Journal

Tan Suit: How to Wear It, and Who It Suits

How to wear a tan suit: the shirts, ties, and shoes that work, when it belongs in the season, and who it suits best.

A charcoal suit styled with leather dress shoes
Cardero Journal

Oxford, Derby, Loafer, or Monk: A Dress Shoe Guide for Suits

The four dress shoes worth owning, ranked by formality, with the colours that work and the simple rules for pairing them

A Cardero appointment, fabric swatches and sample books laid across the table
Cardero Journal

Back to the Office: Refresh Your Work Wardrobe for Fall

September fills the office back up. Here is how to refresh your work wardrobe for fall without starting over, and why yo

A man in a made-to-measure Cardero suit that fits cleanly through the shoulders
Cardero Journal

How a Suit Should Fit in the Shoulders

The shoulders are the one part of a suit you cannot alter. Here is how a jacket should sit, how to spot a bad fit, and w

A man being measured at a private one-on-one made-to-measure suit appointment
Cardero Journal

Indochino Alternatives in Canada: What a Local Studio Offers That a Chain Cannot

Looking for Indochino alternatives in Canada? Here's what a local made-to-measure studio offers that a showroom chain st

A man in a light grey custom made-to-measure suit
Cardero Journal

Made-to-Measure Suits in BC: A Guide for Men Outside of Vancouver

Most made-to-measure suit guides point you to Vancouver. Here's a complete guide for men in the Fraser Valley and Lower

A man in a frumpy black suit with pin stripe, yellow tie versus him in a charcoal grey custom suit with white dress shirt, tie and pocket square
Cardero Journal

Is a Custom Suit Worth It? An Honest Answer, With Actual Prices

Most posts about custom suit value dodge the pricing question entirely. Here's an honest answer with Cardero's actual nu

A wedding party in custom made-to-measure wedding outfits at an outdoor venue for their wedding
Cardero Journal

When Should Langley Grooms Order Their Wedding Suit?

Around four months before the wedding is the calmest runway for Langley grooms, and sooner still works. Here is the full

A Groom having his wedding photos taken at the Fraser River in a Custom Made-to-Measure grey wedding suit from Cardero Clothing
Cardero Journal

Planning an Abbotsford Wedding: The Suit Timeline

The suit timeline for an Abbotsford wedding, from first appointment to the day itself, including how far ahead to book a

A man in a custom made to measure outfit with a light pink jacket and grey dress pants.
Cardero Journal

Made to Measure vs Bespoke: What the Terms Actually Mean and Which One You're Looking For

Made to measure and bespoke are not the same thing. Here's what each term actually means, what each costs, and which one

A man in a navy three-piece suit with a white shirt, grey tie and white pocket square standing in a wood-panelled lounge
Cardero Journal

Wedding Suit Rental vs Custom: Should You Rent or Buy?

Renting costs less on the day. A custom suit costs less by the third time you wear it. Cost, fit, timeline, and when ren

A green suit jacket with a white dress shirt and pocket square with a grey tie
Cardero Journal

Your First Custom Suit Appointment: What Happens, How Long It Takes, and What You Leave With

Not sure what happens at a custom suit appointment? Here's what the Cardero process looks like, start to finish, with no

A man in a light blue dress shirt and green jacket.
Cardero Journal

Just Got Promoted? Here's What Your Wardrobe Needs to Catch Up

A promotion changes the room you walk into. Here's what your wardrobe actually needs to keep up, and where to start.

A navy and a charcoal suit jacket, the first two suits a man should own
Cardero Journal

Navy or Charcoal: Which Suit Should You Buy First?

Navy vs charcoal suit: the honest answer on which colour to buy first, what each does for work, weddings, and evenings,

A man's professional wardrobe done properly with multiple suits and dress shirts that are interchangeable
Cardero Journal

How Many Suits Does a Man Actually Need? A Guide by Career Stage

The honest answer to how many suits a man needs depends on how often he wears them. Here's a practical guide by career s

A man in a bold blue custom made-to-measure wedding suit from Cardero walking with his bride
Cardero Journal

How Far in Advance Should You Order a Custom Wedding Suit?

