Whether you want to stand out from the crowd or fit in, it's important to look your best. For some men, dressing well can seem extremely complicated, when it shouldn't be. To help, our team has put together a men's style guide to help you look your best, whether for work or casual occasions.
The 5 basic rules of style
Let's discuss the five basic components of a successful style: individual, versatile, easy to maintain, timeless to a point and a positive influence. Here's a little more on each of them:
Rule n.1: Each one is unique
Your style must be personal, an extension of yourself. You're unique, there's no one else like you. Your style must reflect this, even in the most subtle ways. Usually, one signature for your style is enough.
You like socks colorful? Great, make it your thing.
Do you collect a brand of jeans in dark denim? Perfect, keep it simple.
Love your watch collection? Great, let them shine while keeping the rest of your clothes simpler.
Simplicity is key when exploring an individual style. There's no quicker way to kill an outfit than to overdo it. Once you've got your signature look, stick to it and repeat it. People will remember only one thing about your style, so overdoing it risks diluting your efforts and your style.
Rule n.2: Versatility
Your style should help you get through your day. It shouldn't be a burden or uncomfortable. It should be suitable for all the situations you encounter in your day. It should be interchangeable, with each piece capable of creating several looks.
Rule n.3: Easy to maintain
With little effort, you should be able to look your best with a modern look. From buying clothes to washing them, your style should be easy.
You shouldn't be stressed about comfort, creases or color matching. Keep it simple with colors that work well together and materials that require little care to look good.
Rule n.4: Timeless up to a certain point
In our fast-moving world, few things are truly timeless, especially in fashion, so 5 years is a good target. Try to invest in items that will last between two and five years. Enjoy your style and evolve it according to this timetable, and you'll always look current and up to date.
Rule n.5: Influence positively
Personal style is your media platform, your secret marketing team. Your style tells the world: status, confidence, vigor, intelligence - long before you have a chance to open your mouth. There are few things in life as influential on others as your style. Normally, 3 seconds is all it takes to form an opinion about someone. Make sure you make a good impression by looking your best.
Invest in a few key pieces
Are you familiar with the Pareto principle? This principle states that "20% of an investment is responsible for 80% of the results". In reality, we all wear one pair of jeans more than the others. We all have one or two favorite shirts. There are key pieces in each of our wardrobes that do the heavy lifting. To maximize the Pareto principle, start by investing in a few key pieces, then buy more.
For example: a few pairs of good jeanssome shirts classic colours that make you look your best, and finally a shoe key in a few classic colours. These choices can make your style very easy and manageable, and form a solid foundation for your wardrobe.
Choose the right fit
A fitted jacket will always look better than a more expensive but ill-fitting one. Whenever you buy new pieces, always keep your size and cut in mind. Although it can be tiring to always take your measurements when trying on new pieces, the result is well worth the effort.
By always choosing the right cut, your clothes will fit your body perfectly. If you find that the fit of certain garments is poor, don't hesitate to contact a tailor.
Don't change a winning recipe
Which pieces give you the most confidence? In which styles do you receive the most compliments? If you don't know the answer to any of these questions, feel free to explore. Success will give you clues.
Try out lots of different styles and get the opinion of your wife, family or friends. When you find the winning recipe, maximize it. Invest in all the colours that suit you.
Don't try to find 10 different pants from 10 different brands - that's a waste of time. Instead, take the time to find the one that suits you and maximize it.
Today, finding the right pieces has never been easier, thanks to free online delivery. No need to brave the mall.
To begin with, explore our pants collection which includes styles from over 20 different brands.
The right style for the right occasion
There's always a right time and place to wear a specific outfit, so it's important to have options in the bank for those days when you need formal attire. Whether you're going to a wedding or a brunch, there are certain rules to follow and tips to adopt.
If you're on your way to an event or gala, opt for a tuxedo or three-piece suit. For casual occasions, you can't go wrong with a jeana t-shirt and a jacket light.
Remember that smart-casual and business casual are two different things. Just be sure to check the dress code with the organizer before going to an event.
Invest in quality shoes
Whatever the event you're attending, there are shoes are indispensable. Not only do they complete an outfit and give you a polished look, they also provide excellent support for your feet, reducing the risk of back problems.
When choosing a pair, opt for something versatile that's suitable for all kinds of occasions, like dark leather dress shoes or a Chelsea bootie.
Rocking shades of brown or black go perfectly with colors like cream, navy and traditional tones, so you can wear them with almost anything.
Add a jacket
You don't have to go to a formal event to wear a jacket. Unlike suit jackets, these pieces don't have matching pants and can be worn as separate mismatched pieces. Opt for a t-shirt underneath. chinos and dress shoes for a fresh, casual aesthetic.
You can brighten up a winter look by pairing a wool jacket over a hoodie and jeans. No matter how you wear it, this outerwear piece can create a sophisticated yet casual outfit for any occasion.
Accessorize, but not too much
Accessories can make or break an outfit. But once you've found something you love, you'll want to wear it with everything.
Some must-haves include sunglasses and a quality watch - they enhance any outfit you wear without overdoing it.
If you're not going to an event that's too formal, change things up with a pair of socks fun. They're hidden most of the time, but they can add personality to an outfit without looking crazy.
Simple touches like these can tie an entire look together, without making you feel overdone.
Last thoughts
With millions of clothing options available, style can be intimidating. Too often, men are afraid to take a style risk and continue to dress poorly.
Like finance, style is not a life skill we learn in school. The need to dress well and have good style has as much impact as a good education. Get to work and take the necessary actions to help you enhance your style.