Fashion Tips for Men

Dress Suits

1. Aim to own three suits: a navy blue or gray suit for versatile wear, a second suit in the alternate color, and a black suit for formal occasions. More suits can be added to your wardrobe as needed, exploring different patterns, weights, and colors.

2. Choose suits made of wool or cotton with a mid-range thread count for durability. Seek assistance from a salesperson for expert guidance.

3. Never button the bottom button of your suit jacket. On a three-button jacket, button the middle button; the top button is optional.

4. Carry a handkerchief in your front breast pocket, folded neatly with a small portion exposed. Offer it when needed and launder it afterward.

Shirts

1. Ensure your shirt sleeves extend 1/4″ to 1/2″ beyond your jacket sleeve.

2. Recognize that button-down collar shirts are sports shirts, suitable for casual wear with a sports coat, not formal occasions.

3. If you unbutton your collar, remove your tie. While a suit or sports coat can be worn without a tie, a tie with an unbuttoned shirt appears unkempt.

4. Unbutton the top button as desired (unless wearing a tie), the second button occasionally, and the third button only in informal settings.

Trousers

1. Wear your pants at your natural waist, approximately 2-3 inches below your belly button.

2. Pants should graze the ground without shoes, while jeans can be slightly longer to accommodate shrinkage.

3. Limit pleats to one, if necessary. Pleats do not necessarily have a slimming effect and can sometimes broaden your appearance.

4. Cuffs on trousers, measuring 1″ to 1 1/2″, are optional and often associated with a more mature and sophisticated style. A cleaner line without cuffs is generally preferred for younger men.

5. Remember that “pants” in British English refers to underwear. Use “trousers” to avoid misunderstandings when traveling abroad.

Shoes

1. Invest in high-quality shoes and maintain them well. Polish them regularly and use shoe trees to preserve their shape and absorb moisture.

2. Opt for leather shoes (excluding sneakers) as they breathe and conform to your foot. Leather uppers are essential, while soles can be made of other materials for specific needs.

3. Own a few essential pairs: black oxfords, black loafers, brown oxfords or loafers, and optionally, ankle-high boots. Oxblood shoes are versatile but less common. Avoid white shoes for formal occasions.

4. Choose shoe shininess based on the formality of the occasion. Matte-finish shoes are casual, while shinier shoes are dressier and suitable for suits.

5. Select shoes in the same tone or darker than your pants. Black shoes are a safe choice when in doubt.

Accessories

1. Match your belt to your shoes in terms of color.

2. Coordinate your socks with your pants or, alternatively, match your shoes or wear black socks.

3. Reserve white socks for sports and athletic activities only.

4. Ensure your tie reaches your belt, as a shorter tie can appear unprofessional.

5. Consider a front-pocket wallet or money clip for better posture, pickpocket prevention, and a more refined look.

6. Limit yourself to one fashion affectation to avoid a cluttered appearance.

Mastering these fundamental fashion rules will allow you to develop your personal style and express yourself confidently. While these guidelines provide a solid foundation, remember that true style comes from understanding and adapting these principles to suit your individuality. Dressing well can enhance your confidence and positively influence how others perceive you.