The honest timeline for ordering a custom wedding suit. Production is 5-6 weeks, but here's why you should book much ear

A destination wedding with the Groomsmen in light blue suits and the Groom in a dark suit sitting on a railing.
Cardero Journal

Groomsmen Suits in the Fraser Valley: How to Get the Whole Party Fitted

Getting the whole wedding party fitted in the Fraser Valley? Here's how groomsmen coordination works across Cardero's th

A broad-shouldered man in a navy made-to-measure jacket, the soft unpadded shoulder seam ending exactly at the edge of his shoulder
Cardero Journal

Suits for Broad Shoulders: Why Most Jackets Fail, and the Cut That Fits

Broad shoulders break off-the-rack jackets at the back, the sleeve and the waist. What goes wrong, what a tailor can and

A picture of the Lincoln Centre in Coquitlam where Cardero Clothing Hosts Their Clients for Custom Menswear
Cardero Journal

Custom Suits in Coquitlam: What the Appointment Looks Like

What a made-to-measure suit appointment at Cardero's Coquitlam studio actually looks like, from the 21 measurements to t

A man in a brown suit
Cardero Journal

How Long Does a Tailored Suit Take? The Full Timeline

Production takes five to six weeks. From booking to wearing it comfortably is 10 to 14 weeks. Every step, week by week,

A professional man in a board room wearing a custom made-to-measure navy suit, white dress shirt, white pocket square and a tie.
Cardero Journal

Custom Suit vs Department Store: An Honest Price and Value Comparison

Custom vs department store suits, an honest price and value comparison with real numbers from both sides.

A professional man in the Fraser Valley wearing a custom made-to-measure outfit that is part of his capsule wardrobe
Cardero Journal

Building a Professional Wardrobe in the Fraser Valley: Where to Start and What It Costs

Where to start building a professional wardrobe in the Fraser Valley, what order, what it costs, and what most men get w

A flat lay of an ideal men's wardrobe for return to work.
Cardero Journal

Dressing for Your Return to the Workforce: A Wardrobe Guide for Men

Returning to a professional environment after a break or career change? Here's a practical, non-judgmental guide to gett

A Super 120 fabric book laid out with multiple fabric swatches to choose from to match your style profile.
Cardero Journal

Super 120 vs Super 150 Wool: What the Numbers Mean and Which Fabric Is Right for You

Super 120 and Super 150 wool are different products. Here's what the numbers mean, how the fabrics perform, and which is

A heavy weight wool suit jacket with a nice dress shirt to complement.
Cardero Journal

Wool Blend vs Pure Wool: The Honest Tradeoffs for a West Coast Climate

Wool vs wool blend suits compared: how each fabric drapes, breathes, wears, and holds up, and which one to pick for the

A man in a pink blazer and navy dress pants.
Cardero Journal

How to Choose a Suit Colour That Works for Your Complexion

The right suit colour depends on your complexion, not just convention. Here's how to identify which navy, charcoal, or g

A stack of folded dress shirts in white, light blue and pink
Cardero Journal

The Working Man's Guide to Custom Dress Shirts: What Changes When They're Built for You

Custom dress shirts are a different product than store-bought. Here's what changes when the shirt is built to your measu

A flat-lay of the full capsule wardrobe: seven suit jackets in navy, charcoal, blue, grey windowpane, light grey, brown and green, with a tuxedo, a tweed and a linen sport coat, a navy vest and a row of dress shirts, every jacket opened to show its custom lining
Cardero Journal

Capsule Wardrobe for Men: The Four Steps, In Order

A men's capsule wardrobe in four steps: two suits and a vest, then four suits, then six, then the full capsule with a tu

A man wearing a half-canvas, custom suit in charcoal grey with a white dress shirt and pocket square.
Cardero Journal

What Makes a Quality Suit? A Fabric and Construction Guide for Men Who Don't Know What to Look For

How do you know if a suit is well made? Here's what to look for in fabric, construction, and finish, explained for men w

Derek Burbidge of Cardero Clothing in a navy suit with peak lapels and a black dress shirt.
Cardero Journal

Suit Lapel Styles Explained: Notch, Peak, and Shawl, Which Is Right for You

Notch, peak, or shawl lapel, what each one communicates and how to choose the right lapel for your suit and the occasion

