Men’s Style Guide: Cracking The Code On Effortless Style
How To Have Style As A Man?
To have great style as a man is to dress well, look good, and smell good, that’s it.
The secret to men’s style lies in understanding various dress codes and investing in timeless essentials that make all the difference in crafting a sharp look!
Have you ever wondered how high-value men always look effortlessly stylish?
There is just something about men of a certain character that makes you look twice, a sense of unpenetrable aura and confidence.
Of course, there’s more to it than just looking good, such as:
- Traits
- Demeanor
- Experience
- High-income skills
- And competence
But looking sharp is definitely part of the package of that indescribable aura of an alpha male!
From the power of fit and tailoring to the art of accessorizing, I’ll cover all the essential tips of men’s style to make you look like a G.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what you need to work on to become a modern gentleman of the 21st century.
Let’s begin!
Mastering the Art of Men’s Style
Great style doesn’t happen overnight.
It takes time, practice, and a keen eye to develop a truly refined and timeless wardrobe. Just as artists hone their craft, so too can you master the art of men’s style through observation and experimentation.
As you explore classic styles and time-tested essentials, you’ll see the difference a well-dressed man can make in his environment, from increased credibility in the workplace to enhanced overall attractiveness.
Editorial advice frequently highlights the benefits of investing in high-quality pieces.
Building a versatile wardrobe that mirrors your personality and style often means concentrating on key items with a lifespan of two to five years.
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and experiment with different styles, as this can help you discover fresh and exciting combinations in just one week.
Embrace the challenge and enjoy the journey!
Dress Codes for Men
Knowing how to dress appropriately, from casual to black tie, is something every man should know. This shows basic respect for the event and ensures you make a positive impression on others.
There are various dress codes for men you should be aware of:
Smart Casual: Striking the Perfect Balance
Smart casual is a dress code that warrants more exploration, as it t combines formal and casual attire, balancing professionalism and ease.
Mastering the art of smart casual is a game-changer for your wardrobe, as it allows you to create stylish and versatile looks that can easily take you from the office to a night out.
To craft a smart casual look, think:
- A blazer with a T-shirt and jeans
- A dress shirt with chinos and loafers
- Jeans or well-fitting pants
- T-shirts or polo shirts
- Canvas or boots
The key is to balance formal and casual elements perfectly while maintaining a polished and sophisticated appearance.
Business Casual Men: The Refined Professional
Business casual is a popular dress code that combines elements of formal business attire with a hint of casual wear, creating a professional yet polished look including:
- Dress shirts
- Dress shoes
- An optional tie
- Loafers or loafer-style shoes
- Casual button-down shirts or polo shirts
- Dress pants or khakis
Incorporating classic pieces with a modern twist is a must in a business casual environment. For example, pair a crisp white button-down shirt with tailored chinos and a patterned tie for a fresh take on traditional business attire.
Mastering the business casual dress code ensures a consistently professional and stylish look, regardless of the setting.
Semiformal / Business Attire
- Suit: Navy, gray, or black
- White shirt
- Pocket square (white or colored)
- Oxford shoes (brown or black)
- Trouser socks (matching the suit)
Black Tie
- Tuxedo or dark suit
- White dress shirt
- Conservative tie
- Leather dress shoes
White Tie
- Long-tail tuxedo
Obviously, you don’t need a set of clothes for every occasion; just be aware of them and look into investing in certain pieces once you know what kind of events you’ll frequent.
To help you navigate the various dress codes, follow these simple guidelines:
- ASK the dress code straight up before attending an event or environment.
- Choose clothing that is consistent with the event and the dress code.
- Ensure the fit and tailoring of the apparel is appropriate; find a tailor!
- Take into account the color coordination of the outfit.
It’s best to abstain from graphics, logos, or intricate prints; opt for solid colors instead.
Timeless Wardrobe Essentials
Every well-dressed man should have a few key pieces in his man’s wardrobe.
These timeless essentials include a suit that fits well, a classic white shirt, and a pair of versatile denim.
A well-fitted suit is a fundamental component of any man’s wardrobe and can be worn for various events, from weddings to business meetings.
Investing in ONE good suit tailored to your specific frame is better than buying a bunch of off-rack suits that make you look like a loser.
A classic white shirt is another must-have, as it can be paired with anything and any color, making it a versatile and timeless choice. When it comes to shirts, this classic white option is genuinely indispensable.
