I got on the bus and this is what I saw.

I recently took a job in Nepean and needless to say I haven't had a lot of opportunities to take many good pictures. So you can only imagine how excited I was when I got on the bus and saw these two gentlemen. They both work at Mondo which is a men's clothing store on Hunt Club road. It is not only unusual to see men dressed like this on a bus, it is unusual to see men dressed like this in Ottawa, period. The suits are tailored, the patterns are layered, and the shoes are thought out. It made my day.

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Story of The Surgeons Cuff

Recently, a friend who is engaged to be married and is having a suit made for the occasion, invited me to go suit shopping. I was so excited by this opportunity since it's not often that I get to see such a process unfold from start to finish. We went to a wonderful tailor's on Rideau St. called Raymond Tailor. Not only does this tailor make amazing suits, but he is someone who knows his craft inside and out.

He was able to tell us great stories about how different aspects of the suit, as we know it today, have come about. My favorite of these stories was the surgeons cuff. This is when the cuff is made so that the buttons may actually be undone (unlike most off the rack suits).

The surgeons cuff was born during World War 1. Surgeons out in the field were getting blood on their jacket sleeves because they could not push them up high enough. A nurse began sewing real button holes in their jackets so that they could roll their sleeves up properly.

I personally think they look great. I love how the stitching tails out from the button, but what I love even more is knowing the history behind them.

Sparks St. - Two Piece

For living in the downtown core of a city populated by thousands of suit wearers I see very few that really stand out.

So when I saw this woman I was thrilled! I think the black details are so classy, and the structure added gives a hint of masculinity; and the details continue with the sailor buttons on the trouser pockets.

Not even a couple of weeks ago I was saying how great it would be to have a tailored suit made with a vest. Vests, for whatever reason, are not common when it comes to a woman's suit. I think they are so smart looking, and add another piece to play with - making work clothes interesting, stylish and unique.

Replay

This photo is the first one I ever posted. Yet, it is still one of my absolute favorites.

Recently I saw a post on The Sartorialist that reminded me so much of this gentleman, so I thought it was worth noting. It's great fun to see a style pop up across time and place.

The Canal - Canada Day Couple

Love love love this couple! Margaret and Larry Dickenson have put together the two classiest Canada Day outfits I have ever seen.

Margaret Dickenson is also an award winning cookbook author and television host! Find out more about Margaret at her website Margaret's Table.

Elgin St. - Blazer and Loafers

Two words came to mind when I saw this gentleman; classy and fun! His jacket is very nicely fitted, but has a summertime feel. But the purple shoes are awesome. They make you happy just looking at them!

Cafe Nostalgica

This gentleman (how could you not refer to him as such) has such a sweet and considerate look about him. Somehow this is transmitted through everything from his smile, to his tipped hat, blazer and cords.

The Market - Scarf and Sport Coat

His look popped right out, yet it is classic and laid back. He is dignified with a Parisian flair, a rarity today.

Sparks St. - Business Lunch

Market Alley - Glasses and Boots Make The Suit