Mens Grooming : 6 Simple Ways to Look Sharp and Smart Instantly
Immersed in the chicness…
Heart-stealing style;
Oh, you great Gatsby;
The whole world envies your style…
In the name of fashion, fanatics make a U-turn to most expensive items on the rack. Well, Mens Grooming is not about clothes or accessories. How you present yourself to the world is the GAME CHANGER!
It is true people keep singing the lullaby “invest in your appearance.” However, they tend to skip the part, which explains that investment is not just monetary. You can invest your time and appearance.
The amount of thought you put in your appearance is also an investment in yourself. It’s all about perspective.
Mens Grooming is not rocket science. If you are freaking out about it, do not! We are here to make your life easier. The following are six simple ways in which you can look smarter and sharper in a heartbeat. Let’s get started.
Learn the art of layering
Layering may seem intimidating to some, but it is, in fact, one of the most stylish and functional ways to up your fashion game. If you don’t know how to mix and match pieces, worry not. We are here to help.
For all the rookies out there, we recommend starting small. A simple sweater paired with a white shirt underneath is the perfect place to start. This fundamental trick may not seem like much, but when it comes to layering, less is more. Adopting a minimalist approach is the best way to go about it.
Another aspect of layering every man must understand is that layering does not mean combining completely different pieces. Stick to similar themes, color stories, and cuts. Play with textures, patterns, and lengths. If you are a newbie, keep it simple and effortless.
For many of us, our go-to outfit is a comfortable pair of jeans and a tee; it is the perfect foundation for a casual outfit. Learn to build on it to make your outfit more appealing. Perhaps you can throw on a blue leather jacket men’s on top for a pop of color. Replace the jacket with a cozy cardigan for a night-in. If you are looking to add a little pizzazz to your ensemble, throw on a blazer, and you are ready to head out.
Similarly, for a formal look, the most versatile foundation to work with is a pair of dress pants and a crisply tailored dress shirt.
Layer pieces on this base, and you can customize your look every day. Perhaps you can throw on a waistcoat and a tie and replace the standard blazer with an over-sized coat or an edgy leather jacket. Dress pants also look great with turtlenecks. (Just a suggestion)
The key is to customize your outfit according to your preference and social setting. The art of layering is an acquired one. A little bit of trial and error will help you perfect the craft.
Accessorize to transform your look
Amp up your look is with the right accessories.
Doubtlessly, accessories add character and personality to your outfit. They are the perfect finishing touches that pull your outfit and give it a polished look.
You need not spend a fortune to look sharp and dapper. Instead of splurging money on expensive clothes, invest in essential accessories that you need for the month. So, if you are looking to transform your look, start accessorizing.
If you are confused about where to start, here is how you can take your look from nothing to everything in a heartbeat.
Let us start with a good watch. Now, watches are expensive; there is no denying that fact. However, a decent watch is worth the splurge.
You have an array of watch designs in which to choose. Some like a classic vintage dial and a leather strap, whereas others prefer the look of metal straps. Be sure to find a watch that resonates with your style.
Hats are incredibly underrated. Whether it is a baseball cap, a fedora, or a beret, hats can sometimes be extra, but they can make your outfit so much more memorable.
For casual outfits, nothing compares to the classic baseball cap. It is versatile, stylish, and functional. However, an often overlooked casual wear accessory is the beanie. Beanies are super trendy and comfortable. What’s not to love about them?
When it comes to fedoras, you have more room to experiment. Fedoras get so much bad rep for no reason. Who even said they are not fashionable? Fedoras look great with anything, from jeans and denim jackets to formal trousers and leather jackets.
Berets look great when paired with a pair of chinos, a crisp button-down shirt, and a casual cardigan. Casual yet chic, this outfit never fails to impress.
Aside from watches and hats, another accessory that every man must own is a trusted pair of sunglasses. Sunglasses, apart from serving as protective eye-wear, ooze sophistication. There are many styles and shapes that you can mix and match according to your aesthetic. If you are starting to build a collection, do not forget to get your hands on some sexy shades. Block the sun and the haters!
Taking care of yourself
When it comes to Mens Grooming, people overlook how vital hair grooming is. Your hair requires regular attention. Nobody likes a messy looking mane. Leaving your hair untamed makes you look like a homeless hobo, so just avoid it.
Every man must understand the importance of trimming. Trimming your hair regularly makes you look polished and sophisticated.
There is nothing more amplifying than a haircut that reflects your style and your aesthetic. When you look in the mirror, it’s highly important to see a better version of yourself.
Even if you are goofy, be choosy! If you are time-constrained in the morning, avoid elaborate cuts as they are high-maintenance. Opt for boyish, messy haircuts instead.
