Another article I did for men's fashion/lifestyle magazine, SHARP, on transition pieces that take you from the office to the lounge, and beyond. You can check out the article online here, or below!
Men. Time is a luxury even some of the wealthiest can't afford. And with the rise and rule of social media, humanity has been running on a live-feed basis that allows us to be constantly up to speed while on the move. As men, less is often more, and that does not include shuttling between the office and home to enjoy a night out on the town after a hard day's work. We here at SHARP understand this modern-day plight of man, and have compiled a list of wardrobe staples that transition effectively from day to night, balance-sheet to brewskie.
THE LEATHER JACKET
Not all leather jackets give off the badass vibe that is inappropriate for work (depending on where you work, of course). Opt for one that is subtle in its details with a neutral colour palette. Similar to the blazer, choose a piece that doesn't hang loose on your body or deny you the ability to breathe. Start a few sizes up and work your way down until you get to one that is too tight to raise your drink in the air. The next size up is the one you'll want to get. These simple rules will ensure a sophisticated look with the added edge that is often associated with leather jackets. (D&G)
THE BLAZER
The great thing about this office staple is its flexibility in both the boardroom and bar. What man doesn't like flexibility? But, as they come in a variety of shapes, colors and personalities, these guys can be your worst enemy should you choose the wrong one. The key is proper fit. Look for a blazer with relatively-slim lapels (which will lengthen the torso), two-buttons or less, and higher-cut armholes. The combination of these critical factors will ensure a type of fit that will leave you looking “toight loike a toiga”. Pair it with a simple white T after work, and you're ready to go! (Ralph Lauren Black Label)
THE CARDIGAN
No longer relegated to your grandfather's demographic, the cardigan is probably one of the most versatile pieces out there. It can go with any other item on this list, from overtop a vest to underneath a blazer. Whether you decide to go with a bold print or a solid color, go with a cardigan that is snug and hugs the body. Loosen up the look by leaving a button or two undone at the bottom. (J. Crew)
THE WHITE BUTTON UP
There's nothing better than a clean, white button-up shirt. (Okay, there are some things better). These never go out of style, and look great on any man. Make sure the shirt is fitted (not tight) throughout the arms, shoulders, and sides, and has a stiff collar to keep you looking crisp and sharp. After the work is done for the day, roll up your sleeves and let loose. (ASOS)
THE TIE
The tie has long been a part of the standard workforce uniform. To keep it fresh and modern, try a tie that is moderate (at most) in width. Avoid going too slim however, as these kind of ties can sometimes give off a youthful vibe that, similar to skinny jeans, are only appropriate for a particular demographic. This delicate balance will allow you to transition smoothly from day to night with ease. You can also add a little flare to your outfit (business and casual alike) by choosing bold(er) patterns, colors, and textures (ex. Knitted tie). The tie is one of the few places in the business uniform that has traditionally allowed for excitement and adventure. (Brooks Brothers)
THE VEST
Often worn as a contributing piece in formal attire, vests (or waistcoat, if you're a dandy) have slowly migrated into the realm of trendy casualwear. These pieces stand well on their own, paired with a good button-up (see #3), or as part of an ensemble underneath a suit jacket or blazer. Whether you go with a double-breasted herringbone or single-breasted solid, remember to keep it relatively simple. These are meant to complement, not compete. Leave the bottom button undone to show your coworkers that you don't take life too seriously, but seriously enough. (Michael Bastian)
THE TROUSER
Go slim, but not skinny. A good pair of trousers will make you look taller and leaner. Make sure they fit comfortably around the waist and aren't too long, with only a slight break, if any, in material at the bottom. When it comes to casual Fridays, you can also go for some dark denim in the same cuts, without any embellishments, whiskers, or pocket detailing. (Banana Republic)
THE BROGUE
Known for their intricate perforations, brogues bring a whimsical aesthetic to the table, mixing business and pleasure in just the right proportions. Go black for a more formal presentation, and shades of brown for a more casual, rustic look. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, try a pair of two-tones. (Lodger)
- Lance
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