It takes more than a cursory glance at the newest runway styles to truly master the art of style in the broad world of fashion where trends seem to come and go as quickly as we change our minds. Men’s fashion can be even more tricky, since there is less guidance provided in this realm and you need to develop a keen understanding of basic style principles, an acute attention to detail, and a readiness to try new things and grow. Here are some easy-to-follow tips if you’re ready to level-up your understanding of men’s fashion and start moving beyond your typical uniform of sweatpants and T-shirts.
Knowing Your Body
A thorough understanding of one’s own body is the foundation of any outstanding wardrobe. Since every person’s body is different, what suits one person might not suit another.
Spend some time thinking about your body type. Do you have a tall, short, or medium build? Perhaps you want to wear height increasing boots to add a little bit more height. Knowing your body shape (and size) will help you choose clothes that accentuate and flatter the parts of your body you are most confident in and minimise any areas you are less confident in.
Purchasing High-Quality Basics
The foundation of any fashionable man’s wardrobe is a solid collection of classic staples. These are the elements that form the foundation of your everyday outfits, flowing with ease from casual to formal and day to night.
Invest in well-made basics that will last you a lifetime in addition to fitting well. Investing in essential wardrobe essentials such as well-fitting smart trousers, timeless white shirts, adaptable blazers, a good pair of jeans, and neutral-toned chinos is how you’ll start to construct your own style over time.
Getting the Fit Right
It’s impossible to overemphasise how crucial the fit of your clothing is when it comes to men’s (and women’s) fashion. A piece of clothing will never look quite right if it doesn’t fit well, no matter how trendy it is.
The simple solution here is working with an expert tailor who will be able to turn off-the-rack items into pieces that look like they were made for your body. A few tiny adjustments can have a major impact on the way your clothes fit and look.
Combining and Complementing
When you have the basics in place, you’re allowed to start getting creative and trendy. The limitless possibilities for creativity and self-expression that come with mixing and matching various items are one of the most exciting aspects of fashion.
Try putting different colours, patterns, and textures together to create ensembles that are eye-catching, and that express your unique style. Try different combinations, and don’t be scared to venture outside of your comfort zone. The results might surprise you!
Smart Accessorising
Accessories are the finishing touches that transform an average outfit into something memorable. Well-chosen accessories can give an otherwise subdued look a flash of colour, texture, and style.
However, it’s crucial to avoid going overboard. Select one or two standout accessories, such a bold watch, a sleek belt, or a unique pair of shoes, and make them the focal point of your outfit. Adding in a hat, a scarf, and chunky jewellery will end up being overkill.
Being Ready for Anything
The undervalued skill of dressing appropriately for different occasions and contexts is one that any fashionable man needs to master. Understanding the proper attire for any given event—be it a formal dinner party, a laid-back brunch with friends, or a workday—shows respect for the event and a formidable fashion sense.
Consider any cues given by the invitation or location of the event, and adjust your attire accordingly. When in doubt, it’s always best to be a little overdressed than underdressed.
Attention to Detail
It’s the small details that are usually what set a good outfit apart from a really great one. Focus on the details: the fabric quality, the fit of your clothing, the state of your shoes, etc.
Invest in well-made accessories that give your outfit a little edge and individuality, including ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks. Remember, too, the value of grooming. Even the most basic of garments can be elevated by a neat appearance, just as even a fancy three-piece suit can look scruffy on someone with unwashed hair.
Finding Your Personal Style
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to fashion, unless you’re one to blindly follow trends. Instead, we recommend that you find what feels appropriate for you by taking the time to experiment with different looks, trends, and aesthetics.
Take some style risks and venture outside of your comfort zone, even if it feels unnatural to you! Your personal style should represent who you are and give you a sense of comfort and confidence in the way you look.
Keeping Up with Trends
While keeping up with the current fashion trends might be important to you, it’s also crucial to keep in mind that not every trend is going to work for you, your body type, or even your unique sense of style.
Try to identify the trends that really speak to you and work them into your wardrobe in a way that feels authentic. It’s totally okay to forget about all the rest, even if you see everyone you know rocking a particular piece. Never forget that timeless classics are always in style, so it’s safe to stick to what you know and love.
The Final Secret to Style
Finally, try to remember that the most crucial piece of clothing you can wear is confidence, beyond anything else. Your clothes will never look quite right if you don’t feel confident wearing them, no matter how stylish, expensive, or trendy they might be.
When it comes to fashion, stay true to yourself, take pride in your appearance, walk with purpose, and stand tall with unflinching self-assurance. People will always notice when you feel good about yourself, and your confidence will be contagious.
Feature Image by Ruthson Zimmerman | Unsplash
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