Style police: Teach us!

[DoubleF]

Originally Posted by CroFlames

The GMG thread inspired me to seek consultation here.

I'm an early 30s guy, but I've always looked older than I am (tall, dark, handsome, etc). This has actually worked to my advantage in the business world I think.

Now I look like I'm in my late 30s due to this condition, and a little bit of thinning at the top.

I want a new work wardrobe, so I'm looking for ideas. I work in a pretty relaxed office environment (dark jeans acceptable) but I still want to look good, and maybe more youthful if that makes sense. I bought a couple of chino pants, but I don't know what to pair them with and such. Ideally, if I could have about 10-12 work outfits I rotate, that would be fantastic. I have a few blazer jackets that are too fancy for our office environment, and I typically wear those to meetings with clients or conferences.

I guess I'm not looking to spend $1200 on shoes, but I'm also open to spending a little more than $120 on them to look good. Same for the rest of the wardrobe.

IMO, don't jump all in for a new wardrobe if you need an overhaul. 10-12 outfits seems excessive. If it's looks you're talking about though, that's different. 2-3 shirts, 2-3 pants, 2 pairs of shoes and perhaps 2 belts is mathematically enough for like 20 combos though.

Start with 1-3 sets and keep expanding the stuff you like. I personally have around 6-7 shirts, 3 pairs of pants, two belts and like 3 pairs of shoes I usually wear for work. IMO, I'd suggest around a $500 bump up to your wardrobe. See what you like, learn from this and that and expand from there. Also, try it on in person and get some female opinions on the look.

Rather than jump straight into higher level stuff that might be harder to maintain/clean etc. I'm opting to suggest a middle ground easier mode that looks nice, is comfy and forgiving in how you maintain it. I'm suggesting something akin to a fully loaded Honda Accord daily driver here rather than the BMW+ premium stuff others will suggest.

- $140 Lululemon ABC pants (they will hem for you).
- $80-110 x2 Lulu/Kit and Ace dress shirt
- $60 belt
- $50-150 shoes
- $20-30 socks

The Lululemon ABC will look office professional, but will also be comfy as hell. Two wins. The included hemming after purchase is nice, but the real win is how easy it is to take care of it. Wash it no differently than if you were to wash jeans. Be aware, but no need to baby them. This unlike many other pants that you may have concern about shrinking or require dry cleaning vs toss in washer. No such concern with Lulu ABC.
https://shop.lululemon.com/p/men-pan...13?color=43731

The $80-110 dress shirts from Lulu/Kit and Ace should be relatively form fitting and still comfy by being nice and stretchy. They should be the youthful look you're going for casual enough for day to day, but still adequate for the more serious meetings you may attend. I believe their fabrics should be more durable than some of the other basic stuff out there and machine washable (not just cotton or wool), so again, read the care instructions and be aware, but no need to full on baby them. That being said, I usually dry clean mine because of how much I paid for them. Most of my other dress shirts are just random things I pull off a rack at Nordstrom rack or Saks on 5th etc. for less than $40.
https://shop.lululemon.com/p/men-top...08?color=24704
https://www.kitandace.com/ca/en/cour...page=1&start=8
https://www.kitandace.com/ca/en/urba...page=1&start=6

Belt. I like the thin dress belts from Brooks Brothers. They look nicer than many dress belts and are pretty durable (leather doesn't get weirdly wrinkly after a bit of use). They have a good look, feel and weight to them as well. They lean more towards being dressier, but work fine with elevating a casual look to being more professional. I occasionally see these for less than $60 on sale at Cross Iron ($50s).
https://brooksbrothers.ca/collection...her-dress-belt

Shoes... this is going to be a little of a weird one. Do you need dress shoes? Do you like dress shoes?

I wear sneakers and dress shoes with my dress shirt and dress pants. I have a pair of dress shoes at work in case I need to look proper professional. I wear Vans and converse (below the ankle) on a regular basis. It's more comfy.

https://www.footlocker.ca/product/~/...E&gclsrc=aw.ds

I have a pair of something like this I keep at work in case of a quick shoe change is required. It looks good enough and is around $100 so it won't break the bank. I usually wear sneakers for comfort, so I don't need to spend 2-4x that for a pair of comfy dress shoes and I don't have to worry about road salt wrecking my regular shoes during the winter months.

https://www.stevemadden.ca/collectio...ts/maroone-tan

I also have a pair of Ferragamo and To Boot New York for a full on proper look, but that I keep at home, those are mainly for occasions, not really required for business meetings.

