Chloe Thompson

As the founder of menswear company Hugh & Crye, Pranav Vora knows his stuff. Luckily, he's willing to share.

Men’s Clothing in Washington: Tips From an Insider

Pranav Vora is one sharp-dressed man, and for good reason: He’s the founder and CEO of Georgetown’s Hugh & Crye, fast becoming one of Washington’s go-to spots for men’s fashion. H&C has both a warehouse and an online store. Vora gave us his tips for adding little style to your look—or the look of someone you love—in 2011. 

 Q: The company officially launched in July, and in less than six months has gotten citywide recognition from the fashion world. What do you think it is about Hugh & Crye that has made it such a standout?

A: We’re definitely unique for DC—a B2C startup, surrounded by gobs of government contractors. We’re a couple guys focused on making the best shirts possible. And that starts with introducing a new way to think about sizing.

Q: What’s on the horizon for the company with its spring line?

A lot of color and interesting patterns. New styles—a few that are bit more casual and forward.

Q: Out of the nine different fits of H & C, which one are you? And what’s your favorite pattern out of all of your products?

A: Average/lean. But I have gangly arms, and can also fit into a tall/lean, which is more comfortable for long wears. That’s the cool thing about our sizing system – a lot of our customers can fit in more than one size.

My favorite shirt that is in our store at the moment is Stripes Templar. Most guys tend to have a visceral reaction to rounded collars—either they love it or hate it. The fabric of Stripes Templar is very soft, 120 thread count. And it’s pretty versatile—with a tie, under a sweater or jacket—you can’t go wrong.

Q: What’s the No. 1 faux pas you see when it comes to men’s fashion?

A: Without a doubt, fit. A guy just looks so much better when he’s wearing clothes that actually fit him. Fit might seem a little elusive, but we’ve got a few pointers online that might help.

Q: How do you feel when you see an otherwise successful businessman with a droopy shirt back and a collar without stays?

A: Well, I try not to judge! I mean, I did own a few silk shirts and hammer pants back in the early 90s. To me, fit is a very rational, objective notion, and that’s why I feel comfortable telling other guys about it.

Q: Three quick tips for men when choosing their optimal dress shirt…

 A: Well, I’ve beat “fit” to death, so let me give a few other tips. First, consider the fabric. Two-ply, higher thread count cottons are typically softer to the touch and durable over many washes. Second, the collar. To me, it’s the single most important feature of a dress shirt. Does it have a nice spread or shape to it? Does it stand properly and look good under a coat? How does it look when buttoned and with a tie?  Finally, a tip on shopping: Look to assemble your collection of shirts as you would art. One or two at a time. Really think about how you see yourself in the shirt, what occasions you can wear it, and how it will make you feel.

Q: You created a shirt that has buttons for the collars to stay down. How do you feel about popped collars (a sight that personally makes me cringe)?

A: I’m with you. I’m not a fan of anything too gimmicky or flashy. Apparently button-down collars were introduced as a way to keep collar points from flapping and hitting polo players in the face. Maybe that makes those who that pop their collars complete and utter rebels!

(H & C also makes ties.)

Q: H & C has a partnership with Martha’s Outfitters for a great deal for your customers (10% off your order when you bring in a slightly worn shirt for the charity). Are you planning any other charity links in the future?

A: Partnering with Martha’s was very natural for us. We believe in a purpose beyond just selling shirts. And the notion of watching consumption – ideally if you buy something, you should be able to give something. Why not the shirt off your own back, to someone in-need, especially here in Washington, D.C.?

We’re going to continue our District Shirt Drive in 2011, and we hope companies join us in donating cold-weather clothing to Martha’s Outfitters.

I don’t think there’s a shortage of philanthropy in DC, but I’m sure the need is always greater. I’m always amazed at how active people are here – the amount of cause related activities that they take on outside of their day jobs.

Q: Where do you turn for fashion advice?

A: There’s no one source. I’m fascinated with character—the motivations, trials and triumphs of people—more than what they’re wearing. I tend to think the two correlate. Style is often just a beautiful way to show your inner self.

Hugh & Crye, warehouse, 3307 M St., NW. The men kindly request you let them know before stopping by; 202-250-3807