Men’s Style Rules You Should Never Break: 7 Key Tips
Whether you’re dressing for a formal event, a casual outing, or just day-to-day life, adhering to these style rules will help you make a great impression. Here’s a guide to the essential menswear rules you should never break.
1. Fit is King
No matter how expensive or stylish your clothes are, they won’t look good if they don’t fit properly. Ensuring that your clothes fit well is the most important rule in men’s fashion.
Details
- Best for Style Type: All
- Estimated Cost: Varies depending on tailoring needs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Enhances overall appearance | ❌ Tailoring can be expensive |
| ✔️ Makes you look more polished | ❌ Finding the right fit can be challenging |
| ✔️ Highlights your physique | ❌ May require more time and effort |
| ✔️ Versatile across styles | ❌ Need for adjustments over time |
How to Ensure Proper Fit
- Get your measurements taken professionally.
- Invest in tailoring to adjust off-the-rack clothing.
- Choose brands known for good fits, especially if tailoring is not an option.
Top Tips:
- Suits: Shoulders should lie flat, sleeves should end at the wrist bone, and the jacket should hug your torso without pulling.
- Shirts: Aim for a slim fit that skims your body without being tight, with sleeves that reach the wrist.
- Pants: Ensure they sit comfortably at the waist without needing a belt to hold them up, and that they have the right length for your height.
2. Match Your Belt and Shoes
A classic rule that adds a cohesive touch to your outfit is matching your belt and shoes. This simple guideline helps to create a balanced and polished look, especially in formal or business settings.
Details
- Best for Style Type: Formal, Business Casual
- Estimated Cost: $50 – $200 for quality belts and shoes
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Creates a cohesive look | ❌ Limits options if you have fewer accessories |
| ✔️ Easy to follow | ❌ May seem too conventional for some styles |
| ✔️ Works for formal occasions | ❌ Requires attention to detail in color and texture matching |
| ✔️ Enhances the overall outfit | ❌ Can be challenging with unique shoe colors |
How to Match
- Leather colors: Match brown with brown and black with black; the closer the shades, the better.
- Style: If your shoes are formal, your belt should be too. Casual shoes pair well with more relaxed belts.
- Materials: Try to match the material (leather, suede, etc.) if possible.
Top Brands:
- Allen Edmonds
- Johnston & Murphy
- Clarks
3. Know When to Tuck in Your Shirt
Tucking in your shirt can significantly change the formality of your outfit. Knowing when and how to tuck in your shirt is crucial for nailing different dress codes.
Details
- Best for Style Type: Casual, Business Casual, Formal
- Estimated Cost: Varies depending on shirts
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Defines the waistline | ❌ Can be uncomfortable if done improperly |
| ✔️ Adds formality | ❌ Not all shirts are meant to be tucked in |
| ✔️ Enhances a neat appearance | ❌ Requires a well-fitted shirt to avoid bunching |
| ✔️ Works across different settings | ❌ Can appear too formal in casual settings |
When to Tuck In
- Dress shirts: Always tuck in for formal and business settings.
- Casual shirts: Tuck in if they have a rounded hem or if you’re going for a smart-casual look.
- Polo shirts: Usually worn untucked, but can be tucked in for a cleaner appearance.
Top Tips:
- Belted Tuck: Use a belt to keep the shirt in place and avoid a sloppy look.
- Half Tuck: Tuck in only the front of the shirt for a relaxed, stylish appearance.
- Undershirts: Ensure your undershirt is tucked in to prevent it from showing.
4. Dress for the Occasion
One of the most important style rules is to dress appropriately for the occasion. Understanding the dress code and dressing accordingly shows respect and ensures you’re comfortable in any setting.
Details
- Best for Style Type: All
- Estimated Cost: Varies widely depending on the event
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Ensures comfort and appropriateness | ❌ Requires awareness of different dress codes |
| ✔️ Demonstrates respect | ❌ Can be costly to maintain a versatile wardrobe |
| ✔️ Enhances confidence | ❌ May feel limiting in expressing personal style |
| ✔️ Prevents being under or overdressed | ❌ Requires frequent wardrobe updates for changing trends |
How to Dress for Different Occasions
- Formal Events: Black tie or suit and tie, with polished dress shoes.
