Sunday, June 29, 2014
Pret-a-Porter or Ready-to-Wear Clothing—Ever so Popular!
Imagine how hassle-free it would be not to go scouring around temperamental tailors! Imagine the relief from worrying about whether the stitch and cut is as you desire. The answer to all these woes of tailored clothes are ready-to-wear or prêt-à-porter garments. Stitched clothing sold in finished condition, in standardised sizes!
Such ready-to-wear clothing available in a number of sizes has helped women, as well as men, become conscious about their fitness and shape as they are manufactured in set specific, standardised sizes.
The convenience of pret-a-porter is unmatched. You can buy it off a rack even an hour before you need to wear it and there’s a staggering variety to choose from. You also get exactly what you see.
However, in case of pret-a-porter, it is important to be able to tell the difference between substandard, off-the-rack garments churned out by machines in factories by the hundreds and quality brand garments which pay attention to the slightest of details.
Reputed brands like Cotton & Cotton offer a sale on ready to wear men’s and women’s clothing this Ramazaan and Eid. Log onto ccshirts.com to view our range of chic women’s wear. Visit our outlets in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad and Multan to choose from men’s kurtas on sale. Take the convenience of pret-a-porter to another level by shopping online from the Cotton & Cotton e-store and have your Eid garments delivered to your doorstep.
Such ready-to-wear clothing available in a number of sizes has helped women, as well as men, become conscious about their fitness and shape as they are manufactured in set specific, standardised sizes.
The convenience of pret-a-porter is unmatched. You can buy it off a rack even an hour before you need to wear it and there’s a staggering variety to choose from. You also get exactly what you see.
However, in case of pret-a-porter, it is important to be able to tell the difference between substandard, off-the-rack garments churned out by machines in factories by the hundreds and quality brand garments which pay attention to the slightest of details.
Reputed brands like Cotton & Cotton offer a sale on ready to wear men’s and women’s clothing this Ramazaan and Eid. Log onto ccshirts.com to view our range of chic women’s wear. Visit our outlets in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad and Multan to choose from men’s kurtas on sale. Take the convenience of pret-a-porter to another level by shopping online from the Cotton & Cotton e-store and have your Eid garments delivered to your doorstep.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
The Qualities of a Casual Shirt
Formal shirts may be reserved for those special occasions but it is casual shirts which are part of your day to day wardrobe. They are ideal for traveling or relaxing over the weekend. Thus it is essential not to compromise on the quality of casual shirts your purchase because they need to give you comfort, style as well as last you longer. Here’s a checklist of qualities you should keep in mind when buying a superior quality casual shirt.
The Ideal Fabric:
Cotton is a favorite fabric to make casual shirts because the softness and breathable quality of cotton makes it ideal to relax.Colors are also more defined and brighter on high quality cotton as compared to synthetics so it gives you a wide range of color options and offer relief from the formal or business attire you might wear to work. The high quality 2 ply Egyptian cotton fabrics used in Cotton & Cotton casual shirts give you all these assets.Comfortable Collar and Soft Cuffs:
An ideal casual shirt features a soft,button down collar with lighter weight, removable collar bones giving you just the right size and shape for a relaxed and casual look along with soft cuffs which can be easily rolled up.A Practical Pocket:
Casual shirts are functional and having a breast pocket helps you keep be practical. However, superior quality casual shirts like those available at Cotton & Cotton have pockets sewn so expertly that they don’t break the symmetry of the shirt.Log onto ccshirts.com and view the sale on Cotton & Cotton’s range of regular fit cotton shirts.
Monday, June 16, 2014
How to tell if it’s a Genuine Silk Tie
Ties of polyester, microfiber, cotton, satin or linen may have come as a cheaper option but there is certainly nothing like a genuine silk tie.
Silk ties are season less, because the method in which pure silk is fashioned is also something which has permeated seasons and generations. Made intricately from the cocoons of silk worms for over 5000 years, silk remains a fashion statement and a symbol of exclusive luxury.
Apart from its exclusivity is its inimitable look. The drape of the silk fabric as well as its gloss is what makes it stand out from imitations. A superior quality silk tie, like those available on ccshirts.com or at the Cotton & Cotton outlets, will have no loose threads, runs or bumps. Run your fingers along the fabric to determine the tightness of the weave and feel its texture.
Hold the tie up from one end, it should not twist and turn. This tells you whether the silk was cut on bias. Turn the tie over. In a genuine silk of the highest quality there should not be any visible threads and the folds/rolls should be of the same width on each edge.
From single colored, textured, two-toned, checkered to striped and patterned genuine silk ties, log onto ccshirts.com. Avail our exclusive sale on select ties and buy online to have the tie of your choice delivered to your doorstep.
Apart from its exclusivity is its inimitable look. The drape of the silk fabric as well as its gloss is what makes it stand out from imitations. A superior quality silk tie, like those available on ccshirts.com or at the Cotton & Cotton outlets, will have no loose threads, runs or bumps. Run your fingers along the fabric to determine the tightness of the weave and feel its texture.
Hold the tie up from one end, it should not twist and turn. This tells you whether the silk was cut on bias. Turn the tie over. In a genuine silk of the highest quality there should not be any visible threads and the folds/rolls should be of the same width on each edge.
From single colored, textured, two-toned, checkered to striped and patterned genuine silk ties, log onto ccshirts.com. Avail our exclusive sale on select ties and buy online to have the tie of your choice delivered to your doorstep.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Taking Care of Silk Ties
Silk ties are a style icon known and loved for their superior quality, drape and glossy finish. The purchase of a genuine silk tie from a reputed brand like Cotton & Cotton comes with the responsibility of taking care of this luxury accessory. The fabric requires special attention while cleaning, packing and pressing to maintain its exceptional form and colour.
Here are a few tips every silk tie owner must be aware of to ensure the long life of his ties:
1. Always untie your ties after you are done wearing them as leaving knots will crease the fabric and form permanently. Hang them loosely as folding them will leave wrinkles.
