Your appearance is the first thing people notice about you. Whether you are on a date, job interview or just out on a walk in the park, people see what you wear and how you wear it. Below are some common mistakes men make and a few tips to help make your wardrobe work for you.
But first, here is an interesting snippet about mens fashion and how some of the rules came about.
Some trends have an interesting history. Many fashion laws today will be reversed in a few years. Long hair gave way to short hair, which gave way to long hair, turning to short hair you get the picture. For example, there has been an absolute rule that men do not button the bottom buttons of a suite jacket. One story has it that King Edward VII (1841 to 1910) was so overweight that he could not get the bottom button fastened. Since, if it is good enough for the king the people saw it as fashion and followed.
Aside from the urban legends, here are some cut and dried rules for the fashion road.
Single Breasted suits generally range from one to three buttons. The traditional is two and three button. A single button or more than three should be worn for social events. Again, only the top button is buttoned.
Either the middle, or middle and top button are closed on a three button jacket. Many suits today have the lapels roll to the middle button. Four or more buttons on a jacket may allow fastening all the buttons. If the bottom button can be closed without a pull of the fabric, it can be closed or left open.
Double breasted suits are identified by a two-number designation such as 4/2 or four to two. The first number is the total front buttons, the second is the number of functioning buttonholes. In this example, there are four buttons and two actual buttonholes. Double Breasted suits are considered more formal and generally have four to six buttons, but only one or two really meant to button.
It is out of style to wear a short sleeve, button-down shirt with a tie. These shirts are seen as lower class apparel. Long sleeves present a professional image. Even hidden behind a suit, it is considered a fashion no-no. . Suit and sports jackets should show 1/4 to 1/2 inch of shirtsleeve to be considered proper fitting.
Dress shoes must be shined, either by a professional or by you. If you wear out and scuff your shoes often, you may have to shine them once or twice a month. Do not buy cheap cream and coloring since many of these will hurt the leather rather than maintaining it.
Pants should cover socks, and socks should cover shins even when legs are crossed. Socks should match pants, belts match with shoes. Lastly, be sure your tie touches your belt line. Longer than that was for the 40s and shorter was popular in the 70s. Fashion is not for time travel.
By following these simple fashion rules of the road, you will be on your way to maximizing your current wardrobe and making the most of your first impression.
