Complete List of Fashion Acronyms & Abbreviations

The vast number of acronyms and abbreviations used by the fashion industry can overwhelm just about anyone. Heck, it even catches us style writers off guard now and then.

To combat this, we’ve compiled the most in-depth guide to all of the acronyms and abbreviations you’ll see regarding men’s style.

No longer will acronyms like “AAFO” or “CPW” baffle and confuse, because now there’s a dictionary to turn to that will give you the most comprehensive list ever created for men’s fashion and style.

Use the table below to sort alphabetically or by the following categories:

• Apparel – types, parts and features of garments and accessories
• Brands – fashion houses, clothing manufacturers and apparel brands
• Buying & Selling – terminology encountered when buying or selling apparel
• Fashion Industry – industry lingo (some of which is mainstream)
• Internet – websites, forums and online lingo/slang
• Materials – raw materials, including origins and attributes
• Size & Fit – describes the sizing and fit of clothes and accessories

You can also search the table using the search box. Below the table, you’ll find the full list of fashion acronyms, along with an example sentence for each one.

The Complete List with Examples

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2PS = Two Piece Suit = A business suit consisting of a jacket with matching trousers.

Ex. “I got a great deal on my 2PS at Suit Supply.”

3PS = Three Piece Suit = A business suit consisting of a matching jacket, trousers and waistcoat.

A

A/W = Autumn/Winter Collection = A new line or collection released by a designer that focuses on fall and winter apparel.

Ex. “Did you see Brooks Brothers new A/W catalogue?”

AAAC = Ask Andy About Clothes = A leading online forum for men who are interested in fashion and classic men’s style.

Ex. “I didn’t know the answer but someone answered it quickly on AAAC.”

AAFA = American Apparel and Footwear Association = A professional membership association.

Ex. “I met him at the last AAFA conference.”

AAMA = American Apparel Manufacture Association = A professional membership association.

Ex. “If you want to network with other designers, I highly recommend joining the AAMA.”

ABO = All Black Outfit = An entire outfit comprised of solid black clothing.

Ex. “Did you see what he wore to the funeral? It was an ABO.”

ABU = Airman Battle Uniform = A uniform worn by members of the Air Force.

Ex. “He must be a pilot if he was wearing his ABUs.”

ADIDAS = All Day I Dream About Shoes = A clothing and shoe brand focused on athletic apparel.

Ex. “My son really wants a new pair of Adidas shoes for Christmas.”

AE/AEO – American Eagle Outfitters = A brand name clothing company popular with young men and women.

Ex. “I’ll meet you at the AE store on the other side of the mall.”

AE = Allen Edmonds = An American purveyor of high quality dress and casual shoes and accessories.

Ex. “I just got a pair of AE Park Avenues and they’re so comfortable.”

AF/A&F = Abercrombie & Fitch = A brand name clothing company popular with young men and women.

Ex. “Did you see those AF models outside the store?”

AL = Affordable Luxury = An entry level luxury item at a reasonable price.

Ex. “I would love a Rolex, but I need something that’s AL like a SINN watch instead.”

AMZ = Amazon = A global online marketplace.

Ex. “Why would you spend so much money when you can probably find it on AMZ for a fraction of the price?”

AOC = Art of Charm = A website and brand devoted to helping men gain confidence.

Ex. “I was terrible at meeting women until I took the AOC bootcamp and started listening to their podcast.”

AOM = Art of Manliness = A website about focused on masculine content and products.

Ex. “I learned how to use a straight razor by reading the AOC.”

AOP = All Over Print = An item that has a print or pattern throughout.

Ex. “I can’t stand clothes with AOP. They’re too busy for my tastes.”

AS = Anti Shock = A product that is shock resistant.

Ex. “I just got this new watch and it’s AS which is great for at work.”

ATM = At The Moment = Something that is current or trending.

Ex. “Those skinny jeans are really in ATM.”

AWB = All Weather Boot = An outdoor boot that can be worn in any weather.

Ex. “I really need a good AWB, but the ones I like aren’t waterproof.”

AWO = All White Outfit = An entire outfit that is comprised of all white clothing.