2. When packing to travel hang silk ties in a garment bag. You can also fold the tie into four and gently slide it in the breast pocket of a suit. Make sure they are the first thing to unpack and hang overnight to allow the wrinkles to be smoothed away.
3. Only hand wash silk neckties gently with a mild liquid laundry soap. Make sure you do not wring it. Hang the tie to dry.
4. Dry cleaning silk ties is a big risk as that would subject the silk fabric to harsh chemicals.It will also cause the beautifully rolled edges to go flat when the dry cleaners press the tie.
5. When dining with a silk tie, tuck a napkin in your shirt collar. However, in case of stains dab talcum powder or corn starch on the stained portion and leave it overnight on the tie before brushing it off.
6. Ironing may also scorch or discolor silk ties. The best appliance to use to press silk ties is a hand steamer which should be used once every two months. An alternative is hanging ties in the bathroom during a hot shower. If ironing is unavoidable, place a towel beneath the silk tie and cover it with a slightly damp towel and iron at the lowest temperature. Let the towels dry before lifting them from the tie.
7. Tie clips leave holes and disfigure the tie. You can try inserting the tie tack on the back of your tie through the label to keep it in place.
Relish years of elegance with your branded silk ties from Cotton & Cotton with proper care of these prized items. View our wide and exclusive collection of genuine silk ties at ccshirts.com.
Here are a few tips every silk tie owner must be aware of to ensure the long life of his ties:
1. Always untie your ties after you are done wearing them as leaving knots will crease the fabric and form permanently. Hang them loosely as folding them will leave wrinkles.
2. When packing to travel hang silk ties in a garment bag. You can also fold the tie into four and gently slide it in the breast pocket of a suit. Make sure they are the first thing to unpack and hang overnight to allow the wrinkles to be smoothed away.
3. Only hand wash silk neckties gently with a mild liquid laundry soap. Make sure you do not wring it. Hang the tie to dry.
4. Dry cleaning silk ties is a big risk as that would subject the silk fabric to harsh chemicals.It will also cause the beautifully rolled edges to go flat when the dry cleaners press the tie.
5. When dining with a silk tie, tuck a napkin in your shirt collar. However, in case of stains dab talcum powder or corn starch on the stained portion and leave it overnight on the tie before brushing it off.
6. Ironing may also scorch or discolor silk ties. The best appliance to use to press silk ties is a hand steamer which should be used once every two months. An alternative is hanging ties in the bathroom during a hot shower. If ironing is unavoidable, place a towel beneath the silk tie and cover it with a slightly damp towel and iron at the lowest temperature. Let the towels dry before lifting them from the tie.
7. Tie clips leave holes and disfigure the tie. You can try inserting the tie tack on the back of your tie through the label to keep it in place.
Relish years of elegance with your branded silk ties from Cotton & Cotton with proper care of these prized items. View our wide and exclusive collection of genuine silk ties at ccshirts.com.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
When to Wear Cufflinks!
Cuff links may seem to be doing the job of replacing buttons in holding a shirt’s cuffs around a
man’s wrists, so one might wonder why wear them in the first place?
The simple reason is to render that touch of class and elegance. Men have limited accessories
options and cufflinks present you the possibility to dressing yourself up. They are even dubbed
jewelry for the shirt!
But men of class know exactly which occasion calls for cufflinks. You might consider wearing
them at work and socially, yet, you can’t do so all the time. If you are the CEO or Managing
Director of high-profile company then wearing cufflinks habitually as a sign of power may seem
appropriate. Yet, simple button-down shirts with buttoned cuffs are the norm in day-to-day
office wear. Cufflinks is a good idea when you have a high-powered meeting to attend or you are
participating in a conference. It conveys that you’ve made an effort to prepare for an occasion.
Socially, choosing to wear cufflinks instead of boring buttons for formal events like galas, weddings, receptions and parties is a smart idea. No matter what social or professional setting you wear cufflinks to, make sure they are classy and not tacky or loud. Cufflinks should serve to compliment a gentleman’s apparel and appearance.
Choose from the range of exclusive cufflinks available online on ccshirts.com or visit our outlets in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad and Multan.
Socially, choosing to wear cufflinks instead of boring buttons for formal events like galas, weddings, receptions and parties is a smart idea. No matter what social or professional setting you wear cufflinks to, make sure they are classy and not tacky or loud. Cufflinks should serve to compliment a gentleman’s apparel and appearance.
Choose from the range of exclusive cufflinks available online on ccshirts.com or visit our outlets in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad and Multan.
Monday, May 19, 2014
Why Gentlemen Men Love Cotton & Cotton Striped Shirts?
Do striped shirts ever go out of fashion? The answer is, most definitely, ‘No’!
There are so many qualities a striped shirt brings to a gentleman’s persona. It makes one look lean and tall, flattering every physique—it perfectly accents a well-toned body and gives a lankier stance to those who have a stubby or heavy built.
The Versatility of Striped Shirts:
Striped shirts add that subtle zing to a man’s wardrobe. It is so much more voguish than a plain colored shirt but not as flamboyant as a checked one.
Wear it over trousers, couple it with a tie or make it the foundation to a suit-- striped shirts always give you a reason to wear them, no matter what the occasion.
At Cotton & Cotton there’s an assortment of awning striped, Bengal striped, dress striped, hairline striped and multi-colour striped shirts to choose from for every kind of man. Fairer men can carry off striped pink, blue, purple and light green shirts while those with tanned skin tones can opt for deeper tones in striped shirts. For those whose skin colour falls in between, just any color of striped shirts will go.
Rules about Striped Shirts and Ties:
It might be a common perception that ties go well with single colored shirts but coupling ties with striped shirts is much more fun. There is nothing like the look of a gold tie over a classic blue striped shirt but here are a few rules every gentleman must know when wearing a tie to work over a striped shirt.
