Every fashion article, magazine and website talks at length about how important accessorising is to when one is dressing to impress. It is true, an ensemble is never complete without the right accessory. However, it is also equally important to wear the right kind of outfit for the right kind of accessory. Because accessories can be both finishing touches and hero pieces at the same time!
Be it hats, shoes, scarves, jewellery and bowties, there is a right way to style each of these. Find out how, in the guide below…
Eyewear
If you don’t have prescription glasses, we urge you to stay away from the fake spectacle trend that’s been doing the rounds. It’s tacky, to say the least. Instead, choose to wear elegant sunglasses that have the power to amp up your style. For a round face type, go for structured rectangular frame shapes, while those with sharp jawlines can opt for large, circular frames. You can go for as bold or as muted eyewear as you like; whatever best suits your personal style.
Bags
When choosing a bag that best accentuates one’s outfit of the day, it’s always best to keep in mind the purpose of the bag – to store essentials on the go. Like clothing, functionality determines what bag you choose. However, for a one-style-fits-all kind of approach, opt for a dressy cross bag or a leather backpack as accessory. They are versatile and add oodles of elegance to just about any ensemble.
Bowties
The bowtie has come a long way from being just a formal accessory to working with casual looks and coming in many varieties. Our favourite kind of bowties are patterned ones that add a dressy touch to one’s attire. The best way to style a bowtie is to make sure that its pattern doesn’t clash with that of the shirt; so opt for a solid hued shirt and accessorise with a quirky bowtie. While you’re at it, make sure your shirt is tucked in.
Pocket Squares
The general rule to follow when picking out an accessory like pocket squares is to have fun with them! The more colourful, quirky and playful, the better. When styling a pocket square, choose one in a contrasting colour to the suit, but make sure the colour complements that of the tie. You can have it folded any way you like; make sure it looks neat, but not too structured…a little organic flow to the pocket square is so much better than plain stiffness.
Watches
When it comes to watches, it’s not so much the colour of the watch that needs to be taken into consideration. Instead, focus on the vibe the watch exudes – formal or casual – and how the strap and dial look on your wrist. Picking the right dial size is imperative; don’t go for something that covers the whole wrist. Also, for a casual look, wear a sporty watch, while a formal outfit calls for a more polished, dressy watch.
Bracelets
Say goodbye to chunky, silver or gold link bracelets and hello to muted, classy leather-strapped or beaded bracelets. Like rings and other jewellery, men’s bracelets are sidekicks that add a subtle touch of glam to an already put together look. Depending on your personal style quotient, dress-up outfits with neat, stylish bracelets that are elegant, without being too showy. Also, wearing them as a combination with your watch is a nice touch.
Scarves
One of the trickiest accessories out there, scarves have the ability to dress a lookup with the perfect balance or completely weigh it down. Fabric selection is at the centre of accessorising with scarves – warmer days call for light, airy materials while chilly weather calls for heavier wools and weaves. For formal occasions, pick neutral coloured scarves, while casual social engagements are a good time to sport printed, striped or checked scarfs in vibrant hues.
Hats
Apart from wool hats, all other styles are generally casual in nature and should not be paired with formalwear. For casual looks, there are a variety of options – fedoras, beanies and Panama hats. When wearing collared shirts, opt for a fedora or Panama hat; and the beanie is the perfect accessory for a casual cashmere-sweater kind of day. Straw hats should be strictly worn only in summer.