I am shifting the focus to the opposite sex today because they need style tips just as much as women, and there isn’t a wealth of information out there for them!
I met up with Souk of Styled. by Souk last night to get the inside scoop on what all stylish gentlemen need in their closet STAT. Yes, these may look basic but they are the building blocks of your wardrobe, the foundation of your fashion. As Souk says, “Fashion is what you buy. Style is who you are.”
Men, start your engines and let’s bring your personal style into this fashion overhaul!
Cardigan
This isn’t your typical Mr. Rogers cozy cable knit deal (Fun Fact: his mom hand-knitted all of cardigans he wore on the show). A cardigan can function as a sweater, a jacket, an extra layer under a jacket, a blazer if cut right and worn open with a collared shirt. There are numerous different style options- shawl collar, buttonless, double breasted…but the classic is the v-neck.
Cashmere Sweater
Why not wool? Why not cotton? Why cashmere? It is all about the feel. Guys, if you want someone to cozy up to you, wear a deliciously cozy, soft and luxe fabric. Wool is often itchy and requires maintenance (pilling!), and cotton can shrink faster than…well, it shrinks. Let’s just put it that way. If you want to dip your toe into the cashmere pond, try a low priced version from UNIQLO for under $100. Down for something a little less basic? Nordstrom Rack and Saks off Fifth offer fantastic discounts on warm weather essentials.
As for colors, grab one in a neutral- navy, black, gray, or military/olive green depending upon which looks best for your skin tone.
Dark Denim
Gents, if you want something classic yet classy, go dark. If you are muscular, grab a pair with 3% Lycra so you are able to move. Avoid embellishments or excess distressing. They key to making sure your denim doesn’t shrink or lose shape is to wash in cold water and air dry.
Socks
The details of an outfit are everything. I swoon when a guy is dressed conservatively, then out peeks a sliver of a spectacular pair of socks. This little detail allows men to express their personality, add a little trendy twist to their attire without being overly loud. Nick’Socks, a new local Chicago luxury brand, is upping the footwear game for the guys. These 100% Egyptian (Mako) cotton socks are thin and breathable, and available in patterns that are eye-catching without being ostentatious. Coordinate a great pattern like those in the Tradizionale (Herringbone) pair with a coordinating (NOT matching) tie and you will take your suit to the next level.
Wearing loafers or sneakers? Ditch the crew socks and grab a pair of Nick’Socks new no-show pairs and let people focus on your foot fashion. These low profile socks feature a rubber backing on the heel so they actually stay put.
Sneakers
Athleisure is just as popular for the men as it is for women! Bring back the skater shoes, the Converse, and update them with new colors, textures and materials. Suede or leather are both excellent alternatives to canvas/nylon. You can grab a great pair for under $100, and with free shipping and returns from Zappos it is easy to shop from home and not spend hours in a store trying to decide.
Want more style advice? There are still tickets left for The Style Session this Thursday! Hosted by my gal pal Souk and with clothing provided by Luxury Garage Sale, Notre, and Nick’Socks, this event will educate, inspire and entertain. Plus, there will be bubbly and a bangin’ DJ. And um…you might see someone you know on the runway 😉
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Men, take your new fashion tips and go conquer the world!! Or at least throw out the dad jeans and Cosby sweaters. Cheers!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you make a purchase.
