What words and images appear in your head when you think of suspenders? I picture my grandfather decorating his Christmas tree at the holidays. For someone else, it could be the accessory to finish off the perfect Halloween costume. It is likely, however, that the words “college” and “fashion” were not ones that came to mind when envisioning this accessory. This Fashionisto, however, proved that you can turn suspenders into a fashionable, trendy, statement-making accessory — words that are very much appropriate and descriptive of a college student.
Suspenders are an accessory that have been seen on multiple menswear fall and winter 2011 runways, including Dolce&Gabbana, Christian Lacroix, and DSquared2. They are versatile pieces that can be worn under a blazer, or atop a simple T-shirt or dress shirt. This Fashionisto chose the latter, and created a sleek, put-together look with pops of personality. And Fashionistas, don’t think that you can’t rock this trend as well! Pair yours with sleek high-waisted pants or chic shorts, and you will take the menswear trend to a whole new level.
Between color and pattern, this Fashionisto created a great amount of contrast between the pieces in his outfit. The burgundy suspenders and bow tie stand out against the light color of the button-down. Try mixing different colors to see which you like best. You could opt for a light pink shirt paired with navy blue suspenders and bow tie, or a pastel yellow shirt paired with forest green. While the majority of this Fashionisto’s outfit consisted of solid pieces, he added a pair of patterned shoes in the same color palette. Try a pair of TOMS University Ash Rope Sole Men’s Classics, and you will emulate this Fashionisto’s look head to toe.
I got to talking with this Fashionisto, and he mentioned that he transforms this look to a nighttime one as well; it is his go-to ensemble when he plays weekend shows with his band, Ned Durrett and the Kindly Gents, in downtown Columbia. Swap out the khaki pants for a darker brown, or even a pair of corduroys; add a pair of nighttime dress shoes, and this look instantly goes from day to night. After seeing how this Fashionisto rocks his suspenders, I doubt the words “grandfather’s closet” will come to mind; I’m thinking something more along the lines of Gossip Girl’s fashionable favorite, Chuck Bass.
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