Ex. “Please don’t wear that AWO after Labor Day.”

B

B&T = Big and Tall = An article of clothing designed for larger gentlemen.

Ex. “I can’t buy off the rack unless it’s at a B&G store.”

BB = Brooks Brothers = An American heritage maker and haberdasher focused on classic men’s and women’s apparel and accessories.

Ex. “I think every man at our country club has at least one navy blazer from BB.”

BD = Button Down = A shirt that, like a jacket, uses a row of buttons in the front to fasten it.

Ex. “What a great looking BD. Do you know if they have it in my size?”

BDU = Battle Dress Uniform = A uniform worn by members of the military.

Ex. “Sometimes I will wear my BDUs to events, but only as policy allows.”

BIN = Buy it Now = To purchase an item immediately without waiting.

Ex. “I much prefer to click BIN on eBay, rather than getting into a bidding war.”

BLZR = Blazer = An odd jacket worn indoors as part of an outfit. Like a suit jacket but without matching trousers.

Ex. “Every gentleman needs at least one navy BLZR. It is an absolute must-have for any man’s wardrobe.”

BNIB = Brand New In Box = An item that is sold in the manufacturer’s packaging and has not been worn, used or removed from the packaging.

Ex. “That Ettinger wallet on eBay looks like it’s BNIB.”

BNWT = Brand New With Tags (Never Worn) = An item without packaging that still has the original tags on it.

Ex. “He bought the shirt two years ago, but he’s never worn it. It’s BNWT.”

BSPK = Bespoke = A custom made item designed specifically for one buyer.

Ex. “I have to get measured for my new bespoke suit on Savile Row in London later this week.”

BT = Black Tie = A dress code requiring the gentleman to wear a traditional tuxedo in black or midnight blue.

Ex. “The dress code Friday’s gala is BT, so I had your tuxedo sent to the cleaners.”

BTO = Black Tie Optional = A more inclusive dress code that is used to prevent those who cannot afford black tie attire from feeling excluded or out of place.

Ex. “BTO doesn’t mean you can wear your dark suit. You should still wear a tuxedo if you can afford to rent or buy one.”

C

C&J = Crockett & Jones = A heritage shoe maker that manufacturers some of the finest English shoes.

Ex. “I just got a new pair of Oxfords from C&J.”

CANT = Cant Afford Not To = A deal so good it cannot be missed.

Ex. “The Black Friday sale at so great at TM Lewin’s I CANT buy some shirts.”

CASH = Cashmere = A soft fiber obtained from cashmere goats.

Ex. “Are those CASH lined gloves or is that an Alpaca lining?”

CD = Christian Dior = One of France’s most well established fashion houses.

Ex. “Did you see what Tom Cruise wore to the Oscars? I believe it was CD.”

CDB = Clarks Desert Boots = An affordable classic, Clarks Desert Boots are one of the most popular pairs of desert boots (i.e., ankle boots) for men.

Ex. “I just got a new pair of CBDs from Amazon. They run true to size, and I love the color!”

CFDA = Council of Fashion Designers of America = A professional association representing fashion designers.

Ex. “Is Ralph Lauren a member of the CFDA?”

CFH = Customers From Hell = A customer who purposely attempts to bother or waste the time of a shopkeeper.

Ex. “Everything I showed her he said was ugly. Even the jacket he at first said he liked. What a CFH!”

CK = Calvin Klein = A well known designer.

Ex. “I’m not a fan of CK’s latest collection. It comes across to me like fast fashion.”

CMIA = Cotton Made In Africa = Cotton that is harvested in Africa.

Ex. “I thought for a second it was from Texas, but it turns out it’s actually CMIA.”

CN = Cotton/Nylon = A blend of cotton and nylon materials.

Ex. “I was wondering if you have this in 100% cotton, instead of CN?”

COL = Collar = A band of material around the neck of a shirt, vest, sweater or jacket.

Ex. “I prefer a shawl COL on my cardigans.”

COOL = Country Of Origin Label = The label on an item of clothing that denotes where the item was made.

Ex. “I checked the COOL and it says it’s made in Malaysia. I thought all Brooks Brothers clothing was Made in America?”

