The New Year is almost here, and while I am not a fan of New Year’s resolutions, I do think the annual change is a great time to make changes in your wardrobe. Quickly, because you’re probably wondering what I have against New Year’s resolutions. I don’t necessarily have any grudge or firm hatred or anything like that. I just think if you want to make a personal change, you should do it when you think of it, not at some date in the future. It’s like that person who says they’re quitting smoking…right after they finish that last pack of cigarettes. If you want to quit smoking, then just start right then. I believe if you put off whatever resolution you are trying to start, that only makes it easier to not follow through on your commitment to yourself. However, if you feel like making an external change, rather than an internal change, I think the New Year is the perfect time to do that. If you’re going to change the way you dress, the you are going to get some questions about it. I think it is very simple to disarm anyone who has a question by stating that you just wanted to try something new going in to the New Year.
I think for most people, going out and buying an entire new wardrobe is pretty unrealistic. However, there are a few things you can do to kickstart your re-vamp. One of the easiest ways to bring a little something extra to your style is by investing in a piece or two of neckwear. Whether you work in a business casual environment, a more contemporary office setting or you just need something special for date night, a new tie will bring in major style points. I think one of the best recent trends is the return of the casual tie. Whether you’re sporting a knit tie like this Italian wool piece from J. Crew or you knot-up one of these classic fun prints that Vineyard Vines is known for, you can keep that casual air about you while managing to step out of the pack. If you’re already wearing ties regularly or if you wear a suit daily, a tie with a more intricate pattern or made from a richer material is your ticket to stand-out style. The ties from Charles Tyrwhitt are perfect for days in the office or evenings out. Plus, the two for eighty dollars bundle make these neckties an incredible value. Now, if you really want to stand out and wear something that will last for the next forty years, invest in a classic. There is nothing else in the world like a Hermès tie. While they might be on the pricier side, the will last and they will always be in style. This red and blue print from Hermès is absolutely beautiful.
Another great way to try out something new in your style is with a little jewelry. Now, I’m not talking about pinky rings and gold chains. I mean something a little more classic and understated that adds a little something extra to your look without being the focal point of what you’re wearing. Cufflinks and tie clips (only if you followed my first piece of advice and started wearing ties) are a great way to accent your outfit without overpowering it. Nordstrom has a great selection of both cufflinks and bars. I especially like this tie bar from, no coincidence, The Tie Bar and these links by Trafalgar. Quickly, a few comments on cuff links. How and what you choose to wear is obviously up to you, but I would recommend keeping your links a little simpler and more traditional. I suggest staying away from comical, sports-themed and cartoonish cuff links, and I highly recommend wearing them only with a suit or blazer. I think French cuff shirts can look too bulky or heavy at the cuffs without something to balance the look, like a jacket.
Finally, I’ve said it before, but it can always be said again. If you aren’t wearing a sport coat occasionally, you are missing out on a fantastic opportunity to bring a little more style to the office or make her remember that first date more than her last first date. Whether it’s your first sport coat or your fifth, Brooks Brothers remains the ideal place to shop. Order online, and have your local tailor fit it to you.
You don’t have to make grand changes or replace your entire closet to up your style in the New Year. Just a few details here and there, and people will notice.
As always we love to hear from our readers. Let us know how you plan on re-vamping your style in 2015! You can comment here or reach out to us on social media using Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Google+.
Regards,
