Gentlemen, fall is here. That means we can now comfortably wear more than just the standard shorts and t-shirt or polo combo without getting drenched in sweat. Here’s your guide to 2014 fall trends.   

Layering is crucial. Think about those fall days when it’s cold in the morning walking to class, then, only 50 minutes later, you walk out and the sweatshirt you wore is too hot, but the t-shirt is too cold. Again, layering.   

There are a TON of options for layering. Work shirts are popular this year. They run a little bit bigger, so you can order your regular size and still comfortably fit it over a sweater (elbow patches are critical), another button-up, or a flannel. When you leave Humanities and have to walk up Bascom for your next class, you’ve got layers to shed to make sure that you’re not a sweaty mess for the next lecture.   

And of course, denim jackets and vests are always great options for layering too. Just be careful with the denim-on-denim if you’re going to go for it.  

2. Denim

The word of the day is “selvedge.” Much like the regrowth of popularity in vinyl, manufacturers and consumers alike are taking an interest in the original production of denim. Selvedge denim is woven on shuttle looms, which leaves small imperfections that don’t hamper the integrity of the denim, but give each pair of selvedge jeans a truly original make.   

The most important part is finding a pair that fits you (Rawr Denim has a great tool to search for denim by measurements called the denim scout). There are even a few places in Madison where you can try on selvedge to find the best fitting pair. American Apparel just released a new pair, Gap typically has some in stock and Context Clothing on King Street has an expansive collection.   

Find a pair that flatters your figure, not something too skinny or too baggy, and size down in the waist to give it room to stretch, because all denim stretches. Selvedge may be expensive, but I promise, you really only need one pair of great-fitting jeans in your wardrobe.   

3. Footwear

It’s been a long, smelly summer for those Sperry’s, and it’s about time to trade them in for some boots. What you wear on your feet can make or break your outfit, so make sure what you’re wearing really tops it off. Clark’s desert boot is the most versatile boot you can own. Dress them up for a social, or wear them everyday to class. Red Wing, Danner, Thorogood, and Alden all have great selections as well.   

If you’re looking for something classic and comfortable, you can never go wrong with Converse Chuck Taylors, New Balance 574s, or Adidas Gazelles.  

4. Accessories

You’ve put in all that work, now it’s time to top it off.  Watches are becoming more of an essential again. They show that time is important to you. You’re a busy guy and you’ve got places to be. Timex, Fossil and Nixon all have great, affordable watches.   

Sunglasses are essential, too. Remember that watches and sunglasses are likely going to be a long-term investment (my uncle still wears his Ray Bans from the 80s), so pick out stuff that’s going to last. Of course, Ray Bans are always a popular option, but a couple other great glasses companies to take a look at are Warby Parker and RAEN.   

And, finally, hats. With it getting colder, you’re going to need yourself a beanie or two. I suggest Coal Headwear. As far as baseball hats go, look for Ebbets Field Flannels and some of their collaborations online. A great, American company that you can’t go wrong with.