Navigating Style Rules for Men: Know When to Follow Them and When to Break Them
So, you're a bit of a rebel! Is that the downfall of your style? Not at all, but you need to know when and where to rebel. Let's call it a controlled rebellion. A line in a song you may have heard says, "You gotta know when to hold'em and know when to fold 'em." Style rules for men are similar.
Specific rules have stood the test of time, guiding gentlemen towards a more refined and polished appearance. But as with all rules, it’s important to understand their context and the pitfalls they intend to avoid. This article explores essential style rules for men, explaining why they're important, when to bend them and when to fall in line. Let's dive into these timeless maxims and see how they can help refine your style.
Style Rule for Men #1: Fit Above All Else
The first and perhaps most crucial of the style rules for men is that fit trumps all. It doesn't matter how stylish a garment is. It will only look right if it fits you properly. A well-fitting outfit not only enhances your physique but also exudes confidence. Ill-fitting clothes, whether too tight or too loose, can detract from your overall look. Remember, the most expensive suit will look cheap if it doesn't fit right. So, prioritize tailoring and invest in clothes that complement your body shape.
When to Break It: Never. Not all garments require a closer fit like a dress shirt. A linen shirt in the summer should fit a little looser. Intention is key when it comes to fit. Make sure your clothes fit as you want them. You want to move around without feeling like you're bursting at the seams or swimming in a sea of fabric.
Don't Mix Black with Brown
An often-heard style rule for men is to "Never mix black with brown." This rule is rooted in the belief that these colours clash. While it's true that certain shades of brown may not complement black, this rule isn't as rigid as it seems. Black and brown can work beautifully together when balanced correctly. For example, a black polo paired with dark brown (or khaki) chinos creates a wonderfully sophisticated look.
When to Break It: Sometimes. Black and brown are neutral colours. The key is ensuring there’s contrast between them. Be confident when the shades complement each other and create a cohesive look. Rich, dark brown accessories can elevate black pieces, adding depth and visual interest.
A Man's Shoes Say a Lot About Them
Shoes are often considered a window into a man's personality. They're one of the first things people notice, and they can make or break an outfit. Polished, well-kept shoes indicate attention to detail and a respect for craftsmanship. Whether in formal dress shoes or casual loafers, ensure they're clean and in good condition.
When to Break It: You should always have clean shoes in good condition. But not every occasion calls for brown leather Oxfords. Black Chelsea boots express sophisticated style and look great with a navy blue suit.
The Bridge to Nowhere: Pairing Dress Socks with Shoes and Trousers
Ah, the humble dress sock: a small but mighty player in the grand ensemble of men's style. Think of dress socks as the "bridge" between your trousers and shoes. Done right, they create a seamless connection. Done wrong, well, it's like building a bridge to nowhere. Imagine stepping out in a sleek grey suit, polished brown monk-strapped dress shoes, and... neon green socks? Yikes! You've just turned your sartorial bridge into a highlighter-hued disaster zone.
When to Break It: This rule is a little more difficult to break, but you can bend it. If you do remember this Golden Rule: Your socks should never be the loudest part of your outfit. They're like the soundtrack to a movie—essential but not the main feature. Nobody wants to end up on a bridge to nowhere!
Match Your Belt to Your Shoes
Matching your belt to your shoes is a simple yet effective way to create a cohesive look. This rule ensures a harmonious appearance, especially in formal settings. For instance, black shoes should be paired with a black belt and brown shoes with a brown belt. This attention to detail can elevate your outfit from good to great.
When to Break It: Bend it. You risk overcomplicating your outfit if you employ too many colours. However, from an understated approach, there may be times when it's just as effective to closely match with your trousers. This is applicable to brown and tan colours. Keep it simple and sophisticated for your suits and formal occasions. The key here, similar to socks, is not to draw outsized attention to your belt—it's busy holding up your trousers.
Less Is More
When it comes to men’s style, less is often more. This principle emphasizes simplicity and elegance over complexity and excess. A streamlined wardrobe with classic pieces allows easy mixing and matching, resulting in timeless, versatile outfits. Avoid over-accessorizing. Focus on a few key pieces that make a statement.
When to Break It: If you're confident in your style, feel free to experiment with bolder patterns or more accessories. The key is to balance them with simple, neutral pieces.
Want to develop an elegant nonchalance the Italians call "Sprezzatura?" The following article may interest you: Face the World with Sprezzatura.
Quality Over Quantity
A hallmark of refined style is investing in quality pieces rather than a large quantity of items. High-quality clothing and accessories not only last longer but also look better. They're made with superior materials and craftsmanship, which enhances your overall appearance.
When to Break It: Quality should always be your priority for foundational items in your wardrobe. But it's acceptable to break this style rule for men with items that experience a lot of wear and tear. You can opt for more affordable versions of items like gym shirts or jeans for Sunday chores.
Choose Timeless Over Trendy
Dabbling in trends may sound like harmless fun. But you can end up with a closet with pieces that leave you wondering, “Why did I buy this?” Timeless pieces form the foundation of a stylish wardrobe. Classic items like a well-fitted navy blazer, white dress shirt, and dark jeans are versatile and never go out of style. Trends come and go, but a timeless wardrobe ensures you always look put-together.
When to Break It: Avoid the siren song of the latest trends. Too many of us have fallen prey to baggy jeans and oversized suits. Explore other ways to spice up your personal style. Experiment with different fabrics, colours and accessories. Just remember to keep understated and timeless pieces as the backbone of your wardrobe.
The Bottom Line: Understanding and sometimes bending style rules for men can help you develop a style that's uniquely yours. Whether you're prioritizing fit, experimenting with colour combinations, or investing in quality over quantity, these guidelines can elevate your style game.
Explore Aklasu's collection of ties and socks to polish your wardrobe and achieve timeless style.