CP = Common Projects = The clothing brand, most well-known for their plain, high quality (and expensive) sneakers.

Ex. “That fit would look better with some white CPs.”

CPW = Cost per Wear = A formula designed to determine whether an item of clothing is worth the price tag based on how many times you’ll wear it compared to the total price.

Ex. “I was going to buy that $3,000 pair of patent leather opera pumps but I’ll never wear them enough times to make it worth spending that much.”

CRC = Chemical Resistant Clothing = Clothing that is resistant to chemicals.

Ex. “I try to buy trousers that are CRC so I can wear to work without worrying they’ll be damaged by the chemicals.”

CRF = Consumer Retail Fashion = Mass-produced clothing sold at retail stores that cater to a large consumer base.

Ex. “I refuse to buy CRF because it never fits me and it rarely lasts.”

CTEI = China Textile Industry = A large industry in China that produces textiles used in clothing.

Ex. “I just can’t support the CTEI because I worry about the working conditions for the labor force.”

CW = Casual Wear = Casual attire for men.

Ex. “I know today is casual Friday, but you still have to wear business casual attire. Those blue jeans are just CW.”

D

D&G = Dolce & Gabbana = A well established fashion house.

Ex. “Have you noticed that everyone seems to be wearing Prada or D&G these days?”

DB = Double Breasted = A jacket or coat with a substantial overlap of material at the front that shows two rows of buttons when fastened.

Ex. “I love DB jackets. I’m so happy they came back in style.”

DBS – Double Breasted Suit = A suit jacket that is double breasted. See DB.

DC – Dry Clean = An item of apparel that should ideally be professionally laundered.

Ex. “I have to take my suit to get DC’d. Otherwise, I’ll have nothing to wear tomorrow.”

DCO = Dry Clean Only = An item of clothing that must be dry cleaned to prevent damage. See DC.

DCR = Dress Code Rules = A set standard of rules applying to the codes of dress.

Ex. “I don’t think you can wear just a sweater to a black tie event. You really need to abide by the DCR’s.”

DES = Design / Designer = The artist or architect who designs and creates an item of clothing.

Ex. “Tom Ford is one of my favorite DES. I am so glad he left Gucci.”

DFO = Direct Factory Outlets = A brand operated store that sells a lower cost collection under their name or clothing at a discounted price.

Ex. “Brooks Ease and 346 are not the same quality as Brooks Brothers. You can really only find them at their DFOs.”

DJ = Dinner Jacket = A tuxedo jacket or similarly appropriate jacket designed for formal affairs after six.

Ex. “His burgundy velvet DJ looks very rakish with that spectacular bow tie.”

DKNY = Donna Karen New York = A well known brand name for men and women.

Ex. “I can’t justify buying DKNY. The brand has certainly become far cheaper over the years.”

DOTD = Deal of the Day = An advertised discount that lasts for 24-hours or one business day.

Ex. “Did you see the DOTD at Gemnation is a Cartier Tank for 75% off?”

DT = Donegal Tweed = Tweed characterized by bright flecks randomly distributed on a background usually of light gray, originally woven in County Donegal, northwestern Ireland.

Ex. “That DT blazer is smashing. Wherever did you get it?”

DWR = Durable Water Resistant = An item that remains durable when exposed to water.

Ex. “I really need to get my suede boots treated so they’re DWR for winter.”

E

E = Wide Shoe Width = A measurement used to denote a wide foot.

Ex. “I take a 10E shoe. Do you have any in stock?”

EB = Eddie Bauer = A well established casual menswear brand.

Ex. “Normally I don’t wear EB, but I do like their winter hats when hiking.”

EG = Edward Green = A renowned heritage shoe maker.

Ex. “Those EG boots look magnificent with those chinos.”

EG = Effortless Gent = A menswear and style blog.

Ex. “Remind me to send you the link to that article I saw on EG.”

ES = Extra Small = Generally listed as XS, ES is another term used to denote an item that is extra small.

Ex. “The small is still too big. Do you have one in ES?”

ESQ = Esquire = A popular men’s style magazine and a title.

Ex. “I don’t particularly like the new trend ESQ has taken since G. Bruce Boyer left the magazine.”

