As men start paying more attention to fashion nowadays, we see a lot more of well-dressed professionals. Primarily because work wardrobe constitutes the basic suits and ties, it is the small details that count. There is indeed a very thin line between a fashion success and a fashion faux pas for men; you might not know when you are committing a fashion crime.
The first pointer to remember for the workplace is to dress up decently. Any funky clothing or footwear will make you look out of place. Experimentation with cuts and colors is also not a good idea for the office. Keep it simple and classy, yet very much in vogue.
Here is a small list of fashion do’s and don’ts to help you sail through the summer season:
Suits
Do’s: Go for a sleek fitting that does not look too sloppy or too fitted. Both two-button and three-button jackets are the rage this season. Try integrating a little bit of monochrome in your suit; maybe a black and white striped suit or a black suit with a monochrome shirt and tie combination will look good. Suits look best in black, grey, or navy blue.
Don’ts: There is one prominent fashion crime when it comes to suiting up; the shiny suits. Whether it is the office or a non-professional event, keep the sparkling material at an arm’s distance. Also avoid suits in washed out colors like white (or shades of white) and mint green.
Ties
Do’s: Men’s Neckties are an interesting part of the wardrobe because they can be played around to add color and patterns. Use your necktie to add a splash of color to an otherwise dull suit or shirt. Colors like red, tea pink, green, and purple have recently become an acceptable norm for ties at the workplace. Patterns and stripes also look great with a plain suit and shirt.
Don’ts: Avoid pairing ties and shirts with colors that clash. A red tie with a white shirt and black suit will look great, but the same tie with a green shirt will be a disaster. Avoid going overboard with the color combinations.
Shoes
Do’s: Round toe shoes with lace fastening look elegant and sober. Dark brown and black leather shoes look great; the most preferred style for the workplace is the Oxford shoe style. It will be great if you match your belt and shoes every day. Go for comfort rather than style; after all, you will be walking around in those shoes from 9 to 5!
Don’ts: Stay away from the pointy end shoes. Not only are they oh-so-last-season, they also give a non professional vibe. Avoid wearing shoes in white leather.
Miscellaneous Advice
You should not be a walking brand ambassador at the workplace; avoid loud brands and monogram prints at the office (and otherwise). Keep your look subtle and innovative. This spring, there was not a lot of accessorizing for the men on the runway, so stick to wearing a watch or a tiny bracelet if you want. Keep yourself well groomed: unruly beards and shabby haircuts can kill the most dapper ensembles.
In the end, it is best to remember that everything looks good if you carry it well. Keep your style simple, subtle, and a tad bit experimental, and carry it off with confidence to look great at the workplace.
Written by Ashley Roberts
Guest Authors and Friends of Pinstripe Magazine, Online Mens Magazine for Gear, Girls and Gadgets.
