When it comes to menswear, professional stylist Ashley Bickerstaff has a golden rule: wear clothes that fit. While this may seem like straightforward advice, how menswear fits has changed to a slimmer, more attractive style over the years. Whether sporting a formal or casual look, follow these guidelines to look and feel like your best self.
Formal Wear
Every man needs a great-fitting, black or navy suit, and if your suit dates to the pre-COVID era, then it’s likely time for an update. “Through the years,” says Bickerstaff, “the fit is a more slim than relaxed look.” By this, she means men are losing the extra fabric, shoulder pads, and volume characteristic of past styles.
At high-end retailers such as Rush Wilson and Smith & James, finding the right (and current) fit is part of the shopping experience. They’ll guide you through the process of finding and tailoring your new suit. If you’re on a budget and suit shopping at a box store, have it altered. An inexpensive suit can appear expensive—if you tailor it to suit you.
PRO TIP: Fabric is important, especially in the South. Shop for breathable fabrics such as gabardine or seasonless wool so you don’t find yourself sweltering.
Formal Menswear Accessories
When accessorizing your suit, Bickerstaff recommends bourbon-colored leather shoes and a matching brown belt. If you opt for black, match your black shoes to your black belt. For some personality, try some funky or colorful socks, either hidden or displayed with a shorter pant.
You can wear a traditional ensemble with a tie and pocket square or take a more modern approach by donning a pocket square on its own. With a luxury watch or glasses, you can easily enhance your outfit. Be sure to pair colors and patterns that match and fit your personality.
PRO TIP: Always dress to the occasion. If you want to sport a relaxed formal style, try sneakers, but don’t wear them to a black tie event.
Shopping Guide
Navy Suit by Jack Victor, Rush Wilson, $1,190; White Royal Oxford Dress Shirt by David Donahue, Rush Wilson, $155; Paisley Neck Tie by Brown & Church, Rush Wilson, $105; The Macon Cognac Lace-Up Dress Shoe by Armin Oehler, Rush Wilson, $425; Tortoise Glasses by Eye Bobs, A Polished Man, $135
Casual Wear
With casual clothing, the same rule applies: go for a slim fit. Pair jeans or khaki pants with a button-up shirt for a dressier outfit, and play with some seasonal colors and patterns that feel right. Vintage T-shirts are in right now, but if that leans too casual for you, try a Henley shirt for a classic casual style.
Layers make for a versatile fall aesthetic. Pair a dress shirt with a suit jacket, pullover sweater, or denim. Try a graphic T-shirt under a blazer if you’re feeling edgy, or wear jeans, a dress shirt, and a blazer for a classic look. When piecing together an outfit, Bickerstaff says to hone your personal style—and wear it confidently.
PRO TIP: Be willing to take risks. If you’re ready to experiment with your style, start slow. Begin with a relaxed fit if you’re not comfortable with a slim fit.
Casual Menswear Accessories
Sneakers are a popular—and comfortable—casual shoe. If you want to sport sneakers but maintain formality, brown leather sneakers are a safe way to experiment with the trend. To show personality, cuff your pants to display funky socks, or keep them hidden as your own secret flair.
Aside from a tie and pocket square, casual accessories are the same pieces you might add to a formal look, but maybe not your all-star lineup. You can also try accessories with more pizazz, such as a colorful watch or statement glasses.
PRO TIP: Don’t throw all your accessories on at once. To create a cohesive outfit, be mindful and choose one statement accessory. Keep the rest subdued.
Shopping Guide
Tobacco Canvas Sport Coat by Brit & Blue, Rush Wilson, $995; Green and Blue Check Dress Shirt by David Donahue, Rush Wilson, $155; Pilot Denim Jeans by Peter Millar, Rush Wilson $165
Complete the Look with these Accessories
Tennis Shoes by P448, Smith & James, $298; Brown Wallet by SECRID, A Polished Man, $90; Paisley Pocket Round by Edward Armah, A Polished Man, $100; Bordeaux Wristwatch by Springbreak, A Polished Man, $80; Blue Socks by Edward Armah, A Polished Man, $50; Tortoise Glasses by Eye Bobs, A Polished Man, $135; Striped Bow Tie by Carrot and Gibbs, A Polished Man, $100
Menswear Retail Guide
A Polished Man
2 W Washington St, Greenville
(864) 605-1054
apolishedman.com
Rush Wilson Limited
23 W North St, Greenville
(864) 232-2761
rushwilson.com
Smith & James
777 Verdae Blvd
(864) 234-8880
smithandjames.com
Alt shop formatting:
A Polished Man, 2 W Washington St, Greenville. (864) 605-1054, apolishedman.com
Rush Wilson Limited, 23 W North St, Greenville. (864) 232-2761, rushwilson.com
Smith & James, 777 Verdae Blvd. (864) 234-8880, smithandjames.com
Meet the Model
Xander George is a real estate agent in the greater Greenville area. He and his wife Nicole have two children and love volunteering at their church, going on hikes, and collecting house plants.
Styled by Ashley Bickerstaff, Modeled by Xander George of the Millie Lewis Agency, Photograpy by Eli Warren
