Find a good suit and wear it
We’ve become a culture that considers an ill-fitting, button-down tucked into an old pair of khakis “dressed up”. Well, it’s not. Let’s face it — walking into the room and being the guy in the suit really makes you stand out in the best way possible. That can only build confidence, which leads to more success, which leads to a more fulfilling life, which leads to more fulfilled relationships, which leads to ... well, more confidence and motivation. Stylists suggest investing in a nice rich navy suit because it will go with just about everything.
Tailor your clothing … all of it
Fact — nothing says “I don’t care” quite like clothing that doesn’t fit. There was a time when a tailor was as important in a man’s barber. With a gamut of fashion trends coming our way, somewhere along the lines, we started to think of a tailored look as a negative thing. It’s not, and it never was. A well-tailored wardrobe will likely cost you less in the long run. A shirt can cost you next to nothing and spending the extra change to make it fit properly will fool everyone into thinking you spent a lot more than you really did.
Step up your shoe care
Whether it’s high shine, cream shine, or brushed suede, keeping your shoes in mint shape will instantly elevate your overall appearance. Our feet are the foundation of our bodies. Our shoes are the foundation of our outfits. We don’t suggest running a marathon in your old beat-up trainers, and we don’t suggest going on a business conference in an old beat-up pair of dress shoes. Whether your shoes cost you a fortune or not, a shoe that has been cared for will last longer and make a better impression. Also, the guy that takes care of your shoes is called a Cobbler, not a “shoe guy.” He’ll appreciate that you know that.
Match your belt, shoes and accessories
Match doesn’t have to mean match exact colours and materials. If wearing a full suit or a more formal outfit, the leather or suede of the belt should match in colour and sheen to the shoe, or as close as you can get. If wearing a more casual suit or outfit — with something off-key — try a neutral leather, canvas, or mixed-material woven belt for a cool look without trying to be too “matchy-matchy.” Adding a bag, some gloves, or a hat? When in doubt, keep tones together (various shades of brown leather, but no black, or various blacks and grays, no browns).
Choose a bold sock but not a crazy sock
Did you know that a lot can be said for a solid sock in a bold hue? Once it gets busy with a lot of stripes, patterns or polka dots, it can get distracting and take you from modern to messy. If you are not sure, stylists recommend sticking to a classic and simple sock choice in a bold colour. From cherry red to a marsala-crimson — you can pair it up with anything and notice that it effortlessly matches with just about everything. Because it is a primary colour, it tends to be bold without contrasting from most outfits. Not a fan of red? That’s not an issue. Find something you like and try it out. If it doesn’t work, try something else. Luckily socks tend to be an inexpensive way to have fun with an outfit.
Upgrade your scent
There are a lot of fragrances to choose from in the world, but style experts recommend finding two that work for you personally and then sticking with them. Fragrances are typically priced based on concentration. Simply put, perfume is the most concentrated, Eau de Toilette is next, then comes cologne. Don’t let the words fool you, guys can use perfume as well, you just don’t need as much since it stays with you longer. It is a common misconception that women wear perfume and men wear cologne.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 17th, 2016.
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