Men’s Style: How to Layer Field Jackets for Fall

As the cooler weather sets in, it’s time to start thinking of ways to warm up… stylishly, of course. In this series I want to teach you the art of layering. Layering is one of the easiest things you can do to look stylish. Whether it’s jackets, scarves, cardigans or vests, you can layer it all. This post focuses on one of my favorite jacket styles for men: Field Jackets (also called M83 or a utility jacket).

Field jackets are great for transitional seasons like fall because you can wear them on their own or layer away. Field jackets are versatile because they look great with casual and dressier outfits alike.

 

How to Layer a Field Jacket

Denim Jackets

Denim Jackets look awesome under field jackets. When wearing a denim jacket, go for color in your pants (I.e. burgundy, khaki, black, cream, green etc)


Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Start with your shirt (henley, t-shirt or button down) and then your denim jacket. You can close your denim jacket buttons or leave them open, totally up to you. Top off your outfit with a field jacket and a scarf if you would like.

Photo Credit: He Spoke Style

If you need to shed a layer once you get indoors, unbutton your denim jacket.

 

Denim Shirts

Denim Shirts add a nice contrast to field jackets (and make a perfect alternative if you don’t like denim jackets).

The example below shows how nicely denim and green contrast. I love the idea of a printed field jacket to really stand out of the crowd.

Photo Credit: Southern Gents

 

Your jeans don’t have to wear ripped to pull off this look.

 

Cardigans

Cardigans work great under field jackets if you prefer a softer layer. You can go for a shawl neck or classic V neck cardigan. This look can be easily dressed up or down.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Start with a shirt (t-shirt or button down) and throw on your cardigan. You can keep the buttons done up for a more smart look or leave them open to keep it casual. If you need more warmth, feel free to layer a vest on top of your cardigan.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Scarves

Scarves look great with field jackets, especially if you go for one with some print. You can either loop your scarf once around your neck or leave it hanging on either side with no loops. Feel free to wear your scarf under or on top of your jacket. I prefer under.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Outerwear for Short Men (In-Depth Guide) – Peter Manning NYC

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Puffer Vests

Puffer Vests look great under field jackets and give you that added warmth you need.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

You can either go for a button down shirt, henley, sweater or sweatshirt. Once you have your base layer, you can add in your puffer vest. Your field jacket will go on top of the vest.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Tweed Vests

Tweed vests can also work with field jackets if you prefer a slightly dressier look. You can dress it up or down based on what else you choose to wear with your vest (I.e. jeans, chinos etc.).

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Start with a tucked in button down shirt and add your tweed vest on top. The fabric of the jacket in the above example is an example of a field jacket that looks slightly dessier, I would opt for that dressier style with a tweed vest.

Photo Credit: Stay Classic

 

Dressing Up a Field Jacket

If you find yourself wearing mostly dressier clothing, go for a field jacket that looks a bit dressier too. Usually going for khaki or a darker color with fewer pockets looks dressier. Avoid over-sized or distressed jackets if trying to dress up your field jacket.

Note: Field jackets do not replace a blazer. This is a smart causal look, not formal.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Styles that work for dressing up = minimal and simple

Photo Credit: Bonobos

Photo Credit: Banana Republic

 

Colors and Prints

Field jackets come in classic colors like green, tan, brown, navy and black. Green is probably the most popular. If you prefer to dress your jacket up, go for a tan, brown or navy.

Casual Styles

Field jackets made of mostly cotton have a tendency to look more casual. Here are some examples of jackets that appear more casual.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dressed Up Styles

Jackets made of nylon, polyester or waxed cotton will look more dressy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outfit Examples

Below are some of my favorite outfits with a field jacket. If you want more outfit inspiration, checkout my Men’s Field Jacket Pinterest Board

Smart-Casual

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Trendy/Hip

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Dressy

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Hope you enjoyed this post and are excited to rock your field jacket with confidence! Feel free to ask questions in the comments below!

Men’s Style: A Guide to Men’s Fall Shoes

It’s time for fall gentlemen! Fall is one of my favorite seasons because the earthy colors and layers come out to play, making it extra easy to be stylish. It’s also a great time to dust off your shoe collection and discover new ways to wear them.

