Some looks are harder to achieve than others, but simple hacks are all you need. MW decodes the style morse code that will solve your wardrobe conundrums.
ALL-WEEK DENIMS
You can put together any kind of look with denim, from meetings to movie dates and just hanging with friends. Pick a classic dark pair for semi-formal meetings, a skinny one teamed with a bomber to impress your date and, of course, the easy distressed one for when nobody’s watching.
On Karran Jacket and T-shirt by Ed Hardy; denims by U.S. Polo Assn; shoes by Rosso Brunello
On Ravi Blazer by Nautica; shirt and denims by Pepe Jeans
On Shashvat Polo T-shirt by Gant; denims by Being Human; shoes by Vans
SNEAKERS WITH SUITS
Colour and pattern are key to pull off this look. Try to use only one strong element, to achieve a balanced look.
On Shashvat Suit by SS Homme; T-shirt by G-Star RAW; shoes by Vans
On Ravi Suit by Canali; shirt by Gant; shoes by Vans
IN THE DETAILS
The most elementary way of matching your pocket scarf to your tie is to follow a colour scheme. Similar tones work the best. For non-beginners, try some contrasting tones, and for the risk takers, try clashing prints. Just make sure they are of a similar size and complement each other.
On Karran Shirt by Pepe Jeans; jacket by Brooks Brothers; tie by Canali; pocket square by Brooks Brothers
DAY TO NIGHT
Swap the formal jacket with a cool bomber. Ditch the tie, loosen some buttons and add on some fun shoes – your transformation is complete.
Frame 1 Suit by Ermenegildo Zegna; shirt by Being Human; tie by Brooks Brothers; shoes by Clarks
Frame 2 Pants by Ermenegildo Zegna; shirt by Being Human; jacket by Paul & Shark; shoes by Alberto Torresi; belt by U.S. Polo Assn.
SUNNY SIDE UP
The rule is to have fun with colour by mixing complementary tones that give an instant pop to your outfit. However, avoid too much of a bright clash.
On Shasvat T-Shirt by Paul & Shark; pants by Gant; shoes by Gucci; sunglasses by Opium
TONE ON TONE
Play with fabrics and textures to keep things interesting if you plan to wear the same colour headto-toe. You could very well end up looking comical otherwise.
On Shashvat Jacket and shorts by United Colors of Benetton; polo T-shirt by Marks & Spencer; shoes by Ermenegildo Zegna
On Ravi Suit by Marks & Spencer; polo T-Shirt by Nautica; shoes by Puma
LAYERING 101
Almost everything can be layered. The trick is to make sure that each item has a highlight – the white collar of a shirt, an interesting print on a jumper, a pattern on a jacket. Try to use thinner fabrics and ensure that each item has a focal point that can be seen through the layers.
On Ravi Jacket by Ermenegildo Zegna; jumper by Scotch and Soda; shirt by Pepe Jeans; denims by Ed Hardy; shoes by Clarks
PRINT CRAZY
The easiest way to do a print clash is to follow a colour code. Keep the prints in a neutral tone. However, if you want to experiment, mix medium sized, not-sobusy prints.
On Karran Suit by Paul Smith; shirt: ZZegna; sandals by Rosso Brunello; walking stick by Shazé
OVERSIZED
Too-big garments can end up looking sloppy, so make sure that at least one piece in the look fits well. The safest way to go is with an oversized jacket – stylish and comfortable.
On Shasvat Jacket by SS HOMME; pants by Scotch and Soda; jumper by United Colors of Benetton; shoes by Clarks
PHOTOGRAPHER: PRETIKA MENON
FASHION DIRECTOR: KUSHAL PARMANAND
JUNIOR STYLIST: NEELANGANA VASUDEVA
HAIR & MAKE UP: JEAN-CLAUDE BIGUIN
MODELS: KARRAN KHARRAS; SHASHVAT SETH-TFM; RAVI GULIA–INEGA
