What should I wear?
Jul 28, 2007
I had never been a huge fan of men’s fashion until I met men who are interested in their appearance. So when a man called in asking me what he should wear to a formal function, I had to think fast.
By Keturah Kamugasa
I had never been a huge fan of men’s fashion until I met men who are interested in their appearance. So when a man called in asking me what he should wear to a formal function, I had to think fast.
There is a misconception that a man looks good in anything and that men are not bound by social and dress codes. This is wrong.
Today’s man wants to stand up and be noticed. That is why more men are now having beauty treatments, manicures and pedicures as well as wearing perfume and aftershave.
Before you begin dressing up for a formal occasion, you need to find out how formal it is. This will guide you as you choose your clothes and shoes.
The suit
This is an essential item and every man should at least have one in his wardrobe. We are not talking about any ordinary suit but one that is well tailored and hangs well on you. The trousers must fit you properly and not create a huge bulge at the fly. If you can only afford one expensive suit, go for a black or grey single-breasted suit.
If you are into blue, dark blue or navy are the best options. The advantage of a black suit is that it always appears new. Avoid other colours for formal occasions, as you might not be taken seriously. I mean, would you trust an ambassador wearing a bright orange suit? I thought not.
Opt for a classic cut because it will not go out of style. If in doubt, ask the salesperson for help. With a dark coloured suit in your wardrobe, you’ll only have to change shirt and tie whenever you wear it. Hence you’ll look fresh every time you attend a special event.
The shirt
A white or blue shirt is a must. White shirts do not easily go out of style and they always manage to look formal when teamed with a suit. Blue is a favourite colour for bankers so if the event is hosted by them, you will not go wrong with a blue shirt.
There are different shades of blue to choose from so be sure to get one that flatters you and enhances your looks. Avoid teaming dark shirts with dark suits as you might end up looking like someone from the criminal underworld. On the other hand garish (dazzling) colours will either make you appear gay (homosexual) or immature.
The tie
“A tie is a fashion essential because it compliments the suit,†writes menfashion.com. It is advisable that you invest in at least two magnificent ties a year for special events.
If you like trendy ties, this is a chance for you to wear them. Avoid ties with cartoon characters if you want to look sharp. If you can’t do without cartoon pictures on your clothes, save them for informal events.
The Belt
Not only does it hold up the trousers, it also completes the total look. It determines what colour of shoes a man should wear.
Shoes
They must be comfortable, stylish and polished. They should always match the belt if you are to achieve a balanced look.
Socks
They must always be the same colour as the trousers and must compliment the shoes. For instance, a combination of green socks, brown shoes and black trousers spells disaster.
White socks do look cute on pre-pubescent boys and tennis players but horrible on
I had never been a huge fan of men’s fashion until I met men who are interested in their appearance. So when a man called in asking me what he should wear to a formal function, I had to think fast.
There is a misconception that a man looks good in anything and that men are not bound by social and dress codes. This is wrong.
Today’s man wants to stand up and be noticed. That is why more men are now having beauty treatments, manicures and pedicures as well as wearing perfume and aftershave.
Before you begin dressing up for a formal occasion, you need to find out how formal it is. This will guide you as you choose your clothes and shoes.
The suit
This is an essential item and every man should at least have one in his wardrobe. We are not talking about any ordinary suit but one that is well tailored and hangs well on you. The trousers must fit you properly and not create a huge bulge at the fly. If you can only afford one expensive suit, go for a black or grey single-breasted suit.
If you are into blue, dark blue or navy are the best options. The advantage of a black suit is that it always appears new. Avoid other colours for formal occasions, as you might not be taken seriously. I mean, would you trust an ambassador wearing a bright orange suit? I thought not.
Opt for a classic cut because it will not go out of style. If in doubt, ask the salesperson for help. With a dark coloured suit in your wardrobe, you’ll only have to change shirt and tie whenever you wear it. Hence you’ll look fresh every time you attend a special event.
The shirt
A white or blue shirt is a must. White shirts do not easily go out of style and they always manage to look formal when teamed with a suit. Blue is a favourite colour for bankers so if the event is hosted by them, you will not go wrong with a blue shirt.
There are different shades of blue to choose from so be sure to get one that flatters you and enhances your looks. Avoid teaming dark shirts with dark suits as you might end up looking like someone from the criminal underworld. On the other hand garish (dazzling) colours will either make you appear gay (homosexual) or immature.
The tie
“A tie is a fashion essential because it compliments the suit,†writes menfashion.com. It is advisable that you invest in at least two magnificent ties a year for special events.
If you like trendy ties, this is a chance for you to wear them. Avoid ties with cartoon characters if you want to look sharp. If you can’t do without cartoon pictures on your clothes, save them for informal events.
The Belt
Not only does it hold up the trousers, it also completes the total look. It determines what colour of shoes a man should wear.
Shoes
They must be comfortable, stylish and polished. They should always match the belt if you are to achieve a balanced look.
Socks
They must always be the same colour as the trousers and must compliment the shoes. For instance, a combination of green socks, brown shoes and black trousers spells disaster.
White socks do look cute on pre-pubescent boys and tennis players but horrible on