Following up our previous treatise on overcoming the common man’s failing of dressing like he doesn’t give a damn, we continue with a last few musings on easy ways you can turn yourself around in a well-oiled machine of deliberate attraction. Women will pay attention to a man who pays attention to himself.
You’re not a rap star or a gang member. If you are, why are you reading this? Haven’t you got some previously recorded music to steal? I’m sorry. I meant “sample.” And that cheap weed isn’t going to smoke itself.
This should be obvious to anyone in range of these words regardless of age, race or body type. No sideways caps with the label still applied. Leave the gold chain collection to a pimp. And, why am I looking at your checkered underpants because your mom jeans are hanging down passed your ass? I, for one, embrace the long-rumored theory that the underwear exposing look came out of prison where receptive males wished to identify themselves as “a bottom.” If you’re cool with that, ignore me. This is not the article for you. Vaya con Dios.
You can find your fit. That last word is key. I ask countless fashion experts what their number one tip is for men looking to improve their dress sense, and I always get one key element back right away. Whatever the clothing item, make sure it fits.
No matter where you shop, find your size. Always try an item on and don’t guess. Never assume that a 38” waste and 32” inch inseam pants at one store or from one manufacturer will fit the same as another. If you buy online, and it doesn’t fit, send it back and request a replacement size. The surefire way of looking sloppy is to wear something too big. If you want to look immature and juvenile, go too small.
Related: Part One: Dressing Like You Give a Damn
Pick something that pumps you up. Wear something that makes you feel big. No, this isn’t a swipe at short guys by suggesting they wear lifts in their shoes. I’m referring to the feeling inside of power, confidence and authority. Maybe you want to peacock with colorful tie and pocket square that pops a little. Perhaps it’s one bespoke suit. Maybe it’s a designer watch. It could be something expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. It could be something your dad have you. It’s always up to you.
For me, it’s a pair of upscale kicks. I have three pairs of handmade Allen Edmonds I go to when I want to strut a little and make an entrance. They just feel different than a cheaper shoe. They sound better. They tighten up my stride. So, I keep them nearby when I need to go out and be on my game.
Don’t be afraid to splurge a little. In this day and age, no working man should throw money around carelessly. It’d be nice to have enough cash to max out your style on shoes, suits, ties, etc. But, that can always be the case.
The trick is to set an apparel budget and generally stay within it. Focus on what you can afford on all of the basics. Then, playing off of the previous point of picking an item that gives you a buzz, choose one area of your wardrobe and splurge. You work hard. Reward yourself. Whether you give yourself a treat for staying within budget or for making it through my diatribe, you deserve it.