ET = Extra Tall = Generally listed as XT, ET is another termed used to describe an article of clothing that is sized for very tall gentlemen.

Ex. “I generally need an ET since my torso is so long.”

F

F/W = Fall/Winter Collection = A catalogue of new clothing introduced for colder weather by fashion houses.

Ex. “I think Ralph Lauren’s new F/W line is his best in years.”

FABB = Fashion and Beauty Blogger = A fashion or beauty expert who publishes and/or writes an online advice blog.

Ex. “I think Aaron Marino is one of my favorite FABBs.”

FD = Factory Discontinued = An item that is no longer manufactured by the factory.

Ex. “Often if you buy FD clothing you can get a really good deal.”

FED = Fedora = A low, soft felt hat with a curled brim and the crown creased lengthwise.

Ex. “I think the FED is one of my favorite hat styles for fall.”

FF = Fast Fashion = Articles of clothing mass-produced quickly and inexpensively to keep up with the current fashion trends.

Ex. “FF bothers me so much. I can’t stand how the workers are treated. Did you see the documentary The True Cost?”

FIT = Fashion Institute of Technology = A leading post secondary institution for those interested in a career in fashion design and merchandising.

Ex. “I just heard that George got into FIT. He must be so excited!”

FLC = Fleece = A soft warm covering of a sheep or goat, often counterfeited using synthetic materials at a lower cost.

Ex. “I love the fleece lining but is it actual fleece or a synthetic?”

FRC = Flame Resistant Clothing = An article of clothing that is treated to lower the chances of it catching fire.

Ex. “I work in a restaurant, so I need to make sure my trousers are FRC.”

FRS = Fire Retardant = An article of clothing that is fire resistant or has been treated to prevent it from catching fire. A higher grade of resistance than FRC.

Ex. “I’m a fire fighter and our uniforms are completely FRS.”

FS = For Sale = An item that is available for purchase.

Ex. “Excuse me, but is that vintage pocket watch FS?”

FW = Formal Wear = An elegant code of dress that denotes the mandatory use of black or white tie.

Ex. “Formal wear is required if you’re going to come to the wedding.”

FW = Fashion Week = A weeklong exhibition that showcases the newest collections from top designers and fashion houses.

Ex. “Will you be attending FW in New York this year?”

G

G-SOK = Golf Sock = A moisture wicking sock designed especially for golf.

Ex. “I’ve heard the new G-SOK’s from Callaway are fantastic!”

GA = Giorgio Armani = A renowned fashion designer.

Ex. “I love GA’s new line.”

GG = Gentleman’s Gazette = A renowned online magazine for men interested in classic men’s style and savoir-vivre.

Ex. “I don’t think anyone has the same level of sartorial knowledge as Raphael from GG.”

GL = Genuine Leather = A label that denotes an item is made from authentic leather hides and not man-made materials.

Ex. “His new wallet is GL.”

GQ = Gentlemen’s Quarterly = A leading fashion magazine for gentlemen.

Ex. “I wish GQ would publish more in-depth articles that were longer than just 500 words.”

GTH = Go to Hell Pants = Bold patterned pants first introduced by Ivy League preps.

Ex. “It takes a certain amount of confidence to pull off those GTH pants.”

GWP = Gift With Purchase = A marketing ploy that offers a customer a free gift when they make a larger purchase.

Ex. “Is it true I get a free journal as my GWP when I buy a Montblanc fountain pen?”

H

HB = Hiking Boots = Outdoor boots that are designed to withstand the elements and used for hiking off road.

Ex. “It’s tough to find a nice looking pair of HBs this time of year.”

HG = Holy Grail = An item that one pursues and fantasizes about purchasing.

Ex. “A Patek Philippe Calatrava is my HG watch.”

H2T = Head To Toe = A single item that covers the entire body.

Ex. “I cannot believe he was dressed in yellow from H2T.”

HVY = Heavy = An item that bears more weight than normal.

Ex. “That sweater looks really HVY. Is it wool?”

I

IWS = International Wool Standard = A international set of standards of manufacturing wool that is imposed by the International Wool Textile Organization.