Socks, do what makes you happy. People like looking at shoes though, so socks can stick out in an outfit.


Other: Accessories. Watches and activity trackers can really look out of place depending on your set up. The same for glasses, necklaces and bracelets etc. Your call if you want to consider that as part of your matching stuff.

For my suggestion, IMO the absolute worst case scenario is that you end up with some stuff that is comfy enough that you can rotate into your casual outfits. I'm probably going to be criticized for suggesting a look that isn't dapper enough though. Yes, you can do cheaper at many places and Simon's for instance is trendy, but the stuff I am suggesting I am to make it very difficult to mess up as I am assuming you aren't completely sure what you are looking for.

[Winsor_Pilates]

Originally Posted by undercoverbrother

You are right it is unpopular and incorrect.....IMO

Even with a tailored shirt I still wear an undershirt, it honestly extends the life of your shirts so much for a cheap price point.

No, no, no.
This is what you do when you're 13 and your mom makes you wear a dress shirt to school photo day.
Do not wear an undershirt as an adult, especially if it visible with your collar open.

[Muta]

Originally Posted by DionTheDman

Unless you're like, prime David Beckham, the only accessory that I can imagine that goes well with a vest would be a magic lamp. Just my opinion.

Fair enough! They're not for everybody. I love 'em though. I've had some awesome compliments on mine when out, as they're not very common.

[Ozy_Flame]

I'm starting to not wear belts for business casual anymore. I think these might be passe; they certainly remind of that "early 2000's" look at the office.

With the right collared shirt (that fits), pants, and shoes (with complimentary socks), belts seem like an unnecessary accessory if your pants are sitting fine.

[DoubleF]

Originally Posted by Winsor_Pilates

No, no, no.
This is what you do when you're 13 and your mom makes you wear a dress shirt to school photo day.
Do not wear an undershirt as an adult, especially if it visible with your collar open.

I think the issue with undershirts is that we all know those ####ty looking super thick wife beaters that are common in the eras before us. I've been looking at stuff like this.

https://www.amazon.ca/Compression-Gy...NsaWNrPXRydWU=

Stuff like this is still occasionally visible depending on how fitted the shirt is. But it is thin enough that it can fly below the radar so no one knows you have it on. This unlike those cheap ass cotton ones undershirts that are up to 2-4mm thick at times, so everyone sees the undershirt outline under your dress shirt.

[Winsor_Pilates]

Originally Posted by DoubleF

I think the issue with undershirts is that we all know those ####ty looking super thick wife beaters that are common in the eras before us. I've been looking at stuff like this.

https://www.amazon.ca/Compression-Gy...NsaWNrPXRydWU=

Stuff like this is still occasionally visible depending on how fitted the shirt is. But it is thin enough that it can fly below the radar so no one knows you have it on. This unlike those cheap ass cotton ones undershirts that are up to 2-4mm thick at times, so everyone sees the undershirt outline under your dress shirt.

Those seem good.

But if it's showing through your dress shirt or you're going no tie, unbuttoned and it's showing at your neck, it's a NO!

[PepsiFree]

One random thing on undershirts: I very rarely wear them, but for those that do, you should be buying grey undershirts (mostly) and try to match the shade of the undershirt to the tone of your skin.

If you have a light skin tone, choose light grey. Medium/olive, medium grey. Darker or very dark, dark grey/charcoal/black.

If you wear white (at all) or black (if your skin tone is anything but very dark) undershirts with a white or lighter coloured dress shirt, people will see where your sleeve ends. It looks very trashy. If you always wear a jacket this isn't a concern.

It's not actually a thickness issue (outside of the thickness of your outer shirt), it's a colour issue.

[Muta]

Yeah, agreed... one of the worst looks is seeing an undershirt under a dress shirt. Wear dress shirts that don't require undershirts. If you are going to wear one, however, make sure you're wearing a dress shirt that hides it completely.

