Terrence Kennedy
There is formal wear and there is casual wear and the two seldom meet in the middle. For many men, the casual wear is just as good as anything for the day to day routine.
However, if you want to get out of the rut of wearing the same old same old every day and doing the same routine, then you have to implement a new method of doing things (sounds pretty simple does it not?).
Here are a few ways in which you, the blue jeans and t-shirt guy, can quickly learn how to dress like a luxury man.
5 Minimalist Tips in Dressing Like a Gentleman
Use Only Dress Socks
White socks are only good if you have blue jeans or if you have black pants which you want to have a strong contrast with.
On the most part, the man will want to seek out some dress socks, or at least some socks which are grey, black, and brown. Whether you choose to go with cotton, silk, or wool is up to you and your feet.
When pairing your socks with your shoes keep this in mind: Color goes well with its color. That means if you have black leather loafers, wear black socks.
If you have dark brown shoes, wear dark brown socks. You get the point.
Iron Your Slacks
Yes, there are iron free slacks which are available on the market, but this does not mean that you should never have those slacks pressed.
A crisp set of slacks does well to present luxury and style. The more wrinkles that you have in your pants, the more of a perception of haphazard dressing you will present. Keep things sharp and clean.
Avoid wearing any slacks which have stains and tears. If there is fraying around the seams, have these defects tailored (dry cleaners can usually do this service).
When you iron your slacks, you may note that the back pocket in which you keep your “standard” wallet has become warped.
Let's face it, slacks were never really intended to carry a real thick wallet. By having a wallet which presses against the fabric, over time that fabric will lose a little bit of its resistance and will warp to accommodate the stress. And while the wallet may slide a bit easier in and out of the pocket, it does not look good aesthetically.
Consider switching to a slim wallet and carrying such in your jacket or vest pocket instead.
Choose a Statement Shirt
Shirts, in terms of button up shirts, make a statement. Even polo shirts which are considered pull on shirts make a statement. What statement your attire portrays is up to you.
Choose colors that accentuates your skin tone. Colors which are not too aggressive (for example you do not want to wear red if you are a Sales person as it is too aggressive and gives off negative vibes).
At the same time, you do not want to just slap on the cliché white button up unless you have a unique tie to go with it. Try some soft pastel colors or (if you have to go with white) a different style.
And guys, if you need help in matching colors and textures, ask. You do not want to look like you fell out of Pirates of the Caribbean.
Accessorize with Minor Details
The thing which separates luxury from just a nice getup is the small details. Where a formal suit has a button up shirt, a luxurious suit will add cufflinks.
A necktie will get a clip to it. Instead of a fat wallet on a luxury suit, the person will opt for a compact wallet and perhaps a money clip.
Do not over do the details, but pay attention to how everything fits together.
If it looks over the top, it probably is. Do everything in moderation.
Groom your Hair
Shave and brush your hair. It is that simple. You can have a beard and moustache, in fact some men look horrible without facial hair.
Just ensure that your beard and moustache is trimmed up and that you shave your neck every so often. If you have long hair, groom it.
The wild and free look may work for Duck Dynasty and such professionals as that, but for the most part, if you want to give off the sense of luxury your hair should be trimmed, your beard shaved (or groomed), and your nails trimmed and clean.
Conclusion
NO, you do not have to look like a “prissy boy” in order to dress like a man.
Simple and clever details go a long way in terms of Fashion.
Dress aggressive, dress bold, and take some pride in what you wear, and for goodness sake ditch the jeans and shirt once in a while.