I know shoe styles can feel limiting for men, but it’s all about going for colors, textures and prints to really step up your game. Gone are the days where you have your one go-to pair of shoes, now it’s time to have different shoes for your different moods (and outfits!).

Here are my favorite to have in your fall arsenal.

 

BOOTS

You already know I’m a huge fan of boots, I mean… look at this Ultimate Guide – now that’s passion! Every one of my clients has a couple pairs of nice boots for fall, winter and bring, which come in handy for day to day and dressing up. Let’s make sure you have the right pairs for hitting the sidewalks this fall. If you are need of a new pair, I want you to think outside of the box. The key is to switch it up and go for a new material like suede or introduce a style. Here are a couple of styles of boots i’m loving…

Suede Chelsea Boots

Suede shoes for fall are an excellent choice. You can dress suede up or down and it looks great. The softness of suede goes very well with the season.

STEVE MADDEN Highline Chelsea Boot, Main, color, TAUPE SUEDE

Photo Credit: Nordstrom

 

Outfit Example:

lookastic.jpg

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

d62a104a87db1554cb294b4d8d12fc01.jpg

Photo Credit: DailyMail

Tip: When wearing slim jeans, let your jeans naturally gather at the top of your boots for a rugged and casual look.

ASOS Chelsea Boots in Gray Suede

Photo Credit: ASOS

If you wear wider leg jeans, you can play around with exposing some of your boot for a rugged and casual style like this…

Black jeans combo with Galeao handmade boots. Iconic silhouette for men outfits

Photo Credit: Pinterest

If you want a more clean look, try cuffing your jeans or chinos like this…

Deer Stags Shoes | Mens(8.5) Deer Stags Tribeca Chelsea Boots | Color: Brown/Tan | Size: 8.5

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Dress pants should always fall straight over your shoes (I.e. no cuffing).

Photo Credit: CarminaShoeMaker

If you want more tips on how to wear Chelsea boots, check out this board.

 

Brown Leather Work Boot

If you like more of a classic smart casual look, a work boot does the trick because it’s elevated, but not overly dressy.

ALDEN Work Boot, Main, color, BROWN

Photo Credit: Nordstrom

Outfit Example:

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Tip: Cuff your jeans at the top of your work boots for an extra stylish look.

Wish to look tough and gentlemanly at the same time? Best of both worlds! Here is how!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Chukka Sneaker Boot

If you want to try something completely different, check out these chukka sneaker boots. They are great for the casual guy who want to look effortlessly stylish and keep up his casual vibe.

SANTONI Leland Chukka Boot, Main, color, BROWN SUEDE

Photo Credit: Nordstrom

Outfit Example:

26aab627dbcba358af857eab61137900

Photo Credit: Pinterest

 

Tip: Rolled chinos look great with a sneaker chukka

Photo Credit: Nisolo

 

Really really want to step it up? Check these out…

Saint Boot in Camo side view

Jack Boot in Walnut side view

Photo Credit: Taft

Tip: Printed boots look great with classic blue jeans and a neutral henley or sweater. You want to keep the rest of your outfit pretty minimal, so the attention can go to the boots.

Customer Photo

Photo Credit: Taft

If you want more ideas on how to wear boots, check out this board.

COOL SNEAKERS

If you’re sick of the same ol’ sneakers, shake it up! Have you thought about sneakers with a bit of flair? By adding some fun prints and accents to your shoes, you can have stand out style without trying too hard. Bonus: if your style is minimalist or very neutral, these will really help you step up your game because they look great with neutral colors. If your style isn’t minimalist, doesn’t matter, these will turn heads and get you some compliments.

 

313A2474-2048px_2048x

313A2483-2048px_2048x

313A2485-2048px_2048x

Photo Credit: Taft Shoes

Tip: When wearing printed shoes, try to stay in a similar color family of the shoes. For example, the red shoe looks great with an earthy brown or green pant because of the tan in the shoe. You can also pick a color from the shoe and wear it in your shirt if you want to add more color.

model walking in sneaker in red paisley

model in the klay sneaker

Photo Credit: Taft

 

Brown Leather Sneakers

Sneakers with a bit of flair not your thing? No problem. You might be a classic guy! For the classic guys out there, try adding a nice pair of brown leather sneakers to the mix. Brown leather sneakers add to your look and won’t make you look dressed down. Have you considered a hightop sneaker? Hightop sneakers are great if you are looking for something different. High tops come in handy when the weather cools down too!

