subject: Fashion For Men, Elusive Or Commonsense [print this page] In the seventies, it was either Penny's or Sears that came up with the brilliant idea of garanimals for boys clothing. All separates had an animal tag inside the pants or shirts, match a zebra to a zebra or a lion to a lion and instantly you were coordinated and matched ready to go play. The philosophy was that if children were allowed to dress themselves, choosing their own clothes, it helped build a sense of self-confidence and independence.
I have often thought the same should be incorporated into mens clothing. Give them a guide as to what tie goes with which shirt and pants. How many men ask their wives each morning, does this tie go with this jacket or pant? Why do women instinctively know these things and many men don't? I don't think it is in the genetic make-up but more an awareness of fashion. Women watch what other women wear, they pay attention to the details like bags, belts, jewelry and shoes. Of course these are stereotypes and not true of all men or women, just in general.
Men could learn a little about the fashion of the day just by taking a quick glance through the Sunday ads. Pay attention to the details, are collars in or out of the sweaters? Striped or patterned ties? Vest of synthetics or sweater vests? Paisley or argyle? Modena French cut shirts or a Ralph Lauren? Another area to be aware of is the fit of clothes, a major difference of well dressed vs just dressed. Where does the rise of the pant hit (the crouch), they shouldn't sag, are the pants fitted through the hips and hit just on the shoe instead of puddling. Does the sweater or vest hit at the belt line, skinny or fat ties? All little details that form an overall put together appearance.
Get the details right, put on that million dollar smile, show a little confidence and you are on your way to dressing for success. Women will be proud, men will be envious.
