This week on stylescoop I discuss mens accessories and more importantly the 'How-don'ts' that apply to them. Read the article and catch up with my new friends after the jump!
MEN AND HOW TO ACCESSORIZE THEM
And if you have not yet read the first of our 12 week journey through menswear you can catch it below.
THE SKELETON LIST
Man was born naked so it’s not surprising that many men feel unprepared or even awkward about clothing now that they’re grown up. I face this every day; men who want to dress well but lack the know-how. Well let’s consider you a blank canvas!
In the following 12 weeks this column will serve as a training guide for men into the daunting world of ‘Fashion’. It will also help the ladies who want to style thier man understand male fashion.
Fashion is not conformity! For many people it’s expressive. So what are your clothes saying about you? ‘Ill-fitting’, ‘stained’ or ‘dated’ clothing doesn’t say you have more pressing things to worry about than what you wear. Instead it says ‘I’m a slob’, ‘my mom bought me this’, and ‘I’m probably single’
Firstly the important thing to remember is to ‘Be Yourself’. No one is telling you to wear studded leather pants because someone over in London or New York deems them fashionable. Age, body-type and job should be considered when purchasing new clothing. An exchange policy is a wonderful thing.
In order to get you updated we need to get back to basics. I’ll go into detail along the way but for now I’ve compiled ‘The Skeleton List’:
A quality white cotton dress shirt
The most versatile of all your garments because it works both formally and casually i.e Your shirt paired with denims and a V neck sweater.
Fitted draw denims
If you’re starting out your collection then a pair of fitted straight cut jeans in a dark indigo/raw wash is your best bet. Versatile, stylish and sleek they go with virtually any shoe and look great dressed up.
Black formal shoes
These should be bought with a slight point/curve. Squared or sharp points fall on either side of the fashion spectrum, the former being dated and the latter needing to be worn with slimmer trousers.
A navy blazer
Notice the trend in versatility? This blazer will open up your wardrobe options because it goes equally well over a shirt as it does over a T-shirt. Wear it with Jeans, Khaki’s or Chino’s to all sorts of occasions.
At least one, well tailored suit
If it’s your only one then a black suit is your safer option come weddings, funerals or job interviews. There is nothing worse than an ill-fitting, cheap suit so save until you can afford a quality one that fits your shape.
A decent watch
A tattered canvas strap is not becoming of a gentleman. Your watch should be masculine and reflect your personality. If you can’t afford a fancy TAG just yet, then look for a clean and simple design with a mature look to it.
Slim black belt
Is essential and will serve its purpose well in both formal and semi-formal wear.
Any successful man will tell you that starting at the bottom is imperative. He will also tell you that looking good is all part of the package of success. Men have reawakened their sartorial interests, because now they see that fashion is not about outlandish dress-ups, it’s about a lifestyle and if you start slow anyone can be fashionable.