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For a lot of guys, their sartorial decisions are as basic as which tee with which jeans. If you don’t want to be just another guy, there are easy ways to make a fashion statement without investing in a whole new wardrobe. Here are three accessories that can take your style from zero to hero.
Belt and Buckle
Your belt and its buckle are finishing touches that show you care what you wear. Whether it’s a standard utility buckle and plain black belt, or you want something tooled with a fancy buckle flourish, keep your belt in good condition. Cracked or peeling belts and belt buckles are a sign you don’t take care of details and make you look slovenly. Invest in a couple of belts and buckles that reflect your personality and are ready for different occasions, replacing them as needed.
A Good Tie
If you don’t have to wear a tie for work, picking a tie for special occasions can feel like being forced to learn a foreign language. Don’t let ties intimidate you. The first rule, when you won’t be wearing a tie often is to avoid fads and trends; opt for something timeless that will serve you well for years.
Some men’s fashion experts recommend owning many different types of ties, but you can cut that down significantly by focusing on your personality and the situations where you’ll likely need one. Most people attend weddings and funerals. Beyond that, decide if you’ll need a tie for a graduation, a business dinner or a holiday. Then decide if you want something staid, like a stripe or a solid, or you want something outgoing like bright paisley or a hand-painted design. Whatever you choose, invest in a standard width and silk fabric.
Dress Socks
Finally, have a few pairs of good socks. Hopefully, you already know not to wear white athletic socks with slacks; if you don’t, here’s your heads-up. Dress socks don’t have to be boring and black, though, either. Even more than your tie, this is where you can let your personality shine through. A pair of cheeky socks with a fun design don’t usually show until you sit down. It’s a flash of something fun that takes your dressing to the next level of personalization. Your accessories update and modernize a basic wardrobe and help you look professional when you need to. Invest in quality. Maintain your purchases. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.