Ex. “I don’t think they can technically call that 100%. It doesn’t seem to meet the IWS.”

J

J&M = Johnston & Murphy = A well established shoe maker.

Ex. “Do you prefer the oxfords or derbies made by J&M?”

JKT = Jacket = An article of clothing fastened down the front that is worn as a top layer and does not exceed past the waist or hips.

Ex. “What do you think of his new suit jacket?”

JPG = Jean Paul Gaultier = A French haute couture Fashion House

Ex. “JPG had some amazing designs in the nineties but I think his work has gone downhill since.”

JR = Junior = A line of clothing sized for young men who are between boy’s and men’s sizes.

Ex. “These trousers don’t seem to fit. I wonder if they have them in the JR section.”

K

KS = KickStarter = A product launched on the website KickStarter that relies on grass roots funding from individual investors.

Ex. “That suitcase I told you about on KS blew past its goal. I can’t wait to get mine.”

L

L = Large = An item for taller or huskier men.

Ex. “Do you have this item in L? The medium doesn’t seem to fit.”

L/G = Large = See L.

LC = Low Cut = An item, usually slacks, that are cut lower than usual to hang on the waist or hips.

Ex. “I really don’t like those LC chinos. I feel like my pants are always falling down.”

LE = Limited Edition = A product that is restricted to being sold in short supply making the item more attractive to collectors with an often higher price point.

Ex. “There are only 500 of the LE watches being made.”

L.E. = Land’s End =

L.E.C. = Land’s End Canvas =

LG = Large = See L.

LLB = L. L. Bean = A well known fashion brand.

Ex. “Those LLB duck boots are so popular in Cape Cod. I think everyone has a pair.”

LPL = Lapel = The part on each side of a coat or jacket immediately below the collar that is folded back on either side of the front opening.

Ex. “Do you prefer a peak or notch LPL on your suit jacket?

LRG = Large = See L.

LS = Long Sleeve = The sleeve of a jacket, coat, sweater, or shirt that extends to the wrists.

Ex. “He’s going to be awfully warm in a LS shirt.”

LTD = Limited = See LE.

LV = Louis Vuitton = A famous fashion house.

Ex. “The LV wallets are well made, but I hate how I look like a walking billboard when I carry one.”

LWB = Longwing Blucher = A style of men’s blucher shoes with longer wingtips.

Ex. “I’ve never seen a regular wingtip in a blucher. It’s always the LWB. Most of the regular wingtips I’ve seen are balmorals.”

M

M = Medium = The size between small and large for the average body width and length.

Ex. “I think I’m a M since large is too big and small is too restrictive.”

MD = Marked Down = An item that has had it’s price dropped. Another term for on sale.

Ex. “All their shirts are MD this time of year.”

MED = Medium = See M.

MFA = malefashionadvice = The sub Reddit area for men who are interested in style and fashion.

Ex. “Did you see what that guy posted to MFA this morning?”

MI = Made In = An identifier that shows where an item was made.

Ex. “I believe this shirt was MI China.”

MIA = Made in America = A product made primarily in America from American materials.

Ex. “Are you sure this is MIA?”

MJ = Marc Jacobs = A renowned fashion brand.

Ex. “My girlfriend loves MJ but I don’t like their men’s lines.”

ML = Medium Large = A half size between medium and large.

Ex. “Do you carry half sizes? I’m usually an ML in this style of shirt.”

MMF = Man Made Fiber = A synthetic material fabricated to look like a natural textile.

Ex. “It may look like leather, but I can assure you that those shoes are made with a MMF.”

MMM = Man Made Material = See MMF.

MRTW = Men’s Ready To Wear = An item of clothing designed to be sold ready to wear as soon as it’s purchased.

Ex. “I don’t care where it’s from, you need to take all MRTW clothing to your tailor. It will never fit properly off the rack.”

MSRP = Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price = The price that the manufacturer recommends an item be sold at by the retailer.

Ex. “Why is your price for this so much higher than the MSRP?”

MTM = Made to Measure = An item that uses a base design but allows the buyer to customize based on personal preferences.

Ex. “My MTM suit is great. It fits so much better than off-the-rack.”

