I know what you’re thinking… it’s about time I wrote a column for my male readers out there! This column is written especially for all the men out there who are haplessly searching for a timeless sense of style and are constantly overwhelmed at the vast array of items, which greet their every turn when their respective girlfriends ‘drag’ them to the mall; but it’s certainly not limited to one set of readers. For the metrosexual males who already purport to have a sensible fashion sense, you may be surprised to learn that you’re missing one or two key things every man needs to impress the fairer sex. And, finally, for my faithful female readership, rest assured that the lucky men in your lives will soon be the dapper gentlemen you always envisioned them to be.
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Without further ado, the top 10 things every man should have (in no particular order):
1. A great pair of jeans. Yes, you all know who I’m addressing here. Those all-year-round, 24/7 khaki pant or short wearing business casual types who can’t seem to separate their work attire with their going out or relaxing wardrobe. Jeans transcend all fashion trends, so rest assured, your investment won’t be a sunk cost by year’s end. But most importantly of all, jeans provide their wearer the most versatile item in their closet, capable of being (stylishly) paired with a polo shirt, blazer, or a button-up longsleeve poplin.
2. A nice set of shades. Yes, I’m sticking to the advice I gave in my new-year column – you still can’t wear them at night. Nevertheless, every man should invest in a good pair of sunglasses. Obviously, the shape/style of the sunglasses will vary depending on the shape of your face, but popular styles include the wraparounds and modern twists on classic aviators.
3. Cufflinks. Ah, the staple of every successful man. From the days of Rockefeller, cufflinks have remained a stylish constant among the fashionable elite. Once restricted to a choice between flat silver or gold cufflinks, men now have a bevy of choices, ranging from the simple to the extravagant.
4. A nice watch. Yes, I am telling you that the infamous calculator watch you have been sporting the past ten years isn’t going to cut it any longer. A good watch is really an extension of the hand, and its often the first thing many notice when you reach out to shake their hand. One need not spend thousands of dollars here (it doesn’t hurt if you can, though!) Try to avoid digital watches and go for a nice metal finish watch with either a matching metal band of a leather strap. Round is traditional, but if you’re willing to experiment, try a rectangular face watch.
5. Overcoat. If you happen to reside in a chilly part of the country, definitely invest in a nice overcoat. If you can swing cashmere, go for it, but there are plenty of faux cashmere overcoats to be had that look close enough to the real thing. Stick with a dark color here – black or dark blue – and wear it over your favorite blazer or two-piece suit for that million-dollar look.
6. Leather jacket. James Dean was an icon, and here’s your chance to be one too. Shy away from the black jacket and try a nice deep brown leather or one that sports a more reddish hue. Make sure you get a matching belt and shoes, package it all with a great pair of dark jeans, and you’ll be the center of attention.
7. A nice handkerchief. A handkerchief could provide you an opportunity to show the lady of your dreams that chivalry indeed is not dead. Wear a folded handkerchief (white or one that compliments your tie/shirt) in your breast pocket if you’re wearing a blazer or two-piece suit. Keep it in your pocket if you’re wearing jeans.
8. Carry a nice pen at all times. Invest in a nice pen. Trust me fellas, the ladies will notice. A good pen is often overlooked, but it is yet another item which can show your impeccable attention to detail (always a good thing).
9. Cologne. The key here, gentlemen, is to spray it just once or twice before going out. Refrain from showering in your favorite cologne, and you’ll be doing everyone a favor. But it is a must have for every man.
10. Scarf. Guys everywhere can thank the men in Oceans Eleven for bringing scarves back into style. A scarf adds a layer of visual interest to your daily wardrobe, and is extremely versatile in that one can pair it with a sweater and jeans, or wear it more formally with an overcoat and a suit/blazer. Go for a darker color scarf, either in a solid color or in a muted, masculine pattern.
11. A good pair of shoes. You've heard it before. shoes are one of the
first things women look at when they're approached by a guy. If he has a
nice pair on, it says volumes about the way he takes care of himself and
his own personal style.
Christine Preetha Philip, is the Designer of ChuChu Couture.
