Men’s fashion is considered by many to be notoriously understated: the business suit, the basic casuals – it’s hardly a way to make a statement. The long-lasting conservatism in men’s fashion dates back to 18th century fashion leader Beau Brummel – and back then, he was bucking the system! At the time, men’s fashion was often bold, even over-the-top.
Today, men guys are breaking free from the mold, trying more daring colors and styles, and making waves with bold prints and statement accessories. If you want to lead this movement, how can you become a hometown hero – or even an international one? We look at some ways to make a unique statement through your choice of attire.
1. Literally make a statement
Around the world, brands and causes are getting their message across with “walking billboards” in the form of men wearing t-shirts. Sure, that Nike shirt says you follow a brand and stand by its values – but let’s face it, you’re hardly unique in doing so. Why not say what you want and make it loud and proud?
The awesome thing about designing a great t-shirt is that tons of people will want to follow you. You could easily market a range of t-shirts based on your custom designs – provided you have something exciting to offer. The place to start is with yourself, and the message you want to convey. You don’t need any technical qualifications or special skills: just lots of imagination. Choose a company like MeowPrint Singapore to turn your concept into a reality.
2. Do it with color
Even with bold colors for men now being in fashion, all-too-many are resorting to the basic neutrals. They’re not ugly, but they’re also not exciting. If you’re sick of being a face in the crowd, go bold. Yes, you want those neon sneakers. Yes, you want those unconventional trousers and tops. Dare to be daring; dare to be different; and even the most grudging will concede that you’re brave, bold, and unconventional – even if they don’t personally like your choices.
3. Forget about matching – or take it to the max
Your grandma may have told you that black and brown don’t match – forget it. Both of those shades are neutral and can’t possibly clash. But you can take things to the next level with glaring color clashes. Sure, people will tell you that pink and red don’t match, but they’re so close on the color wheel that it’s impossible to tell where they got that idea. In fact, that’s called an analog color combination! You can also go for a strong contrast too. Yes, it’s pretty loud, but there’s no way that you’ll fail to stand out.
As an alternative, take matching to the next level. All-black is pretty cool, but rather conservative – how about all-green – or if you’re really daring, match up the brightest of the brights. Dress up, don’t dress down.
4. Get a stand-out hairstyle
The sixties and seventies were all about long locks, Bob Marley made dreads the new cool, the nineties brought the buzz cut back into style and the next thing was sculpted hair, gelled and formed into careful disarray. What will come next? Maybe you will be the one to start a trend.
Whether you go retro, punk, or ethnic, let your inner rock star loose with a statement hairstyle that contrasts with what everyone else is doing right now. Will everyone like it? Probably not – but only think of the opposition all new style ideas have overcome. Remember that you have to work, and your employer will probably expect at least some level of conformity with norms, so keep it adaptable. After all, it’s not every profession that makes allowances for creativity.
5. Always dress for the occasion – but do it differently
Being unique isn’t always easy. Certain occasions call for a specific dress-code, and men’s dress codes are often more rigorous than those applied to women. Look for opportunities to add a special twist to conventional outfits. Even a creative fashion accessory can do it. It’s often the subtle differences, rather than the stand-out statements that get you noticed as someone with a unique sense of style.
So, if an occasion calls for a suit, add a colorful cummerbund or go for an old-fashioned cravat rather than a tie. If it’s a jeans and tee occasion, choose your customized shirt, wear a bandanna, or opt for an unusual cut or color. Even a few simple tweaks to conventional fashions can make the difference between total conformity and a statement that says “I have my own style. I am my own person.” However, at the same time, when the occasion for calls for rigor, follow it, otherwise you may end up looking like you are not familiar with the dress code or that you are disrespectful to the host.
The bottom line? Be a little daring. Risk criticism and accept praise. Above all, be yourself in whatever form that takes.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
Further reading:
Unleashing Your Inner Designer: Personalized T-shirts
Matching Colors Vs. Mixing Colors (B)
Fact or Fiction: Men’s Fashion Myths Clarified (B)
The Practical Guide to Color Coordination
4 Colors to Wear that Always Make an Impact
P.S. We want to hear from you! How do you make fashion statements? What bold colors do you like to wear? Who is someone you look up to, stylewise? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!