Strategies For Updating Your Style

By Nikita Oliver-Lew
[Men's Fashion]
Updating your look can be a quick and painless operation when you have a plan.  Nikita Oliver-Lew discusses some key items to revive your wardrobe.
Unlike women, men are not traditionally known as dedicated followers of fashion, but like it or not, nowadays there is just as much pressure on guys to look put-together at work and when they are out on the town as there is on women.  Given that men are far more reluctant to hit the shops on a regular basis, they are less likely to refresh their wardrobe and update their looks.  There is no need to fear a shopping adventure as long as you have a plan, so brace yourself and hit the stores to pick up a few key items to update your style instantly and (mostly) painlessly.

Blank Canvas

The white button-down shirt is a great base to build an outfit around and it is an indispensable part of every man’s wardrobe.  Whether you pair it with jeans or a suit, it never fails, but there are important details to consider when picking out a new shirt.  On the surface the white button-down seems to be a straightforward proposition, but the style of collar, cuff and pocket all make a big difference to the overall impression.  Shorter collars can be a part of a great mod outfit and tuxedo shirts offer the opportunity to switch up your look with different cuff links.  The vital part about the white shirt is that it be white, crisp and clean.  Picking up a new white shirt is a quick way to rejuvenate your style.  The bright white will create a fresh and smart impact.

It’s In Your Jeans

This wardrobe staple is everything any man could ask for in an item of clothing—durable, versatile and comfortable—but finding the right pair is not as simple.  The keys to denim are fit and wash.  Get these two elements right and one pair of jeans will serve you well for many years to come.  There are a myriad of cuts and washes to choose from in stores at the moment, but for the most mileage, choose a dark wash and straight cut that fits, but is not too tight.  Light washes are more casual and less flattering and oversized denim can look sloppy.  Avoid at all costs excessively pre-worn or acid wash jeans.  A dark wash that is fitted (but not too tight) can be dressed up or dressed down and will always look classic and smart.
NEXTContinued on next page...