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6 Important Men's Fashion Rules to Live By
By
Daniel Billett, About.com Guide
Every man has asked themselves about matching their socks with their trousers
and other assorted questions at some point in their lives. Here I have listed
six important men's fashion rules to live by which should at least clear up some
confusion about a few things.
- Always match your belt with your shoes. This is a good rule to
follow and it keeps things simple. It's best to stay with traditional colors
such a black, dark brown or a rich tan. Other colors will be difficult to
match, and generally speaking, should be avoided. If you wear sneakers every
day that probably means you are wearing jeans in which case I suggest trying
a belt made of fabric or something equally as casual, but please avoid dress
belts with jeans and sneakers. If you wear suspenders, I am compelled to ask
you why, but I digress. Just don't wear a belt and suspenders together, it's
one or the other.
- Matching Ties and Shirts. For while the solid-colored shirt with
a tie of the same (or slightly-off) color was seen everywhere. This is now a
somewhat dated look. Try mixing things up a little and experiment with
colors. Ties are great way to express yourself, but keeping it tasteful is
your best bet. You can't go wrong with diagonal stripes, modern polka-dots,
plaids and subtle patterns. Just make sure your tie compliments your shirt,
suit, sweater or what ever you will be wearing it with. Novelty ties are
best avoided since the novelty is short lived.
Note: Ties should be tied in whatever style most strikes your fancy. You
should know that there are many different ways to knot your tie, and
different knots say different things. I prefer the Windsor or the
four-in-hand, but I do suggest that you explore a little just for kicks. As
for clip on ties--just say no.
- Pleats vs. Flat-Front. Why so many men have avoided flat-front
trousers has always been a mystery to me. Flat-front trousers look better
than pleated pants, at least most of the time. Plus pleats make you look
less slim. I have heard guys wear pleats because it’s more comfortable or
because flat-fronts are more for athletic bodies. Truth is most men can wear
a flat-front trouser. If you want more room then buy them a little big and
have them brought in at the waist. This can be done at the store where you
buy your clothes or by an independent tailor. And lastly, flat-font trousers
are much more fashionable. How do you feel about pants with pleats? Take
this poll.
- Socks. The more official rule on socks is that they should match
the color of your pants, though preferably not the exact same shade unless,
of course, you are wearing black in which case it's okay. However, I
personally like to wear socks with patterns, such as stripes in various
colors. But I do try to match my socks with my pants and shoes. To quote
Glenn O'Brien from GQ magazine, ". . .you will ultimately realize that
beyond the valley of rules rises the mountain of aesthetics, the peak of
which (if there is one) is always shrouded in beautiful clouds of various
hues, many of them resembling certain of my more unusually hued socks."
Note: Although it should be obvious, white socks should be reserved for
the gym.
- Watches are the single most important accessory a man can own. I
really suggest investing in one good watch that suits your lifestyle and
taste. However, if you are someone who likes to own more than one watch,
wear the appropriate timepiece for your outfit: black band with black shoes
and belt; brown band with brown shoes and belt; and silver band for either.
See my
Men's Watch Guide for more in depth advice.
- Eyeglasses are one of the few ways you can really express
yourself. I have worn glasses for many years and I love having a few pair in
different styles. They don't have to just serve a function, but can enhance
your overall look. Do your best to find a pair of glasses that not only
compliments the shape of your face, but also expresses your personality. Ask
people who wear glasses for a place where you can get good advice about what
shape and style looks best for your face shape and features.
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