Tips on how to dress like a gentleman

Rutendo Chidawanyika

Style Tip 1 — Level-up your shoegame

STILL wearing running shoes all the time (even when you’re NOT running)? Well, that should come to an end. People see shoes as a way of measuring your wealth — or assuming your career and social status. So do take pride in spending good money on a pair of high-quality dress shoes.

A pair of quality leather shoes is one of the best investments — provided it’s durable and comfortable to wear for many years. It’s a classic type of footwear that works for nearly all occasions.

It’s not just about looking sharp. These shoes represent attention to detail, and how carefully you present yourself.

Style Tip 2 — Get the right fit

At home, you might still enjoy wearing those baggy shorts or oversized shirts even though you have slimmed down . . .

But outside, remember that fit is king. It’s your top concern in the style pyramid before you consider any clothing item.

# If it doesn’t fit (and can’t be slightly adjusted to fit) — do NOT buy it. It won’t work.

Style Tip 3 — Have self-confidence

Before anything else . . . understand that a big chunk of style depends on confidence and attitude. Self-confidence doesn’t just help you engage with women. It’s an internal driving force for remembering who you are and what you stand for.

So how do you build that confidence? Start by learning from a good mentor. An older guy who exudes confidence the second he makes eye contact with anybody without coming off as arrogant.

Aside from that, master the art of power, posing in front of the mirror whenever you lack self-confidence. You’d be surprised by how much simple actions like the “Superman pose” can benefit us mentally.

Style Tip 4 — Value style & image

Appearances do matter. Especially when it comes to first impressions.

Isn’t a good personality still important? Absolutely. But some people won’t ever be exposed to it if they can’t see past your lack lustre “cover.” To nail first impressions, your style and image have to work within society’s system of what’s acceptable — what’s expected of young professionals.

You must stick to crisp, clean, and well-fitted clothing. That’s what encourages people to take you more seriously. Any young doctor, lawyer, consultant or salesman needs to understand this.

It also matters to dress appropriately for your age. If your wardrobe screams student or teenager — you’re going to be treated like you’re still a kid. You need dressier clothes that show your maturity so you’ll gain the respect and trust of everyone (older and younger).

Style Tip 5 — A well-fitted suit

No matter what your job is, you’ll most likely wear a high-quality suit at some point in life.

So if you’re going to buy one, make sure it’s a classic suit. Consider factors like notch lapels, the proper length of the jacket (the back side shouldn’t completely cover your butt) and a clean, consistent stitching check this by opening the vents and breast pocket.

For any suit that’s off the rack — do take the time to have it adjusted. Some department stores still offer the service, but chances are you’ll need to find a tailor independently.

Style Tip 6 — Choose QUALITY

What good is a wardrobe that’s oversaturated with items that either (A) don’t feel good to wear or (B) are difficult to match with one another?

You should aim to build your own interchangeable wardrobe which includes:

– A good core of white and blue dress shirts (the backbone of most sharp outfits)

– Simple ties with dark shades of blue, green or red (a small repeating pattern is fine)
– Jackets, trousers, shoes with the right colours and textures (which don’t clash with your shirts)

This system provides a set of all clothes you’ll need 99 percent of the time — and every single piece is something you’ll enjoy wearing.

Style Tip 7 — Get rid of worn out clothing

Certain jean styles might’ve been trendy during your teenage years (like tears, holes or distressed looks). Eliminate those pants (or clothes with similar styles) from your closet right away. You want to move past that rebellious, individualistic phase for good.

Upgrade your legwear by sticking to what works: clean, well-fitted chino pants or classic jeans. Also get a couple of dark-coloured slacks (either straight or slim fit) to add some variety.

Style Tip 8 — Throw out t-shirts & hoodies

We know that Mark Zuckerberg normally shows up to work in a grey hoodie — as if he was running a local gym instead of Facebook.

The average guy doesn’t have such privileges — and will be judged in a negative way if he wears UN-dressy shirts or tops. That includes different hoodies and t-shirts (especially graphic tees). To play it safe, donate the majority of those items to charity. Save a small portion for home or gym use.

Style Tip 9 — Ignore fashion trends

Finally, don’t fall prey to the whims of fashion. Mainstream fashion trends change too fast to really become staples of your style. And young men can’t afford a complete wardrobe overhaul every month. So avoid anything that doesn’t survive past an “in” season (like skinny ties and jeans).

Stick to timeless clothing pieces and classic colours, patterns, textures, and combinations — since those will never disappoint. —Additional information from Online sources.

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