MTO = Made to Order = An item that is made individually and not mass-produced.

Ex. “I ordered a pair of MTO velvet slippers from Broadland Slippers in England.”

MW = Machine Washable = An item of clothing that can be washed in a home washing machine.

Ex. “Is this shirt MW or do I need to have it dry cleaned?”

MW = Menswear = Clothing designed for men.

Ex. “Can you recommend a good MW store nearby?”

N

NB = New Balance = A brand of athletic wear and shoes.

Ex. “I only wear NB runners when jogging.”

NBC = Name Brand Clothing = Apparel manufactured or sold by a household brand name.

Ex. “I don’t like designer clothing but I also won’t buy a shirt from a company I don’t recognize. I prefer NBC.”

NBI = Newly Broken In = Having recently developed a comfortable fit.

Ex. “My shoes are NBI so I can finally walk without getting sore.”

NI = Non Iron = An article of clothing treated to prevent wrinkles.

Ex. “I hate ironing so I always look for NI shirts and pants.”

NIB = New In Box = An item that is new and in its original packaging.

Ex. “That’s a great deal for NIB Allen Edmonds on eBay.”

NM = Neiman Marcus = A purveyor of designer and brand name clothing and merchandise.

Ex. “I like Barney’s, but I find NM is less expensive.”

NSFW = Not Safe For Work = An item that is considered inappropriate for the workplace.

Ex. “Those leather chaps are definitely NSFW.”

NWOT = New Without Tags = An item purported to be new and never used but without original tags.

Ex. “It says it’s NWOT but something about it seems fishy to me.”

NWT = New With Tags = An item sold with the original tags still fastened but not in original packaging.

Ex. “That shirt is NWT but wow, look at that price!”

NY = Nylon = A tough, lightweight, and elastic synthetic material.

Ex. “I’m sorry, but I won’t spend that much on a NY jacket.”

NYFW = New York Fashion Week = A week of fashion related conferences and shows in New York City. See FW.

O

OC = Odor Control = An item that helps to prevent odor.

Ex. “I like these golf socks because they wick moisture and have OC.”

OCBD = Oxford Cloth Button Down = A traditional long sleeve sports shirt designed for polo with a collar that fastens using buttons.

Ex. “Do you prefer the OCBD shirts from Brooks Brothers or J. Press?”

OFT = Odor Fighting Technology = Technology that combats odor.

Ex. “These new golf shoes have OFT.”

OM = Original Manufacturer = The first company to produce an item.

Ex. “Everyone takes credit for it, but Ray-Ban was the OM of Wayfarer sunglasses.”

OOTD = Outfit Of The Day = An outfit that has been awarded as the best that day.

Ex. “Albert certainly won OOTD with that ensemble!”

OOTN = Outfit of the Night = See OOTD. Except at night.

OP = Original Poster = The person who created the post on an online forum like MFA.

Ex. “OP said he was looking for something affordable.”

OS = Overstock = Items often offered at a discount since there is too large a stock that needs to be sold.

Ex. “I love finding OS shoes because they’re so desperate to sell them.”

OSFA = One Size Fits All = An item sold in a single size that is intended for fitting all sizes of people.

Ex. “That OSFA garbage is a bunch of baloney. It never fits me perfectly.”

OSFM = One Size Fits Most = Similar to OSFA, this is only guaranteed to fit most people, not all.

Ex. “I think this should fit you. It’s OSFM.”

OTC = Over the Calf = Socks that are long enough to be pulled up above your calves.

Ex. “I only buy 100% wool OTC socks.”

OTK = Over the Knee = An item such as a sock, stocking or shoe that extends above the knee.

Ex. “Do you always wear OTK hosiery with your kilt?”

OTR = Off the Rack = A mass-produced article of clothing sold at most retail stores.

Ex. “OTR suits never fit me properly. I only buy MTM or bespoke now.”

OTW = One to Watch = Something or someone to keep an eye on with high expectations.

Ex. “I always new Tom Ford was OTW.”

OWC = Odd Waistcoat = A waistcoat or vest that doesn’t match the jacket or trousers worn with it.

