STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: The Art of Visual Interest

Style Advice of the Week

Menswear is inherently different than women’s fashion; there are a few less styling options (no skirts, unless you’re Marc Jacobs), and function and wearability are emphasized. Men never ever have to worry about finding a pair of heels that won’t hurt their feet and SPANX are a completely foreign term to most. In general, they have a smaller range of sartorial choices to choose from and that, in general, makes styling less of an ordeal (if you’ve ever gotten ready for a wedding with three other women, you know that “ordeal” is the only description for it). However, with this smaller range of options, finding a way to style menswear in a unique and personal way becomes more difficult. Menswear tends to be more subdued than womenswear; there are less loud, bright colors and “dramatic” styling choices are less common, so men need to find a different way to express their personal style.

Texture. It is such a simple way to add visual interest to an outfit, but it is — in my opinion — incredibly underutilized and underrated by college-aged Fashionistas/os. Nothing makes an outfit look more expensive and more effortlessly chic than mixing a range of textures and fabrics in a complementary color palette. Fashionisto Jared Clemmensen perfectly combines cashmere, chambray and cotton for an effortlessly chic look that is perfect for a casual day on campus. The weather in South Bend is just starting to warm a bit, so these versatile separates are the perfect way to ward off the chill without sacrificing style.

When asked about his personal style, this Fashionisto responded: “The key to men’s style is to not try too hard, and do what feels right for you. Also, you always look better with your shirt tucked in.” To get his look, start off with a chambray or denim shirt buttoned all the way up. Next, layer a cardigan over the top and make sure it is at least partially buttoned. Try this merino option from J.Crew or, if you’re willing to spend a few extra dollars, go for a cashmere cardigan that you will wear for years. Finally, pull it all together with a cotton utility jacket in tan or olive.

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