After being a lifelong fan of black shoes, I am thinking of acquiring a pair of brown ones. What colour trousers and suit can I pair them with? What colour socks should I team them up with?

 

This is one thing that a lot of guys struggle with. I see many men wearing mis-matched trousers and shoes. Given the fact that men’s fashion has evolved now beyond a grey flannel suit, a pop of colour, especially in socks, is acceptable. For a man who is just learning the ropes, standard colours that can be teamed up with a pair of brown shoes are: navy, grey, camel, and other hues with earthy tones.

 

What is the secret behind looking effortlessly stylish? Every time I dress up, I am a total giveaway. I look as if I have spent hours in front of the mirror. Is it that some people are born stylish, while the others always look contrived?

 

The first thing to do to look effortlessly stylish is to make sure that you are wearing clothes that are good for your body type. Since effortless style is supposed to be subtle, you will need clothes that fit well, in order to get the elegant, expensive look. Pick clothes that make you look proportionate. Effortless style is mainly based around classic looks. Dressing up according to the current trends just shows that you put way too much thought into an outfit, and that you follow fashion news like a broker watching stocks. Choose classic styles with classic cuts, and mix them with one strong trend to create an effortless look.

 

What does one look for when buying a pair of trousers? Is it better to get them stitched? 

 

Ideally, your trousers should be slim, which means that it should fit you well enough to accommodate your seat and legs. A perfect pair of trousers will look good and allow you enough comfort when you sit. When buying trousers, ensure that you try them on. Check your comfort levels in those pants by sitting down. Styles depend largely on personal choice, but choose the one that works well according to your body type. If you are a slim man, flat-front trousers will work well for you. Alternatively, if you are on the heavier side, then pants with a pleated front will be a better option. Focus on the fit, the cut and the length of the pants. But ideally, trousers stitched to your body measurements will always be a better and a luxurious option.

 

Wingtips or oxfords, which one is a more stylish shoe? What occasions are they suited for?

 

Wingtip shoes feature a toe cap that comes to a point in the centre and spreads out toward the sides of the shoes, in a shape that somewhat resembles wings. This part of the shoe is sometimes perforated with small holes around the edges. Oxfords can be worn with something very casual, or you can team them up with something formal, like a black suit. They are generally short-laced and are a staple for every closet. While I love the flexibility of oxford shoes, wingtip shoes are a better bet when it comes to making a statement.

 

 

 

(Interviewed by Saloni Dhruv. If you have any wardrobe related queries, mail us at editor@mansworldindia.com)