As we say adieu to the cold winter months, it’s time to bid farewell to the drab, thick wardrobe we’ve been wearing all winter. Guys, unless you have that Tony Stark vibe working for you, now’s a good time to welcome the changing of the seasons with a switch in your attire.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to throw out your entire winter wardrobe, which you’ll need again in the next winter cycle. Welcoming springtime with the latest styles, however, can get you into a positive and confident mood.
1. Blue is your Color
This 2013, simplicity is key. We’re not talking Spartan austerity at all. Basic whites and blacks remain classics, but the time is ripe for being bolder and more daring, through pastels. Solid pink, sky blue, or sea green designer shirts can add life to an otherwise plain suit. Nothing connotes new life and cheerfulness, more than a bright and pleasant burst of color does. Based on several fashion runways, blue, in all of its cool hues is one of the winning colors for men this year, closely followed by sunshiny yellow tones.
2. Use Stripes and Floral Prints
Meanwhile, stripes, as well as floral prints (on ties, especially) are also a current trend. Surprisingly, florals, applied appropriately, and in the right amounts, can effectively accentuate one’s masculinity.
Florals and paisleys may not be every man’s cup of tea, though; in which case, stripes can come to the rescue. Stripes break color monotony, and can be paired superbly with most formal attire. Vertical stripes create the illusion of length, as well, making the wearer look taller.
3. Play with Texture
Quit worrying that it makes you look like a dandy. The thing is, the texture and feel of crushed velvet can be downright sexy. Try a tan jacket, for starters. Graduate to bolder colors, such as burgundy or rust, when you’ve grown accustomed to mixing it in with your regular wardrobe. It’ll lend you an air of daring and sexy, a plus when you’re out with the ladies.
4. Keep Cool with Trench Coats and Jackets
Flickr/ILove2Love
The weather is still relatively cool, and it helps to don coats and jackets to keep warm. While men’s coats generally adhere to specific cuts, this year’s trenches are predicted to follow a more loose and free-flowing approach.
Those who prefer a more traditional look need not worry either, as one can always opt for classic leather or vintage bomber jackets. These classic numbers never go out of style.
5. Get Comfy in Loafers
Flickr/Robert Shale
These come in many styles and are made for comfort. Once considered too casual for any formal setting, loafers can now be acceptably worn with your favorite suit. Choose a pair with tassels for al fresco lunch, or one in rich, dark leather for a full-on serious look at dinner.
6. Boldly Accessorize
Since you’re dressing to impress and setting the tone for an upbeat change, why not top it all off with the proper accessory? Men’s fashion this spring is also leaning towards all things metallic. Though, that’s no excuse to go crazy and wear layers of bling. In a season where minimalism is king, stick to basics. Rings crafted from white gold or platinum suggest elegance and taste. Necklaces made of leather, with pendants of silver and onyx, imply a sense of style while heralding masculinity.
Don’t stop there, experiment with hats too. Panama hats, worn with long sleeves or with a sweater, can give you a vintage style that’s truly your own. On the other hand, if hats are too much for you, try some eyewear. Squared-off eyeglasses go with dark suits, and with light, casual wear alike. Try rimless ones for a seamless look.
Overall, the trend this spring season is a delicate balance between restraint and light-heartedness. The use of bold, chalky pastels, and of metallic or velvety textures contrast with otherwise stern rules on Western men’s fashion, thus creating a 2013 look worth more than a thousand words.
About the Author:
Sharon Sussman is a gemologist at Brilliance.com, where she also maintains the company blog. If this article was helpful, you may also be interested in some spring wardrobe tips for women, too.
About the Author:
Sharon Sussman is a gemologist at Brilliance.com, where she also maintains the company blog. If this article was helpful, you may also be interested in some spring wardrobe tips for women, too.
