Fashion, my manly readers, has rules…many rules. Too many men get swamped by the rules and simply give up. Rules exist for a reason. We all need to recognize that the rules of fashion do in fact exist for each of us and for the well-being of all mankind. J The rules of fashion exist so we don’t walk around looking simply ludicrous, being offensive, or most importantly portraying an image to the world that isn’t a true representation of who we are. Whether you like it or not, we live in a visual society that assesses us dozens of times per day based on, among other things, what we are wearing.
My dear readers, you asked for information on building a basic men’s wardrobe. It is remarkably simple to have a classic, well stocked closet. Here are basic pieces every man should have in his closet. These pieces should be classics that will not go in and out each year – in other words NO trendy pieces. Keep classic colors in mind. They are black/charcoal, brown/beige, navy, and white.
Pants
Obviously, every man should have pants in his wardrobe. More specifically, every man needs a good pair of jeans, a pair of Khakis, and a pair of dress pants.
Dress pants: Most men don't own dress pants unless they are suit pants, but even if you own suits, you need a separate pair of dress pants. Traditional style dictates that your dress pants should be navy blue. While navy is a great choice, young men might opt for a dark charcoal gray or a standard black pair. If you wear suits to work, go ahead and splurge on a really nice (that is, more expensive) pair of dress pants and get them professionally tailored. You will wear them all the time and it will be worth the investment. It's better to have one nice pair of pants instead of five cheap pairs.
Khakis: For a more casual yet still professional look, men should have a nice pair of khaki or light-colored pants. Khakis are great because they don’t have the added expense of professional dry cleaning, and some brands even offer wrinkle-free khakis.
Blue Jeans: When looking for jeans, get at least one pair that is traditional. Try a dark wash with a clean cut (not flared, baggy, or slim). The jeans should pile a bit at the bottom, but you shouldn’t walk on the hem. Dark jeans can even be dressed up for a night on the town.
What’s that? Oh, you want to know about pleats? Just stay clear of pleats-stick with flat front pants. Trust me, clean lines just look a little neater. Speaker of clean and neat, make sure your choices are plain enough that they can be stretched throughout your wardrobe without anybody noticing. If you only own one pair of khakis and they are distinctive, people will notice if you wear them all the time. Oh, the shame! However, if you buy a standard pair, no one will notice if you wear them all the time; they'll just assume that you have five pairs of khakis.
Shirts
Every man needs a few nice button-down shirts. You can’t go wrong with a crisp, white, high-quality, cotton shirt. Look for one with a full-fashion collar that you can use with a collar stay and that can be worn with a tie. This way you can wear this shirt to work or out at night. Another good basic color is light blue.
Oh, and remember to wear a short-sleeve, white T-shirt under your button down shirts and sweaters. It will protect them from stains, and has an added benefit of making you look more professional, fashionable, and adult.
Pullovers
Pullovers are a great way to be more comfortable than in a button down shirt, but keeps the styled appearance. Look for a high (no one wants to see chest hair) V-neck sweater made of a quality material. If you're really in the mood to splurge, cashmere says class and it feels great against the skin. V-neck sweaters look great for dates and for casual dress days at work.
The Classic Coat
Opt for a navy blue sport coat. It’s perfect to wear with your khakis and button up shirt with or with out a tie or with a sweater.
Shoes
OK guys, you totally get a break here. Women have to have what seems like 3 dozen pairs of shoes, but you just need a measly 3 pairs. But, can you guess what one of the first things a woman notices about a man is? Yep, it’s the shoes. I know your smile is breath taking, but trust me on this one. You need a pair of dark brown loafers, a pair of black dress shoes and a pair of good tennis shoes.
It’s not just the type of shoes by the way. Experts agree that shoes must be polished. Also it’s time for a new pair when the heel has worn off or the leather looks worn. One more thought, your shoes will match your belt which will match your briefcase. Nothing looks worse than a brown belt worn with a black pair of shoes and a tan briefcase. Well, except if you just don’t even bother to put on a belt. Yes, that is worse. Oh, and wearing lime green. That would definitely be worse!
Accessories (belts, ties, watches, jewelry)
Traditional men’s clothing doesn’t offer much variety, but you can accessorize. Here are some tips on the final touches of your ensemble.
Jewelry: Most men stay away from jewelry, but there are a few options: watch, cufflinks, wedding ring, class ring, simple chain. Be careful sliding on a pinky ring or a fat chain. Wandering bands of disco dancers have been known to attack without other provocation.
Watches: Go for a simple watch that you can wear with anything. If you are an athlete and want a sports watch, fine. Just don’t wear it unless you are being sporty.
Belts: You need two of ‘em. Your dress pants need a thinner belt than your khakis and jeans. I’m serious on this one. Trust me, I’ve written articles just on belt etiquette!
Ties: Make sure you have the standard tie, but you can jazz up your look with a trendy tie. Make sure you ditch the tie after that trend has passed. Immediate Dork Alert? Cartoon ties and polyester – stay clear of them.
Lastly, make sure you are comfortable in whatever you buy and make sure to take care of your wardrobe. See that wasn’t so hard. Don’t you feel better with that knowledge? Wipe that blank look off your face. Now exhale and smile. See it’s ok. What else do you want to know?
Kisses,
The Diva