4 dress shirts in a flat lay with the most common and essential every man needs. White, blue, chambray and light blue
Cardero Journal

How to Build a Dress Shirt Collection for a Professional Wardrobe

How many shirts do you need? What colours come first? Here's how to build a professional dress shirt collection in the r

A man in a light grey made-to-measure suit with a white shirt, navy tie and white pocket square, trousers breaking once on black shoes
Cardero Journal

Trouser Fit Guide for Men: Why the Break, Seat, Rise and Thigh Matter More Than the Waist

Waist size tells you almost nothing about whether trousers fit. Here is what the seat, thigh, rise and break actually de

A well-dressed man in a white dress shirt with a matching vest and dress pants holding a cocktail glass.
Cardero Journal

When to Add a Vest to Your Suit (And When It Works Against You)

A suit vest adds formality and configuration options, but not for every suit or occasion. Here's when it works and when

A man in a charcoal smart-casual outfit
Cardero Journal

A Harry Rosen Alternative in the Fraser Valley: What a Local Studio Offers Instead

Looking for a Harry Rosen alternative in the Fraser Valley? Here is what a local made-to-measure studio offers that a de

A man being fitted for a made-to-measure suit at a Fraser Valley studio
Cardero Journal

A Moores Alternative in the Fraser Valley: When Off-the-Rack Is Enough, and When It Isn't

Looking beyond Moores for your next suit? What a local made-to-measure studio offers that an off-the-rack chain cannot,

A tall, lean man in a navy made-to-measure two-piece suit with a light blue shirt, navy tie and white pocket square, the jacket covering his seat and the trousers finishing in a plain hem
Cardero Journal

Suits for Tall Men: Getting the Length and Proportions Right

A suit for a tall man needs a longer jacket, sleeve, rise and inseam, and lapels and patterns scaled to the frame. What

A man in a light grey suit with a light blue shirt, navy tie and white pocket square
Cardero Journal

Light Grey Suit: What to Wear With It, Spring Through Fall

What to wear with a light grey suit: the shirts, ties, and shoes that work, how to wear it spring through fall, and wher

A man in a navy suit with the jacket open and a navy pin-dot tie whose tip lands at the waistband of his trousers
Cardero Journal

Tie Length: How Long Should a Tie Be?

The tip of your tie should reach your belt buckle. Here is the correct tie length by height, 58 vs 62 inch ties, tie wid

A visibly muscular man in a navy made-to-measure two-piece suit, the jacket buttoned and lying flat across a broad chest, white shirt, burgundy tie and white cotton pocket square
Cardero Journal

Suits for Bodybuilders and Muscular Men: How to Get the Fit Right, and Where to Order

A bodybuilder's suit should show the shape without straining a seam. What to watch in the shoulders, chest, arms, neck a

A groom in a black tuxedo with a white pleated dress shirt and black bow tie in a wood-panelled room
Cardero Journal

When to Order a Custom Wedding Suit: The Month-by-Month Timeline

Book your custom wedding suit about four months before the date. Production is five to six weeks. Here is every step, co

A close crop of a navy made-to-measure suit jacket with a white dress shirt, a navy tie, and a white pocket square
Cardero Journal

Capsule Wardrobe Step 1: The Foundation

Step 1 of a men's capsule wardrobe is a navy suit, a charcoal suit, a navy vest and five shirts. Which cloths, why both

A man in a light grey made-to-measure two-piece suit with a white dress shirt, navy tie, and white pocket square
Cardero Journal

Capsule Wardrobe Step 3: The Seasonals

Step 3 of a men's capsule wardrobe is the seasonal step: a light grey for summer, a brown for autumn, and four shirts. Y

A wardrobe rail of made-to-measure suits in navy, charcoal, grey, brown, green, and a grey windowpane, with a black tuxedo at the end
Cardero Journal

Capsule Wardrobe Step 4: The Full Capsule

Step 4 completes a men's capsule wardrobe: a deep green suit, a tuxedo, two sport coats and three shirts, for seven suit

A big, tall man in a navy made-to-measure suit that fits him, the jacket closing comfortably over the stomach, sleeves the right length, a white shirt, burgundy tie and white pocket square
Cardero Journal

Big and Tall Suits, Made to Measure: A Suit Cut to a Big Frame, Not the Nearest Size

Big and tall suits off the rack are sized to a chart, not to you. What a big frame actually needs in a jacket, trousers

What Should Chilliwack Professionals Wear to Work?
Cardero Journal

What Should Chilliwack Professionals Wear to Work?

