The Next Items to Round Out Your Wardrobe - Part 2

Still rounding out that wardrobe, are you? Now that you've got a solid arsenal shirts, ties and a few good suits from Part 1, let's take a look at the other items you'll need to add some pop to that closet?



6. Khaki suit
The khaki suit is versatile, but not as widely worn as the navy, grey or black suits. If you already have those three, however, it's a great addition to any man's wardrobe. You'll have to decide what fabric you want; do you want it to wear like a traditional gabardine or worsted wool suit or wear like twill khaki? Both are nice but will greatly dictate when and where it can be worn. Twill is a very casual fabric and won't be appropriate for more formal settings. It is, however, a great warm weather suit that shines in relaxed situations.






7. Man bag
Purse, Man Purse, Man Bag, Murse... all names which really cast a bad light on a simple thing. Sometimes you just have stuff to carry. Your wallet, a comb, Blackberry, digital camera, memory sticks, keys, loose change and lap tops. So what's a guys supposed to do? Man up and get yourself a bag. Don't be dissuaded by the wimpy names. It's a bag, no different than a backpack, just more practical. Are you really going to wrinkle your nice suit by carrying straps across both shoulders as you walk down the street looking like a 6th grader on his way to school? I say no. Stand up for your rights. You can spend $15 to $1,500 on this purchase and the bags come in every size, shape, fabric and color imaginable. I prefer one the size of an 8-1/2 x 11" ream of paper. Its big enough to carry a tablet and small enough to not be too obtrusive.



8. French cuffs
Okay, so you really want to spice things up? Adding French cuffs will take you over the top. Most shirt manufacturers produce shirts with French cuffs so finding a good one won't be hard. Be careful with your color, though, and start with a white or light blue shirt. Again, your goal is to buy things that match the widest array of things you already own and may buy in the future.





9. Pocket square
Also known as a hanky, this single item will shoot you clear over the moon. You can purchase a simple cotton white pocket square or opt for various colors to match your tie and/or shirt. Or, if you're really daring you can wear one that is in the right color family, but isn't the same color as anything you're wearing. Now that takes real, uh, boldness. I wear a pocket square in every blazer or suit I wear, with or without a tie. I find that it's a nice finishing touch that really sets me apart from most men. There are lots of different ways to wear your pocket square, from puff to 4-point, and all of them are great. Please don't buy those pre-made pocket squares. They may be perfect in every way and that is their problem. What's great about pocket squares is the uniqueness of their execution. Don't mess it up by being a phony with a pre-made hanky.



10. Pinstripe Suit

What can I say about the pinstripe suit that hasn't already been said? It is simply the most elegant type of suit you'll buy, short of the tuxedo. The pinstripe suit is made in every color and stripe combination imaginable. Additionally, the width of the stripe, the width between the stripes, the color of the stripe, the type of fabric, the cut of the lapels and trousers are all variations you'll find. Prefer a sharp, vivid stripe? Got it? Prefer a chalk stripe? Got it. Remember, one of the most formal suits, whether single or double breasted, so remember you'll need to pair it with equally formal ties and shirts. Wear it with pride!


Now that should be enough to get you started. It's really not hard to look great. It just takes a little time, patience, and yes, a little money. Remember, it won't happen overnight but it's well worth it. You'll be suprised at how great you feel inside when you look great outside.