The Sunday News
Rutendo Chidawanyika
Get your shoe game straight
ARE you still wearing sneakers and running shoes (even when you’re NOT running)?
Well that should come to an end.
When it comes to mens’ shoes, we see them as a way of measuring your wealth — or assuming your career and social status. So do take pride in spending good money on a pair of high-quality dress shoes.
A pair of quality leather shoes is one of the best investments — provided it’s durable and comfortable to wear for many years. It’s a classic type of footwear that works for nearly all occasions. It’s not just about looking sharp. These shoes represent attention to detail, and how
carefully you present yourself.
Wear the right shoes for the appropriate occasion. Formal shoes for formal occasions; such as work, weddings, corporate functions. Then sneakers can go to gym or the movies or a party.
Fit is king
Even if you have slimmed down, most men wear baggy shorts and oversized tees at home.
But outside, remember that fit is king. It’s your top concern in the style pyramid before you consider any clothing item.
# If it doesn’t fit (and can’t be slightly adjusted to fit) — do NOT buy it. It won’t work.
When you wear oversized clothes you tend to look sad, stressed or even not put together.
However, very tight clothes don’t make the cut either, pants should cover the ankle and socks.
Your wrists should not show if you are in a long sleeve.
Try clothes on before buying.
Self-confidence
Before anything else . . . understand that a big chunk of style depends on confidence and attitude. Self-confidence doesn’t just help you engage with women.
It’s an internal driving force for remembering who you are, what you stand for.
So how do you build that confidence?
Start by learning from a good mentor, an older guy who exudes confidence the second he makes eye contact with anybody without coming off as arrogant.
Aside from that, master the art of power posing in front of the mirror whenever you lack self-confidence. You’d be surprised by how much simple actions like the “superman pose” can benefit us mentally.
Style & image matter
Appearances do matter. Especially when it comes to first impressions.
Isn’t a good personality still important? Absolutely. But some people won’t ever be exposed to it if they can’t see past your lack lustre “cover.”
To nail first impressions, your style and image have to work within society’s system of what’s acceptable — what’s expected of young professionals.
You must stick to crisp, clean, and well-fitted clothing.
That’s what encourages people to take you more seriously.
Any young doctor, lawyer, consultant or salesman needs to understand this.
It also matters to dress appropriately for your age.
If your wardrobe screams student or teenager — you’re going to be treated like you’re still a kid.
You need dressier clothes that show your maturity so you’ll gain the respect and trust of everyone (older and younger).
Well-fitted suit
No matter what your job is, you’ll most likely wear a high-quality suit at some point in life.
So if you’re going to buy one, make sure it’s a classic suit. Consider factors like notch lapels, the proper length of the jacket (the back side shouldn’t completely cover your butt) and a clean, consistent stitching check this by opening the vents and breast pocket.
For any suit that’s off the rack — do take the time to have it adjusted. Some department stores still offer the service, but chances are you’ll need to find a tailor independently.
Go for QUALITY
What good is a wardrobe that’s oversaturated with items that either (A) don’t feel good to wear or (B) are difficult to match with one another?
You should aim to build your own interchangeable wardrobe which includes:
n A good core of white and blue shirts (the backbone of most sharp outfits)
n Simple ties with dark shades of navy, grey or red (a small repeating pattern is fine)
n Jackets, trousers, shoes with the right colours and textures (which don’t clash with your shirts)
n Always match your belt colour and shoes
This system provides a set of all clothes you’ll need 99 percent of the time — and every single piece is something you’ll enjoy wearing.
Get rid of worn out clothing
Certain jean styles might’ve been trendy during your teenage years (like ripped jeans or even the cargo shorts). Eliminate those pants (or clothes with similar styles) from your closet right away. You want to move past that rebellious, individualistic phase for good.
Upgrade your legwear by sticking to what works: clean, well-fitted chino pants or classic jeans. Also get a couple of dark-coloured slacks (either straight or slim fit) to add some variety. Navy, maroon, grey and black chinos always work well.
T-Shirts & hoodies must fall
We do know that wealthy men such as Mark Zuckerbag (Facebook inventor) show up to work in hoodies.
The average guy doesn’t have such privileges — and will be judged in a negative way if he wears UN-dressy shirts or tops.
That includes: different hoodies and t-shirts (especially graphic tees). To play it safe, donate the majority of those items to charity. Save a small portion for home or gym use.
Ignore fashion trends
Finally, don’t fall prey to the crazy world of fashion.
Mainstream fashion trends change too fast to really become staples of your style.
And young men can’t afford a complete wardrobe change every season. So avoid anything that doesn’t survive past an “in” season (like skinny ties and jeans).
Stick to timeless clothing pieces and classic colours, patterns, textures, and combinations — since those will never disappoint.
— Additional information from online sources.
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