Photo Credit: Grenson

Photo Credit: Ace Marks

 

Think of high top leather sneakers as a more casual boot option. These work great in cold weather and transitional seasons.

25691529cee329ec59c605738c84f100

Photo Credit: Magnanni

 

Outfit Example:

Brown sneakers are a great choice!

Photo Credit: I Am Galla

Tip: Brown shoes add a nice pop of color to any outfit. This is especially true if you have a lot of dark or neutral colors in your wardrobe.

Photo Credit: Nisolo

If you want more ideas on how to wear sleek leather sneakers, check out this board.

SUEDE SHOES

There’s nothing like soft and rich fabrics as the leaves start falling.  Soft suede gives a feeling of warmth and lightness that should be coveted this season. Whether it’s bluchers, derbies, loafers or even sneakers, add in a pair of suede shoes to keep up with the autumn vibes. Make sure to protect your suede shoes with an all-weather protector and DO NOT wear suede in the rain (the protector will help if the rain catches you by surprise).

Feathercraft Grand Blucher Oxford

Photo Credit: Cole Haan

I’m really digging this suede wingtip sneaker because it’s so unique and eye-catching. You can wear this with rolled jeans and chinos for a unique look.

Screen Shot 2020-08-31 at 7.52.15 PM

Photo Credit: Saks Fifth Ave

Try switching up the color of your shoes and add in colors like blues and greens.

Screen Shot 2020-08-31 at 8.05.52 PM.png

Photo Credit: Sperry

Outfit Example:

25a193014386b98f7bab3960266842fb.jpg

 

Tip: While the weather is still warm, cuff your pants and throw on no show socks with your suede shoes for a stylish end of summer look.

Alright guys, I hope this article has inspired you to step up your shoe game this fall. It’s nice to have a couple of shoes in your rotation so you’re not wearing the same thing over and over again – not only will your shoes age faster, but you’re missing out on life! Also, remember to protect your shoes with a good spray to increase their lifespan. Just like our skin, real leather needs moisture, so apply a conditioner to leather shoes often. My favorite protecting spray is Jason Markk and their cleaner is great too. Here’s a good leather conditioner if you need one.

Feel free to like, comment or share this article if you found it helpful! Make sure you subscribe via email so I can keep you posted when new articles come out.

Catch you in the next one!

 

Men’s Style: The Modern Style Statement

Do you love fun prints that stand out of the crowd? Are you not afraid to mix two opposite colors to create a noticeable look? If so, your style statement is “modern”. Modern menswear takes classic pieces and adds interesting details, prints and colors to make them stylish. For example, your classic button downs are worn half sleeve, your polo shirts have accents and your chinos are colorful and cut slim.

Modern Look Examples

Photo Credit: @rules_of_thumb, @iamcharisteas

Photo Credit: Pinterest, What My Boyfriend Wore

Ironically, modern style has elements of the 1950s, when menswear consisted of fitted clothing and clean lines. Remember Back to the Future? That was set in the 50s! Modern menswear takes the 50s look and makes them current by adding a little flair to the pieces. The modern man’s image says he’s creative and doesn’t want to blend in with the crowd.

Key Pieces

The modern guy’s wardrobe consists of classic pieces like button downs, chinos, jeans, and polos, but they all have a twist. Your prints are fun and bold, your jeans are colored and slim, and if your socks are exposed, they usually have an eye-catching pattern showcasing your personality.

Button Down Shirts

Photo Credit: Nordstrom

Your button down shirts come in long sleeves, but more importantly short sleeves! You don’t care for classic prints like plaid or stripes, instead, you go for repeated geometric, floral, and novelty prints. Your shirts make you feel like life is a vacation!

Polo Shirts

Photo Credit: Ted Baker

You embrace the preppy look of polo shirts, but make them modern with stand out details. Whether it’s repeated patterns, interesting pockets, fun collars or details like stripes across the chest, modern style finds a way to bring a polo shirt back to life.

Pants

Photo Credit: Bonobos, Ted Baker

You could wear jeans like everyone else, but why do that? Instead, chinos are the go-to for the modern man. Your chinos should fit slim and can even be ankle cut from time to time to add a little flair. One of your favorite outfits is a colorful chino paired with a fun printed shirt.