Rule 1: Solid colored ties look dashing with striped shirts! Choose a tie from the ccshirts collection which coordinates with the most prominent colour of your striped shirt.
Rule 2: When wearing a striped tie with a striped shirt make sure the scales of the stripes are different on both. You should opt for a thick-striped shirt with a thin-striped tie or vice versa and make sure the stripes of your shirt and tie run in different directions.
Log onto the ccshirts e-store to buy from a wide range of men’s shirts, including a range of striped Italian Cotton Shirts, at a sensational 30% sale.
There are so many qualities a striped shirt brings to a gentleman’s persona. It makes one look lean and tall, flattering every physique—it perfectly accents a well-toned body and gives a lankier stance to those who have a stubby or heavy built.
The Versatility of Striped Shirts:
Striped shirts add that subtle zing to a man’s wardrobe. It is so much more voguish than a plain colored shirt but not as flamboyant as a checked one.
Wear it over trousers, couple it with a tie or make it the foundation to a suit-- striped shirts always give you a reason to wear them, no matter what the occasion.
At Cotton & Cotton there’s an assortment of awning striped, Bengal striped, dress striped, hairline striped and multi-colour striped shirts to choose from for every kind of man. Fairer men can carry off striped pink, blue, purple and light green shirts while those with tanned skin tones can opt for deeper tones in striped shirts. For those whose skin colour falls in between, just any color of striped shirts will go.
Rules about Striped Shirts and Ties:
It might be a common perception that ties go well with single colored shirts but coupling ties with striped shirts is much more fun. There is nothing like the look of a gold tie over a classic blue striped shirt but here are a few rules every gentleman must know when wearing a tie to work over a striped shirt.Rule 1: Solid colored ties look dashing with striped shirts! Choose a tie from the ccshirts collection which coordinates with the most prominent colour of your striped shirt.
Rule 2: When wearing a striped tie with a striped shirt make sure the scales of the stripes are different on both. You should opt for a thick-striped shirt with a thin-striped tie or vice versa and make sure the stripes of your shirt and tie run in different directions.
Log onto the ccshirts e-store to buy from a wide range of men’s shirts, including a range of striped Italian Cotton Shirts, at a sensational 30% sale.
Cotton & Cotton Mega Sale to Kick Off Summer
The summer heat has struck! It’s time to don breathable and superior quality cotton garments to let you enjoy the balmy summer months. Start off this summer season with a Mega Sale which promises you your money’s worth! Shop for premium quality men's and women’s wear at Cotton & Cotton outlets. It’s surely a genuine sale if you get branded Cotton & Cotton apparel upto a staggering 50% off.From formal and summer shirts, to kurtas, ties, accessories and trendy women’s kurtas—it’s all up for grabs at generously slashed prices at Cotton & Cotton. This is because we at ccshirts believe that luxury apparel is something everyone should be able to afford and treat themselves to.
When you buy an outfit from a reputed brand like Cotton & Cotton it’s, undoubtedly, an investment in the long run. The superior quality fabric will never fray or fade and no stitch will come undone. The styles are evergreen and keep you looking your best.
So begin this summer’s shopping spree at Cotton & Cotton’s Mega Sale and let luxury become your way of life.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
‘Like’ Cotton & Cotton on Facebook and get 10%!
This is the reason why the Cotton & Cotton Facebook page is administered 24/7 and its overwhelming following directly reflects its popularity. Now you too can simply ‘like’ Cotton & Cotton on Facebook or share the Cotton & Cotton website on Facebook to avail a coupon which will immediately entitle you to get 10% on its entire catalogue. Carry the coupon to any one of our fleet of stores in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan to benefit from this offer or shop online from our e-store.
Facebook’s two-way communication mode is aptly in sync with Cotton & Cotton’s philosophy of exchanging feedback and interacting with its loyal clientele who have come to bank on ccshirts for only the very best in luxury apparel. Recognizing today’s customer’s need to remain active consumers and never compromising on what they truly desire, Cotton & Cotton looks to help customers achieve self-actualization through our interactive Facebook page.
Sale on Women’s Wear range on Cotton & Cotton
The summer heatwave has struck and the modern eastern woman is ready to shop for a brand new, light and airy wardrobe to take on the summer heat and still look her most dazzling.Cotton & Cotton’s summer bonanza includes a remarkable sale of upto 30% off on freshly arrived women’s wear. This incredible range of eastern kurtas for women is now up for grabs at a phenomenally slashed price for just above Rs 2000. Now where would you get a designer wear dress in that range?
Log onto ccshirts.com and view the range of eastern kurtas for women in lovely summer shades as well as classic whites and blacks. Each kurta is chicly embroidered with that perfect balance of embellishment to help the woman of class look effortlessly graceful. The cuts and fall drape your body to give your breathable summer wear.
Visit us at Cotton & Cotton outlets at Dolmen Mall, Tariq Road, Karachi, M. Alam Road, Lahore or Sitara Mall, Faisalabad. Or beat the blistering Pakistani heat by simply logging onto our e-store to have the eastern outfit of your choice delivered to your doorstep.
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Refer a Friend to Cotton & Cotton for Classic White Shirts at only Rs. 990
A classic white shirt is a must-have for any gentleman’s wardrobe. You simply can’t have enough of this piece. Worn with a suit or over finest denim jeans-- a classic white shirt succeeds in exuding refined class.
On purchase of a superior quality classic white Cotton & Cotton shirt for only Rs. 990 our loyal customers will be offered a coupon to refer to friends. Get as many coupons as you want. The more friends who walk into Cotton & Cotton at your referral and buy a Rs. 990 shirt-- the more classic white shirts you can get for the same price.
Make sure you avail this spectacular offer to add more premium quality Cotton & Cotton shirts to your wardrobe. This tantalizing offer is valid for pre-orders and your shirt will be delivered just 3 weeks after purchase.
Cotton & Cotton apparel remains a brand ideal for occasions which really matter.
