In down economy, men invest in classic pieces

The latest trends in men's clothing may be hanging in your closet.

Classic styles are recirculating this season, according to Bruce Baird, owner of Bruce Baird & Co., a men's clothing shop on Broad Street.

"It's all about classics -- the suit, the crisp white shirt and a sharp tie," Mr. Baird said. "It's a look that never goes away but one that catapults to the forefront when the economy is a little slower. People don't want to waste money on something that lasts a couple of years. Investment clothing is 'in' now and will be 10 years from now."

Men's suits, particularly pinstripes, muted plaids and solids, are the fashions of choice, he said. "But when we have a fluid economy, you'll see lots of color in sport coats and shirts."

Men's fashion writer Daniel Billett noted on the Web site about.com that fashion designers are reacting to the down economy. "I call it a good thing since it makes clothing designs a bit more subdued, which translates to clothes that are more wearable and less fashion-victim-like."

Local marketing professional Ed Harrison said his appreciation for classic styles comes from growing up around sharp dressers.

"The staple pieces in my wardrobe include navy and black suits, as well as a seersucker one for summer," he said. "There are certain characteristics with classic styles that will maintain their relevance like color, fit and material. ... I use my traditional pieces to mix with more contemporary pieces that rotate in and out of my wardrobe."

Dan Bowers, president of Allied Arts of Greater Chattanooga, said he welcomes a return to more formality. Though he has enjoyed the freedom of more casual office attire, he admits to feeling "naked and unprofessional" on the occasions he has adhered to the trend of businessmen not wearing ties.

"It would not be that hard for me to get back into the habit of being a little dressier in the workplace," he said.

Perhaps the newest update for classic pieces is pairing denim jeans with a French-cuff white dress shirt, typically worn with a suit. The shirt is left untucked when worn with jeans.

"It's a good look," Mr. Baird said of the dressy/casual pairing. With jeans, the shirt "takes on a whole new attitude."