[Ozy_Flame]

Regarding undershirts:

Assuming you don't have sensitive skin problems, they really only need to be worn if you're either too cold, or trying to protect canaries on the armpits. And those are usually only for white or almost-white shirts. I have stopped wearing them altogether unless it's a wedding or formal event at this point.

If you're cold, try wearing a cardigan or a blazer - layering is always good style. If you have to wear a white shirt and don't want the canaries, try a compression baseball-t. The chest will look fine, and the arm sleeve will be obscured by the elbow length (where people expect folds and bends and don't notice as much).

[blankall]

Originally Posted by DionTheDman

For a first pair, I'd suggest the regular strand not the weave. Much simpler.


[/IMG]

You'd get a ton of mileage just with those two.

Strand in a lighter brown colour are a fantastic choice for business casual. My only addition to that piece of advice, is that the Strand model tends to be expensive. AE has so many styles, that you can get a model almost identical to the Strand for a lot cheaper.

The Park Avenue is currently on sale for an extra 30% off in card:

https://www.allenedmonds.com/burnish...322_color=3324

Less than $200 total.

The Strand itself is on sale for $268.44 + GST:

https://www.allenedmonds.com/shoes-b...273_color=3355

The McAllister Wing Tip is nice:

https://www.allenedmonds.com/shoes-b...03B_color=6203

Depending on how casual the office is, a relatively low cut boot is a good option:

https://www.allenedmonds.com/shoes-b...start=1&sz=226

[blankall]

I know a number of larger people who require undershirts. They'll sweat through a regular shirt. They also use the undershirt to downplay rolls/moobs. Fashion advice is very individual specific. I would never say don't ever wear an undershirt. The point of dressing well is to enhance your appearance. What it takes to enhance an appearance depends on the individual and what constitutes an enhancement is also a matter of personal style.

[CorsiHockeyLeague]

Originally Posted by PepsiFree

I personally hate sneakers made by companies that specialize in dress shoes primarily, I think they look lazy. I don't know what would compel someone to buy something like this when they could buy these for 1/3 of the price and arguably look better.

As far as shoes that are closer to a sneaker, go with a brand that makes sneakers and find their nicest shoes. They're far better than going with a brand that makes dress shoes and finding their take on a sneaker.

Here's the thing: for the most part, those sneakers are going to be made in a factory in Europe that makes similar sneakers for a bunch of luxury brands. Allen Edmonds isn't making them itself. In other words, you actually are getting sneakers made by a sneaker manufacturer - they're just designed by someone at AE (who, in turn, is almost certainly just ripping off popular styles from other brands, because AE isn't a fashion house). There was a period in the late 2000s where there were like 10 different brands that all manufactured sneakers in the same place and you could tell because they all used the exact same sole. Lanvin actually switched to an entirely new sole design just to differentiate itself (before the switch / after the switch)

I have a pair of Allen Edmonds Canal Courts, which I got at O'Connors during a sale for less than Adidas wants for those Stan Smiths in the link above. There's just no comparison in terms of the quality of materials and construction. They're more substantial, more comfortable, and while the styling is a bit of personal preference (though I prefer the more understated look than even the relatively mild adidas branding), the materials just make the shoe look better. I only have the one pair, but I'd describe them as not quite Common Projects level but they're not miles away from it either.

So, even at full price, I wouldn't balk at a sneaker just because it has AE branding on it, if it looks good. But when you can get them on sale, they can be a real bargain.

[CroFlames]

Ok wow, holy cow those Canal Court sneakers are nice.

[PepsiFree]

They just look kind of corny, like discount brand clothing, and yet are 3x the price.

"Mom, I said I wanted Nike's, what are these?"

"They're Nokeys. The guy at the store said they were just as good!"

But I know a few of you are AE stans, so have at er.

[peter12]

AE sucks. Why don't you buy Nike Killshots and just look nicer for half the price?

[Hack&Lube]

I've been back in the office 5 days a week since January and since my inner child has always loved miami vice, I've switched to the t-shirt and blazer combination. Its just so much more comfortable and I can still look managerial.

Usually I wear dressier dark jeans with casual shoes (not sneakers).

[_Q_]

Nike Killshot 2.... They're almost impossible to find in Canada, but are in my opinion, probably the nicest casual sneaker there is.

