Practical guide to choosing your men's clothing style
Are you at a point in your life where you want to try or adopt a new look, or are you just looking to upgrade your wardrobe? If you're lacking in inspiration, we bet that after reading this guide you'll be excited to go shopping - at an Ernest store, of course! - and go out and try on more clothes! Here's an overview of the top styles preferred by fashionable men of all ages and professions, and tips from men's fashion experts on how to avoid the most common mistakes.
WHAT IS CLOTHING STYLE?
It’s no secret: clothing style greatly influences first impressions! Indeed, people tend to determine an individual’s values, profession, personality, activities, or musical preferences based on their appearance. Think, for instance, of a man in a suit walking down the street. Instinctively, we might assume he likely doesn’t have a manual job or is headed to a fancy event! By selecting your clothes and accessories carefully, you can adopt a style that aligns with the image you want to project — and set out to conquer the world!
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE STYLE?
Having style is essential for several reasons. First, it opens doors for you, as clothing helps boost your confidence in various situations (e.g., at work, on a date, or during a formal event). Remember that while there are specific rules associated with men's fashion styles (which you’ll discover as you continue reading), you always have the right to bend them a little since, after all, dressing up should remain fun and enjoyable!
Improving your style brings about positive effects you may not have considered, such as:
- Your peers (colleagues, parents, friends, etc.) may have a more favourable opinion of you;
- Your unique beauty is enhanced;
- Your clothing choices can help you convey a message;
- Your refined appearance boosts your confidence (and others will have more confidence in you).
Now, discover some of the most popular fashion styles among trendy men!
THE CASUAL CHIC STYLE
The casual chic style is synonymous with everyday elegance. In other words, you make an excellent impression daily without wearing a suit and dress shirt. With this style, people can tell you've put effort into your outfit, but it doesn’t appear “overdone.”
Your clothes should be impeccable and well-fitted for a successful casual chic look. Chinos, which perfectly balance jeans and dress pants, is an intelligent choice for a refined and relaxed look. Opt for colours like beige, gray, khaki, blue, or black. A pair of high-quality jeans is also an excellent option for creating outfits that turn heads!
A clean shirt and a sports jacket are excellent choices for the upper body. A plain T-shirt (e.g., white) with a crew neck, zipper, or V-neck under a wool sweater or a polo under a cardigan is also a good option. However, avoid fabrics that are too tight or cuts that are too loose, as they detract from the elegant look you're aiming for.
In short, a harmonious layering of classic pieces on top, a nice pair of pants, and quality shoes or boots on the bottom will achieve a successful casual-chic style!
CASUAL STYLE
The casual style is undoubtedly the most popular clothing among men of all ages. Here, we’re far from the three-piece suit: the goal is to have an outfit that's comfortable and versatile. The key words? Simplicity and efficiency! This style is perfect for grabbing a drink with friends, running errands, or even for work (as long as it doesn't require professional attire).
Selecting casual clothing and accessories is a breeze, as the vast majority of stores offer affordable pieces that match this style, including:
- Versatile overshirts;
- Jeans or chinos (brown, blue, or black);
- Quality basic t-shirts;
- Cotton sweatshirts;
- Quality joggers;
- Sports shoes;
- Short-sleeved shirts;
- Capris, shorts, or Bermuda shorts;
- Simple beanies.
As for colours, choose those that flatter your complexion (if you need clarification, visit a store: our experienced stylists will be happy to guide you!). Remember, with the casual style, simplicity is key!
THE SARTORIAL STYLE
The sartorial style is inspired by the supreme elegance of men who have their clothes custom made by a tailor. As you can imagine, it is for people who can afford a certain level of luxury! With this style, you are well dressed for any occasion and are admired for wearing a suit that fits you like a glove and great dress shoes (e.g. richelieus).
Whether you're wearing a classic suit, a matching jacket and trousers (opt for neutral colours like brown and navy), or a three-piece suit with a vest, the sartorial style requires a dress shirt. As for colours, white is a safe bet, but a shade that complements your suit is also appropriate. Your socks should be as discreet as possible.
The sartorial style is practically the uniform of powerful or charismatic men (businessmen, politicians, lawyers, etc.): with it, you'll feel ready to conquer your audience or captivate your listeners! In terms of accessories, don’t overdo it—showcasing your wealth with an overload of flashy jewelry, for example, can quickly turn this style into bad taste. A pocket square or a nice watch is often enough to complete your outfit.
Note that the sartorial style is also recommended when making a good impression at an event where elegance is essential. To stay classy, avoid worn-out clothes or ones that don’t fit you perfectly. If necessary, get alterations done—at an Ernest boutique!—as it’s an investment you won’t regret!