Ex. “A burgundy OWC is a must have for any gentleman.”

P

PBB = Perfectly Balanced Buttonholes = Buttonholes that are perfectly in line and well proportioned.

Ex. “Those PBB are what sold me on getting that jacket.

PC = Popped Collar = A popular trend where the wearer leaves the shirt collar popped up instead of folded down.

Ex. “You look like 15-year-old boy with that PC.”

PEL = Past Elbow Length = An item of clothing that extends just past the elbow.

Ex. “That henley is PEL but it looks good on you and really shows off your forearms.”

PFT = Precision Fit Technology = An item that boasts it has technology to ensure a perfect fit.

Ex. “That new line of sports shirts claims it has PFT but in my experience that’s just a gimmick.”

PJ = Pajama Sleepwear = worn in slumber.

Ex. “I often buy my P’s from Derek Rose.”

PKL = Peak Lapel = Peak lapels are traditionally the most formal lapel with stark points that differentiate it from the notch lapel.

Ex. “I only wear jackets with a PKL.”

PKT = Pocket = A small pouch sewn into clothing.

Ex. “I don’t like those new patch PKTs that are so trendy on blazers these days.”

POLY = Polyester = A popular synthetic textile.

Ex. “I refuse to wear anything POLY. You can’t convince me, I’m sorry.”

POLY-B = Polyester Blend = A blend of polyester and another textile.

Ex. “That suit jacket uses a POLY-B. I only want 100% wool.”

POP = Poplin = A plain-woven lightweight cotton, often with a corded surface.

Ex. “I really like the new line of POP shirts.”

PPS = Pre Production Sample = An item used as a sample before going to production.

Ex. “That PPS certainly looks promising.”

PSq = Pocket Square = Similar to a handkerchief, it sits in the breast pocket as an accessory.

Ex. “I love that Irish linen pocket square. Wherever did you get it?”

PU = Pitti Uomo = An Italian festival for dandies. “Did you see some of the peacocks at PU this year?”

R

R2W = Ready to Wear = See OTR.

RAY = Rayon = A synthetic textile made from regenerated viscose.

Ex. “I cannot believe the lining is made of RAY and they want that much for it.”

RC = Recrafted = An item capable of being fixed so it looks new again.

Ex. “Did you know that most Allen Edmonds shoes are RC?”

REG = Regular = See M.

RL = Ralph Lauren = A renowned American designer.

Ex. “I love Ralph Lauren clothing. I think it’s probably from my upbringing in the Northeastern United States.”

RLOF = Relative Lack Of Fit = A group of items that doesn’t fit well.

Ex. “I’ve seen this before. That shirt has a RLOF on everyone.”

RLP = Ralph Lauren Polo = A sports line from Ralph Lauren. See RL.

RLX = Ralph Lauren Golf = A sports line from Ralph Lauren. See RL.

RMRS = Real Men Real Style = A renowned menswear blog for the everyman.

Ex. “I really like RMRS. As a guy who likes to look good but doesn’t want to spend hours in front of the mirror, Antonio really gives me the advice I need.”

RRP = Recommended Retail Price = See MSRP.

RTW = Ready To Wear = See OTR.

RV = Reversible = An item that can be worn in reverse with a contrasting color or pattern.

Ex. “Those RV bow ties are like having two bow ties for the price of one.”

S

S = Small = A size of clothing for men of shorter stature with a smaller build.

Ex. “Do you have this in S? Medium is a bit too big.”

S = Super = The Super Wools used to denote the quality and fineness of wool when followed by a number such as S–100 or S–150.

Ex. “That suit is made from S–100 wool so it’s great for daily wear.”

STYD = Shop Til You Drop = The act of shopping until you’re too tired to keep going.

Ex. “On Black Friday we STYD because the sales are so good.”

S/S = Spring/Summer = The collection launched by designers for spring and summer.

Ex. “Did you see the new S/S line from J. Crew?”

SF = Slim Fit = An item that is intended for men who are slim.

Ex. “I really like these SF shirts because they don’t bunch.”

SF = Style Forum = An online community for style-conscious men.

Ex. “I think Ask Andy is probably one of the best SF’s I know of.”