Most men sport a beard because it looks good, and it eliminates the need to shave every morning, and sometimes to keep a girl. (wink wink) It is the ultimate win-win situation. However, keeping a beard does not mean that you can leave it untamed. (girls hate it!)
Invest in a good beard trimmer and make your life a whole lot easier. Trim your beard every few days to look polished and put together.
Wear antiperspirant and a good deodorant because there is nothing more off-putting than body odor. We all sweat, and it is natural. Learn to mask your natural odor with a strong but pleasant scent for an instant confidence boost.
“The best investments in every man’s life are a custom-tailored suit and an expensive cologne. It’s like buying the best first impression.” – Massimo Ferragamo
A good bag is an essential
A true gentleman needs a great suit, shoes, a bag, and a black umbrella. If you watched “The Kingsman,” you know what we mean.
A bag is an ultimate necessity that most of us need for various purposes. There are many designs that you can choose from, ranging from backpacks to messenger bags to briefcases depending on your needs.
Choosing the right bag will elevate your style to the next level in no time. Find a bag that compliments your aesthetic and taste, as well as your functional requirements.
If you have classes to attend and sport a casual look nine out of ten days, a backpack is the best pick for you. They are spacious and accommodating enough to keep your laptop, iPad, books, and extras. Additionally, they are easy to carry.
A messenger bag is perfect for literally everyone. Super-sleek and polished, you can sport them as cross body bags too. Compact yet spacious, they are an excellent alternative to the classic backpacks.
If you are someone who loves the classic briefcase. Briefcases are timeless. You can choose from a variety of styles, ranging from vintage to contemporary. Professional and sophisticated, invest in a good briefcase if you travel for work. Nothing impresses like a good briefcase.
In addition to a good bag, you must get your hands on a functional wallet while you are at it. If you do not know what suits you best, a sleek leather wallet is the most versatile and practical pick. If you travel a lot, we suggest opting for a wallet that comes with extra space to keep your passport, business cards, money, ID, etc.
Find the right shoes.
Styling is an art that everyone learns over time. It takes trial and error. You have to see what works for you and what does not. Play with different textures to see what works and learn to coordinate outfits.
An essential part of your outfit is your choice of footwear. Your shoes complete your ensemble. Every outfit needs a complementing pair of shoes. You must know what outfit pairs well with what style of shoes to ensure that your ensemble works.
For instance, for formal wear, the safest option is Oxford shoes. Simple, classic, and supremely versatile, there is nothing quite like them. If you are looking to experiment a bit, perhaps try your luck with brogue shoes or even chukka boots.
When it comes to semi-formal looks, try your luck with loafers or chukka boots. Loafers are very versatile. Chukka boots are effortlessly chic and sophisticated. Pair them with a pair of chinos, a dress shirt, and a blazer for a simple yet statement look.
For casual wear, the best option is sneakers. Comfortable, trendy, and versatile: what more could you possibly ask for?
Talk about shoes, pick out the ones that vibe with your style. Moreover, learn to take care of them. Leather shoes require routine polishing and conditioning.
Similarly, use a damp cloth to clean dirty sneakers. Be sure to give your shoes a quick shine before you head out. These tips may seem like insignificant pointers, but many of us tend to overlook them. Looking sharp and smart is all about focusing on the finer details.
Improve your posture
Your posture can make or break your look. You could be wearing the most expensive suite in the world with limited edition shoes and the fanciest watch, but if your posture is not right – take our word for it – all that money is wasted.
A good posture exudes confidence, sophistication, and poise. A lousy posture makes you look like a slouchy mess. A good posture is also crucial for your health. bad posture leaves you more prone to backaches and headaches. Additionally, a good upright posture ensures a better fit for your clothes and adds a definition to them.
Practice standing correctly. A lot is said about you through the way you carry yourself. Keep your back straight, chest out, and head up high and look at yourself in the mirror. You will meet with a version of yourself that you will admire.
Parting thoughts
Your style is a reflection of your personality. Some people like to keep it simple, while others prefer to live life aloud.
Regardless of your style preference, it is essential to feel good about yourself. An integral part of your style and aesthetic is feeling comfortable in your skin. No one can make you feel good if you do not feel good about yourself.
Fashion is a form of self-expression. Choose to express yourself the way you want to. Do not feel pressured to change who you are or what makes you feel comfortable. Yes, it is essential to step out of your comfort zone occasionally, but know your roots.
Our suggestion is to build on top of what is already there. Use your style as a foundation and add new elements on top of that. As Yves Saint Laurent aptly quoted, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” Use our guide to look and feel smarter and sharper instantly.
Author Bio:
Ashley Rosa: Ashley Rosa is a freelance writer and blogger. Writing is her passion that why she loves to write articles related to the latest trends in technology and sometimes on health-tech as well. She is crazy about chocolates. You can find her on twitter: @ashrosa2.