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Style tips to show off your swagger
Published Oct. 9, 2009
A beautiful time of earthly liveliness, fall brings out carefree spirits, an air of relaxation and some definite one-on-one time of cuddling with your honey in the cold weather while sipping hot cocoa. Fall might treat summer like our long-lost friend, but the styles of fall bring in a plethora of extra warmth.
Although traveling from place to place might seem brisk in our Midwest weather, think twice about your outerwear when leaving your house. Can that North Face jacket be reserved for the slopes rather than for a hot date? Sure. Our fall outerwear guide offers advice that can prevent any trace of frumpiness and keep you warm.
Made a trademark by designers at Burberry; the trench coat encompasses a sleek sophistication made for even the roughest weather. The guidelines are simple: slim and trim. The coat should have a proper total fit. Don't fret if it's a tad snugger than you're accustomed to. The bottom of the coat should hit just above the knee. As for the material, choose one that can endure rough weather. Waterproof cotton drill and gabardine are fantastic materials that prove to be worth the price and the purpose.
When choosing your trench, ask your self one simple question: Does this make me look like Sherlock Holmes? If so, keep looking.
Defining British mod style, the duffel coat encompasses a perfect idea for a default winter coat. For those who don't quite know what it is, the duffel coat is a piece of outerwear with a large hood, snap collar strap and rope leather loops for the wooden toggles to fasten through.
When deciding on a duffel, many variations are possible. If baggy is more your style than slim and trim, go for a baggier version of this piece. Keep the hood mid-sized and always strive to find a duffel that doesn't make you look like you're wearing a trash bag.
For those who prefer slim-cut, find a coat that hits right at the hips. If you do go slim, go for a large hood (a tad more urbane and trendy). Bottom line: A duffel coat should consist of your preferred fit, a great material and showcase the attitude you bring to it.
Don't be afraid to split your suit for fall. Wearing a blazer and jeans is, by far, one of the most stylish things a guy (or gal) can do. Go wild with this great combination: a snug-fitting blazer, a plaid shirt, dark jeans and loafers. Flawless. Feeling bold? Wear a jacket in tweed, herringbone or, dare we say it, velvet! Yes, you can wear a velvet blazer without aging four decades in time.
The guidelines are simple. Keep the lapel, or collar, no wider than two to three inches at its widest. Play with deep colors. Navy blue, dark gray and deep red or green can spruce up any plain blazer. Most importantly, guys, have a certain "je ne sais quoi" with this look.
Speaking of swagger, try a leather jacket. Debonair (not "biker badass") should be your keyword when shopping for one of these. If you're going for sophistication, never go for studs and chains. The fit is simple. Length of the arms should reach just above the wrists with the bottom of the jacket hitting just at or above the hips. Feeling bold? Try some minimal detail like a different texture of leather in the paneling and a snap-collar. Most importantly, stay away from pleather. Real leather does no wrong.
Never fear trying out some new duds this season. Fall is a time to bring out warm textures and great prints. Turn on your swagger and let your attitude show through your style.