13 Rules to Help a Man Dress Better — Cliff Rose For Clothes (2024)

It seems in today’s world, the last thing we need is more rules. But good advice is invaluable, and, as menswear becomes ever more rich and varied, in moments of confusion and self-doubt, it can help to have a valuable fall-back position that you can rely on. These ‘rules’ tend to be founded in history, and always lean conservatively – they’ve worked for generations, so they should work today too.

1. Wear a suit that fits.

Moderation is the key here. If you are buying off the rack make sure the shoulders fit properly as you can easily alter the chest and waist. If this is your main or only suit, be cautious of new trends or “time piece” suits that may look good at the store, but tend to overstate your presence. These suits can often be very short lived and start to look like a novelty in time. Classic is best and most useful – dark, two-button, single-breasted, moderate in details. The idea is to think of this suit as a canvas to build different ideas of individuality around. It’s the way you wear it, not the label inside, that impresses.

2. Get a great watch

A watch for men, is like a piece of art. They can express your personality at a glance. If you are to only have one quality watch make sure that it is functional, while still being practical, and not too overbearing. Aesthetic, functional, rugged sports models go with anything and can take the hard knocks of everyday wear. The golden standard for size is the 40mm, but keep in mind that with wrist size this is only a guideline and the fit should always relate to the size of the man wearing the watch.

3. Don’t be afraid of color

Whether it is casual or formal wear, a splash of color is something you should indulge in. Most men are intimidated by it and will stick to mostly navy and grey, but color can be timeless too. We recommend pinks, greens, mustard and brighter shades of blue as especially versatile year-round shades that will lift your entire outfit. But keep in mind, when it comes to color, less is still more: One garment in an outfit will do.

4. Wear your jeans often

A fashionable pair of jeans is the slim taper. It’s wider in the thigh so it remains comfortable, but narrows so that you can wear casual or semi formal footwear. Your jeans are a staple in your wardrobe, so don’t be afraid to wear them till they are worn and comfortable.

5. Look after your appearance

This is the kind of advice you might expect to hear from your mother. You’ve invested in all these items, so you should take care of them. Acquire some good hangers, dry clean your clothes, use the gentle cycle when using the washing machine, and avoid tumble drying. Make sure you clean and polish your footwear regularly and always press your shirts and pants where appropriate. The same can be said for you. Make sure to brush your teeth and hair regularly, shower, style your hair, clip your nails and trim unwanted hair.

6. Quality Underwear can make you feel great

Choose your undergarments so that you feel comfortable and confident. There is no greater annoyance than underwear that has seams in all the wrong places. Also keep in mind that when working out there is a good chance that people will see you in your underwear, so make sure it fits properly and is stylish and subdued.

7. Great shoes make the man

Whether you are dressing up formally or just going for a walk, choose a quality shoe that is not too busy and branded. Cheap shoes lose their form and are very limiting in what they will go with. Many men’s magazines state that shoes are the most important part in a good first impression, so make sure they are a quality pair and well looked after.

8. Keep accessories to a minimum

One of the best ways to make yourself stand out in a crowd is to accessorize with bright colors and patterns, but it isn’t always the type of attention you are looking for. As a standard, try to keep your accessories as subtle accents, and go for items that have very little texture. This philosophy will also serve you well when blending your accessories with other clothing, as it will tend to match more of your outfits. Obviously there are times for brash style, but as far as a guideline for general men’s fashion, we recommend subtlety over brashness.

9. Know yourself

Some people can enter a room and get noticed no matter what they wear. They portray an air about them, this is confidence. Choose clothes that boost your confidence and make you feel comfortable in your own skin. There is nothing less stylish than someone who is told what to wear when it doesn’t match their personality.

10. Keep in mind where you are

It’s important to match your setting. You will obviously dress more conservatively at a black tie function than at a fundraiser with a dance band. Over dressing or under dressing will often make you feel uncomfortable and your confidence will suffer.

11. Glasses aren’t just for your eyes

A great set of spectacles can really tie your wardrobe together. Make sure to get something that goes for a look you are trying to achieve, rather than be embarrassed about wearing them. Glasses if in style and current are a very important part of your look.

12. Choose your outerwear wisely

It used to be that a coat that matched all occasions was usually wool, and did not fare too well in adverse weather conditions. Today with the many different fabrics and technology in outerwear there is always a garment that is both lightweight and functional. Make sure that it fits over a variety of looks from formal to casual.

13. A basic shirt does wonders

It might surprise you that a basic shirt as long as it’s well pressed is probably the most functional piece of clothing you can own. A well pressed shirt with a collar and no tie also works for 90% of the situations you will attend.

These rules will provide a basic guideline for most people starting out into their style, but remember with a bit of time rules can be broken as you get more comfortable with who you are fashionably. Stick to these basics and add some flair when you are ready and you can’t go wrong.

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