Jeans

Photo Credit: Rag and Bone, 7 for All Mankind

Alright, fine…you’ll wear jeans, but they can’t be boring! Going for non-blue jeans is the perfect way to make your look modern. Try colored jeans like white, burgundy, green, and khaki.

Jackets

Photo Credit: Ted Baker, Michael Kors

When it comes to jackets, you like going for style forward options like bomber jackets, shirt jackets, and suede. Adding color through your jacket is totally an option! You want clean lines and minimal pockets for a sleek and modern look.

Suits

Photo Credit: @matthewzorpas, Paul Smith

The modern guy makes a classic suit look pretty cool! Whether it’s pairing it with sneakers, a fun printed shirt or going for a bold all over print, your look isn’t an ordinary black or grey suit.

Sneakers

Photo Credit: Paul Smith, Common Projects

Dressy sneakers help you dress down your otherwise polished look, but still keep it style forward. You go for interesting details and colors in your shoes too! If going for a busy shoe, it’s important to create the outfit around the shoe (i.e. don’t have too many competing prints and colors in your outfit).

Boots

Photo Credit: Taft, Johnstron and Murphy

You stick to classic silhouettes and even go for dressy options when it comes to boots. You want your boots to be slim cut and keep up with your polished look. A brogue boot with interesting materials or colors is a great choice!

Oxford and Derby Shoes

Photo Credit: Admirateur, Common Projects

If you need to dress up a bit, you’ll go for classic oxford or derby shoes. Going for details like a wooden outsole makes the look modern. To keep the look fashion forward, you’ll roll up your slim chinos and throw on some no show socks.

Socks

Photo Credit: Ted Baker

If your socks are exposed, they are bold, bright, and show your personality. Fun socks are a stylish detail more men need to rock! The modern guy isn’t afraid of being daring, especially with his socks.

…and that’s how you dress if your style statement is modern! Again, a big piece of the modern look is to have fun with prints, details and colors that are out of the ordinary. Your stand out style shows you’re an interesting person who has a lot to say through their clothes. This is one of my favorite looks that can be easy to achieve with the right pieces, and now you know what they are.

Men’s Style: The Rugged Style Statement

Did you know everyone has a style they are innately attracted to? Yes, even you! Whenever I work with a new client, I make them do an exercise where they share a couple of images of style THEY think is attractive with me. From this exercise, clients learn so much about themselves and what details they care about. It’s also fascinating to see how different everyone’s aesthetics preferences are.

Understanding what you like is very helpful when it comes to updating your style because it gives you a direction to follow and build on. I call this your style statement! That being said, there are a couple of men’s aesthetics out there, so i’ve decided to do a series of posts defining each one to help you better understand what yours is. The beauty of understanding different aesthetics is you can mix and match them to create a look truly unique to you.

This week we are focusing on the “rugged” look. What is “rugged” style you ask? Men who like the rugged look keep their style practical and casual, however they add in hints of edginess through a military aesthetic.

Men’s Rugged Style Examples

Having a couple of button undone on your henley shows your casual side

Denim jackets in grey and black help achieve a rugged look

Photo Credit: Pinterest

The boots have a distressed feel to them

Field Jackets are a must-have

Photo Credit: Zimbio, Pinterest

The rugged guys’ boots look broken in, his clothes have a bit of distressed detail in them, and he doesn’t care to look so clean cut. Rugged guys like their color palette consisting mostly of earthy and neutrals colors like olive green, burgundy, burnt orange, grey, blue, black and white. A couple of pieces that stand out in the rugged aesthetic are: jeans, denim jackets, field jackets, henleys, bracelets, leather, boots and sneakers.

Key Pieces for the Rugged Look

The rugged aesthetic takes casual clothing and adds a hint of edge through subtle patterns and focuses on small details like the style of buttons. The Rugged guy’s boots say he isn’t afraid to get them dirty, his jackets have a military touch to them and his prints and patterns are muted and subtle.

Here are a couple of key pieces that can help get your look started…

Jeans

Photo Credit: Bloomingdales

Going for jeans and pants neutral and earthy colors can help you achieve the aesthetic. Rugged guys dress for the outdoors and their color choice reflects that. Guys with a rugged aesthetic avoid bright colored bottoms.