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Exclusive Winter Sale at COTTON & COTTON
The winter chill fills the air
and its time for the snug coats, warm suits and shirts to come out. With winter
comes its very own wardrobe and investing in superior quality winter wear is
always a wise move especially if you are looking for formal winter wear.
This winter, COTTON & COTTON offers a sale of upto 50% in all its stores and online purchases.
A sale at a lifestyle brand like COTTON & COTTON—which is a
trendsetter in luxury men’s apparel-- is like no other. COTTON & COTTON
ensures that its finest creations are available to those who appreciate the finer
things in life and treasure exclusivity.
Enjoy our exclusive winter sale of upto 50% off on items in all 11 COTTON & COTTON stores
in major cities of Pakistan
as well on our convenient online store. We will deliver ready-to-wear men’s wear
to your doorstep in every part of the world and you can enjoy free shipping on
all online orders nationwide.
For the past 20 years COTTON& COTTON owes its consistent success to the fact that it has its finger
on the pulse of changing men’s fashion. Stemming from the desire to innovate
and appease its coterie of elite clients who expect nothing but the best from COTTON& COTTON, we have introduced the exceptional Customize Your Shirt
option to our loyal clientele. You can now choose your shirt colour, size,
fabric, collar, cuff and pocket style, as well as your price range online and
design your very own shirt which we will have stitched for you.
Shopping from a brand like COTTON& COTTON, with its excellent craftsmanship, quality, service and value
means buying yourself a coat, shirt, trousers, tie or accessory to last
you a lifetime.
Sunday, September 1, 2013
You have joined a bank and are investing in a wardrobe. Here are some useful tips for getting the most of your clothes.
Mubarakbad on your new job – and seeing the importance of dressing well
and of course taking time out and thinking about your clothes as
otherwise you would not have been reading this piece of advise from me. Yes, if you take care of your clothes, they will last you longer and
look better on you. A little effort on your part increases the life of
your clothes and does not cost much.
A clean suit
Dry cleaning and chemicals go hand in hand and hence should be restricted to not more than once a season. A dry cleaner who knows his business can spot –cleans small accidents and hand press the suit to refresh and bring it to shape.
Lint brush at the end of the day removes surface dust, hair and dirt.
Mix it up
All clothes like all other things in life have a certain life span and the life span of clothing is determined by how many washes it will withstand. So to increase the life of your clothing it is advisable to avoid wearing them on consecutive days. A man’s wardrobe should consist of five seasonally appropriate suits and a couple of jackets in rotation.By the Neck
Ties should be always untied and never pulled. Hang your ties from their midpoint on tie racks as this will relax the inner lining and the tie will reacquire its original condition.If the shirt fits
Careless laundering, starch and very hot water are responsible for our clothing’s short span. Shirts should be laundered at home and hanged in a shaded place, inside out and ironed while still damp. Collar stays give firmness to the collars and provide the ideal framing of your tie but should be removed before laundering or dry cleaning.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
COTTON & COTTON is set to open the doors to a new boutique at Dolmen City Mall Karachi
A fresh arabian breeze has settled on the karachi beach at Dolmen City Mall. As part of its strategic retail rollout, COTTON & COTTON has opened doors to a new boutique on the third floor of Dolmen City Mall in Karachi.
Owned by Alam Najiullah, C&C collection epitomizes the culture and spirit of the classic saville row with a flurry of cool designs for the young and trendy.
The C&C's 800 sq. ft area is the latest luxury player to enter this upscale shopping, dining and entertaintment venue, which has successfully captured the dynamism of the karachites. COTTON & COTTON is proud to be part of Karachi's rich and diverse retail scene.
Boasting a next generation retail concept, the new boutique channels the inimitable jermyn street spirit that has made COTTON & COTTON country's most distinguished life style brand. Natural wood floors, white washed walls, and a clear glass creates an airy, intitmate environment, much in line with the upmarket spirit of the Mall.
Within the well appointed boutique, clients will find C&C's entire range of men's wear collection. Known for its stylish, beautifully made clothing at once, of the moment and timeless, COTTON & COTTON is confident, Karachites will overwhelmingly gravtiate to its easy, luxurious and colorful approach to elegant men's wear
Sunday, August 25, 2013
ALAM NAJIULLAH
Over the last 21 years, first-time entrepreneur Syed Alam Najiullah has steadily turned COTTON & COTTON that began due to a NO from a tailor at Tariq Road into a next generation fashion company. But the path from Karachi’s tailoring unit to Toronto’s fashion scene was anything but linear. Along the way, Alam experimented with a number of different models, making a series of strategic pivots some more successful than others.
‘Many have done far better than me in far shorter periods of time, but that was not my story says Alam Najiullah. It was brick by brick, client by client, store by store. It’s been a trip of passion, but it has not been a quick trip. Nor has it been easy. And that is the truth’. The designer is the gold standard in high-end men’s formal wear, worn by everyone from Presidents to Broadway Shows actors in New York City. He’s a powerhouse entrepreneur who has grown a single tailoring unit into a fashion and lifestyle empire that spans a wide range of product segments – from a US $650 shirt to ready to wear – at price points that stretch from luxury to mass market.
“I wear many hats,” he says. “I have to be a promoter, a designer, a costumer of movie stars and celebrities, and a businessman,” says Alam, who heads both the business and creative sides of the company. “When you throw all of that into one bag, it’s a rough day. I love it, though.”
Alam was born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. His father was a journalist of repute and a close confident of Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. “I think, in a way, watching him write influenced me subliminally,” says Alam. Since it was the era of Bhutto who was himself immaculately dressed and had made all around him love clothes so Alam got his education in fashion by watching the movers and shakers from close quarters.
At an early age, Alam fell in love with cars and bikes but a near death accident due to which he lost his eye, broke his passion for racing and speed. “When you fall down — which you have to [do] if you want to learn to be a racer — you pick yourself right up and start again. You don’t let anything deter you,” he notes. “Oddly enough, it’s strangely like fashion — you have a limited amount of time in which to get a point of view across.”
