Crisp and clean with a hint of dangerous youth, the short suit harkens back to a mod era before our modern age. Think 1960 London, Carnaby Street and King's Road.

Austin Powers wore his with a bit too much flair. Terence Stamp wore his just right, like the Sean Connery Bond. The short suit is all business and more than a little reckless. It looks good with a turtleneck or tie. The style communicates that you have arrived - with a noticeable smirk.

The mod suit carries the day into the evening. Equally at home in the club or office, it is a superlatively functional garment. The short suit wouldn't be out of place on a moped or in a boardroom. Mix it up with a pair of Skechers for a rakish touch.

Tailoring is a must, as proper proportions are the key to the short suit. The operating principle is thin and straight: lapels no wider than a finger, pant legs that taper to the ankle. Be sure that the suit hugs the shoulders, the sleeves fall to the base of the thumb and the leg drapes properly. Once the shape is defined, variation is accepted: You can go single- or double-breasted, choose three, four or five buttons, select angled pockets and back or side vents to complement your body type. Skip your father's fat tie and dig deeper in the closet for a skinny one.

For the real deal, a trip to London's Savile Row can't be beat, but modern designers hip to this trend are creating exciting interpretations worldwide. For the adventurous, nothing beats finding an unexpected treasure at a resale shop or garage sale. However you nab your gear, it's still a mod, mod world.