THE ROCK STYLE
No matter what your age, you can sport a rocker look sprinkled with boldness and raw authenticity. The material that characterizes this more sought-after men's clothing style than you might think is black leather, but other colors can work, like denim blue or red (if you like to attract attention on the street, go for it!).
Some of the clothing and accessories associated with rock style include:
- The black leather jacket;- Tinted sunglasses;
- Jeans;
- The iconic perfecto;
- The denim jacket;
- Plain or graphic t-shirt (or featuring a famous rock band);
- Plaid shirt (e.g., tied around the waist);
- Leather pants (guaranteed to turn heads!);
- Leather shoes or boots;
- The hat (preferably black);
- Long necklace (leather and metal);
- Leather bracelet (e.g., with eyelets or studs).
A well-thought-out rock look isn't really office friendly, but it's perfect for weekends and outings (pub crawls, music shows, festivals, etc.).
So what are you waiting for to express your inner rocker?
THE ADVENTURER STYLE
Discovering breathtaking landscapes, trekking rugged trails, exploring natural sites... does nature call to you on your days off? The adventurer style is for you! This style evokes outdoor excursions with a slight urban twist so that it can be worn beyond the forest!
It features quilted sports-cut jackets, cozy sweaters perfect for a weekend at the cabin, scarves, beanies, and boots made for venturing off the beaten path. So, are you ready for your next adventure?
THE BOHEMIAN STYLE
Are you a romantic, free-spirited person with creativity in spades? The bohemian style, which originated in the 60's and 70's, could be just right for you. The modern version of this hippie-inspired clothing style rejects minimalism and embraces the joy of living!
The essential upper-body piece: a light linen shirt with the top buttons near the neck left undone but without revealing too much of the chest. A loose, lightweight printed shirt (e.g., floral, paisley) is just as appropriate. A wool sweater with ethnic or retro patterns, for example, is another critical item for embracing the bohemian spirit. For pants, a beige, cognac, or khaki chino with the hem rolled up to the calf, or even a harem pant (for the more daring!) is the way to go.
Favorite accessories for bohemian men are beaded bracelets, long necklaces, hats, suspenders and assorted rings (especially in aged silver). And if you're sporting a beard - or just a mustache - you're right in style!
Many men's haircuts are associated with a particular dress style. The man bun, the shaved head, the mid-length hair, the undercut, the business cut... it all says a lot about your personality! Check out our list of the best barbershops in Quebec to find the perfect place to have your facial hair "sculpted."
The bohemian look is favored by creative and sensitive men, including writers, actors, photographers, painters and sculptors. But even if this list doesn't really fit your profile, there's nothing to stop you from trying this trend if you feel like it!
THE STREETWEAR STYLE
This street inspired style is full of possibilities and deserves to be known! Generally speaking, this trend is characterized by stylish sneakers (many people worship certain brands), extra wide cuts, padded fabrics and various colors (almost anything goes).
To create a streetwear wardrobe worthy of the name, you need:
- Sneakers with the taste of the day (vintage or modern, sober or bright);- Jogging pants (e.g. with visible logo or contrasting stripes);
- Cargo pants (with plenty of pockets);
- Black or blue jeans;
- Loose t-shirts, or almost too loose;
- A cotton sweater (with or without a hood);
- A windproof jacket;
- A denim jacket;
- A trench coat for a more chic street style.
This style of clothing is ideal for enjoying the urban excitement in comfort!
THE SPORTSWEAR STYLE
This style, which has been gaining popularity for several years, blurs the lines between what a man wears when he plays his favourite sport and what he wears for everyday life. Interestingly, it's not "stuck" to any one sport. In other words, depending on your favorite activities, you can create your own sportswear style!
Hip-hop culture is a big influence on this trend, as many of its followers are into basketball, break dancing and its derivatives, or skateboarding. But if you're more into tennis, hiking, golf or running, you can get a sportswear look by combining classic pieces (e.g., sport jackets) with sporty pieces such as :
- A hooded quilted jacket;- A fitted beanie;
- A polo shirt;
- Jogging pants;
- A sporty t-shirt;
- A hoodie;
- Basketball shoes.
Good point for this trend: materials that let perspiration escape offer superior comfort, especially in summer! Finally, when it comes to colors, opt for neutral tones.
10 TIPS TO FOLLOW
No matter what men's clothing style you're in the mood for, it's important to avoid certain faux pas. Here are 10 tips from our experts to make sure you always make a good impression!
1. The right size
If you don't know your shirt or pant size, it's never too late to remedy the situation! Once you have this information, your shopping is easier and your comfort is optimized! Keep in mind, however, that there is a fine line between a close-fitting garment and a tight-fitting garment, and that a loose-fitting garment should never leave enough room to accommodate another person! To find pieces that will fit you every time, grab a tape measure, paper and pencil and check out our size guide.