With his racing days behind him, Alam turned to fashion. “I thought maybe I could go to design school but then decided in favor of the most illustrious of business schools in Pakistan, the IBA. At IBA, it was strategy that was his passion whereas the designer within him kept him at work. Clothes attracted him and volumes and volumes of GQ’s and Esquires prompted him to search for tailors who could emulate the images of his favorite images but to no avail. Until one day a tailor who after hours and hours of coaching and teaching by Alam suddenly boiled up and challenged him to do it himself. Alam took the challenge and initiated his successful venture and called it COTTON & COTTON.
In 1992, Alam opened his own men’s boutique. COTTON & COTTON started from a small locality and certainly not known for fashion was termed as atrocious by many “Because I didn’t come from a retail garment background, I think I brought fashion to the men’s fashion industry,” he says. “I was fearless because I really didn’t know any better.”
Alam has since pushed the boundaries of menswear. “[I] try to bring edginess to a traditional business,” he says. His most recent collection, for example, blends a traditional with a local palette. “[I] take a lot of stylistic and visual and intellectual liberties with the concept of a shirt. Every season, I try to change it — and that demand I put on myself is enormous. It’s painful.”
‘Many have done far better than me in far shorter periods of time, but that was not my story says Alam Najiullah. It was brick by brick, client by client, store by store. It’s been a trip of passion, but it has not been a quick trip. Nor has it been easy. And that is the truth’. The designer is the gold standard in high-end men’s formal wear, worn by everyone from Presidents to Broadway Shows actors in New York City. He’s a powerhouse entrepreneur who has grown a single tailoring unit into a fashion and lifestyle empire that spans a wide range of product segments – from a US $650 shirt to ready to wear – at price points that stretch from luxury to mass market.
“I wear many hats,” he says. “I have to be a promoter, a designer, a costumer of movie stars and celebrities, and a businessman,” says Alam, who heads both the business and creative sides of the company. “When you throw all of that into one bag, it’s a rough day. I love it, though.”
Alam was born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. His father was a journalist of repute and a close confident of Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. “I think, in a way, watching him write influenced me subliminally,” says Alam. Since it was the era of Bhutto who was himself immaculately dressed and had made all around him love clothes so Alam got his education in fashion by watching the movers and shakers from close quarters.
At an early age, Alam fell in love with cars and bikes but a near death accident due to which he lost his eye, broke his passion for racing and speed. “When you fall down — which you have to [do] if you want to learn to be a racer — you pick yourself right up and start again. You don’t let anything deter you,” he notes. “Oddly enough, it’s strangely like fashion — you have a limited amount of time in which to get a point of view across.”
With his racing days behind him, Alam turned to fashion. “I thought maybe I could go to design school but then decided in favor of the most illustrious of business schools in Pakistan, the IBA. At IBA, it was strategy that was his passion whereas the designer within him kept him at work. Clothes attracted him and volumes and volumes of GQ’s and Esquires prompted him to search for tailors who could emulate the images of his favorite images but to no avail. Until one day a tailor who after hours and hours of coaching and teaching by Alam suddenly boiled up and challenged him to do it himself. Alam took the challenge and initiated his successful venture and called it COTTON & COTTON.
In 1992, Alam opened his own men’s boutique. COTTON & COTTON started from a small locality and certainly not known for fashion was termed as atrocious by many “Because I didn’t come from a retail garment background, I think I brought fashion to the men’s fashion industry,” he says. “I was fearless because I really didn’t know any better.”
Alam has since pushed the boundaries of menswear. “[I] try to bring edginess to a traditional business,” he says. His most recent collection, for example, blends a traditional with a local palette. “[I] take a lot of stylistic and visual and intellectual liberties with the concept of a shirt. Every season, I try to change it — and that demand I put on myself is enormous. It’s painful.”
Sunday, August 4, 2013
All ‘Tied’ up with COTTON & COTTON Ties
It's a small thing-- a long piece of cloth worn for decorative purposes around the neck or shoulders, resting under the shirt collar and knotted at the throat. But it’s these details which make an inherently classy and stylish gentleman stand out from a ‘wannabe’.
When you're sporting a tie, you can pretty much gain entry anywhere --whether you're suiting up for the office or getting decked up for a formal evening-- a tie allows you to bring together the disparate elements of your wardrobe with a touch of texture or complementary color. It completes the most elite of suits and adds veneer to a casual dress shirt. If you learn to do it correctly—balance the width of the tie against your lapels and shirt collar, find a knot that fits your face—you'll have dressing right all tied up.
The Tie is the first thing people notice about your outfit, so the fashion connoisseurs at COTTON & COTTON will help introduce you to the finest ties, how they should be worn and cared for.
COTTON & COTTON ties-- patterned and plain; subtle and vivid-- do not stand apart from or clash with your chosen outfit. The superior ties from COTTON & COTTON are meant to speak to the rest of your outfit—may it be C&C’s Italian woven suits or its twoply cotton shirts.
Sporting a tie must be done with exactitude and finesse. A gentleman’s tie is very different from the one worn carelessly by school boys. No matter what your height, the tip of your COTTON & COTTON tie should hit right at your beltline. Also, narrow ties are ‘in’ yet not super-skinny. Ideally, a tie should be about two and a quarter to two and three-quarter inches at its widest point. This thinner width works both at the office and on the town, syncing up with any modern-cut suit.
Even though there are umpteen ways to knot a tie—from Ascot, to Prince Albert; from Nicky to the Pratt knot-- yet contemporary fashion experts deem the four-in-hand as ‘in’. It's neither too big nor too small nor too perfectly triangular. It's natural and elegant, and it works with every collar, from a spread to a point.
