Style

Classic, Color and Cut. Is it really that simple? The 3 C’s truly are the big ones missing from most men’s wardrobes. Funny thing is, when you go to the great shops on Maryland Ave. or venture in to the local Nordstrom you see lots of color, classic updated designs and clothing with flattering and distinctive cuts. I find that most men in St. Louis are not quite willing to step out of their comfort zone. It is unfortunate that the aforementioned comfort zone is decades old and many of the items in your closet would serve a better purpose as a rag.

It does not cost a lot to make these simple changes. Whether you are a Target shopper or are buying your clothes from upscale men’s shops, a few reasonable adjustments to your attire and the compliments will be plenty and that special someone in your life will take notice.

Let’s take a look at cut for instance. Most clothing manufacturers and designers are making it easy for you by creating slim cut shirts, tailored pants and skinny jeans. While this look is not perfect for every body type, it is a great way to take a dated wardrobe and modify the cut to give the illusion of a slimmer and trimmer you. Not all of us are gym rats, but he ever present slim cut clothing can give a “smoke and mirrors” appearance and provide you with a great confidence boost.

Classic looks never go out of style, and thanks to constant reinvention, great classic looks are perfect for everybody and EVERY BODY. Classic retailers like Banana Republic, J Crew, Lacoste and Brooks Brothers are paving the way and keeping CLASSIC, COOL. The reinterpretation of the preppy look can be seen on the best dressed lists in every metropolitan city, St. Louis included. Do yourself a favor guys and invest in an outstanding pair of flat front khaki’s, a slim fit button down shirt and a sleek v-neck sweater. This clean polished exterior is a sure fire way to make an impact with your wardrobe.

The final C is color. Come on guys, COLOR!!!!! Black, brown, and grey are not winning you any favors. It is perfectly acceptable to keep your core colors strong neutrals, but accent every neutral tone with a great color. Aqua, Coral, Fuchsia, Teal, Royal, Periwinkle, Eggplant, Loden, and….let’s say it together, PINK. Pink is a GREAT addition to any ensemble. Go out and scoop up a pink polo shirt, a pink dress shirt, a tie or a pocket square. YOU WILL BE THANKING ME WHEN YOUR MATE GIVES A BIG THUMBS UP.

This is the first of what hopefully will become an ongoing blog featuring the latest news about fashion in St. Louis. The do’s and don’ts to make you look your best and a gentle guide to what I think is good common sense when it comes to fashion and self expression. Read magazines, window shop and step put of that comfort zone. You will see that starting with the 3 C’s will create confidence you long thought went away.