Here are 8 simple ways to look sharper, as told by men who know style.
Looking good is not all about how much you spend, true style is in the detail, from the quality of your buttons to the length of your jacket to the cut of your trouser leg.
But don’t just take our word for it, here are some tips from men who really know style.
1 – Pop In A Pocket Square
“The sharpest man in the room never overlooks the details. I always add a white Marcella handkerchief to the breast pocket of my jacket. It’s a fail-safe way to smarten up your look.”
– Nick Hart, Spencer Hart, Savile Row
2 – Assert Your Individuality
“My design ethos is all about mixing classic elements with unexpected twists to create a sense of surprise. For instance, I like to imbue traditionally sharp-cut English tailoring with odd idiosyncrasies; an unusual lining, different coloured buttons, a contrasting fabric lapel or collar such as leather on a traditional wool blazer. For me, it’s about having the confidence to be different.”
– Sir Paul Smith
3 – Invest In Good Shoes
“At fashion shows, you spend a lot of time waiting for them to start and staring at people’s feet. At the moment, one shoe brand is hugely popular among the men’s fashion editors. Made by Irish designer Maud O’Keeffe, her shoes are handcrafted in Italy in small batches, and have what she calls ‘a hand-me-down and ready worn-in feel’. Understated and stylish, a pair of O’Keeffe shoes will sharpen up any look.”
– Jeremy Langmead, Mr Porter editor-in-chief
4 – Be Bold, Go Bright
“A sharp suit in a brighter colour makes you stand out from a crowd of navy and black. For instance, a strong blue is flattering without being ostentatious, and is best worn with a white fitted shirt and skinny tie.”
– Richard James, Savile Row
5 – Get a Tailored Blazer
“A tailored blazer will add sartorial charm to an ensemble and serve you well in almost any environment. Having a selection of silk pocket squares to wear with it allows you to feel stylish, individual and confident. My favourite is a Brunello Cucinelli light grey cashmere blazer, which doesn’t ever go out of style and is made to the highest quality.”
– Jason Broderick, Harrods menswear general merchandise manager
6 – Find Your Formula
Don’t be drawn into chasing fads or fashion. Find a formula that works for you, a uniform you can rely on – say a double-breasted, slim-fit jacket, T-shirt and grey worsted suit trousers – and execute flawlessly every time.”
– Patrick Grant, Norton & Sons, Savile Row
7 – Check Your Hems
“Correct length trousers can make the look: they should be long enough to kiss the shoes yet short enough to show your socks when seated. Great socks are often the first thing you notice about a person. I suggest a pair that work in harmony with the shoe as opposed to the trouser.”
– James Spreckley, Reiss menswear director
8 – Mix Similar Shades
“The sharpest man in a room is always the one with the best attitude. Dressing with an individual style without wearing a ‘full look’ underlines your personality. My ultimate tip would be to mix shades of the same colour. It always looks chic, effortless and sophisticated.”
– Lucas Ossendrijver, Lanvin Homme menswear creative director
