Make A Change

The more time that passes, the more I feel like I’m finally getting a handle on the way I dress. When I first started out, I was directionless: buying every item that took my fancy at relatively disposable prices in places like H&M, Uniqlo and TK Maxx.

It was a period of experimentation that I now realize I had to go through. It helped mould my personal style and clarify exactly what pieces, colors and cuts suited me – regardless of how cringe-worthy some of the photos from the time may be.

After years went by, and my tastes developed, I came across a quote by Mr Sid Mashburn that would come to define the way I dressed and the advice I gave to others: “Guys don’t need a lot of choices, they need the right choice.”

The Right Choice

By building a wardrobe full of simple, classic and timeless pieces not only will you always have something appropriate to wear but you also have the luxury of being able to cherry pick the trends that work for your style – investing as much or as little in these items as you want.

For example, these days I often only highlight current trends with accessories such as ties, pocket squares, scarves and shoes.

Ultimately, this concept of limiting the amount of pieces you purchase comes with two major advantages that will help anyone – beginner or seasoned menswear veteran – in the long run:

Firstly, you can feel safe in the knowledge that nearly everything in your wardrobe is interchangeable, effectively meaning you could get ready in the dark and still look great. Invaluable on those days you wake up late and/or with a crippling hangover.

Secondly, it enables you to invest and focus on quality. Obviously everyone’s price range will be different but opting for the best that you can afford makes financial sense when it comes to wardrobe basics you will continue to wear for years to come, no matter the season or latest trends.