Mens Formal Wear - The Finishing Touches
Author: Wendy GomersallMens formal wear! So you have got the dinner suit. You have got the tie-your-own bow tie. You're all set! Or are you?
One of my mother's sometimes incomprehensible sayings is "don't spoil the ship for a ha'porth of tar". In this context we could re-word it as "don't spoil the suit for a bit of bling". In other words, when you have made the effort to find the right outfit, make sure you don't forget to make the same effort over the accessories. Women have this down to an art form and it is time men caught on!
While we may not wear a dinner (or opera) scarf these days (although they do look amazing at the appropriate occasion) and top hats are usually reserved for Royal Ascot and the most formal of weddings, don't overlook the essential mens formal accessories.
Cufflinks and stud sets really are a great finishing touch. Not only do they add a little bling, but they – particularly the studs – are so much more elegant and sophisticated than buttons. The classic stud set is, of course, black onyx, but I do have soft spot for mother of pearl.
Mens braces (or suspenders) are not only traditional, but they avoid the tell-tale bulge of your belt buckle beneath your vest and ensure your waistband remains hidden out of sight. Ideally you should choose button-on braces but if the traditionalists will forgive me, if you don't have buttons on your waistband then todays clip on braces are much improved if not quite so classic.
If you are not a braces man, go for a classic black leather belt. On this occasion I would avoid the box-style buckles and stick with a simple buckle. Too much bling can backfire.
Pocket squares add a nice touch, traditionally in white linen nowadays a contrasting colour is more than acceptable – just don't go for gaudy.
And do remember your shoes. Have you ever seen someone who looks amazing, great jacket, amazing tie….scuffed shoes? Make sure your shoes are polished and that even the soles are clean and free of labels (especially if you got them in the clearance sale).
None of the above need to be overly expensive, but skimping on them certainly can make you look cheap!
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/fashion-articles/mens-formal-wear-the-finishing-touches-5919368.html
About the Author
I am an ex-pat Brit who has made Australia home. I love writing and love running an online boutique selling mens fashion accessories and formal wear accessories with my hubby. And I love the fact that I can work on both passions at the same time!
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