The cherry on top is the dimple in your tie--When you're almost done tying your tie, press your thumb against your index finger just beneath the knot, so the fabric forms a crease. Pull down the narrow end of the tie to tighten the dimple, and slide up the knot. Finesse either side of the dimple to accentuate the fold and set it in place.
As far as patterns and colors go--a solid dark tie with a white or light-color shirt is an unbeatably classy combination for work and formal events. Every man should own a solid navy, burgundy or gray COTTON & COTTON tie in his everyday wardrobe. The solid coloured high quality ties from COTTON & COTTON are always very striking and elegant and will never ripple or shadow.
Stripes are the next best thing to solid coloured ties--if you only have a few ties, opt for bold and simple patterns; choose repp stripes or our various styles of diagonal stripes.If you are looking for something a little more stylish, opt for astonishing high-tech grays and blacks. These make for extremely rich styles when matched with a similar toned shirt, a well-tailored suit and quality shoes.
At COTTON & COTTON we encourage you to be different and original. If you wish to be trendy and bold with your tie choice, make sure it’s with a superior quality COTTON & COTTON tie. Coordinated with a well-cut COTTON & COTTON suit, trendy shoes and the right overall look, it can be a great way to show off your outgoing personality.
Quality ties like those at C&C are cut across the fabric allowing the tie to fall straightforward after the knot has been tied. They do not curl when you put it across your hand. Match your ties to your C&C suiting fabrics— cotton ties with cotton suits in summer, wool ties with wool suits in winter.
A supreme and exclusive tie bought from COTTON & COTTON needs to be cared for. Each time you remove your tie, untie the knot by reversing the method used to tie the tie. Do not pull the small end of your tie through the knot. Do not leave the tie knotted, as it will permanently crease the fabric. After removing, hang the tie on a tie rack or drape them around the collar of the coat. To remove wrinkles, usually it is enough to place the tie on its tie rack overnight. If that doesn’t work, rollup the tie, small end first and let it sit for a day. Finally, you may steam the tie. When traveling, pack your ties by rolling, starting with small end first or carefully fold into 4 sections. Unpack upon arrival and hang your ties in the bathroom while you shower. The steam will help remove slight wrinkles.
The versatile and classic collection of ties at COTTON & COTTON can match most of your shirts and suits. Whether a tie is a part of your everyday work garb or you only handpick a few for those special occasions, the superior ties from COTTON & COTTON are a smart investment and worth every dime you pay for their unsurpassed quality.
When you're sporting a tie, you can pretty much gain entry anywhere --whether you're suiting up for the office or getting decked up for a formal evening-- a tie allows you to bring together the disparate elements of your wardrobe with a touch of texture or complementary color. It completes the most elite of suits and adds veneer to a casual dress shirt. If you learn to do it correctly—balance the width of the tie against your lapels and shirt collar, find a knot that fits your face—you'll have dressing right all tied up.
The Tie is the first thing people notice about your outfit, so the fashion connoisseurs at COTTON & COTTON will help introduce you to the finest ties, how they should be worn and cared for.
COTTON & COTTON ties-- patterned and plain; subtle and vivid-- do not stand apart from or clash with your chosen outfit. The superior ties from COTTON & COTTON are meant to speak to the rest of your outfit—may it be C&C’s Italian woven suits or its twoply cotton shirts.
Sporting a tie must be done with exactitude and finesse. A gentleman’s tie is very different from the one worn carelessly by school boys. No matter what your height, the tip of your COTTON & COTTON tie should hit right at your beltline. Also, narrow ties are ‘in’ yet not super-skinny. Ideally, a tie should be about two and a quarter to two and three-quarter inches at its widest point. This thinner width works both at the office and on the town, syncing up with any modern-cut suit.
Even though there are umpteen ways to knot a tie—from Ascot, to Prince Albert; from Nicky to the Pratt knot-- yet contemporary fashion experts deem the four-in-hand as ‘in’. It's neither too big nor too small nor too perfectly triangular. It's natural and elegant, and it works with every collar, from a spread to a point.
The cherry on top is the dimple in your tie--When you're almost done tying your tie, press your thumb against your index finger just beneath the knot, so the fabric forms a crease. Pull down the narrow end of the tie to tighten the dimple, and slide up the knot. Finesse either side of the dimple to accentuate the fold and set it in place.
As far as patterns and colors go--a solid dark tie with a white or light-color shirt is an unbeatably classy combination for work and formal events. Every man should own a solid navy, burgundy or gray COTTON & COTTON tie in his everyday wardrobe. The solid coloured high quality ties from COTTON & COTTON are always very striking and elegant and will never ripple or shadow.
Stripes are the next best thing to solid coloured ties--if you only have a few ties, opt for bold and simple patterns; choose repp stripes or our various styles of diagonal stripes.If you are looking for something a little more stylish, opt for astonishing high-tech grays and blacks. These make for extremely rich styles when matched with a similar toned shirt, a well-tailored suit and quality shoes.
At COTTON & COTTON we encourage you to be different and original. If you wish to be trendy and bold with your tie choice, make sure it’s with a superior quality COTTON & COTTON tie. Coordinated with a well-cut COTTON & COTTON suit, trendy shoes and the right overall look, it can be a great way to show off your outgoing personality.
Quality ties like those at C&C are cut across the fabric allowing the tie to fall straightforward after the knot has been tied. They do not curl when you put it across your hand. Match your ties to your C&C suiting fabrics— cotton ties with cotton suits in summer, wool ties with wool suits in winter.
A supreme and exclusive tie bought from COTTON & COTTON needs to be cared for. Each time you remove your tie, untie the knot by reversing the method used to tie the tie. Do not pull the small end of your tie through the knot. Do not leave the tie knotted, as it will permanently crease the fabric. After removing, hang the tie on a tie rack or drape them around the collar of the coat. To remove wrinkles, usually it is enough to place the tie on its tie rack overnight. If that doesn’t work, rollup the tie, small end first and let it sit for a day. Finally, you may steam the tie. When traveling, pack your ties by rolling, starting with small end first or carefully fold into 4 sections. Unpack upon arrival and hang your ties in the bathroom while you shower. The steam will help remove slight wrinkles.
