Newbie fashion advice for adult men
Men’s fashion is rising in prominence again and, as a result, you may find yourself wanting to develop your personal style beyond T-shirts and jeans. But more often than not, you won’t be able to go into a store and find the clothes that are best for you without keeping a few guidelines in mind. Remember these principles if you want to impress with your style of dress.
Fit is king. Above all else, you must make sure your clothes fit properly. Anything that feels too tight or too loose will not look as good as it could on you. To that end, determine what sizes you should be wearing for shirts, pants, shoes, and even accessories like rings and watches. Wearing things that are the right size help you maintain a polished look, no matter what your style is.
Adhere to dress codes. Every situation calls for a “dress code,” whether it’s formally mandated or not. For example, you likely don’t want to wear sweatpants on a first date. At the same time, you should know when the rules can be bent. When an event calls for black-tie, business casual, or casual, you have a little leeway in terms of what you can wear. But if the occasion calls for cocktail formal, white tie, or morning dress, stick to the traditions of those codes.
Aim to own three suits. The average man doesn’t need to go out and buy three suits immediately. Rather, he should look to build his wardrobe carefully, keeping his current clothes in the best condition possible while buying new ones as the need arises. When buying a new suit or replacing an old one, aim to have one black, one blue, and one gray suit. This gives you versatility for any occasion.
Know your shirts. Shirts come in an array of styles, and it is important that you have a basic knowledge of which ones are appropriate for different situations. For example, shirts with a button-down collar are not “dress shirts,” but instead are meant to be worn casually. And speaking of casual wear, it is also crucial that you know how and when to tuck in your shirt for casual occasions, so that when you step out of your door, you do so looking neat regardless of where you’re heading.
Pay attention to your shoes. Shoes are an incredibly important part of a man’s wardrobe, so be sure to keep them properly polished and clean to maximize their longevity and your style. A good rule of thumb is that the shinier a shoe is, the dressier it is, so plan what goes on your feet accordingly.
Accessorize appropriately. Whether you are a fan of necklaces, watches, bracelets, or rings, don’t overdo it. Dress to the occasion and select a few pieces that complement your outfit, not overshadow it. Too much jewelry can look tacky or childish; less is more when going for a sophisticated, adult look.
Style Rules [Esquire]
Men’s Fashion Basics [Fashionbeans]
Newbie Fashion Tips for Grown-Up Men [Lifehack]