If you didn’t catch part 1 which was published last week, make sure you check it out by clicking here. It’s important that when enhancing our personal style we really do take notice of the essentials, and then work around them adding individual touches and creating a statement. In part two we’re going to be looking at some more essentials from shirts to accessories. So lets dive straight in…
The Formal Shirt
Here is my selection of styles for formal shirts that you should definitely consider having in your wardrobe.
The Piccadilly shirt: This style of shirt in the last year has grown in popularity thanks to one Gary Barlow wearing it consistently on the x factor. Now that’s not the reason you should purchase one. It’s a great looking formal shirt that really conveys a strong, confident appearance. Hence it makes it a great choice to pull out for that “I need to make a good impression” meeting. The metal bar that goes through the collar gives a real sharp structure to your formal look.
The Cutaway Shirt: This is a classic style of shirt and has a few variations from Italian cutaway to extreme cutaway. This shirt looks great with a Windsor knot tie and a white contrast collar.
The Button-Down Shirt: Again this is another classic style but also it’s very contemporary and on trend at the moment. It could also act a cross over piece in your wardrobe as dressed down looks cool with denim and a pair of brogues.
The Tab Collar: I personally think this style with be the next big thing that like the Piccadilly shirt flows into the mainstream. This shirt is a favourite of Dermot O’Leary and in the upcoming Bond movie Skyfall you’ll see Daniel Craig wearing his Tom Ford tab collar. Like the Piccadilly, the tab gives the collar a real sharp look.
The Handkerchief/Pocket Square
I’ve noticed that more and more men are having a dabble and putting more effort into their tie/ handkerchief combinations. This will completely lift your formal look. I recommend these..
The White Pocket Square
The Paisley Print Handkerchief
The Polka-Dot Handkerchief
The Watch
Regardless of how much money you have, I believe your selection of timepiece should be understated and unassuming with a hint of class. The watch is a very important component within the formal look and here are my picks to make you punctual with style.
Accessories
The Tie Clip: Just like Piccadilly shirt and pocket squares, more and more guys are trying to accessorize with a difference in order to dress to impress and stay ahead of their counterparts. A sleek tie clip should be thrown in every now and then.
Socks: It’s a growing trend that more men are starting to pay attention to the standard and quality of what goes on their feet. From having a cashmere blend for comfort and feel to being bold with bright colours that co-ordinate with their formal attire. Try green or red socks with a pair of brown lace ups or brogues.
Cufflinks: Again like your watch, your cufflinks should be understated and elegant.
The Document Case/Ipad Cover: A modern day business essential especially when carrying around documents from office to office and a worn out card folder just won’t do! Also in terms of practicality, you can throw all your bits in it like phone, keys etc so it doubles as a man’s clutch bag dare I say it!!
The Belt: For me your belt needs to be seen and not heard, Nothing too flashy or in your face. Also try and always match up your belt with your shoes. A reversible belt is a great accessory to have in your drawer.