Shirts

Henleys

Photo Credit: Nordstrom

Going for henleys with interesting closures at the neck is a subtly edgy detail that brings out a masculine style. Additionally, going for textures in your henley makes it not look so clean, for example, a ribbed or waffle henley is a great choice.

T-Shirts

Photo Credit: Bloomingdales

Solid t-shirts are an easy go to. However, t-shirts with subtle patterns can help your otherwise muted look stand out a bit more. Again, rugged guys avoid bright colors and stick to muted and earthy tones like olive green, blue, grey or burgundy.

Polo Shirts

Photo Credit: Bloomingdales

The rugged guy can totally rock a polo shirt without looking like he’s going golfing. The key is to go for some cool details like edgy buttons or no buttons at all to make the polo look very casual.

Button Down Shirts

Photo Credit: Nordstrom

Being rugged doesn’t mean you avoid button downs, you just go for a specific style. When the rugged guy dresses up, he’s not afraid to have a bit of sheen in his shirts like the blue example above. Plaid shirts totally work, but the key here is to make sure the colors stay in the muted, earthy or neutral categories. Rolling up your sleeves is always a great idea for the rugged guy.

Jackets

Field and Shirt Jackets

Photo Credit: Bloomingdales

Field and shirt jackets are perfect for the rugged aesthetic. Field jackets have a military look to them and can be paired with any casual tops. Alternatively, if you want to dress up a bit, a suede brown jacket will be the perfect layer.

Casual Blazers

Photo Credit: J. Crew

The rugged man keeps his blazers unstructured and in casual fabrics like knit and cotton. He likes the look of a blazer, but wants nothing to do with their formalness of it.

Suede and Leather Jackets

Photo Credit: Nordstrom

Leather is a great addition to your wardrobe, especially when trying to achieving a rugged style. Leather works for dressing up your outfits, while suede can help keep them a bit more casual.

Boots

Photo Credit: Bloomingdales, Thursday Boot

Casual boots are an easy go-to footwear choice. When it comes to the style of boot, you can go for a hiking, combat or work boot. Wearing your pants over your boots or tucked into the top of the boot are both great options.

Sneakers

Photo Credit: Frye, John Varvatos

When going for sneakers, rugged guys like to go for something a little different. The two examples above are unique because of their color, distressed feel, pattern choice and small stand out details. You want your sneakers to look broken in, brown leather or black and grey patterns helps achieve that.

Accessories

Photo Credit: John Varvatos, Etsy: Hagar Talmore

Don’t be afraid to accessorize a bit! Going for cool scarves with muted colors, interesting blends and subtle patterns makes your look stylish and unique. Your look embraces the outdoors, so leather bracelets go hand in hand with it… no pun intended!

…and that’s how you achieve a rugged look! This is a great choice for the understated guys out there who still want style, but not take it over the top. The overall look is pretty casual, but the key is to have hints of unique details to keep it stylish.

Men’s Style: How to Wear Burgundy Pants

Whenever a client asks me how they can stand out in the sea of neutral colored clothes available to men, I tell them to add some color to their pants. It’s so easy for men to gravitate towards easy neutral or classic colors, but why not switch it up a bit?

One color you’ll notice that i’m always sure to mention in my guides and posts is burgundy. Burgundy is the easiest color you can add into the mix after you’ve covered your basic blue, black and grey bottoms. It’s a color that men don’t naturally gravitate towards, but once they see how I pair it into a look, they love it! Trust me, it’s one of those colors everyone hesitates on at first sight, but once they try it on, it’s a game changer.

The beauty of burgundy is you can keep things calm by wearing it with navy blue, grey, white or black or be a bit more colorful by pairing it with a light pink, chambray blue, olive green, or dark khaki. Bonus: If you’re looking to create a minimal wardrobe, this color can easily be thrown into the mix.

Any garment that you see in a neutral color (i.e. cream henley) can be worn as a different garment (i.e. cream t-shirt). Your neutral colors are: navy, grey, white, cream and black.

