I have decided to take a break from sports writing and help out all of the fellas that are struggling with their style.
I see it everyday, guys walking around with pants lower than their waist, shirts down to their knees and gaudy colored lime-green hats like they just rolled out of bed for the first time since 1992. The ones that really grinds my gears have to be the guys that buy the extra-smalls to get that slim-fitted look: They miss completely.
C’mon guys the world is changing and if you don’t keep up you’re going to end up dating yourself.
Because it’s late February (and I live in Valdosta, GA) this list will be focused more on summer trend with a couple tips here and there that will help you out year round.
1. Buy Clothes that Fit
This is the biggest problem for men. Guys are going for the extremes too often. Either they go for extra baggy (90’s Allen Iverson) or way too small (Lance Armstrong racing the Tour de France).
Find the happy medium. If you don’t know your size ask for help. A little tight to show off your work in the gym is fine, but with summer around the corner, it shouldn’t be getting nippy when it's 94 degrees.
2. The Button-downs
No matter what the style, pattern, or color you get: If it doesn’t fit right, it won’t look right. That being said, floral prints are attention grabbers (nothing with huge flowers, you want to make a statement not be mistaken for a bush).
However, basic stripes and light colors will keep you looking put together. A thin denim button-down is also a good grab.
3. The White T-shirt
The shirt that can take you from Joe Schmoe to James Dean (or Sam Hunt from the Grammys if you want a more updated version).
T-shirts are getting out of hand with the crazy colors and designs throwing up all over them. So it’s good to take a step back and rock the plain white tee. When worn right, it can give you a boost of confidence to have you feeling like a superstar.
4. Solid non-white/Stripes/Graphic Tees
Now that you understand the importance of the white t-shirt, it’s time to get jiggy with it (Been on a Will Smith kick lately, just trying to get myself equipped for the Summa, Summa, Summa-time! If you don’t get either of those references, yes, Jaden Smith’s dad used to rap).
Solid non-white t-shirts work for everybody. You should get a variety in multiple colors. It is okay to get t-shirts that have more dimensions and pop too. Thick horizontal bars, your favorite sports team (Baseball tees -3/4 sleeves- also a good idea), or even your favorite superhero logo are all welcome options to break away from the plain solids.
(Picture 1, Picture 2, Picture 3)
5. Classic Chino Shorts
Can never go wrong with the Classic Chino shorts. They look good with anything and are dressy enough for date night. Don’t be afraid to step out with some bright colors like a yellow, pink, or blue.
Risks are part of the game (you can’t hit a homerun with you don’t swing the bat). Gingham (not checkerboard), Hound’s Tooth and even a basic floral pattern is a great way to add some character to your style.
6. Stadium Shorts
I got my first pair of draw-string stadium shorts last year and they were one of my best investments of the summer. Lightweight and comfy enough to sleep in with the look of a chino-type short.
No belts to fuss with and your shirt will cover the draw-stings making you look put together.
7. Workout Clothes
This could honestly have its own article, but for now I’ll just say wear pretty much whatever you want except those white undershirts that Sonny wears in The Godfather.
You’ll break my heart Fredo. Don’t go extra tight and short-shorts either, nobody needs or wants to see that.
8. Kicks
Another that could have its own article but for now:
- Chuck Taylor's: High-tops or low-tops, if you go high-tops either tuck or wrap the laces, floppy shoelaces make for a floppy look.
- Basic Vans type: Something kind of like the Chucks just a little less lace, I’d pick one or the other.
- Sperry’s: I mean it’s the shoe of the summer. They make you seem like you’re always headed to a boat.
- Dress Shoe: Class up the outfit by adding some fancy kicks to your outfit.
9. Tips and Add-on's
I’ll be sure to follow up with thought as they come to me but for now here a few tips to spiff up your outfits a bit.
- Cuff everything but don’t mix cuffs: I like the 50’s era cuffed t-shirts, button-downs, and even baseball tees sometimes. It’s a painless process that can help out your look. Cuffing shorts can be stylish too but don’t get carried away. Pick either your shirt or your shorts. (Shorts, Shirt)
- Wrists: Cam Newton and Chris Hemsworth have shown men can wear more than just a watch. Beads, balls, and straight leather bracelets are great looks to add. Don’t forget about the watch though! A nice time-piece is sure to impress everybody.
- Socks: either go loud and crazy or no shows. I think socks are one of my favorite pieces to buy but in the summer I try to only use them when I’m working out or playing ball with the guys. Other than that, It mostly no-shows to avoid sock tans and add flair to dress clothes. (Picture 1, Picture 2)
10. Dress the way you want
If you understood this whole thing, great! If you enjoyed it, great! If you even want to take my advice on this stuff, great!
But honestly, who cares what I think?
You need to feel comfortable in your clothes because they are a representation of who you are. If you want your clothes to be baggy, go for it. If you want them to be slimmer, go for that too. As long as you’re cool with it (and it isn’t exposing your underwear, mid-section, or down-stairs arrangement) then that’s all that matters.
P.S. Friendly reminder: 347 days until Tommy Brady and the Patriots wins Super Bowl LI.































