In my previous post, How to Dress to Impress Without Trying too Hard, I discussed the 3 elements of style (color, pattern and texture) and I realized I had one glaring omission…FIT.
Any fashionisto/a worth their salt will tell you that fit might just be the single most important part of an outfit. While styles change over eras, a well fitting shirt and pants will take any guy far in this world. Dressing well shows a sense of self-awareness, commitment to self care and a palpable sense of confidence. These days, slim fit is everywhere and while slim or “fit” looking guys will likely fare well with the contemporary cuts, meatier gents should likely rely on more classic cuts in both formal and casual wear. With the cooler seasons among us, layering makes it a bit easier to pack in these critical four style elements in one outfit.
To review, these are the four elements of style and examples of how to implement them:
- Color (choose at least one non-neutral color to add character to your outfit; ie gray, black, olive & khaki don’t count)
- Pattern (one element should have a distinctive visible pattern; think gingham, plaid, polka dots, stripes, etc.)
- Texture (one element should feature a rich texture; think cashmere, wool, tweed, etc.
- Fit (the perfect foundation for any outfit; body conscious fit is the single most important element)
But, how does one put all these rules together in one outfit?
- Burgundy knit tie from MIV Neck ties $12.95 (color)
- Traveler Spread Collar Slim Fit Patterned Dress Shirt $55 from Jos A Bank (pattern)
- Men’s Cashmere Sweater, V Neck $129.99 from LL Bean (texture)
- Dockers Signature Khaki D1 Slim-Fit Flat Front Pants $58.00 from Kohls (fit)
- Kenneth Cole Reaction High Pitch SU from Zappos.com $105.99 (texture)