Men's fashion mistakes to avoid

WE all make fashion errors now and again, but some fashion mistakes made by men are just unforgivable. Outlined here are some fashion mistakes to avoid at all costs:

• wearing socks with sandals - Who decided this was okay in the first place? It is understandable that when it is chilly outside we all dream of the warmth of the hot sun, but wearing socks with sandals doesn't make the seasons change any faster;

• spotting novelty ties, shirts, boxer shorts, etc.- There is nothing lasting about novelty clothing nor does it project a stylish, put together image. Leave the smiley faces, hearts, reindeer, shamrocks, animal and various other prints on the racks of the store where you found them;

• blaring designer labels - Who says it is chic to be a loud walking advertisement for designers. It's not a sophisticated look. Just because you are wearing a designer's name on your chest, sleeve, or wherever, doesn't make you stylish. Keep it understated and simple;
  

• parading in chunky shoes - These were okay back in the 90s, but the big chunky shoes, especially those with square toes, should be retired at this point. Choose something classic that stands the test of time;

• shiny or glittery shirts and suits - If you are looking for something to go out nightclubbing in, think of much better choices than those that are glittery, shiny and ultimately tacky. If you are at a loss, try a form fitting black T-shirt or black dress shirt, which can be worn with jeans or trousers and dress shoes or casual shoes.

• clothes that are too loose fitting - In a word, sloppy. Unless you are a hip-hop artist, it's not the right look. Choose clothes that fit your body. This might take some experimentation by mixing and matching certain cuts and styles until you find the right fit for your body that is flattering;

• unflattering colours - The colours you wear should compliment your natural features such as your eye colour, skin tone and body shape. Keep this in mind when putting your look together. French blue is always a good choice. French blue, which is a rich medium blue, is a flattering colour for most skin tones. It makes a great dress shirt, which is mainly where you will find this sumptuous hue;

• stay away from bright, solid-coloured socks - Colourful socks are okay if they have a design like stripes or argyle. But bright, solid-coloured socks are simply not a good idea;

• donning loud patterns - They are distracting and ultimately not a good thing. If it was ever in, it was the 80s, but we've thankfully moved on;

• ties are great way to express yourself - but keeping it tasteful is your best bet. You can't go wrong with diagonal stripes, modern polka-dots, plaids and subtle patterns. Just make sure your tie compliments your shirt, suit, sweater or whatever you will be wearing it with. Novelty ties are best avoided since the novelty is short lived;

• always match your belt with your shoes - This is a good rule to follow and it keeps things simple. It's best to stay with traditional colours such as black, dark brown or a rich tan. Other colours will be difficult to match, and generally speaking, should be avoided. 

9/10/2013