Breaking Monotony

Everyone has a style. I encourage and respect that (even if I don’t always like certain people’s). Do what works for you.

But, sometimes, you have to try something new. We’re not Amish (unless you are, in which case I’m assuming someone printed this post for you). Therefore, you have wardrobe options. If you’re always bright and colorful, try some earthy fall colors in the coming months. If you’re constantly wearing black, go buy a crimson tie or canary skirt to add a bit of flare to your wardrobe. You never know how a different look will make you feel until you try it.

And that doesn’t just go for color schemes but grooming as well. For months at a time, I’ll let my hair and beard grow. Then one day I’ll get bored, cut both off, and start fresh. The beautiful thing (right now) is that it’ll all grow back. Or, ladies, if you’re thinking about trying a different hairdo, look at some folks who have a similar head shape, bone structure, and complexion and, if you like the way they wear their hair, go for it. The worst that can happen is you hate it and, in 3 months, you’ll be able to move back toward what you had before.

While we’re talking about switching up styles, know that different outfits serve different purposes. It is a must that I tailor some of my clothes because of the caliber of event they’re regularly worn to. Others can be worn right off the rack. And the accessories change with events too. If I’m shooting for a night on the town, I may don a suit and v-neck with loafers and earrings if I want to sauce it up. But, when I feel like looking smart but stylish for a meeting with a client, I’m throwing on cosmetic frames with a suit and well-polished hard bottoms (Note to myself and you: Polish shoes tonight). Either way, it’s about looking confident and comfortable in whatever you wear. And you don’t have to step out of your comfort zone daily but you should do it frequently enough to shake things up.

You never know what you’ll need to look like in your next work environment, so developing versatility and comfort now should be the game plan. Whether your employer, your significant other, or that barista at Starbucks that has been giving you the eye for the past few months, it’s nice to see that you can try something new and still look (and perform) like a winner.

All in all, no matter how old you are, you’re too young not to have fun and enjoy life.

Make being well-dressed and well-groomed priorities.

Oh, by the way, I’ve got a crazy post coming for next week’s fashion post. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog so you don’t miss out on #TailoredAndTaperedTuesdays.

iOrange-E: Brand Review

How many of us have iPhones? I’m willing to bet that between 1/3 and 1/2 of my readers do. And how many will be upgrading their iPhone 5(s)/6(s) to a 7? Well, I’d definitely suggest making sure you protect it with a case. But, what I’ve realized through my past 3 iPhones is that a case alone is not enough. And the thin film screens don’t protect it to the point that I would like.

An iPhone needs a tempered glass screen protector that is going to hold up. I’ve tried a few different brands (that will remain nameless) and none of them hold a candle to iOrange-E’s tempered glass screen protector. I’m a bit accident prone and we all know what a cracked iPhone screen looks like. Well, I also know what a scratched iPhone screen looks like and it’s just as unappealing. This protector will keep my current iPhone screen in pristine condition. It is scratch-proof, waterproof, anti-oil, dirt-proof, and anti-fingerprint. Being that first impressions are EVERYTHING and people can be very observant, keeping everything you own looking good is critical to developing a successful brand. (Sidebar for another post: No one wants to hire anyone who doesn’t take pride in their own items because one could assume they won’t take care of the company’s property.)

When I get my next iPhone, I will make sure to go right back to iOrange-E. This is my second product from the brand (I also have one of their awesome heavy duty lightening charge cords) and I think they will be my go to brand for my Apple products from now on.

You can purchase yours at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L6ZDZFO/.

 

I received this product for free from iOrange-E in return for an honest, unbiased review.

 

Make professional development a priority.

 

Selecting Your Supsenders

Suspenders are pretty neat, aren’t they?  They’re becoming more and more popular but there are those of us who will wear them long after the trend passes.  And, if you’re one of those people (or if not), I have some advice for you: Wear them right.

