Chicago native Aaron Christmon has always had a love for the fashion industry. After working for various top luxury fashion retailers, Christmon began to cultivate his fashion skills and unique style. Over the past six years he has turned his love for fashion into a career of transforming people’s wardrobes and ultimately how they view themselves. In 2010, Christmon founded his company, Smart Dress. Not just your typical stylist, Christmon provides an array of services from personal shopping and closet reorganization to fashion shows and events. He has worked with a variety of athletes, entertainers and celebrities.
How do you upgrade your father’s suit wardrobe?
When it comes to upgrading your suit, fit and fabric are really important. If the budget allows, custom suiting is always ideal. Having your suits custom-made typically ensures better quality and a more precise fit. If custom suiting isn’t an option, I would recommend finding a good tailor or stylist that will help ensure that your suit fits perfectly. Attention to detail is also key, so having the appropriate hemline, sleeve length, and even shoulder width is something to look out for.
What types of prints should you have in your tie?
In terms of ties, paisley and gingham prints are great styles for the spring and summer season. Stylish and classic, these patterns are perfect for dads looking for impressive neckwear.
What new fragrances should fathers be aware of for this season and why upgrade fragrances?
Fragrance is truly all about individuality and personality. They evoke moods, feelings, and make us feel good about ourselves. Sometimes, finding the perfect scent can be challenging, so I suggest sampling a new fragrance before purchasing. By doing so, this gives you a chance to see how the scent works with your body chemistry. Also, if you tend to like stronger or more long lasting fragrances, I would recommend purchasing an eau de parfum instead of an eau de toilette. The following new scents would make great Father’s Day gifts.
Bergamot by Malin + Goetz – $150
Gentleman Only by Givenchy – $96
Thé Noir 29 by Le Labo – $175/$260
What three essential accessories should fathers get to upgrade their accessories?
A classic timepiece–Burberry Men’s Swiss The Classic Round Two-Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet Timepiece available at Macy’s
A travel/messenger bag–COACH’s Sport Calf Contrast Leather Metropolitan Map Bag available at Bloomingdale’s
A nice pair of sunglasses–Ray-Ban Original Aviator Sunglasses available at Macy’s
Why should you upgrade your dad with a stylist consulting session?
Having a stylist will help with refinement. Even the simplest man can benefit from working with a stylist on his wardrobe. Understanding various things like what works for his physique, age, and even profession can come from consulting with a stylist one-on-one. Mastering his wardrobe can also raise a man’s confidence. Besides, what man doesn’t want to look and feel dapper? My company Smart Dress specializes in personal shopping, wardrobe styling, and closet reorganization.
What hat choices for Father’s Day would be an upgrade?
I really like Panama hats. They are great for the current season as well as stylish and debonair. Most Panama hats come in various colors and brim sizes.
What new sock styles should fathers upgrade to this season?
During this time of year we tend to see more colorful socks. Depending on what a guy is wearing, no-show socks are great. Even though you’re actually wearing a sock, showing some skin can be really stylish when executed well. I typically suggest this when wearing shorts.
Any briefcase or business bags to upgrade to for Father’s Day?
Tumi and Bosca both make moderately priced briefcases and business bags for men. Serapian has some great stylish options as well if you’re looking to invest in something higher end.
How do you provide upgrades without being insulting?
When working with clients, it’s important to become familiar with their taste, style, personality, and ultimately their wardrobe goal. Understanding your client is key and can prevent insults from occurring. Of course, respect is extremely important as well. Every client is different so it’s important to listen to their needs and wants to avoid any misunderstands.
What are two rules for purging your father’s closet while upgrading him?
My two rules for upgrading dad’s closet would be removing ill-fitting clothing and reviewing the quality and styles of key items such as his shoes, wallet or card holder, and jewelry.
Three top gifts for Father’s Day this year?
Salvatore Ferragamo-Leather ID Wallet
Illesteva- Tribeca Sunglasses
Smythson- Leather Notebook
What three Black urban designers do you like for Father’s Day?
Ozwald Boateng
WANT Les Essentials de la Vie by Byron and Dexter Peart
Public School by Maxwell Osbourne