And let’s not forget versatile denim, which can be easily styled and dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Not only will investing in these wardrobe essentials save you time and effort, but it guarantees that you always present a polished and coordinated appearance.
The Power of Fit And Tailoring
The saying “clothes make the man” holds true, but it’s not just about the clothes themselves – it’s about how they fit and how they’re tailored.
A well-fitted garment can make even the most cost-effective clothing look more expensive and high-quality.
One of the best tips I ever received from networking with high-value men is to tailor your clothes! Investing in tailoring services can range from $10 to $50 per item but is well worth the cost.
Tailored clothes flatter your body shape and create a refined and put-together look, making you feel more confident in your appearance.
So, always prioritize fit and tailoring to elevate your style, whether a suit for a business meeting or a pair of dress pants for a casual night out.
Dressing for Your Body Type
With various body types, such as ectomorph, mesomorph, and more, it’s important to choose garments that flatter your shape and help you feel confident in your wardrobe.
To select the right clothing for your body type, consider fit, comfort, and the style that best flatters your shape.
But honestly, if you’re out of shape, your absolute first priority is to get IN SHAPE before investing in clothing.
There is a difference between masking up something with clothes vs. letting your body’s hard work shine through with tailored garments that perfectly fit your shape.
I know that getting in shape is a long process, so for now, dress for your body type.
Create a wardrobe that looks great, feels comfortable, and allows you to express your unique style.
Choosing Quality Over Quantity
In a world of fast fashion and ever-changing trends, it’s easy to get caught up in the constant cycle of buying new clothes.
However, investing in high-quality, durable clothing that will last longer and look better over time is a much smarter choice.
For example, a good quality black T-shirt should be crafted from midweight fabric and fit like a glove around your arms and shoulders while not too tight or short around the abdominals.
To assess the quality of a garment, try visiting a store that is beyond your usual budget and trying on the clothing. This allows you to get a feel for and better understand what makes a piece high quality and worth the investment.
Choosing quality over quantity not only offers long-term financial savings but also allows for creating a wardrobe that embodies your personality and style.
And you’ll appreciate each item you have in your arsenal that much more.
Grooming and Personal Care
Have you ever seen a hobo in a suit?
While clothing plays a significant role in creating a polished appearance, you can’t ever forget about personal care.
Practicing good hygiene and taking care of your physical appearance, such as:
- Grooming hair
- Trimming and using a beard balm
- Nails clipped short and on-point
- A clean and well-fitting wardrobe
Nailing these things WILL increase your self-esteem by at least tenfold.
In addition to maintaining a well-groomed appearance, prioritize self-care activities such as creating a simple skincare routine for men and taking the time to de-stress and self-reflect.
A man with clarity in mind, a clear mission to work towards, and looking on point speaks volumes.
The Art of Accessorizing
Accessories make or break an outfit.
You need to incorporate certain key accessorizing to be considered a well-dressed man. Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to wear uptight or formal accessories, both bags, sunglasses, and wearables enhance your style.
Some more essential accessories to consider though include:
- Ties
- Pocket squares
- Cufflinks
- Watches
The right accessories elevate your style and add a personal touch to your wardrobe, especially when focusing on your outfit’s tail end.
Take into account the colors, patterns, and textures of your outfit and the nature of the event. For example, a patterned pocket square can add a pop of color to a neutral suit, while a sleek high-end watch completes a smart casual look.
Luxury EDC and Travel Gear
For the discerning gentleman, luxury everyday carry (EDC) items and travel gear make a clear statement that you’re a G not to be messed with.
Some examples of EDC and travel gear include:
- High-quality wallets and passport holders
- Carry-on bags made from premium materials
- Elegant watches
- Designer sunglasses
- Messenger bags for your EDC essentials
- A cigar case for traveling
Investing in EDC elevates your travel experience and makes you feel more prepared and relaxed during your trips.
When shopping around for quality items, consider:
- The type of items needed
- The quality of materials
- The craftsmanship
- The price
- The size and weight
- The style and design
Investing in luxury gear makes a refined statement while ensuring your essentials are well-protected and organized, enabling stylish and comfortable travel.
Watches and Cigars As Style Icons
Watches and cigars have long been symbols of sophistication and style, adding an air of luxury and refinement to any outfit.
These timeless accessories not only serve a practical purpose but also represent status and achievement, making them the perfect addition to any well-dressed man’s collection.
To incorporate these style icons into your wardrobe, consider investing in a classic watch that suits your personal style and preferences, and explore the world of fine cigars and cigar accessories to find the perfect pairing for special occasions.
