Many sartorially challenged men aren't even aware that they’ve entered a style stall. If you’ve fallen into a fashion rut, there’s no need to toss everything into the junk heap and start from scratch. These simple style tips rev up your creative engine and get the wardrobe wheels spinning. The result? Fresh, fearless fashion sure to make a winning impression.
1. Access(orize) Hollywood
If it’s good enough for Johnny Depp, it’s good enough for you. Captain Jack Sparrow is joined by countless other fashion icons, including David Beckham, Brad Pitt and the whole hip hop community, in embracing the power of the scarf. It doesn’t stop there, though. From belts to wristwatches, the right details have the unique ability to take any outfit from dull to dapper. And don’t underestimate the impact of the right pair of eyeglasses. Make a distinctive first impression in a pair of fashionable horn rimmed or classic tortoiseshell spectacles.
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it's easy to accessories your outfit with some interesting socks, shades or timepiece |
2. Get Your Kicks...And Your Loafers
While shoes are sometimes grouped with accessories, they deserve a category of their own. If sneakers are your go-to togs, then an easy upgrade awaits: invest in a pair of loafers which are appropriate for occasions ranging from casual to formal, and suit nearly every style. The more fashion forward can embrace the cowboy boots which debuted earlier this week in Chanel’s Pre-Fall 2014 men’s collection show. Whatever shoes you wear, tattered is a turnoff so shine them up or throw them out when age starts to show.
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John rocking his YMC loafers |
3. Color Your World
The human eye can see millions of hues, so why is your closet limited to white and khaki? Don’t be afraid to experiment: whether it be a vibrant pair of orange corduroy pants or a yellow oxford shirt, color adds dynamic flair. If you’re looking for a touch of intrigue, stores like yd. offer unique designs that will make you stand out from the crowd. Even jeans offer the chance to mix things up: experiment with different washes -- from acid to dark denim -- to change your look. One rule of thumb: if you go bold on the bottom, balance it with something subdued on the top or risk looking like you got lost on your way to Sesame Street.
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YD Enterprise Shirt |
4. The Fit Factor
Even a stylish wardrobe looks cheap if the fit isn’t right. While a trip to the tailor can mean the difference between frump and fierce, many men overlook its importance. Think of the best-dressed men you know: more likely than not, they have their local alterations shop on speed dial. Because off-the-rack clothing is sized long, unaltered clothing can have the unfortunate effect of making a grown man look like he’s wearing his father’s jacket. For a sleek fit keep these tips in mind: shirt sleeves should hit at the natural wrist with the jacket falling approximately half an inch higher. Pants break at the shoe or just below; if they bunch at the bottom, they're too long.
5. Step Away From the Fleece
Fleece is fine for a winter’s day walk, but other options abound for rounding out your wardrobe.
James Dean immortalized the black leather jacket, but he also made a big impression in everything from a navy peacoat to a shearling trimmed ranch coat. As with the rest of the wardrobe, fit matters: a coat shouldn’t be too smug, but buying up a size looks sloppy. When it comes to outerwear, you can't go wrong with a smooth, clean silhouette, but even a streamlined version of a puffy coat offers interesting contrast when worn over a suit.
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John going for a classic Folk jacket |
Incorporating these tips doesn’t mean casting off your old wardrobe. Instead, work with what you already have and gradually add in new pieces that complement and refresh your look. Take inspiration from friends and celebrities with well-cultivated fashion, and keep one basic rule in mind: fashion is fun! Fearlessly embracing this concept will have you on the road to style success.