Mens Fashion Mistakes

We all make mistakes. We make mistakes in our relationships, in the homes we buy, the apartments we rent and the clothing we wear. Many times we don\’t consider some of the mistakes that men make in their fashion statements. Women, especially, find that the choices men have are severely limited and therefore believe that there are very few mistakes that men can make when they dress themselves.

However, you only have to watch one or two reality shows which include men to know that this simply isn\’t the case. Men can make very large fashion mistakes that are truly unforgivable because they communicate very negative ideas about the man behind them. As humans we make decisions based on first impressions. Sometimes those decisions change but often times we stick with our first impression and when that impression is influenced by some significant fashion mistakes it can place a man and a complete disadvantage.

For instance, have you ever noticed a man in shorts who is wearing sandals and white socks. In fact, any socks? Most of the time this is reserved for colder climates but if it\’s cold enough to put socks on in a pair of sandals and it\’s cold enough to wear a pair of shoes. Wearing socks with a pair of sandals doesn\’t mean it\’s warm outside and won\’t change the weather any faster. If a man is bent on wearing a pair of sandals then he should move to a warmer climate.

And, while we\’re on the topic of shoes, let\’s get rid of those the big chunky, square toed shoes that scream the early 90s. Most men do not find it difficult to stay within current fashion trends by just updating their wardrobe every couple of seasons but some seem to enjoy wearing clothing that lost favor before Y2K.

Many women love to shop for sequined gowns, glittery tops and shiny shirts with those particular clothing items should remain in a woman\’s wardrobe and not in a man\’s. If you\’re looking for something to go out in at night, stick with the basics, like a formfitting black shirt and casual pants or jeans. Leave the glittery top for Halloween night when you\’re out trick-or-treating with your daughter!

Many men also enjoy wearing clothing that is too loose, especially on the top. Clothing that stands out from the body just makes you look sloppy and uninterested in your appearance. If you are unclear as to what your \”real size\” may be then engage the help of a clerk at your favorite department store. Your clothing should sit close to your body and still be flattering at the same time. You may have to experiment a bit by mixing and matching certain cuts and colors but you will soon find a personal style that fits your body, is flattering and is well within your comfort level. And, believe it or not, slipping into a well fitted shirt and pair of jeans is just as comfortable as that oversized sweatshirt once was.

Today\’s man has discovered the convenience of carrying their extra day planners, papers and cell phones in something other than a briefcase. While women have had the advantage of being able to use handbags at work, men had either resorted to stuffing everything in their pockets or carrying a briefcase. This is the time to leave your son\’s backpack at home. While a well-made backpack is easy on the back, can take a heavy load and is very functional, it should be left for college students or for a time when you are backpacking through the great Northwest. Instead, find a nice messenger bag or a good-looking gym bag without any logos.

There is a time and a place for everything. And, believe it or not, novelty ties and shirts belong in the pediatric ward at your local hospital. When working with children it is a great advantage to be able to wear a Disney tie or a shirt sporting a favorite cartoon character. It often places the children at ease and makes you seem less threatening than otherwise may appear. However, this would be the only place that those particular types of clothing are acceptable. Novelty shirts and ties do not project a put together image is but rather a comic façade that will not engender trust in your business partners or exude power in the board room. Even if it is casual Friday in the office there are much better casual looks than this.

Avoid these fashion mistakes and you will be well on your way to developing your own personal style that is comfortable, expresses your personality and makes you feel more confident. The ultimate goal is to achieve a style that appears effortless, engendering confidence and gives you the appearance of not caring, even though you do.