SLK = Silk = A fine, strong, soft, lustrous fiber produced by silkworms in making cocoons and collected to make thread and fabric.

Ex. “I really love the new SLK dressing gowns from Derek Rose.”

SLM = Slim = See SF.

SLX = Slacks = Casual Pants or Trousers

Ex. “Did you see those SLX he was wearing with that polo? It looked great.”

SM = Small = See S.

SML = Small = See S.

SRP = Suggested Retail Price = See MSRP.

SZ = Size = The dimensions of an item.

Ex. “What SZ do you take?”

T

TDL = Tumble Dry Low = Indicates an item must be dried by spinning it slowly in hot air inside a dryer.

Ex. “That shirt can only be TDL after washing or it will get ruined.”

TDO = Tumble Dry Only = Must be tumble dried. See TDL.

TF = Tom Ford = Iconic fashion designer.

Ex. “TF is my favorite designer. I love his smoking jackets.”

TMM = The Modest Man = Hi, you’re visiting us. It’s our blog. Thanks for reading. 🙂

TOTL = Top Of The Line = Denotes an item that is at its peak compared to others.

Ex. “These belts are TOTL.”

TPS = Three Piece Suit = See 3PS.

TRAD = Traditional = A traditional style more classic than prep.

Ex. “He is very TRAD but only because he has an image to uphold.”

TUX = Tuxedo = A black or midnight blue formal dinner suit.

Ex. “Do I need a TUX for the wedding?”

TWD = Tweed = A rough-surfaced woolen cloth made in Scotland

Ex. “I love his TWD blazer he wore shooting the other day.”

TXT = Textiles = A material or woven fibre used to produce clothing.

Ex. “The TXT factory makes some of the finest wool I’ve ever seen.”

U

V

VEL = Velcro = A fastener consisting of two strips of thin plastic sheet, one covered with tiny loops and the other with tiny flexible hooks, which adhere when pressed together and can be separated when pulled apart deliberately.

Ex. “Please don’t wear those VEL shoes. I beg of you.”

VTG = Vintage = A pre-owned item denoting something of high quality.

Ex. “I prefer to shop VTG since I save money and get better quality clothing.”

W

WAYW = What Are You Wearing = A question posed asking what clothing you have on or will have on.

Ex. “WAYW to tonight’s gala?”

WAYWT = What Are You Wearing Today = A question posed asking what clothing you have on or will have on today.

WIWT = What I Wore Today = An acronym or hashtag used to indicate a picture and/or description of what you wore today.

WC – Waistcoat = A vest.

Ex. “His WC was a perfect odd combination with his blazer and trousers.”

WIC = Walk In Closet = A large closet or wardrobe that is similar to a room and can be entered.

Ex. “Our new house has a WIC that I am just so excited about.”

WNTY = Warranty = A guarantee provided by the manufacturer or retailer of an items quality for a specified period of time.

Ex. “You should return those sunglasses. I think they’re still covered by the WNTY.”

WR = Wrinkle Resistant = An article of clothing treated to resist creasing.

Ex. “I travel a lot so I need WR trousers.”

WT = Wing Tips = A shoe with a toe cap having a backward extending point and curving sides, resembling the shape of a wing.

Ex. “Those Neumok WT shoes from Allen Edmonds are awesome!”

X

X = Extra = Used in sizing when accompanied by L for Large or S for Small. Often additional X’s will be added to denote an even larger or smaller item.

Ex. “Do you have that in XL or XXL?”

Y

YMMV = Your Mileage May Vary = Phrase used to explain that the lifespan of a product will vary for different people.

Ex. “I got a good ten years out of regular wear, but you may find YMMV based on how often you plan to wear them and where you wear them.”

YSL = Yves Saint Laurent = A renowned fashion house.

Ex. “YSL sure seems to have moved into the fast fashion world. What do you think?”

YTH = Youth = See JR.

We hope this guide has been useful. Remember to bookmark it in your favorites for easy reference next time you stumble across an acronym or abbreviation that has you stumped.

Also, let us know if there’s any we missed or ones you’ve come across that should be added to the list by leaving a comment below!

This article was written by J.A. Shapira.