On college campuses, I too often hear, “Why can’t I just wear sweatpants/gym shorts/diapers to class?” Students have the habit of forgetting that first impressions matter, whether they like it or not, and you never know when you’re going to meet someone whose help you may one day need. People see your clothing before they hear you speak, so here are some basic tips to ensure that your style says what you want it to. Take these to heart, and start the semester off right.
Always Know Where You Are
Flip-flops are for the beach, jerseys are for sporting events, and free shirts are for the gym. Swap those flip-flops out for boat shoes. Hang the jersey up and put on a polo. And when it comes to tees, the safe bet is to go with a white, gray, or black crewneck/v-neck. For years, style blogs have said to avoid graphic tees like the plague as they often look immature and sloppy (and I don’t care how funny you think it is, I promise you, women, future employers, and strangers on the train do not agree with you). I’m a bit more lenient on that, I think if you can make it work, then good for you. But tread lightly.
Stop With The Cargo Shorts
Unless you happen to be Bear Grills or MacGeyver, nobody needs that many pockets. Style should always complement your body and your attitude, and cargo shorts have the incredible ability of complementing neither. They make big guys look bigger, short guys look shorter, and skinny guys look swallowed in fabric. So throw them away. There are so many great options in the shorts market now- from cuffed shorts (www.gap.com has great options), to Chubbies (www.Chubbiesshorts.com), to chino shorts (check out www.bonobos.com)- that there should not be a problem filling the void in your wardrobe where your cargos once were.
Never Ever Forget The Details
Pocket squares, glasses, hats, and socks not only have the ability to tie the entire look together, but they show both women and men alike that you pay attention to the little things, and there’s nothing more attractive than that.
Find A Watch, Wear A Watch
A wise man once said to me, “Watches are like thongs: People don’t always need to see it, but give them a peek every now and then. They like to know you’re wearing one”. Trust me, a watch is the one detail you should absolutely never leave out. I personally like the Timex Weekender (timex.com, $45) as my everyday watch. It’s simple, comfortable, and with interchangeable straps, it’s easy to switch things up and match every outfit. For more ideas, check out https://menstylefashion.com/watches-for-men-what-to-look-for/
Buy a Mirror and Use It
Always look in the mirror before you walk out the door. Never leave looking “just okay”. The most important thing you put on before you walk out of your house (or dorm) is confidence. In the end, style is what you say looks good. Embrace it, and go with it.
Image Credits: All from www.kuumba.tv
Photographers:Cover Image: Chantal Strasburger Image 1: Becca Shuman Image 2: Brian Benton Image 3: Becca Shuman Image 4: Chantal Strasburger Image 5: Becca Shuman Image 6: Chantal Strasburger Image 7: Brian Benton
