Being a menswear stylist based in the heart of London’s financial district, I see countless men each day that struggle with their formal presentation. Now each to their own if it’s not on the individuals list of priorities, but making the effort in what you’re wearing can create a positive impact in and outside of the office. Whether that be dressing to impress your boss, clients, potential employers or the pretty young lady who you pass in the lift every morning. Here is my list of essentials that will get you noticed for the all right reasons in the workplace…
The Knitted Tie
The knitted tie is an acquired taste and for sure is not everyone’s cup of tea but when worn correctly makes a strong formal statement. We covered the knitted tie back in our AW Essential Accessories article and it’s a timeless accessory which can be worn throughout all seasons. For the best results it needs to be kept simple, say a solid colour like navy, green, maroon or my personal favourite red paired with a crisp white shirt. Sharp.
The Holdall
One thing I’m not a fan of is gents using the free rucksack they acquired from their gym membership coming in to work. Now I know it’s a case of practicality but if you have any intentions of making a stylish impression lose the back pack and upgrade. Here are my choices….
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are the prime summer accessory for the modern man. Over the past 3-4 summers hands down the shades of choice have been for most the Ray-Ban aviators and wayfarers. For me these styles look best dressed down, so to push you guys in a sharper direction and considering the trends this season I’ve picked these shades.
Persol Steve McQueen Black Folding Sunglasses – £230.00
These are for me the shades for summer 2012 and the folding practicality of them makes it a handy feature for any working gentleman plus with our unstable weather! Also these were the “sunnie’s” of choice by the original style icon and king of cool Steve McQueen. Enough said.
Reclaimed Vintage Clubmaster Sunglasses – £18
The key trend for men’s sunglasses this summer is the vintage look and these tortoiseshell clubmaster frames definitely do the trick.
Tom Ford Adrian Sunglasses – £299
Anything you put on from Mr Tom Ford is going to make you look cool. These razor sharp, aviator inspired frames are no exception.
Shoes
As the old saying goes “you can tell a lot by a man’s shoes”. And us guys should really adhere to this by making sure we get our footwear on point. I would definitely recommend investing in your footwear and having a few pairs on rotation to save your fashion investment (my favourite saying at the moment to justify my splurges!) going to waste. Also after care is essential and should be routine. There is no point in spending good money on shoes if you’re not going to look after them, so be prepared to put in some buffing time in to your schedule. Here are my recommendations for the styles you should go for.
The Classic Lace Up
The lace up shoe for work is the item that I see a lot of men struggle with in terms of the shape and style. Please, please try and avoid square toes and pointy styles in favour of a rounded, classic style like these…
The Brogue
There have been so many variations of brogues over the past few seasons with it being the informal shoe of choice. But equally the brogue embodies that classic sartorial look with a suit.
The Double Monk-Strap
I love this style of shoe and though classic, it’s very rare you see many men in a pair of double monk-straps. Definitely for the gentleman who wants to make a bold formal statement with his feet.
The Card Holder
Chunky wallets filled to the brim with anything and everything have got to go in favour of a sleeker more practical cardholder. Believe me when I say a bulging back or side pocket is not a good look. Neither is pulling out what resembles a leather bound bible when at the bar or in a restaurant.
In the next part of “my essentials” piece, I will be recommending formal shirts, watches, handkerchiefs plus giving tips and advice to improve your 9-5 look. Also if you’ve got any questions or queries, feel free to email me at danrhone@hotmail.co.uk or tweet me on twitter @danielrhone.