Where it gets slightly trickier is with the blue and pink button downs. I would suggest only wearing those colors in the form button downs with burgundy pants because the collar shirt helps create the smart-casual look, while a pink t-shirt doesn’t achieve much. Wearing button downs in neutral colors is perfectly fine.

COLOR COMBINATIONS

  • Top: Cream
  • Jacket: Jean jacket, Navy, Olive Green, Dark Khaki
  • Shoes: Brown
  • Top: Grey
  • Jacket: Jean Jacket, Navy, Olive Green, Dark Khaki
  • Shoes: Any color in diagram
  • Top: Light Pink
  • Jacket: Dark Grey
  • Shoes: Brown
  • Top: Medium Blue or Chambray
  • Jacket: Light Grey, Navy, Olive Green, Dark Khaki
  • Shoes: Any color in diagram
  • Top: White
  • Jacket: Jean Jacket, Light Grey, Medium Grey, Dark Grey, Navy, Olive Green, Dark Khaki
  • Shoes: Back, Brown
  • Top: Navy
  • Jacket: Jean Jacket, Olive Green, Dark Khaki
  • Shoes: White, Black, Brown

COLOR COMBOS IN ACTION

LOOK 1

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Dark Khaki + Denim Jacket + White Printed Button Down + Burgundy Pants + Brown Shoes

I love this combination of layering! The brown jacket meshes really well with the denim jacket and burgundy pants. It’s best to keep the shirt underneath on the light side to add some slight contrast.

LOOK 2

Photo Credit: Instagram @BlakeScott

Navy Jacket + Chambray Shirt + Burgundy Pants + Brown Shoes

Chambray and burgundy make a fun combination that is sure to make your outfit pop. It’s best to wear this combination with a brown shoe and a dark jacket to tone things down.

LOOK 3

Photo Credit: I Am Galla

Light grey jacket + White Shirt + Burgundy Print Tie + Burgundy Pants + Brown Shoes

If you want to dress up your burgundy bottoms, pairing the look with a light grey blazer, crisp white dress shirt and a burgundy tie to match is such a beautiful combination. If you have burgundy dress pants, this outfit is perfect for a wedding or speaking engagement where you want to stand out. Going for black or medium brown shoes would complete the look really well. You could also do a white shirt with a subtle microprint to make it even more fun like navy, black, or grey.

LOOK 4

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Light pink shirt + Burgundy Pants + Brown Shoes

I like the idea of wearing burgundy with light pink for a monochromatic look. This look is best with brown shoes to keep up with the softness.

LOOK 5

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Burgundy goes really well with other earthy tones like green, without making your look too bright or colorful. The navy blue sweater under the green jacket help keep the look toned down.

Olive Green Jacket + Navy Sweater + Burgundy Pants + White Shoes

LOOK 6

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Dark Grey Jacket + Light Grey Shirt + Burgundy Pants + Brown Shoes

A dark grey or brown blazer pairs really well with burgundy and helps keep the look toned down. Going for a light grey shirt helps keep the look soft and not have too much contrast.

LOOK 7

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Olive Green Jacket + Black T-Shirt + Black Shoes

I added this image mostly to show how clean black boots and burgundy pants look together. I also want to note pairing earthy tones like olive green and burgundy works well together, but isn’t a look for people who like to keep things unstated.

Alright friends, I’ve prepped you on all the ways you can wear this awesome color. If you’re still not sold on the pants, try wearing burgundy as a top. Burgundy henleys, t-shirts and sweaters look great and can pair easily with neutral bottoms. It’s a tiny step in color, but a huge step in standing out of the crowd and looking effortlessly stylish. The world of burgundy pants awaits you!

Men’s Style: Bloggers You Should Follow on Instagram

I love following style bloggers on Instagram for a daily dose of style inspiration! Whenever I see an outfit I like, I tap the “bookmark” button and have it saved for when i’m ready to shop for my clients. Getting inspired by other people’s looks will not only help you get excited about dressing better, but can also help you discover your personal style. Let me save you a lot of time by telling you who my favorite style stars are and you can pick your favorites.

Also, don’t forget to follow @pocketstylist.io where I curate my favorite menswear looks from all over.

1. He Spoke Style

Photo Credit: Instagram: @hespokestyle

Brian Sacaw of @hespokestyle dresses to impress. What I like about his style is it’s practical and something you can wear to work and on the weekends. This account is great for a guy who likes a classic upscale style.

