 Every woman must be concerned about how her man is matching his socks with his trousers and other assorted questions at some point in life. Here are six important men’s fashion rules to live by which should at least clear up some confusion about a few things.
1. He should always match his belt with his shoes.
This is a good rule to follow and it keeps things simple. It’s best to stay with traditional colors such a black, dark brown or a rich tan. Other colors will be difficult to match, and generally speaking, should be avoided. If he wears sneakers every day, that probably means he is wearing jeans in which case I suggest trying a belt made of fabric or something equally as casual, but please avoid dress belts with jeans and sneakers. If he wears braces, I am compelled to ask you why, but I digress. Just don’t let him wear a belt and braces together, it’s one or the other.
2. Let him match Ties and Shirts.
For a while, the solid-colored shirt with a tie of the same (or slightly-off) color was seen everywhere. This is now a somewhat dated look. Let him try mixing things up a little and experiment with colors. Ties are great way to express one’s self, but keeping it tasteful is the best bet. He can’t go wrong with diagonal stripes, modern polka-dots, plaids and subtle patterns. Just make sure his tie compliments his shirt, suit, sweater or whatever he will be wearing it with. Novelty ties are best avoided since the novelty is short lived.
3. Note: Ties should be tied in whatever style most strikes your fancy.
You should know that there are many different ways to knot your tie, and different knots say different things. I prefer the Windsor or the four-in-hand, but I do suggest that you explore a little just for kicks. As for clip on ties–just say no.
4. Pleats vs. Flat-Front.
Why so many men have avoided flat-front trousers has always been a mystery to me. Flat-front trousers look better than pleated ones, at least most of the time. Plus pleats makes men look less slim. I have heard guys wear pleats because it’s more comfortable or because flat-fronts are more for athletic bodies. Truth is most men can wear a flat-front trouser. If he wants more room then let him buy them a little big and have them brought in at the waist. This can be done at the store where you buy your clothes or by an independent tailor. And lastly, flat-font trousers are much more fashionable.
5. His Socks.
The more official rule on socks is that they should match the color of your trousers, though preferably not the exact same shade unless, of course, he is wearing black in which case it’s okay. However, I personally like to wear socks with patterns, such as stripes in various colors. But I do try to match my socks with my trousers and shoes. To quote Glenn O’Brien from GQ magazine, “. . .you will ultimately realize that beyond the valley of rules rises the mountain of aesthetics, the peak of which (if there is one) is always shrouded in beautiful clouds of various hues, many of them resembling certain of my more unusually hued socks.”
Note: Although it should be obvious, white socks should be reserved for the gym.
6. His Watch: Watches are the single most important accessory a man can own.
I really suggest you buy him one good watch that would suit his lifestyle and taste. However, if he likes to own more than one watch, let him wear the appropriate timepiece for whatever outfit: black band with black shoes and belt; brown band with brown shoes and belt; and silver band for either.
7. His Eyeglasses: Eyeglasses are one of the few ways one can really express himself.
I have worn glasses for many years and I love having a few pair in different styles. They don’t have to just serve a function, but they can enhance one’s overall look. Do your best to find him a pair of glasses that does not only compliment the shape of his face, but also expresses his personality. Ask people who wear glasses for a place where you can get good advice about what shape and style looks best for his face shape and features. |
