As a man there are many responsibilities we have in life that take priority. So its obvious something like dressing well gets thrown by the way side, as it can seem pointless. But, what is dressing well all about really? You'll learn to understand that dressing well doesn't have to be about vanity, over compensation, or social insecurities but rather being true to oneself and knowing ones value.
Bling Bling
A rappers "bling" is an eye catcher no doubt. People will always notice the guy with the giant diamond encrusted Sega Genesis controller around their neck (actual necklace by the way). You could very easily look at any celebrity who spends an exorbitant amount of money on their outfit and flaunts it unabashedly. I'm sure you're thinking of one now. While this sort of display maybe attract a certain crowd, those of us everyday folk don't need those materialistic, shallow swarms. Dressing isn't about demanding attention but rather earning the attention/recognition through a well thought out and clever outfit. You can be subtle in your attempt to gain the interest in your peers. No need to force it.
Don't Over Compensate
Similar to "status outfits," or vanity dressing, are the over compensating dressers. It's the same idea as demanding attention from people. These dressers understand that dressing well is important and so they attempt to find a stylish solution yet over shoot their goal and end up looking foolish. I like to refer to these dressers as the Ed Hardy Boys. That clothing is so obnoxiously loud that I find myself waiting for one of them to scream out, "Look at me!" at any moment. You can earn your desired attention/recognition without seeming like you're trying too hard by dressing sensibly. Clean, simple, traditional yet modern. This may seem like a hard thing to do but its a rule I've lived by and has worked well for me over the years: Never wear clothing that is easily if at all recognizable as a brand. Keep people guessing. You want to set yourself apart from as many people as possible. Again, keep it simple, clean, with a traditional modern spin without overly stating your fashion presence.
Can I Pull This Outfit Off?
Well can you? Some people are insecure with themselves and fear change yet desire it. Someone who is changing their style is no different. When you've worn the same polo and khakis for the past 5 years putting on a leather jacket with tight jeans will of course feel out of place. This is normal. But guess what? You can be whoever you want to be. Your style defines you as a person and says more about you than you and others may even know. What are you telling people with the way you dress? You are a capable man and are worth being taken seriously by others. Your clothes can communicate just that without you even opening your mouth. When you're dressed well you feel confident, when you feel confident your body language exudes that. Research shows that up to 55% of communication is carried out through body language. When dressed well you display an opinion of yourself and how you value yourself. Being well dressed outwardly states (with no words what-so-ever) that you value and care for yourself and appreciate yourself as a person enough so that you take care of how you look.
Now, the transition from start to finish or sweatshirt to leather jacket as I like to describe it, is not always an easy transition which is why I suggest a gradual acclimation. Start small and move up. You're a capable and worthy man and should treat oneself as such. Becoming a well groomed and smartly dressed man will set you apart from the crowd, improve your confidence and at the very least get you some well deserved compliments.
In the posts to come I will be highlighting what I deem great pickups or finds in the fashion realm and hopefully a place where you can pick them up. From Socks to hats I will do my best to find you your next essential article of clothing for your wardrobe. Please feel free to post comments, recommendations or suggestions, and share with your friends. Let the discussion begin.
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