9
Ever wonder why women take so long to get ready? Does it blow your mind how they try six different outfits before deciding on the one to wear? Well, gentlemen, the answer to these age-old questions is the fact she’s paying attention to minor details that she knows make a difference.
Before she leaves the house, she makes sure that all the pieces of the image puzzle are in order so she looks her best. Now, I’m not saying you need to spend hours in your closet or primping in the mirror, but you need to understand and correct some basic image mistakes men routinely make.
I see men making some of the same damned mistakes daily. They need to stop murdering their image! That being said, I want to give you my top ten so you can identify the problem(s) and apply these easy-to-follow solutions to prevent you from committing these all-too-common men’s outfit offenses.
Image Killer #1 NOT Dressing Your Age
One of the biggest mistakes a man can make in an attempt to be fashionable and cool is dressing younger than he is. Nothing is more obvious or embarrassing than a man in his 40s or 50s who dresses like he is 20. It may be true that the clothes are indeed cool and extremely stylish; however, if they are not age-appropriate, you will end up looking like you’re lost in time.
The Solution
While shopping in a particular store or shop, look around. Are the other patrons dramatically younger than you? Are the associates still in high school? If the answer to these questions is yes, then more than likely, the clothes in that store are not for you. Attention to these two simple rules will surely point you in the right direction.
Image Killer #2 Ill Fitting Clothing
When I tell you your clothes should fit you, most of you may think, “Duh.” But give me a chance to explain. Many men wear clothing that is too large or too small for them. A common misconception is that larger men should buy larger shirts to minimize weight. This couldn’t be further from the truth. To camouflage your weight, you make yourself look heavier and larger than you are. On the flip side, some of you buy too small clothes. Just because you can get the pants buttoned doesn’t mean they fit. Stuffing yourself into clothing is not a good look.
The Solution
If you currently buy very loose-fitting shirts, go down a size. You will be amazed at the number of compliments you’ll receive and inquiries asking if you have lost weight. With pants, ensure you can comfortably fit your fingers between your waistband and your hips. This may require you to go up a size or even two. Have no fear—you aren’t getting larger—you are now wearing pants that fit and look better!
Image Killer #3 Pleated/Cuffed Pants
Many men are guilty of these fashion no-nos. Most men have a desire to look their best. If your best means you want to look heavier than you are, then wear pleats. But, if you want to appear slimmer and taller, it’s time to ditch the pleats. The goal is to create a nice straight line from the waist down to your shoes. Anything that breaks the visual line will detract from you looking your best. Cuffs on your pants are nothing but the extra fabric that breaks the crisp, clean line and ultimately makes you look shorter than you are.
The Solution
Try on a nice pair of flat-front, non-cuffed pants. You will be amazed at how much thinner and taller you look. This simple change will dramatically enhance your look and image.
Image Killer #4 Wrong Pants Length
Many men are wearing pants that are either too short or too long. Both of these are detrimental to your image. Pants that are too short make you look like you are wearing high waters and, quite frankly, make you look like a big dork. On the flip side, too long pants will only cause them to bunch up at the shoe, creating an illusion of being shorter and heavier than you are.
The Solution
Pants should be long enough that they have a break in them. The back of your pant leg should be at the middle or top of your heel. Remember, not all pants work with all shoes because shoes have various sole and heel heights, which affect the pant length. Also, if you wear boots, you may need slightly longer pants than you wear with dress shoes.
Image Killer #5 Outdated Jeans
Skinny jeans are not only outdated but also hurt your image and style. Same goes for overly distressed, big cuffs, or baggy jeans.
The Solution
Every single man needs at least two pairs of perfect denim in his wardrobe. The first pair every man should own is dark wash denim with no distressing. You can dress these up, and they look amazing with dress shoes or shinier boots. They also look incredible paired with a sports coat or a great sweater. The second pair is your best friend, which is a pair that’s not too tight or too loose. They may have mild distressing but nothing too forced or man-made looking. Make sure your jeans haven’t natural look with a little whiskering by the crotch and a mild fading. Nothing too dramatic.
Image Killer #6 Floral Print Shirts
These shirts are outdated unless you are in the tropics or on a cruise. If you are in the tropics or on a cruise, good for you. Wear the shirts! Otherwise, it’s a no.
The Solution
Choose shirts that are a solid color or a small pattern. Don’t buy something you think is “cute” or “funny.” You won’t look cute, but you will look funny!
Image Killer #7 Bad Shoes
Shoes are, in my opinion, the most important aspect of an outfit. By choosing chunky or bulky shoes, you will only look like a clown. Overly square toes (pilgrim) are also a thing of the style past. They were cool a many years ago but now take a back seat to a sleeker, more streamlined shape and trend. We should also include shoes that are overly worn or scuffed.
The Solution
Take care of your shoes. Polish them once a month, and don’t forget the heel. Spend the money on good quality shoes. If taken care of properly, they will last you for years. Choose shoes that are simple yet stylish. Avoid overly ornate stitching or overly drastic shapes (square or pointed). Remember, shoes should not draw attention to themselves but rather tie the package together. Stay away from ultra-trendy shoes since they will be out of style quickly.
Image Killer #8 Sneakers with Everything
Athletic shoes should be worn when exercising. They are not your “go-to” pair of shoes, suitable for every activity and occasion.
The Solution
Most men wear sneakers due to the lack of variety or depth of current footwear. Spend the time and money buying shoes that are appropriate for various occasions. You need a pair to be worn with shorts (non-athletic), casual attire, and professional attire.
Image Killer #9 Belt and Shoe Mismatch
Black shoes and a brown belt are the most obvious pairing; however, you need to consider the style of shoes and belt as well.
The Solution
Dress shoes require a dress belt. This means if your shoes shine, the belt should also have a similar finish. Black is an easy color to match; there is only one black. Brown, however, is a bit trickier; there are 20 different shades of brown. When trying to pick a belt to match your shoes, wear the shoes to the store. If you try to wing it from memory, you will be disappointed once you get home
Image Killer #10 Inappropriate Dress
Have you ever felt underdressed for a specific event or occasion? We have all had this happen to us at one time or another. It is one of the most common blunders one can make.
The Solution
Before attending any gathering or event, know what is expected. One good way is to see what your wife is wearing. Is she in jeans and a tee-shirt? If not, this indicates that you shouldn’t be either. Remember, it is always better to be overdressed as opposed to underdressed.
Remember to pay attention to minor details; you will have a killer image rather than killing your image!
