Summertime fashion tips

Hey guys (and gals)!

So, I've been doing some research and most of what I'm reading is fashion tips from people who live in NYC or LA where the word 'fashion' takes on a whole new meaning.  I live in Colorado.  I know SOME of the rules apply but some are just way too..."city" for me.  Here's my take on the fashion tips I've read:

Rule #1 - Flip Flops

• Flip-flops are appropriate for the beach, poolside, your backyard, and not much else.
• Never wear flip-flops to the office. And avoid wear in the city.

Okay, I get the not wearing flip flops to the office but, really?  The city?

Like I said above, maybe in NYC or LA but here in Denver we bust out the flip flops in January!  If you invest in a nice leather or fabric pair, you can probably get away with them in a lot more places than you think.

However, it was also mentioned that you need to buff up your feet.  I totally agree!  Granted, I'm not necessarily encouraging all men to drop into the nearest nail salon and get a pedi (that's a ladies' luxury), but I am suggesting you purchase a pumice stone and take a moment to scrub up in the shower.




Rule #2 - Shorts

Basic tips that all men should know about shorts:

• Jean shorts (also known as "jorts") are a big NO.
• Athletic shorts are great...for the gym or the basketball court.

So, what should you wear?  Well, I'm glad you asked!

First, you have the flat-front, buttoned cotton short.  These come in a few styles - plain-colored, plaid, or striped.  The plaid shorts are a more modern fashion trend and some guys just aren't comfortable.  That's why you have choices!

This style is a great choice when you want a more polished look for the summer.  Pair it with a nice polo or graphic tee and you're ready to go!

The other option is the cargo short.  I understand the comfort that comes with wearing this style but you must realize that these shorts are more casual and they also don't give us ladies anything to look at (i.e. your ass...ets!).

Comfortable?  Yes.  Attention getting?  No.

Even David Beckham drops down on the "Hotness" scale when sporting cargos.  How dare he hid his best feature with baggy shorts?




So, if you must, wear this when you're lounging with the guys or heading to a ball game.  However, please keep us gals in mind and pick yourself up a pair of plain front shorts so we have something to look at while you oogle our tan legs and other body parts in mini-skirts and summer dresses!





Rule #3 - The Tee Shirt

I already discussed this in a previous blog entry: Shirts but for convenience I will do a brief review of the tee shirt.

The trick with the tee when you want to look good for the ladies is go for a small v-neck that has a slightly tighter fit (usually labeled 'fitted') than your regular crew neck tee.  These shirts will make your chest, arms and shoulders look bigger and your waist smaller which is what we ladies like!  Becks might be denying us some particular views in his cargos but he does have the v-neck down.  The great thing for you guys is that you can spend as little as $5 and get a great wardrobe!

I know, girls, it's just not fair.

Anyway, back to the tee.  The other v-neck option is the low or deep v-neck.  Personally, I don't think any straight man should wear this shirt.  Not even if you have chest muscles bigger than Hercules.  However, you may feel the need to compete with the ladies in the cleavage department.  If that is the case, feel free.  I don't dig this look but that's just my opinion.

A fun graphic tee is always a nice option for a little added style but, honestly, you'll find it much easier to get ready to hit the town if you stick with the plain small v-neck.

And that's it, boys!  It's really that easy for you.  While sometimes I feel sorry that you don't get to have the fun with fashion that we ladies do...I also envy you.  You really do have it easy! 

Enjoy your summer!