2. The quality
At Ernest, we pride ourselves on offering our customers quality clothing. In this age of over-consumption and fast fashion, we believe that it is better to buy less, but better. In short, getting 20 quality pieces that you will take good care of is more cost effective than having 60 low-end pieces that you will have to get rid of prematurely!
3. Get rid of your old clothes
You have lost (or gained) weight and your clothes don't fit anymore? You had a thematic period (tropical, gothic, etc.) and don't feel like wearing those clothes that remind you of your former life? You have a nice winter coat, but you haven't worn it for at least 5 years?
There's no need to clutter your closet: donate your unused clothes to charity. Not only will you be doing a good deed, but your drawers and closets will be filled with new pieces that you'll want to show everyone!
4. Get out of the "jeans" avenue
We agree: having jeans in your men's wardrobe is a must. But it's a shame to limit yourself to jeans! The chino is a great alternative, as are capri, dress pants or cargo pants, for example, depending on the season. Explore your options, you might be pleasantly surprised!
5. Do not hesitate to make layers
Layering, when done with taste, always adds character to a look. Ask our specialists to learn how to master this most aesthetic of techniques!
6. Not too many fancy or flashy patterns
Unless you're attending a fashion or contemporary art event where exuberance in clothing is highly encouraged, exercise restraint with embellishments, glossy finishes or patterns (stripes, polka dots, checks, floral prints, etc.). That said, it is acceptable to mix patterns, but the result must be harmonious... If in doubt, consult a stylist!
7. Have good basic essentials
No matter what style you decide to adopt, it is very beneficial to have a wardrobe that contains the basic must-have clothes (If you are over 60, you will find plenty of advice on this topic in this blog post).
8. Comfortable underwear
Wearing underwear that's too tight around the waist, that has a bunch of bulges in the bottom, or that keeps getting caught in your gluteal fold (or "butt crack" if you will!) can be as bad for your morale as it is for your looks. So, choosing beautiful, luxurious and stylish boxers is a great way to boost your confidence, even if no one can see them. Check out our great styles from SAXX, Timeless and Anthony of London!
9. Do not forget the accessories
Once you've chosen your outfit, you can add the accessories that change everything! Even though the time is displayed everywhere, especially on smart phones, real men of style wear a nice watch to add elegance to their manly wrist! Take a look at our watches and bracelets and you're sure to find the perfect match for your shirt or jacket, for example.
Depending on your outfit, a tie or bow tie always looks good! Just make sure you know how to tie them properly, or have someone else do it for you. And depending on the occasion (prom, wedding, gala, etc.), a pocket handkerchief is the final touch that stands out!
In addition, men of taste can carry their wallet, keys, tablet, etc., in a messenger style bag or briefcase that is as chic as it is practical. As an added bonus, your pants will look better with pockets that aren't cluttered with various items!
And we can't stress this enough: belts are not for holding up baggy pants, and suspenders are not accessories to keep your pants from falling down on your ankles! Rather, belts and suspenders are the centerpieces of a man's clothing look and for that reason, they must be selected with care. A leather or woven belt in a neutral color like black or cognac will define your waist with elegance, while suspenders will make your ensemble look irresistible!
Have you noticed how men who wear headgear are the center of attention? Wearing a cap or hat (e.g. Fedora style) that matches your outfit is sure to get you compliments! Let's not forget the power of a stylish beanie, which perfectly complements a variety of outfits.
Especially in the summer, quality sunglasses are also a must, and in the colder seasons, a scarf or wrap adds character to any outfit. Visit your local Ernest Boutique to find 1001 trendy accessories for men!
10. Staying in your comfort zone
To show your style with panache, you have to embrace it! Therefore, for some of the bolder items, for example, it's best to take it easy. Otherwise, you'll feel "dressed up" and it will show!
Do you need ideas for your own style? Look at the looks of male public figures (actors, athletes, musicians, politicians, content creators, etc.) for inspiration!
Bonus tip: stay on top of trends
To develop good taste in men's clothing styles, you'll need to keep an eye out (check out websites like YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest to see what's hot, among others) and be prepared to apply the rules laid out in this guide or in other print publications and websites from here and abroad.
Now you know which style interests you most - casual chic, casual, sartorial, rock, bohemian, streetwear, sportswear or the adventurer - or do you want to explore more than one depending on what you do? You'll find everything you need to get your style just right at Ernest! We've handpicked clothing from brands known for their quality, and have collections of shoes and accessories for every taste and budget.
We look forward to meeting you!
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