Chilliwack is a booming city in the Fraser Valley but severely lacking options for men's clothing. If you are looking fo

How Should a Suit Fit? The Complete Answer
Cardero Journal

How Should a Suit Fit? The Complete Answer

How a suit should fit, checkpoint by checkpoint: shoulders, collar, chest, length, sleeves and trousers, plus the moveme

How to Match the Groom and Groomsmen: Wedding Party Suits
Cardero Journal

How to Match the Groom and Groomsmen: Wedding Party Suits

How to coordinate the groom, groomsmen, and the bridal party: matching versus complementing, colour and fabric choices,

Top Wedding Colours - Navy Blue
Cardero Journal

Top Wedding Colours - Navy Blue

Navy is one of the most popular wedding colours. When investing in a custom wedding suit, navy is the perfect choice bec

What to Wear to a Wedding as a Guest in BC
Cardero Journal

What to Wear to a Wedding as a Guest in BC

As a male wedding guest in BC, a well-fitted suit in navy, charcoal, or grey is the right call for most dress codes. Her

Wedding Suits Fraser Valley: What to Know Before You Book
Cardero Journal

Wedding Suits Fraser Valley: What to Know Before You Book

Planning a Fraser Valley wedding? Cardero Clothing builds custom wedding suits with 21 measurements for a perfect fit. B

Top Groom Style Mistakes
Cardero Journal

Top Groom Style Mistakes

This is one area in which I can absolutely speak from experience. Cardero Clothing started a few months after I was marr

How Much Is a Tailored Suit in BC? 2026 Prices
Cardero Journal

How Much Is a Tailored Suit in BC? 2026 Prices

What a tailored, made-to-measure suit costs in BC in 2026, from an $899 wool blend to Italian wool at $1,999, and what y

Made-to-Measure vs Off-the-Rack: What's the Difference?
Cardero Journal

Made-to-Measure vs Off-the-Rack: What's the Difference?

Made-to-measure suits are cut to your specific measurements. Off-the-rack suits use standard sizes. Here's what the prac

Why Suits Never Fit Off the Rack, And What to Do About It
Cardero Journal

Why Suits Never Fit Off the Rack, And What to Do About It

If every suit you've tried has fit wrong, it's not your body. It's the way off-the-rack suits are made. Here's what 21 m

How to Get Honest Men's Style Advice
Cardero Journal

How to Get Honest Men's Style Advice

Most men's style advice comes from salespeople with a commission attached. Here's what honest advice actually looks like

A Timeless Custom Menswear Wardrobe
Cardero Journal

A Timeless Custom Menswear Wardrobe

Master the art of building a custom menswear wardrobe with this complete guide. From foundation pieces to personal style

How to Dress More Professionally - A Practical Guide for Men
Cardero Journal

How to Dress More Professionally - A Practical Guide for Men

Not sure how to dress more professionally? Where to start, what to buy first, and how to build a wardrobe that works for

Color Matching Your Wardrobe
Cardero Journal

Color Matching Your Wardrobe

​You have your navy suit, your charcoal, your light gray…now is the perfect time to add a stylish blazer or suit. A lot

Wearing a Brown Suit
Cardero Journal

Wearing a Brown Suit

Today we will look at different shades of a brown suit. All colors lean away from the traditional khaki or dark brown bu

Maroon or Burgundy Suit: What to Wear With It
Cardero Journal

Maroon or Burgundy Suit: What to Wear With It

How to wear a maroon or burgundy suit: shirt colours, ties, shoes, and the occasions it suits, so the colour looks delib

Dark Green Suit: What to Wear With It
Cardero Journal

Dark Green Suit: What to Wear With It

Dark green suit combinations that work: shirts, ties, shoes, and the settings where a deep green suit looks right, from

Wearing a Bold Indigo Blue Suit
Cardero Journal

Wearing a Bold Indigo Blue Suit

Wearing bold blue colors whether that is indigo blue, azure blue or cobalt blue, can look amazing or overdone depending

