Beyond shipping and sizing basics, a lot of style questions come down to fit, fabric, and how to layer without overdoing it. Here are straight answers to the questions we hear most from Casavelluti customers. Looking for shipping, returns, or order help instead? Visit our general FAQ.

Fit & Silhouette

What does "tailored fit" mean compared to "regular fit"?

Tailored fit is cut closer to the body through the chest, waist, and arms for a more streamlined silhouette, while regular fit leaves more room throughout for a relaxed, classic cut. Neither is "better" — tailored suits a sharper smart casual look, while regular fit favors comfort and easy layering.

How should trousers fit at the ankle?

For a modern silhouette, trousers should break just at or slightly above the shoe, without pooling fabric at the ankle. A slight taper through the leg keeps the look clean without being restrictive.

Should I size up if I plan to layer heavily?

Only slightly, and only in the outer layer. Sizing up your base layers to "make room" usually just adds bulk — instead, keep base layers true to size and choose one size up only for jackets or overshirts you know you'll wear over thicker layers.

Fabric & Care

How do I know which fabrics need dry cleaning vs machine wash?

Always check the care label first, but as a general rule: cotton, linen blends, and knits are typically machine washable on cold, while wool, suede, and structured tailoring (blazers, coats) usually require dry cleaning or spot cleaning only.

How do I keep colors from fading?

Wash in cold water, turn garments inside out before washing, and air dry instead of using a hot dryer whenever possible. Heat is the main cause of both fading and shrinkage.

What's the best way to store knitwear like cardigans?

Fold knitwear instead of hanging it — hangers can stretch the shoulders and collar out of shape over time. Store folded pieces in a drawer or on a shelf.

Styling & Layering

How many layers is too many?

As a general rule, stop at three visible layers (for example: shirt, cardigan, overshirt). Beyond that, an outfit starts to look bulky rather than intentional, especially in a fitted smart casual silhouette.

Can I mix patterns, or should I stick to solids?

If you're newer to building a wardrobe, start with solids in coordinated neutral tones — it's nearly impossible to mismatch. Once you're comfortable, introduce one subtle pattern (like a fine stripe or texture) per outfit, never two.

What shoes work best with smart casual outfits?

Clean leather shoes (loafers, derbies) or minimal, low-profile sneakers in neutral tones both work. Avoid anything with heavy branding or bright colors, which pulls attention away from the outfit.

Building a Wardrobe

How do I start building a wardrobe from scratch?

Start with neutral basics — a couple of shirts, a pair of trousers, one mid-layer — before adding statement pieces like a leather jacket or bold print. A small, coordinated wardrobe beats a large, disorganized one. Our capsule wardrobe guide walks through this step by step.

Are pre-styled outfit sets a good starting point?

Yes — they remove the guesswork of matching colors and proportions, which is often the hardest part of building a wardrobe. See our guide to styling outfit sets for more.

How do I know if my wardrobe is "done"?

It's less about a fixed number of pieces and more about coverage — if you can put together a complete, coordinated outfit for a casual day, a smart casual evening, and a cooler day with layering, your foundation is solid.

Ready to put these answers into practice? Browse our Best Sellers or explore the full Style Journal.