2. Blake Scott

Photo Credit: Instagram: @blakescott

LA’s own Blake Scott is a trendy guy who can wear everything from casual to dressy really well. He does a great job of incorporating prints, accessories, and the no-show sock look in his outfits. If you want some modern suit inspiration, @blakescott is your guy!.

3. Rules of Thumb

Photo Credit: Instagram: @rule_of_thumbs

Also LA based is J Fig of @rule_of_thumbs, who rocks casual-trendy and smart-casual to the T. This account is perfect for the guy who likes a splash of color in his outfits and isn’t afraid of fun prints. What I love about J Fig is he knows which colors compliment his skin tone and makes awesome outfits out of them.

4. Notoriously Dapper

Photo Credit: Instagram: @notoriouslydapper

Kelvin Davis is all about body positivity and, of course, dressing well. Straight out of South Carolina, Kelvin’s style can range from classic to fun, and shows you can look amazing if you dress for your body. There are no shortage of fun prints and easy clothing combinations in his Instagram account @notoriouslydapper.

5. I Am Galla

Photo Credit: Instagram: @iamgalla

It seems Adam Gallagher has travelled the world and dressed impeccably for each adventure. You can find anything from casual to dressy outfits in this NYC based fashion blogger’s account called @iamgalla, all accompanied with beautiful settings. This account is for the guy who likes classic looks, but doesn’t mind a twist here and there.

6. I Am Sapra

Photo Credit: Instagram: @iamsapra

Straight from London, Raja Sapra delivers effortless style through streetwear, smart-casual and dressy looks. What I like about his looks is he can get serious with a head to toe dressy look, but can also show you how to dress it down with fresh white kicks. There is no shortage of streetwear in his photos either, making @iamsapra perfect for the younger casual guy. It’s also great seeing diversity in the male fashion blogger world with Raja staying true to his roots by rocking a turban with all his looks.

7. What My Boyfriend Wore

Photo Credit: Instagram: @whatmyboyfriendwore

If you love business casual and dressy styles with a twist, you will love South Africa’s Sergio Ines’s accounts called @whatmyboyfriendwore. Dapper, colorful, smart, and gorgeous backgrounds can only start to describe his account. Sergio is the blazer master, making great combos with jeans, chinos and dress pants. The name “What My Boyfriend Wore” comes from his girlfriend at the time who loved documenting his outfits.

8. Magic Fox

Photo Credit: Instagram: @magic_fox

If you hit the gym more often than not, @magic_fox might just be the one for you. Daniel’s account is great inspiration for dressing for a built body. His looks include ripped jeans, leather jackets, sneakers and boots, which embodies his rugged style, but also includes the occasional dressy outfits. This account is for the guy who likes to keep things casual and rugged, but stylish at the same time.

9. The Cuff.co

Photo Credit: Instagram: @thecuff.co

NYC’s Ben Brewster’s account, @thecuff.co, is perfect for the guy who likes to keep it casual and minimal. Mostly wearing neutrals and sometimes earthy tones, Ben shows us clean lines and minimalist clothing combos can make a statement. Ben also throws in fun prints and dressy surprises to show you you can do it all! You will find plenty of ideas on how to make a t-shirt look stylish in this account.

10. Chris Mehan

Photo Credit: Instagram: @chrismehan

Chris Mehan is an excellent account to follow for guys who are just getting started in elevating their style. Whether it’s for work or weekend, he rocks casual, smart-casual, and business casual really well. @chrismehan gives us plenty of ideas for effortless and stylish color and clothing combinations.

11. PocketStylist.io

Of course, you can follow @PocketStylist.io where I share favorite looks from all the bloggers I follow all in one place. From casual to dressy, I love it all and make it easy for you to get inspired!

There you have it, my collection of male style stars I love getting inspired by on Instagram. What’s great about Instagram is once you follow an account, it gives you some suggestions on related accounts to check out. Click through and see if any others appeal to you and don’t forgot to bookmark your favorites!

Men’s Style: How to Add More Flair to Your Outfits

Ever wonder how can you add a little more “flair” to your outfits? By “flair” I mean, when men have such limited pieces of clothing they can wear, how can you stand out of the crowd? Surprisingly, it’s the little details that can help you achieve a unique style.

