DRESSENCE

DRESSENCE: FOR THE CORPORATE CASUAL

"Friday dressing has acquired a whole new meaning with a relaxed dress code increasing becoming part of the work culture. Corporate casual is now the new buzzword. We give you the lowdown on what’s hot and what’s not."

Whether you fall into the metro sexual male bracket or otherwise, a well-dressed man never fails to make an impression. The clothes you wear reflect your personality. Looking your best will only become a widely accepted form of dress.

Add spice to your weekend attire

Friday dressing is now a part of the work culture. Several organizations have altered their dress code keeping in mind the comfort of their employees. While the ‘business or corporate casual’ look ensures comfortable wear it need not be sloppy. Casual wear can be stylish and sporty without being flashy or boring. As many office-goers would admit, dressing down is a welcome change. All the same, it requires effort to go beyond the regular suit and tie outfit. Your attire must enhance the good aspects of your body. When you shop for casual clothing think of building the ideal mix-match wardrobe. The basic business casual can be a polo shirt worn with a khaki pant. And for a more polished casual look, just add a sports jacket. Of course, you must choose your body frame and height. And make it a point to first try the clothes you buy – and ensure that they fit well. Also, the colours are an important aspect. For instance wear red if you want to attract attention or make a bold fashion statement. Black is also a slimming agent. But don’t mismatch colours. If need be, get fashion tips from a stylist or a men’s magazine.

Also horizontal prints make you look heavier whereas vertical prints are perfect patterns for a little plump category. Either select colours that contrast—for instance, a red shirt with blue jeans or complimentary colours such as beige polo-neck with coffee-coloured chinos.

Up the style quotient

It goes without saying that your wardrobe must have several sport shirts and sweaters. Short-sleeved T-shirts are indispensable during summers. Again, check the neckline. There are turtlenecks, V-necks, crewnecks and polo necks to name a few. And during the cold season, a comfy turtleneck imparts a stylish, yet comfortable look. Also, turtlenecks look attractive as they accentuate your build. While fashion trend may keep changing, don’t renew your entire wardrobe just to keep abreast. What you can do is mix-and-match – a plaid jacket with a sweater underneath and a pair of beige pants.

A jacket is one of the most versatile items of a man’s wardrobe. More so when it comes to a leather jacket – you cannot possibly go wrong with that. And if you have a Harley Davidson to boot then you sure do live the good life! A leather jacket will last you for a long time and can be worn for casual and semi – formal occasions.

Although the real thing can be expensive, you can always buy imitation leather. Alternatively, you can just buy a casual jacket or a blazer in suede, denim or corduroy jackets in navy or earthy tones. Normally, jackets with zippers are more popular than buttons. Popular colors include black, charcoal gray and earth tones such as brown, beige, burgundy and khaki. In fact, a sports jacket can e paired with any regular t-shirt and it adds that touch of sportiness.

Pants redefined

Casual trousers look extremely stylish and come in various cuts, Styles and fabrics. You can choose from an entire array of options when it comes to informal gents’ trousers- from cotton cargo pants, chino-style trousers, track pants, 4 and 6 pocket pants (they vary in the number of pockets), corduroy pants and khakis. These pants impart a trendy look. And you can select from earthy shades, dark hues and tonal (blend) colours. And please, keep your track pants only four your Gym workouts or jogging sessions.

For casual pants, pants with wool gabardine and lycra look neat. Chinos are made by blending cotton and synthetic fiber and are perfect for urban male. Chinos in darker shades are right for this session. And so are cotton corduroy pants. Wrinkle resistant khakis, since many khakis look quite shabby even when they are slightly wrinkled. Try to avoid baggy jeans, faded jean sand jeans with holes in them, as they are totally unprofessional.

Jeans are ubiquitous in menswear and make a great fashion statement. Whether it’s a superstar, or corporate head honcho or a collegian, jeans have added a new dimension to casual wear. When it comes to jeans – you have it all from boot cut style, to baggy pants and washed-out jeans. When it comes to denims – you can explore several styles – from honey and shredded jeans to the vintage denim. Denim makes for a very flexible wardrobe. The most versatile of all are blue jeans that can be paired with all kinds of T-shirts and jackets.

Style guide

Of course, there are new styles every season. Select from the complete assortment to make your own fashion statement. Also see to it that your accessories and shoes match your casual look. Try not to wear diamond-studded rings or a gold watch with polo-neck! And do wear the right kind of shoes to compliment your overall appearance. Belts and socks should always compliment the outfit. Never wear both a belt and suspenders.

And yes, you also need to maintain you casual wear - - that included dry-cleaning, ironing and so on. You cannot afford to be left behind in this casual revolution, can you? So go on, take your picks of casual wear.

Experiments with these different trendy pants and flaunt your cool attitude.