Gentlemen, you’re generally pretty good about knowing what to wear to a funeral and what to wear when mowing the grass. It’s just everything in between that’s confusing! The old stand-by golf shirt with khakis has its place, but it is not appropriate for every casual function and, honestly, not the most hip. Whether you want to look cooler or just more polished, knowing how to dress casually with savvy will add to your credibility and confidence in your varied casual circumstances.
Daytime date: Whether strolling around the lake or visiting the latest collection at the Walters, a laid-back (not sloppy) look is perfect. Start with slim jeans or pinwale corduroy jean cut pants. Ed Hyatt, co-owner of Hyatt Brothers, men’s clothiers, of the Maple Lawn Shopping Center in Fulton, suggests, “The pant should fit close to the body, tapered in a textured wool-jean model.” These narrow pants lend themselves to tucking into the very masculine Maine Lodge, Cap Toe Boots, by L.L. Bean. Hyatt adds, “This season, sweaters and vests are featured for new layering ideas. A heather cardigan with a shawl collar worn over a colorfully trimmed sport shirt can replace a sport jacket for a more casual look.”
Evening date: Casual and sophisticated in concert? Yes! Fitted chinos (no uptight pressed crease, please) colored in somber hues, paired with a turtleneck in a similar color are very good-looking. For comfort and quality, choose a high-quality fine-gauge knit. By the way, cousin mock-turtle takes a back seat this year. Add a tweedy blazer for that extra bit of confidence. Accessorize with suede oxfords, which are sharp but still casual and will complete this super-refined look.
Shopping for an informal gathering: Keep it simple but fun. A button-down oxford, bright or subdued (depending on your mood or personality), with the sleeves rolled up a couple of inches is perfect with a pair of slim jeans, cuffed to reveal a pair of bright and/or fun patterned socks. What a great way to reveal your personal style! The Polish Pottery Mart at Historic Savage Mill has the perfect way to keep warm and look fantastic. The shop’s Solmates are one-of-a-kind socks with uber-personality. Your new happy feet will look fabulous in penny loafers or black Converse sneakers.
Cool Tips
* Hats are hip: Tams, fedoras and derby hats are more for style than warmth, but oh so hot!
* The skinny: Ties and belts are more slender for a truly urban-chic look.
* Layering: Start with your button-down, next your sweater, next a blazer or jacket and then the scarf. The look is hot ... literally.
* The right coat: Don’t ruin your entrance with an outdated coat. There are lots of great looks like the pea coat, military inspired coats, jackets with masculine fur collars, and don’t forget a great outdoor parka.
* Scarves: Already mentioned, but this is a huge trend. Experiment with ways to drape and tie them. It’s so fashion forward, yet incredibly practical.
* Last but not least: COLOR. Don’t be afraid of it. Try it in small doses (socks for instance) to brighten your day.
Invest in a few good-looking, life-changing pieces (hey, it will be cheaper than a Porsche). Chances are some of these looks are already hiding in your closet, just waiting to be put together in new ways. Be daring, think outside the box and enjoy the compliments you will surely get.
Jeannette Kendall is president of Success In Style, a nonprofit with locations in Ellicott City and North Laurel that provides free business attire to disadvantaged women and men seeking employment. successinstyle@verizon.net or 410-750-6475