Of course, I don’t condone or recommend smoking, but simply having a premium cigar lighter at hand to light OTHER men’s cigars will show how well-equipped you are, a winner on networking events.
Embracing the timeless appeal of watches and cigars adds an extra layer of sophistication to your style.
Footwear Fundamentals
A well-dressed man should never underestimate the importance of footwear.
From dress shoes and loafers to casual sneakers, mastering the basics of men’s footwear is something to pay extra attention to for creating a polished look.
When selecting footwear for different occasions, consider factors such as the dress code, the weather, and the overall style of your outfit.
When I go out to travel for events, I usually pack a few outfits that work together AND that can be combined with each other.
So instead of having only 3 outfits, by mixing elements from each other, you actually end up with 7!
For example, a pair of chestnut-brown Derby shoes can perfectly complement a wool suit or indigo jeans. A pair of luxury black slip-ins work just as well for a black-tie event as they do for the restaurant at the beach.
Investing in a range of high-quality footwear allows for effortless adaptation of your style to suit any occasion.
Color Coordination
Color coordination is an essential aspect of creating visually appealing and harmonious outfits.
Try to learn and understand the principles of color coordination and how colors interact to create a more cohesive wardrobe.
Familiarize yourself with the color wheel and experiment with complementary and analogous color combinations.
For example, pairing a blue shirt with an orange tie creates a visually pleasing contrast, while combining a white shirt with a purple blazer adds a pop of color to your ensemble.
While dark grey, white, and navy always work, true high-quality men don’t shy away from colors that showcase their confidence.
Layering Techniques
Layering is an art form combining several pieces of clothing to create a fashionable and appealing ensemble.
Blending different textures, hues, and fabrics lets you create an individualized and eye-catching look that adds depth and interest to your wardrobe.
Experiment with various combinations of outerwear, mid-layers, and inner layers.
For example, try layering a black t-shirt under a cream suit jacket or a clean dress shirt with leather accessories on top for a crisp and outstanding look.
Embracing Patterns and Textures
Patterns and textures add visual appeal and dimension to your wardrobe.
Incorporating different patterns and textures into your clothing creates a unique and eye-catching ensemble.
Try combinations, such as pairing a patterned shirt with a textured jacket or a textured tie with a patterned pocket square.
Also consider color coordination when incorporating patterns and textures into your wardrobe, as this will help create a balanced and unified look.
Patterns and textures give a dynamic and intriguing wardrobe, setting you apart from the crowd.
Building a Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe is a carefully selected collection of timeless and versatile items that can be combined to create multiple looks1.
I personally love this for its sheer simplicity and to eliminate of decision fatigue. Building a capsule wardrobe:
- Simplifies your style
- Maximizes versatility
- Saves time and money
- Promotes sustainability
It’s not hard to construct a capsule wardrobe but you might want to assess your current wardrobe. Invest in high-quality pieces, and select the essential pieces, and curate your wardrobe accordingly.
Style Icons and Inspiration
Drawing inspiration from stylish men provides unlimited valuable insights into creating a polished and timeless wardrobe.
Below you have my personal collection of go-to styles and combinations of clothing and accessories that simply nail it.
Draw inspiration from these, analyze their fashion choices, and explore different looks that resonate with you.
The goal is not to imitate them precisely but to use their iconic looks as a source of motivation and inspiration for developing your own distinctive and individual style.
Your Next Steps
Throughout this guide to men’s style, we have explored various aspects of dressing well, from mastering the art of men’s style to adapting your wardrobe for different occasions.
Make sure to implement these tips and techniques and TAKE ACTION!
Becoming a well-dressed man is a journey so don’t expect to nail this on your first try.
Draw inspiration from others, focus on quality over quantity, and embrace accessories for men.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key pieces every man should own in his wardrobe?
To create a timeless wardrobe, every man should have a well-fitted suit, a classic white shirt, and a pair of versatile denim.
How can start smart casual dressing?
Smart casual dressing starts with combining the right formal and casual elements. Try pairing a blazer with a T-shirt and jeans or a dress shirt with chinos and loafers.
This look is perfect for various occasions, from a casual lunch to a night out.
Who are some famous style icons that I can draw inspiration from?
Famous style icons to draw inspiration include David Beckham, Ryan Gosling, Steve McQueen, and James Dean.
Chris
Chief Editor & Growth Expert