[CliffFletcher]

A tip for buying clothes in general is if you find something you like - it fits well, it’s comfortable and looks good - then go back and buy a couple more of it. Get different colours if you like. Buying clothes is hit and miss, and to minimize the misses it’s worth spending the money to buy duplicates of the hits.

[Strange Brew]

This is a good thread.

Undershirts: These are underwear. Do whatever the hell you want but the key is, nobody should see it.

Dress sneakers: I love this type of shoe and lots of great choices out there. I have a pair of ecco’s I love. But stan smith, killshots are nice to have in the rotation too. An inexpensive pair of sperry’s come in handy too.

Shorts covering the knee: get serious

[Cappy]

Originally Posted by CroFlames

The GMG thread inspired me to seek consultation here.

I'm an early 30s guy, but I've always looked older than I am (tall, dark, handsome, etc). This has actually worked to my advantage in the business world I think.

Now I look like I'm in my late 30s due to this condition, and a little bit of thinning at the top.

I want a new work wardrobe, so I'm looking for ideas. I work in a pretty relaxed office environment (dark jeans acceptable) but I still want to look good, and maybe more youthful if that makes sense. I bought a couple of chino pants, but I don't know what to pair them with and such. Ideally, if I could have about 10-12 work outfits I rotate, that would be fantastic. I have a few blazer jackets that are too fancy for our office environment, and I typically wear those to meetings with clients or conferences.

I guess I'm not looking to spend $1200 on shoes, but I'm also open to spending a little more than $120 on them to look good. Same for the rest of the wardrobe.

Shoes:

Shoes are like watches - some people are way too into them and most people don't care. It doesn't sound like you want to take a deep dive into shoes and the different types and style debate going on - which is fine.

Invest in a pair of Chelsea boots - black and brown. They are stylish with jeans, chinos, even suits in some circumstances:

Spoiler!

They come in all different shades, styles (more casual to dressy) and material (leather / suede)


I think Ted Baker makes good quality shoe for a decent price - and has sales so you can get some under $100.00 in some cases. Don't pay an arm and a leg for nice shoes. Again, just like watches, the majority of people don't notice the difference and if they do, you don't really want to talk to that person anyway.

You can get a solid pair of shoes for ~$200.

Pants:

Your office sounds decently casual. I would recommend chinos. They are cheaper than nice jeans and look more professional. They pair better with blazers and sport coats than jeans in most cases too. Also, they are more comfortable and (IMO) more versatile for everyday life.

It sucks, but the best way to find a pay that fits you is to try them all. Banana Republic, the Gap, J Crew, Club Monaco, Ted Baker, Frank & Oak, RW&Co, Nordstrom etc. Go to town and find the ones that fit the best - slim but not skin tight, tapered leg, not too long to break (the crease from resting on your shoe) too much (if at all) on your pants - you being taller it would probably be best to have a little break.

Generally stick to neutral colours at first, but don't be afraid of some deep colours - forest green or dark burgundy can look great.

Shirts:

Pepsifree had great advice. Go casual. Don't go to Brook Bros and buy a bunch of oxford shirts to wear unless you are wearing suits or business casual with a tie. Pick something off white. no black. Light blue is a workhorse. Buttoned lapels offer a great addition to express dress casual.

You don't need to spend more than $150 for a nice shirt. Many you can get around $100 - 120. again key is to try a lot on and find one that works. Keep an eye on sales.

I have... issues... with polo shirts. To me they just scream old man or a young person who never had a fashion style suited for professionals. You look like a golfer, there is no way around it. Invest in lighter material shirts. In an office, i would still stick with longer sleeve button downs.

With the right shirt, you can stop right here. Roll up the sleeves to just below the elbow and you will look great. Keep a sport coat in the office for meetings and done.

Jackets/sweaters:

I think even in casual offices wearing a sport coat is fair game and you wouldnt look over dressed. Stick to materials that are a bit heavier than a suit. Don't wear a suit jacket without suit pants. textured sport coats are perfect. Make sure it fits in the shoulder and is long enough at the waist. Everything else can be fixed for little cost. Sport coats can last for a long time.

If that doesnt work, grab a few cotton/cashmere sweaters to throw on over a button down. Also look at cardigans if that is your cup of tea. Some don't like the look.