In need of a major wardrobe revamp? Looking to gain a boost of confidence in the style department? Fashion is a form of self-expression, and there are plenty of ways to curate and enhance a personal style that is both evocative and timeless. Here are some tips that will help you look and feel your best all year round.
Clothes Make The Man
Regardless of whether you are into sleek tuxedos from Tom Ford or vintage jerseys from your local thrift store, we can all agree that clothing is key. Men’s fashion has evolved over the decades, with demand rising exponentially every year. In fact, the value of the menswear industry is expected to rise to US$740.76 billion U.S. dollars by 2025. Although it may be hard to keep with the ever-changing trends and style guides, there are a few simple guidelines you should bear in mind.
Firstly, quality should always be prioritized over quantity. Although they are generally more expensive, clothes of higher quality tend to look better and last longer. Think of all the time and money you will save in the long term. There are also environmental and ethical stakes at play. None of us want to see excessive amounts of clothing going to waste or fuel demand for cheap garments manufactured in unethical working conditions, no? Your future self will have you, and a durable wardrobe, to be grateful for.
Good clothes are important, as long as they fit well. Garments like suits, jackets, blazers, and trousers can look baggy and shabby if not fitted properly. Pay close attention, especially in the areas across the chest and shoulders, and do not make the purchase if it doesn’t fit. Having a skilled tailor is a bonus—alterations can make all the difference.
It’s a good idea to seek inspiration from others, but blindly following the trends might make you stick out like a sore thumb. Everyone is different. A type of clothing may suit someone else and not you, and vice versa. Find what works best for your skin tone, body type, and face shape, and stick to it.
The Devil Is in The Details
The art of layering is a skill worth mastering. How can you spruce up that T-shirt you wear in the summer when the weather gets chilly? As the seasons change, so do your outfit options. There are tons of fun and interesting combinations, colors, patterns, and textures to experiment with. One rule of thumb is to layer from thick to thin, keeping pieces with lighter fabrics closest to your skin.
The quality over quantity rule extends to footwear, socks, hats, and even underwear. These are elements that must not be neglected. The right footwear, for instance, can truly make or break your outfit. Give your ratty old sandals a break, and start looking into wingtips, penny loafers, and of course, a pair of round-toed dress shoes.
If things get a little too overwhelming, you can always count on classics that will never go out of style. Examples include a crisp, white Oxford button-down dress shirt, a black leather jacket, a black, grey, or navy tailored suit, fitted blue jeans, and an elegant timepiece. These fundamental pieces can help build the foundation of your wardrobe as you journey on to discovering your best self (and style).
Want others to know you’ve got an eye for detail? It’s time to start accessorizing. From bold cufflinks to funky ties, using accessories is the best way to spice things up and step out of your comfort zone. However, they should be used sparingly. If in doubt, go for one or two reliable essentials you cannot go wrong with.
Don’t forget about your hair, skin, and nails. Every man will benefit from some sort of male grooming, be it hair products or skincare. The global male grooming industry is estimated to be worth around US$81.2 billion by 2024. What are you waiting for? Banish any toxic notions of masculinity you may possess and start taking care of yourself. You will start looking, feeling, and smelling good.
Using fragrances is an excellent way to enhance your overall appearance, increase your confidence levels, and leave a lasting impression. Different fragrances can be used for different occasions or seasons. Generally, light and fresh fragrances work well in the summer, while musky, dark, and woody scents are best for the winter. Finding your signature scent may take time, but it’ll all be worth it.
There is no right way to look and dress. Perhaps you strive to be a debonair gentleman or a trendsetter with impeccable yet unconventional taste. It is important to take as much time as you need to find the best style that works for you. Do your research, experiment, and just trust the process.