Everyone knows that a man in a suit makes the ladies swoon. Unfortunately, dressing up is something that most guys, especially in college, try to avoid. The idea of putting on a sport coat and tie makes them cringe, and if for some reason the forces of the universe make them jump into a penguin suit, it regrettably results in a fashion faux pas.
What men need to understand is that dressing in classic menswear is a science. Everything must fit perfectly or else the wearer will end up looking like a middle school boy dressed up for his first dance—just… awkward. The shoulders should just grace the edge of your natural shoulder, the bottom of the jacket should rest in the palm of your hand, the sleeves should have that ever so important half-inch of shirt cuff peeking out at the world and pants should avoid the dreaded “bubble-butt.” (For newbies in the suit-wearing world, it’s best to get some professional assistance). If the suit fits, it definitely pays off. Today’s Fashionisto proves to be a pro when it comes to finding the perfect suit.
Name: Garrett Ledbetter
Major: Apparel Merchandising
Year: Junior
CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your style?
Garrett Ledbetter: It’s definitely rooted in classic menswear. A few things give it a modern fit.
CF: You wear suits almost every day, what do you do to add variety day to day?
GL: It’s fun to mix things up but building a good wardrobe with solid basics makes more versatility.
CF: What do you think every guy should have in his wardrobe?
GL: An oxford shirt. It’s classic and traditional.
CF: If you could change one thing about men’s style at IU what would you change?
GL: Better shoes—so many guys are spot on in the suit fit but the shoes kill it. Shoes are where the style is.
How To: When wearing suits as an everyday outfit choice, the idea of taking it a step down into casual is very important. Mixing your pieces to have various shades is an easy way to do this. For instance, find a patterned jacket and pair it with solid pants. Adding little touches like tie clips or pocket squares put extra snazz into the outfit. Match the tie with these or pull a color out of the pattern to pull the look together. And of course as Garrett was sure to remind us, the shoes should never be an afterthought.
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