It’s not a mystery that men’s fashion is often overshadowed by the growing industry within women’s fashion. I’ve also had many questions from men about just where to begin when finding items that are on trend. I decided to go straight to the experts within the field and collaborated with Holt Renfrew on this column designed to help with your fall wardrobe. Business manager Sanders Yee from the menswear department at Holt Renfrew answered some my most frequent questions I have received from readers.

1. What are some fall trends or must haves for the fall? (Colour, cut, etc.)

A: A key trend throughout the designer collections is a slim silhouette. Tailored clothing in particular is slimmed down, and close to the body. Outerwear is definitely moving from basic need to fashion statement. A man can now easily have several coats in his wardrobe each season. We’ve just received Holt Renfrew Private label cashmere in basic charcoals and tans, but also in vivid indigo, and bright yellow and green. Etro has rich hues of purple and magenta. Colour is rich and prevalent throughout all collections.

2. Accessories are not just for women. What are some essential pieces of accessories for men when it comes to statement pieces?

A: This fall, starting at the top, look out for the cap: from trucker, baseball, driver to paper boy. Followed by the novelty scarf from Harricana or add in a bit of whimsy from Paul Smith. Make sure that one does not leave the house without a carry-on bag or their document portfolio

3. What are some ready to wear combination pieces that can take a look from day to night?

A: This season more than ever, it’s great to invest in a classic sport jacket, perhaps in a rich tweed or check that can be worked back to trousers, or a pair of jeans, worn with shirt and tie, or cashmere sweater and the sport jacket is also a great investment.

4. For those who are unsure about which direction to go when it comes to nailing down a style that works for them, what advice do you have to help? Where do you start?

A: Find your own sense of style through trying different things and if you are having trouble determining what that style is, it’s great to start a relationship with a sales associate who can work with you and guide you but as a general rule, if you are not comfortable wearing it, don’t do it. Start with some basic items, jacket/ blazer, shirts, jeans and trousers. Begin with some basic colors and add from there. Keeping it simple doesn’t mean it is plain and boring. Pay attention to the details, and take the time to ensure your clothes are tailored to fit you, that they are clean and pressed, with no missing buttons, etc. By keeping it simple with great looking clothing, a man ensures that he is the one getting all the attention and not the clothing.

5. Suits can be tricky when it comes to fit. What are some things to keep in mind when it comes to finding the perfect fit? (Dress shirts, suit jackets, hem line for pants)

A: Take your time and do your research by trying several garments on. A great suit should look great in the mirror as well as feel great on with the least amount of tailoring to achieve that. Garments are much slimmer fitting today than only a year or two ago. Look for the lapels to lay flat across the chest. Have a clean drape across the shoulders, the back and down. The waist should be suppressed but not too tight. Sleeves should show a hint (¼”) of the shirt cuff. Pants should be slim and hemmed with only a slight break, not too long. When purchasing a new suit, complete the entire outfit. It breaks my heart when I see men buy a beautiful new suit, shirt and tie and then fail to finish it off with a nice new pair of shoes and a matching belt.

Holt Renfrew’s Sanders Yee’s top 5 Do’s and Don’t(s) for fall

1: Do be honest with yourself. Take a good look in the mirror and wear clothing that suits your body type. Especially with styles that are slimmer fitting, it is important to choose well according to your body type.

2: Don’t try too hard. Look for a style that suits you and your lifestyle. The most important person you should dress to impress is yourself.

3: Do put your looks together and make sure you are taking into account the entire look and that they work together. Great style is an overall look.

4: Do dress for the occasion. Slightly overdressed is always better than under dressed, even though dress codes have relaxed considerably over the years.

5: Do find yourself a great associate no matter where you shop that can guide you to those special pieces you may never find on your own. Someone who can keep you up to date on new arrivals, promotions and ensure you is invited to events.

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Amy Yew is a contributing columnist at Vancouver Courier. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to amyvancouvercourier@gmail.com. You can also tweet your thoughts on Twitter @AmyYew.