GQ Approved Style Hacks for Men
These are the style hacks that you want to bookmark. They will serve you in any occasion and any season. If you want simple hacks you can fall back on every time and help make quick decisions, this is exactly that.
If you don’t necessarily enjoy the idea of fashion, that is totally OK. Like I said, these are effortless ways to make your life and wardrobe easier while making you look your best. One and done. Or in this case, six and done.
Actor Sebastian Stan widely known for his acting and best friend next door demeanor. Featured numerous times in GQ and other publications, his signature mix of casual to formal style bodes well for all tastes.
Never Mix Black, Brown, and Navy |
The question I am asked the most and I give the same answer every time: never mix black, navy, and brown. If you take nothing else from this piece, this is a rule that will never do you wrong. Some may argue you can, but I always find better results when this one is followed. Any other neutrals like white or gray can be mixed with one of the aforementioned individually, I just like to keep those separate. They are more than neutrals, they are bold statements. This rule should be applied from major items like jackets, tops, or bottoms all the way down to accessories meaning shoes or belts.
Invest in a Good Watch |
Invest doesn’t have to mean an expensive price tag. Investing is choosing a watch regardless of brand that is high quality and can be worn from casual to formal looks. While there is a definite influx of technology that no longer requires you to have a watch for practical purposes, they are still a symbol of maturity, elegance, and confidence. If you look at any well dressed public figure or person in business, they are rarely found without a watch. The best part: a good watch isn’t partial to any specific style. Choose a solid color band in black or brown and you’re done.
Tailor to a T |
Relax, you don’t need a tailor. Tailored has taken on a whole new meaning the last few years and there is a reason why. When someone mentions tailored pieces, they are focusing on pieces or items of clothing properly fitting the person that is wearing them. Find clothes that don’t just sit on your body, they fit you well. They work with your height, your body type, and work with your strengths. This rule automatically cancels out clothing that is too tight, loose, restricting, short, tall, etc. Some items such as a suit jacket or dress pants might require an actual tailor, however, the general idea of the rule is what you will use in your everyday.
Formal Wear is a Yes |
There are certainly different levels of formal wear. Regardless, you want at least one level in your wardrobe. After college, there will always be an occasion that requires a nicer dress code. Weddings aside, there are business opportunities, special events, and social invites. A single tie doesn’t quite get the job done. Spend the small amount of extra time now on your wardrobe and you will never find yourself running stressed at the last minute and still second guessing once you show up. First, focus on the overall dress code for events that will be regular on your social calendar. A nice dress shirt or two might be enough for some, for others that may be a casual day. Once you access what you actually need versus what you think you should have, your wardrobe will be right where it needs to be and you’ll never find yourself unprepared.
Brands are the Best Friend |
Choose brands that make you feel confident and you can rely on the overall fit of any of their clothes to always work. It’s important to note that if chosen wisely, the quality of the item will override a higher price point because you will have what you need for a long time. Banana Republic men’s collection is one of my favorites for casual to more formal wear. This is the perfect hack if you aren’t big on shopping whether it’s online or in person. By finding somewhere you can come back to season after season for any item of clothing, it streamlines anything fashion related instantly. You’ll always look good. So, that’s a plus, too.
Rule of 2 out of 3 |
I once heard a rule that I think is a good one to pass on. There will always be times that you don’t get completely ready. It happens. Here is where the rule comes in. Before you leave your place, always take care of 2 out of 3. This applies to skin, hair, and style. Make sure that your skin and facial hair are groomed, your hair doesn’t look like you rolled out of bed late for a lecture, and your outfit is put together. You can look put together in athletic wear. It’s not necesscarily about the details, but the overall impression. You never know who you will run into.