Clip on suspenders are all well and good… when you’re 10.  But, gentlemen, at the age of 20, you should really be looking for a more classic look.  My suggestion is that you have all of your suits fitted with suspender buttons and purchase those old fashioned suspenders.  You know, the one that your granddad had your grandma sew buttons into all his slacks for?

What’s the difference you may ask?  Well, though clip on suspenders serve the same purpose as buttoned ones, ones that are buttoned into your pants are sturdier, provide added support to your pants, and they look much more professional.

If you’re wearing jeans, you can go either way.  Personally, I dig the snap-style suspenders with the leather straps.  Not professional in the least but certainly far from lackadaisical.

Acceptable Bags

In a day and age where so many things are gender neutral, many men struggle with what they can and cannot do while still maintaining a standard of masculinity that the deem acceptable.  This includes deciding what bag to carry to work.  Should you keep it college with a backpack, play it safe with a messenger bag, or try something a bit more risqué and fashionable?  Well, if you’ve settled on the last one, I have a few options that will add to your style without causing the guys at the gym to wonder what the heck you’re doing.  Check these out and see if one fits the brand that you’re currently building for yourself.

Chilly Complements: Styling Your Scarf

As the year progresses, cooler winds prevail over warmer ones. I’m sure you’re not surprised by that, being that this has happened each year since long before you or I were born. So, being that that doesn’t come as a shock, neither should the fact that you have to cover your more vulnerable body parts in order to maintain an acceptable level of health. Over the next few weeks, I plan to focus on the add-ons that will make the colder months pass with less of a bite. We will start with scarves.

Scarves are one of the most practical cold-time accessories because exposure of the neck can lead to a head cold (CNN). That being said, simply draping a piece of wool over your neck when it is cool out does is not enough to combat the common cold. Then again no one wants to walk into the office or meeting looking like a complete idiot with a piece of clothe wrapped oddly around their necks. “So how do I wrap my scarf in both an acceptably stylish and practical manner?” I’m glad you asked.

When I first came up with the idea to pursue a series on #ChillyComplements (shameless plug: feel free to use the hashtag on social media), it was because I saw the following infographic on tying scarves and realized that I usually only tied mine one of two ways and that was probably at least one more way than most other people tied theirs. Acting on that assumption, I knew people needed some guidance. Well, without further ado, here it is:

Random tip: Though it is not incorrect to write “scarfs,” the more commonly used plural form of scarf is “scarves.” If you’re writing a thank you note to someone who has purchased you scarves or asking for some on a Christmas wish list, write it with the “v.” It will look more classic.

The Art of the Pocket Square

Pocket squares are in style right now.  And, while you could just stuff it in your pocket and have it look cool, sometimes it’s nice to start off with a plan of action.  Below is an infographic on various ways to fold your pocket squares.  Check it out and share it with your friends.

Accessories

If you know me or follow me on any social network, you know I’m very into my outfits. But anyone can put on a shirt and some jeans. My outfits are defined by my accessories and they have been since I was in middle school. Whether sporting a matching headband and wristband (7th grade), a fitted cap and colored shoe laces (8th grade until), or a fedora and a watch w/ a band that matches my shoes, my ability to compliment my clothes with add ons is undeniable. This skill can be developed in both business and casual settings. Find some pieces (hats, watches, ties, pocket squares, belts, socks, tie clips) that fit your lifestyle and run with them. Have fun with it while you can. One day today’s accessories will be tomorrow’s jokes (i.e. – sitting in English class with a headband on).

Harrison Fjord Style Cheat Sheet Pt. 1

I was checking out Pinterest and came across this pretty neat style cheat sheet.  I’m sure no one has the time before getting dressed to look through all of my Well-Dresssed Wednesday posts everytime he heads out the door but keep these simple things in mind (even save the graphic to your phone if need be) and you should be ok.  The handwriting isn’t the best but it isn’t mine so we’ll just have to overlook it.