From time to time here at Fancy Francy, we like to take a day to help out the fellas, and with 2013 getting into full force and Valentines Day right around the corner, what better time than now to help the boys polish up their look? Since it's clear to me based off my sometimes melodramatic love life that I don't speak "guy" or "bro code," I decided to enlist the help of one of my stylish guy friends and ask him to share a few tips with the less fashionable members of his species gender. Keep reading today's guest post to find out the five point office style plan that's sure to help even the most clueless of guys pull it together this year!
Having a plan is a necessity for success in today’s world. Looking back on 2012, it was a big year for plans in general. We had tax plans, housing plans, and every other type of plan you can think of. Well in the spirit of the great “plan movement” that swept through this year, I’ve taken the liberty of putting together the…*drumroll please*…5-Point Office Style Plan. I know Mitt Romney’s 5-point plan may not have went over too well with the American people, but this plan is one that promises to reach across the aisle and welcomes all guys looking to upgrade their office style without cashing in their 401K.
You don’t have to be able to pronounce Givenchy or keep up with the latest Fashion Week’s trends to follow these steps, just execute the plan and you’ll be climbing that corporate ladder in style in no time.
1. Your clothes need to fit
“If the clothes don’t fit, then you should quit.” It doesn’t matter what you wear if it doesn’t fit it won’t look good, it’s like you’re already down by 20 before the game even starts. By far the biggest style mistake men make in the workplace is wearing oversized clothes. A size large in one brand might not fit the same as a size large in another so it’s imperative that you try on clothes before buying. I know it’s a pain but trust me, that extra 10 or so minutes will be worth it when you find the perfect fit. In a lot of stores the staff is trained on finding the right fit for your body type, if not seek out a tailor. Fitted clothing radiates maturity and self-confidence, the same traits managers look for when promoting talent within organizations. Don’t look at dressing well as an expense, think of it as an investment.
2. Thrift!
“I believe thrift is essential to well-ordered living.” Once reserved for penny-pinching grandmothers, thrifting has recently taken off as a hot new alternative to mall and department store shopping. Recently I managed to score a very luxurious velvet blazer for $3.99, another $30 for dry-cleaning and alterations and I was a very happy man. I was a little apprehensive about the whole thrifting thing at first but saving a few hundred bucks over time has a way of nipping that in the bud. For your first few thrifting adventures I do recommend being accompanied by an experienced thrifter to ease the pain of losing your thrifting virginity. Thrifting is also a great way to find unique pieces of clothing and have everyone at the water cooler asking where you got it. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of these gems and be the envy of the office.
3. Pay attention to details
“It’s the little things that count.” This is great advice that applies to every aspect of life. Paying attention to the details radiates responsibility and thoroughness, definitely two traits you want associated with your personal brand in the workplace. A carefully selected belt, pocket square, or pair of socks tells your boss, “yes you can trust me with this report”, ”of course I can handle that presentation” , “those calculations, no problem!” Don’t think those gym socks under your suit or that minor stain in your shirt will go unnoticed, you’ll be the target of bad jokes at the water cooler by lunch.
4. Take Risks!
“Go out on a limb. That’s where the fruit is.” Success is built on risk-taking! This doesn’t mean go crazy, but calculated risks are good risks. Lose your customary black socks in favor of a color that pops, have fun with your pocket square, be creative with your lapel pins, cuff links, and other accessories. Try a new shirt pattern every now and then; calculated risks will help you look less like an office drone and more like a real person with thoughts, ideas, and feelings.
5. Confidence is key
“If you don’t believe in yourself nobody else will.” Stand up straight and push those shoulders back, you can’t out dress a lack of confidence. If you’re in the office you didn’t get there by accident, your company invested in you and you bring value to the organization. Projecting confidence in the way you dress, speak, and walk leaves a lasting effect on everyone you come across. Whatever you choose to wear and however you choose to wear it, confidence is key.
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Love your tips!
ReplyDeletexo Ashley
http://www.ashnfashn.com