Three personal style misconceptions
Every year as we turn the corner from summer into fall, I get an influx of young adult clients who are gearing up for college. It’s exciting to work with someone at that stage in life, because they’re usually just starting their path to self-discovery — and that includes defining their own sense of style.
During this process, I often hear myths about personal style — and I’m quick to debunk them. These misconceptions can hold back anyone, at any stage of life, who’s working to unearth their inner personal stylist.
Myth: You have to love fashion to have great personal style
Fashion and style don’t mean the same thing. “Fashion” refers to the industry as a whole — something designers serve to consumers throughout the year. “Style” is the innate sense of taste we all possess, whether we acknowledge it or not. Nurturing your own personal style is not about loving fashion — it’s about paying attention to your unique tastes and what inspires you.
Myth: You shouldn’t regularly repeat outfits
In a world where outfits can be immortalized on social media, there’s increased pressure to buy and wear new things. But I recommend “uniform dressing” instead. If you have an outfit “equation” you love — like a button-up and jeans — use it as a blueprint. Then swap out different variables, like your jewelry or shoes, to keep things fresh. This can make getting dressed faster and easier, and it’s less stressful than constantly styling new looks.
Myth: You should be able to define your personal style in three words or less
Remember those magazine style quizzes that labeled everyone as “boho,” “glam” or “classic”? Well, in all my years working with clients, I’ve never met someone who could be defined by a simple label. There’s a kaleidoscope of factors that affect our personal style, and our tastes also change and evolve as we grow older. Mix and match the many pieces you feel drawn to, and never force yourself to fit into a specific box.
Wear what you feel great in, and forget the rest.
A tall drink of water for fall
Happy September, gents! In June, I offered some styling tips for shorter men. So this month, I’d be remiss not to address our brethren north of 6 feet. For our light bulb changers and our top-shelf reachers, sleek style is just a few tips away.
Opt for longer jackets
As a taller man, it’s best to stay away from jackets that hit you at or above the waist, such as trucker jackets or bomber jackets. Instead, go for jackets with longer cuts, like safari jackets or military jackets. These will complement your height and more naturally suit your proportions. And if you want something cutting-edge, invest in a stylish trench coat. They’re on trend — and perfect for rainy Nashville weather.
Tailor up
I told our shorter comrades this, but the same holds true for you: Investing in a good tailor is always worth it. If you can afford custom, go custom — whether you’re buying clothes for the office, special occasions or everyday wear. While big-and-tall stores can be great resources, they often assume every tall man is a big man and every big man is a tall man — and that’s not always the case. Having a good tailor helps ensure your clothes fit, no matter where you buy them.
Contrast is king
When getting dressed, it’s all about lines. Taller men often have longer legs, longer arms and longer torsos. Breaking up those lines with contrasting colors, textures or patterns will flatter your form and add character and charm to your outfits. Stay away from matching pinstripes and monochromatic outfits — they may have you looking like a villain in a Pixar movie.
Towering titans, I know it can be difficult to find things off the rack that fit. The struggle is real. Hopefully these tips make shopping and styling a little easier. And — just like I told our short kings — if not, you know where to find me!
Peace and love, gents! Happy fall.
