Gentlemen's Threads
This first installment of Gentlemen’s Threads is twofold. We will talk about a certain type of dress and how to apply that, but then also talk about a new trend:
Sometimes in menswear we are told the level we must dress, such as formal, business casual, casual, streetwear, etc.—all these terms, but what do they really mean? Since I spend the majority of my time in an office and we have to be somewhat professional, I figured the first one we will dive into is “Business Casual.” Business casual really consists of a button down or polo shirt, a pair of khakis or dress pants, and a nicer shoe—something more professional than a tennis shoe. Luckily, my office understands that we are individuals, and that we all have different styles and we want to express through our fashion choices. Allowing us to have a bit more casual than business.
1. Find out your exact dress code for the work place. Many places want slacks and a button up. Mine just requires at least a t-shirt and long pants. Some days those are fine, but in a professional environment, gentlemen, let’s take it up a notch. If your office is very professional, throw on a blazer and have your belt match your shoes—simple things to update your wardrobe for a professional environment. Replace the tie with a sweater on the colder months, and switch out heavy slacks for a pair of linen pants in the warmer months.
2. Determine what your actual style is. Are you more business than casual, are you more of a hipster, just jeans and a t-shirt, or do you have a more unique style? Style ranges all over the place, casual and cool, to dressy and metro. Do what makes you feel most confident.
3. Find what works best for you. Do you have regular meetings? Or, like my job, do you sit behind a desk all day? If there are typically meetings for you then put your best foot forward. If you are in a position like mine, then relax.