- Business Casual: Dress shirt with chinos or dress pants, and loafers or oxfords.
- Casual Outings: Jeans or chinos with a t-shirt or casual shirt, and sneakers or casual shoes.
Top Tips:
- Research the dress code: If unsure, err on the side of being slightly overdressed.
- Invest in versatile pieces: Items like a navy blazer or black dress shoes can work across multiple occasions.
- Accessorize appropriately: Choose subtle and appropriate accessories for the setting.
5. Don’t Overdo the Accessories
Accessories can enhance your outfit, but it’s important not to overdo them. Less is often more when it comes to accessories, and choosing the right ones can elevate your look without overwhelming it.
Details
- Best for Style Type: All
- Estimated Cost: Varies depending on accessories
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Adds personality to outfits | ❌ Can easily become overwhelming |
| ✔️ Can enhance the overall look | ❌ Risk of clashing styles |
| ✔️ Allows for individual expression | ❌ Can detract from the outfit’s focus |
| ✔️ Versatile and easy to change | ❌ Can be expensive for high-quality pieces |
How to Accessorize
- Watches: A classic watch is versatile and appropriate for most occasions.
- Ties and Pocket Squares: Choose subtle patterns or solid colors for formal settings, and bolder designs for more relaxed environments.
- Jewelry: Keep it minimal; a simple bracelet or ring is usually sufficient.
Top Tips:
- Match metals: If wearing multiple metal accessories, try to keep them the same color (gold, silver, etc.).
- Limit the number: Stick to two or three accessories to avoid overdoing it.
- Consider the occasion: More formal settings generally call for fewer accessories.
6. Invest in Quality Basics
Quality basics form the foundation of a versatile wardrobe. Investing in well-made essentials ensures longevity and provides a solid base for creating various outfits.
Details
- Best for Style Type: All
- Estimated Cost: Varies depending on quality
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Long-lasting and durable | ❌ Can be more expensive upfront |
| ✔️ Versatile and adaptable | ❌ Requires initial investment in quality |
| ✔️ Easy to mix and match | ❌ Finding the right quality can be challenging |
| ✔️ Essential for building outfits | ❌ May require frequent washing and care |
Key Basics to Invest In
- White and black t-shirts: High-quality cotton or blends that fit well.
- Dark denim jeans: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down.
- Dress shoes: A pair of black and brown shoes to match different outfits.
- Blazers: A well-fitted blazer in a neutral color.
Top Tips:
- Focus on fit and fabric: Quality materials and a good fit are crucial for basics.
- Choose neutral colors: They are easier to pair with other pieces.
- Maintain your basics: Regularly clean and care for these items to extend their lifespan.
7. Pay Attention to Grooming
Good grooming is an essential aspect of personal style. No matter how well-dressed you are, poor grooming can detract from your overall appearance.
Details
- Best for Style Type: All
- Estimated Cost: Varies depending on grooming habits and products
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Complements your overall look | ❌ Requires consistent maintenance |
| ✔️ Boosts confidence | ❌ Can be time-consuming |
| ✔️ Essential for good hygiene | ❌ Requires investment in quality products |
| ✔️ Conveys attention to detail | ❌ Can be easy to overlook in busy schedules |
Grooming Tips
- Hair: Keep your hair neat and trimmed, and choose a style that suits your face shape.
- Facial Hair: If you have facial hair, maintain it well-groomed and trimmed.
- Skincare: Use appropriate products for your skin type, and moisturize daily.
- Nails: Keep nails clean and trimmed.
Top Tips:
- Regular maintenance: Set a schedule for haircuts and beard trims.
- Choose the right products: Invest in quality grooming products suited to your needs.
- Pay attention to details: Don’t neglect small areas like eyebrows and nose hair.
Remember, while fashion trends may change, these timeless principles of good style remain constant.