Should You Buy a Black Suit? When It Works and When It Doesn’t
Cardero Journal

Should You Buy a Black Suit? When It Works and When It Doesn’t

A black suit is sold as the versatile first suit, and it usually is not. When black works, when navy or charcoal serves

How to Contrast the Colors of Your Clothes
Cardero Journal

How to Contrast the Colors of Your Clothes

When I first started moving towards a more professional wardrobe I found the easiest way to match my colors was to stick

How to Wear Bright Colors and Bold Patterns
Cardero Journal

How to Wear Bright Colors and Bold Patterns

How do you wear bold colors or patterns? By creating a focal point. Have one, max two, bold colors or patterns in your o

Shark Skin Men’s Suits: Men’s Professional Style Tips
Cardero Journal

Shark Skin Men’s Suits: Men’s Professional Style Tips

When it comes to building a professional wardrobe, the ultimate goal we have for our clients is to have timeless pieces

Choose Fit Over Fashion: Men’s Professional Style Tips
Cardero Journal

Choose Fit Over Fashion: Men’s Professional Style Tips

When it comes to fashion and style, many people believe that the latest and most expensive pieces will immediately make

3 Quick Style Tips Every Guy Needs to Know
Cardero Journal

3 Quick Style Tips Every Guy Needs to Know

These simple tips most guys can fix immediately or things to keep in mind for your next suit include matching your leath

How to Stand Out Without Sticking Out
Cardero Journal

How to Stand Out Without Sticking Out

What is the difference between standing out or sticking out? Standing out is looking amazing, the fit is on point, and y

Taking Care of Your Garments: Men’s Professional Style Tips
Cardero Journal

Taking Care of Your Garments: Men’s Professional Style Tips

Many men make the mistake of over-dry cleaning their suits, which can break down the fabric and dull its color. In this

Timeless Over Trends, Every Single Time
Cardero Journal

Timeless Over Trends, Every Single Time

Trends in fashion come and go, but having a timeless sense of style never goes out of fashion. While it's tempting to ju

Grooming & Hygiene: Morning Routine
Cardero Journal

Grooming & Hygiene: Morning Routine

Adding a few minutes to your morning and night routine as a man will help your skin look younger, your teeth look whiter

How to Alter Your Professional Clothes
Cardero Journal

How to Alter Your Professional Clothes

Don’t wear clothes that are too tight or too loose: Ensure your clothes fit well and are comfortable to move in. Fit is

How to Match Patterns: Suits, Shirts, Ties and Accessories
Cardero Journal

How to Match Patterns: Suits, Shirts, Ties and Accessories

Pinstripes, checks, paisley ties: the rules for mixing patterns across your suit, shirt, tie, and pocket square without

How to Take Care of a Suit
Cardero Journal

How to Take Care of a Suit

How to take care of a wool suit: brushing, hanging, resting it between wears, when to dry clean, wrinkles, stains and st

How to Wear and Care for Velvet
Cardero Journal

How to Wear and Care for Velvet

Velvet is not one of the staple suits in your wardrobe but it is perfect for a formal dinner or a stylish event where yo

Car Salesman Outfit: What to Wear to Sell Cars
Cardero Journal

Car Salesman Outfit: What to Wear to Sell Cars

The car salesman outfit that builds trust on the lot: suit colours, shirts, shoes, and details that read professional, n

Staying Cool in Your Suit
Cardero Journal

Staying Cool in Your Suit

Here are a few tips on how to stop sweating in your suits, dress shirts and vests.

Style Adulting: 3 Quick Fixes to Grow Up Your Wardrobe
Cardero Journal

Style Adulting: 3 Quick Fixes to Grow Up Your Wardrobe

It is easy to slip back into old habits and buy replacements to our old clothing, but as we grow older there are a few t

What to Wear to a Gala or Black-Tie Event in Vancouver
Cardero Journal

What to Wear to a Gala or Black-Tie Event in Vancouver

For a black-tie event in Vancouver, a tuxedo is the correct choice. For black-tie optional or formal galas, a dark fitte

Who Is Your Style Icon
Cardero Journal

Who Is Your Style Icon

Every guy needs a go to style icon, someone with a vast wardrobe to inspire you on how to build yours. They need to have

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