Here are a couple of tweaks that I share with my clients to help them add some flair to their outfits!

Pocket Squares

Photo Credit: The Coolist

Don’t underestimate the power of a pocket square! It’s the perfect little touch that makes you look extra stylish. Some guys think they can only wear them at weddings or formal occasions, but they pair really well with a classic jeans, blazer and button down look.

When picking out a pocket square, make sure it compliments your outfit. By compliment, I don’t mean the same color (i.e. solid green tie + solid green pocket square = don’t do it!). Instead, use the tie to bring out a color in your pocket square. In the example below, you will see there is a hint of burgundy in the pocket square, which is then brought out with the tie. This is the easiest way to make sure you match. That’s the beauty of printed pocket squares, you can match more than one tie to the look.

Photo Credit: Anosart, Pinterest

Alternatively, you don’t have to have the color of the tie in the pocket square. However, you should compliment the two colors (i.e. burgundy tie and navy blue pocket square).

If you are not wearing a tie, make sure your blazer and pocket square colors compliment each other.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Here are 3 ways to fold your pocket square:

Photo Credit: Fashion Infographics

Socks

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Have fun with your socks! Next time you’re in the market for some socks, ditch the white ones and go for some pattern and color. Let socks reflect your personality, for example, if you’re obsessed with space, get some socks with astronauts on them.

Suspenders

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Next time you wear a suit, put on a pair of suspenders! Suspenders are the perfect addition to your suit that says, “I know style”. Some guys prefer them with suits only, and that’s okay. If you love the look and want to see how you can incorporate it into your other outfits, you can pair them with jeans and slacks.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

If you are wearing suspenders with a suit, they should be worn with a tie and match the tie as well. By match, I mean they can be the same color or a color that compliments the tie (i.e. navy blue tie, burgundy suspenders).

If you are not wearing suspenders formally, you don’t need a tie. If this concept is new to you, try a pair of leather suspenders like in the photo above as a “safe” place to start.

Unique Prints in Shirts

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Ditch the plaid and go for prints that have a little more personality. Now days, you see more and more fun prints in stores and it’s for a reason, they look good! You can go all out with bigger statement prints or if you like more of a subtle look, go for a micro-prints, which are tiny repeated patterns.

Photo Credit: Instagram: @rule_of_thumbs, Ted Baker

If you’re going for a black and white or grey and white print, you can play around with pant colors. If you go for a busy print with a couple of colors in the shirt, pick one color from the shirt to make it your pant color. You can also pick a complementary color.

Colorful Pants

Photo Credit: I Am Galla, Pinterest

Think outside of the box when it comes to your pant colors. It’s easy to fall into the pattern of neutrals chinos or blue jeans, but you should experiment a bit if you want to stand out of the crowd. If you’re new to colorful bottoms, stick to earthy or jewel tones like burgundy, burnt orange or green since you can pair them with neutral colored shirts.

Photo Credit: Bonobos

Photo Credit: Idle Man

Cuffing Jeans

Cuffing your jeans is an easy way to add some flair and something you can do tomorrow. You can cuff your jeans with any type of shoe, such as sneakers, oxfords, boots etc.

Photo Credit: Dress Code Clothing

You can cuff them a couple of ways:

(1) one simple outward cuff like in the photo below (~2 inches). Careful not to make it too thick.

Photo Credit: Articles of Style

(2) Or roll it one more time to have the style of cuff below

Photo Credit: Idle Man

(3) Thin roll your jeans, which is a thinner cuff (~1 inch)

Photo Credit: Gear Patrol

(4) Pin roll your jeans, which makes the ankle slimmer

Photo Credit: Gear Patrol

No Show Socks

Photo Credit: Nordstrom

If you are cuffing or rolling your jeans, try the look with no-show socks. Although discreet, this little flair shows that you made an intentional style choice. You can try this look with shorts, jeans, chinos or dress pants. In terms of footwear, you can try this look with anything from sneakers to dress shoes.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

The key here is to get a good pair of no-show socks that grips the back of your foot so they don’t keep slipping.

Alright guys, there you have it, a handful of tricks you can do to stand out of the crowd! When it comes to looking more put together, sometimes it’s the small details that play a huge role in appearing more stylish.