The versatile and classic collection of ties at COTTON & COTTON can match most of your shirts and suits. Whether a tie is a part of your everyday work garb or you only handpick a few for those special occasions, the superior ties from COTTON & COTTON are a smart investment and worth every dime you pay for their unsurpassed quality.
Friday, August 2, 2013
COTTON & COTTON Suits—The Mark of a Well-Dressed Man!
Whether your work requires you to be suited and look your best at all times or your social life calls for evenings which require you to don the dark suit; whether you want to be the archetypal modern groom in a suit or wish to woo the woman of your choice looking dapper—COTTON & COTTON is ‘the’ place to buy the best quality suits woven in Italy.
Fashion experts unanimously agree that the suit is the basic building block of looking good. It's a timeless and ever adaptable piece of clothing which every gentleman must have.
The complete contemporary man understands what it takes to carry a suit with poise and class. The modern suit is not overdone—rather it compliments the smart, confident and thoroughly put together man who wears it. He makes a statement by not trying so hard to make one. Yes, the trimness of the suit and elegance of the details is vital yet the streamlined simplicity and perfect crafted suit brings out a man’s personality.
A good suit jacket should skim your shoulders and not hang off them and have a perfect width in the sleeves. The jacket should nip in at the waist, and be long enough to cover your backside. Your trousers should be trim, and hemmed properly. An overly roomy suit makes one look sloppy and short.
The lapel of the suit bestows it character--a slim one, about two inches at its widest point is the modern way. A lower button stance in the jacket—may it be two-button or three-button--makes the torso look lean and tapered.
Your suit sleeves should end just above the hinges of your wrists, so a quarter to half inch of shirt cuff shows. The vent at the back is integral to the jacket’s character-- a center vent is popular and unobtrusive and keeps the lines of the suit clean and simple. Side vents are more of a fashion statement.
The flat-front pants of suits, cut slim with very little break at the ankle, clipping the top of your shoes give a long, clean look.
At COTTON & COTTON our expert tailors take your size to perfection so that when you wear your suit jacket there is a firmness to it which moulds your form and contours your body. It makes you snap to attention and stand taller.
Every season calls for a timely suit—it’s sensible to reach for COTTON & COTTON heavier, warmer fabrics in the cooler climate and our lightweight cotton suiting is ideal when it's hot and humid. For an elegant, formal look all the year around, make the exclusive COTTON & COTTON suits your fashionable choice.
Fashion experts unanimously agree that the suit is the basic building block of looking good. It's a timeless and ever adaptable piece of clothing which every gentleman must have.
The complete contemporary man understands what it takes to carry a suit with poise and class. The modern suit is not overdone—rather it compliments the smart, confident and thoroughly put together man who wears it. He makes a statement by not trying so hard to make one. Yes, the trimness of the suit and elegance of the details is vital yet the streamlined simplicity and perfect crafted suit brings out a man’s personality.
A good suit jacket should skim your shoulders and not hang off them and have a perfect width in the sleeves. The jacket should nip in at the waist, and be long enough to cover your backside. Your trousers should be trim, and hemmed properly. An overly roomy suit makes one look sloppy and short.
The lapel of the suit bestows it character--a slim one, about two inches at its widest point is the modern way. A lower button stance in the jacket—may it be two-button or three-button--makes the torso look lean and tapered.
Your suit sleeves should end just above the hinges of your wrists, so a quarter to half inch of shirt cuff shows. The vent at the back is integral to the jacket’s character-- a center vent is popular and unobtrusive and keeps the lines of the suit clean and simple. Side vents are more of a fashion statement.
The flat-front pants of suits, cut slim with very little break at the ankle, clipping the top of your shoes give a long, clean look.
At COTTON & COTTON our expert tailors take your size to perfection so that when you wear your suit jacket there is a firmness to it which moulds your form and contours your body. It makes you snap to attention and stand taller.
Every season calls for a timely suit—it’s sensible to reach for COTTON & COTTON heavier, warmer fabrics in the cooler climate and our lightweight cotton suiting is ideal when it's hot and humid. For an elegant, formal look all the year around, make the exclusive COTTON & COTTON suits your fashionable choice.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Leave a Blazing Trail with COTTON & COTTON Blazers
'A short, double-breasted jacket called the reefer jacket was worn by sailors in harsh weather in the 1800’s, when they performed duties such as reefing the sails. The modern dark—single, as well as, double-breasted-- blazer with metallic buttons is said to have evolved from this.
Many fail to tell the difference between a blazer and a sport-jacket and put themselves in a precarious position of committing a fashion faux-pas. A sport jacket is textured and oftentimes patterned, whereas a blazer comes in solid colors-usually navy or black. A blazer is crafted from a smooth fabric and traditionally sports naval-style brass buttons. Also, a blazer does not come with a matching pair of pants. Perhaps the most preeminent and versatile aspect regarding a blazer is the fact that they can be worn over a shirt and tie or thrown over a polo shirt. It can be donned over every kind of trouser to the most rugged denim jeans you have in your wardrobe. This is why a superior quality blazer from COTTON & COTTON is a must have for a man of class.
Fashion experts deem that a blazer should always be matched with odd trousers and never a fabric too similar. It is not a substitute for a suit but is meant to fill the yawning gulf between a business suit and casual dress. Thus, wearing a dark colored blazer for ‘business casual’ occasions is a trend which has caught on like a house on fire. Associated with gentlemanly sports like yachting, rowing and cricket-a blazer is an icon of style and class.
One needs unmistakable style and flair to carry off a COTTON & COTTON blazer just as it is meant to be worn. The blazers at COTTON & COTTON offer just the right fit in the shoulders allowing full arm movement and room in the chest to fully button the jacket.
