We all know men to be the ultimate fashion improvisers, which is just a kind way to say how much some men have the ability to look absolutely ridiculous when left to fend for themselves in the world of clothing. Developing a sense of style isn’t something that comes naturally to everyone, naturally, and often men don’t see a point in having one or trying to learn it. But in today’s world looks are very important and while you might not be deep in the trenches of the everyday fashion war of looking for the next big thing, you can still manage to look good with just a few pointers. And it’s these kinds of pointers that we would like to give our everyman readers now.
1. Socks
Starting at the very bottom – your feet. Everyone wears socks, unless you’re in sandals all day, which few people have the convenience of doing. So when you buy socks and try to match them with your outfit, what should you do? The biggest mistake you’ll ever make is wearing white socks – these are best left for when you’re doing sports. The next rule of thumb is to have them match the color of your pants, although perhaps in a different shade. Patterns are accepted, but not necessarily encouraged – if you do like them, keep them simple. And absolutely no novelty socks – and this will apply to any piece of clothing.
2. Shoes
Another rule of thumb – your shoes should match your belt. Black shoes pretty much go with anything, brown, tan or dark blue shoes look best with matching colors. Anything outside of these colors is risking stepping into very tricky fashion territory, and we won’t advise it unless you’re very experienced. Belts also look better in black or shades of brown. Some people ask us about suspenders, and we usually frown a little. If you do insist on wearing suspenders, just make sure you wear them instead of a belt, and not with a belt.
3. Ties and Shirts
These are among the most important things in a man’s wardrobe. It’s tricky to have your tie not clash too much with your shirt, and still stand out on its own. Be careful with patters – nothing too busy, and, again, nothing novelty. And don’t clash patterns – always have one piece be solid, otherwise you’ll look like an optical illusion.
4. Pants
We are not fans of pleated pants around here. Flat front pants are much more flattering on everyone, while pleated pants look a little strange when you’re moving, sitting down – anything but standing perfectly still (and even then they may look weird). Fitting is important, especially the waste, so watch out for that.
5. Accessories
A man doesn’t usually have a big change to accessorize, to put all your attention on the accessory everyone expects you to have: your watch. If you’re a one-watch kind of guy, a silver band is the way to go – it will match anything. If you have more than one, try to have one with a black band, one with a brown band and a silver one at least.
This post was authored by Holly Adams, who writes about fashion at Coupon Croc. Check the site out for a John Lewis discount code before you go clothes shopping.
