By Alex Delany
Columnist
It may be easy to miss, but for those who look at the way men, especially young men, dress, there seems to be a renaissance of sorts occurring. Guys are starting to care more about the clothing purchases they make and the way that they present themselves. This mindset hasn’t fully materialized on campus, but if you look hard enough, you can see it starting to happen.
A lot of college guys ask me questions on my blog about upgrading their style, looking for a way to refine the style that they have carried throughout high school and college. Every time I am asked about this, I always recommend one outfit. It is sophisticated and absolutely foolproof — I wear it at least once a week. I like to call it the “#menswear standard.”
First, start with a white Oxford cloth button-down collar shirt (OCBD) with a slim torso and arms. It’s an extremely versatile shirt that you can wear with literally anything (save a tux).
The next step is to throw out the old jeans you have and buy a pair of slim (not skinny) dark-washed denim. Levi’s 514s or 505s are your basic, accessible options. A pair of brown leather Oxford shoes (Herring) or chukka boots (Clarks) is another investment worth making. A nice pair of brown shoes should also be in every man’s wardrobe. They’re more of a statement and more versatile than black.
Finish this look off with a watch and a brown belt to tuck into your shirt. This collegiate get-up is both extremely simple and effective, and it also starts the foundations of a refined wardrobe by putting a few versatile items in your closet.
This look isn’t expensive either. A common misconception in menswear is that money and style go hand in hand. You do not need to spend a lot of money to dress well. The important thing is that your clothes flatter your body. Fit is key. Your legs should not be swimming or choking in your pants, the lines of your body should be complemented, and you should know what plays to your strengths.
Knowing the way your body works is the key to knowing the way clothes fit. It’s a trial-and-error process, but the research pays off. Try wearing this kit once a week and it could change the way you dress and view your self completely.