The blazers at COTTON & COTTON are for the man who wants to look his best no matter what the occasion; for a man who doesn’t have to try too hard'.
Many fail to tell the difference between a blazer and a sport-jacket and put themselves in a precarious position of committing a fashion faux-pas. A sport jacket is textured and oftentimes patterned, whereas a blazer comes in solid colors-usually navy or black. A blazer is crafted from a smooth fabric and traditionally sports naval-style brass buttons. Also, a blazer does not come with a matching pair of pants. Perhaps the most preeminent and versatile aspect regarding a blazer is the fact that they can be worn over a shirt and tie or thrown over a polo shirt. It can be donned over every kind of trouser to the most rugged denim jeans you have in your wardrobe. This is why a superior quality blazer from COTTON & COTTON is a must have for a man of class.
Fashion experts deem that a blazer should always be matched with odd trousers and never a fabric too similar. It is not a substitute for a suit but is meant to fill the yawning gulf between a business suit and casual dress. Thus, wearing a dark colored blazer for ‘business casual’ occasions is a trend which has caught on like a house on fire. Associated with gentlemanly sports like yachting, rowing and cricket-a blazer is an icon of style and class.
One needs unmistakable style and flair to carry off a COTTON & COTTON blazer just as it is meant to be worn. The blazers at COTTON & COTTON offer just the right fit in the shoulders allowing full arm movement and room in the chest to fully button the jacket.
The blazers at COTTON & COTTON are for the man who wants to look his best no matter what the occasion; for a man who doesn’t have to try too hard'.
Monday, June 17, 2013
The Perfect Shirts for the Summer!
Summer is here; the searing sun, the warm winds and the season to battle the sweat has arrived. It’s time to head for the beach and bask in picnics on the park greens. But it’s also a time to get on with our work. The heat may end up making you lethargic but that doesn’t give one the license to stop working. The right summer apparel can help you handle the heat, keep you cool enough to take on your work and enjoy these balmy months.
For women lawn frenzies and summer dresses hit the stores as summer arrives, but what about men? Do men have to bear the drudgery of wearing the same dress shirts to formal events?
Cotton & Cotton brings to you the latest fashion trends for the summer of 2013 in the form of cool, classy and comfortable summer shirts.
A summer shirt from Cotton & Cotton is a slim fit, short-sleeved shirt made of the finest cotton making the man of class appear trendy yet relaxed. It is the perfect alternative to tshirts and polo shirts which may make you end up looking too casual and laid back.
At Cotton & Cotton we have a summer shirt for every age group. For the younger men, there is a trendy version of the short sleeve shirt in a slim fit to emphasize a toned body in checks, vibrant stripes and fresh and showy hues. Wear it laundered and even unbuttoned with a casual V-neck tee if you desire or don the patterned summer shirt untucked—there’s just so much versatility a summer shirt brings to your wardrobe.
For the more mature men, there are ageless short-sleeved, loose-fitted shirts in classic colours and thin stripes which can help you carry off these stylish shirts to work and formal evenings with elegance.
Every designer has his collection of summer shirts but the summer shirts from Cotton & Cotton are a must-have summer garment. So log onto ccshirts.com and view our fresh and classy summer shirt collection and appear your cool and unruffled self this summer.
For women lawn frenzies and summer dresses hit the stores as summer arrives, but what about men? Do men have to bear the drudgery of wearing the same dress shirts to formal events?
Cotton & Cotton brings to you the latest fashion trends for the summer of 2013 in the form of cool, classy and comfortable summer shirts.
A summer shirt from Cotton & Cotton is a slim fit, short-sleeved shirt made of the finest cotton making the man of class appear trendy yet relaxed. It is the perfect alternative to tshirts and polo shirts which may make you end up looking too casual and laid back.
At Cotton & Cotton we have a summer shirt for every age group. For the younger men, there is a trendy version of the short sleeve shirt in a slim fit to emphasize a toned body in checks, vibrant stripes and fresh and showy hues. Wear it laundered and even unbuttoned with a casual V-neck tee if you desire or don the patterned summer shirt untucked—there’s just so much versatility a summer shirt brings to your wardrobe.
For the more mature men, there are ageless short-sleeved, loose-fitted shirts in classic colours and thin stripes which can help you carry off these stylish shirts to work and formal evenings with elegance.
Every designer has his collection of summer shirts but the summer shirts from Cotton & Cotton are a must-have summer garment. So log onto ccshirts.com and view our fresh and classy summer shirt collection and appear your cool and unruffled self this summer.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
COTTON & COTTON—Values its loyal Customers
Few
stores offer a discount sale which is genuine as either the prices are
too steep or the products displayed are old and they are wishing to get
rid of them. Surprisingly people haggle and waggle even for this sort of
meaningless discount sales.
But
COTTON & COTTON does something special. The word discount is out of
the company’s lingo. While others are trying to attract new customers
through their mega discounts, COTTON & COTTON offers a PRIVATE SALE
for its exclusive customers with a specially made collection.
This
simple act of COTTON & COTTON has earned it a trust that is beyond
words and makes its PRIVATE SALE an event that is awaited by its loyal
customers.
The
PRIVATE SALE at COTTON & COTTON is a big thank you to its faithful
customers who have made it an iconic fashion brand and it is due to
their support and loyalty that has helped COTTON & COTTON to export
to destinations that are Mecca for fashion such as Jermyn Street, UK
etc. It is a matter of great pride for Pakistan that some of the world’s
best brands are getting their shirts made from A. REGALIA the sister
concern of COTTON & COTTON.
Actions
are louder than words. COTTON & COTTON to cements it’s relationship
with its customers has offered a whooping 35% discount but only for its
exclusive customers through its PRIVATE SALE. Like COTTON & COTTON
on its face book page and a simple click will make you eligible for
getting amazing discounts at all COTTON & COTTON stores.
Log on to ccshirts.com to view our incredible offers and superior array of products.
