Ever wonder why your wife takes so long to get ready? Are you surprised how she tries on six different outfits before deciding which one to wear? Well, gentlemen, the answer to these old questions is because you are paying attention to small details that you know make a difference. Before leaving home, she makes sure that all the pieces of the picture puzzle are in order to look her best. Now, I’m not saying that you should spend hours in your closet or in the mirror preening, but I’m saying that you should understand and correct some of the basic image mistakes that we are all guilty of from time to time.
Let me now take the time to describe the 10 biggest problems I see on a daily basis. We will identify the problems and also give you easy-to-follow solutions and apply in an attempt to prevent you from making these all-too-common fashion missteps.
Image Killer No. 1
Dress your age
One of the biggest mistakes a man can make when trying to be fashionable and cool is dressing younger than he is. Nothing is more obvious or embarrassing than a man in his 40s or 50s who dresses like he is 20. It may be true that the clothes are really cool and extremely stylish, however if they are not age appropriate they will end up looking like a ball. of large cheese.
The solution:
While shopping at a particular store or store, look around you. Are the other clients dramatically younger than you? Associates still in high school? If the answer to these questions is yes, the clothing in that store is most likely not for you. Paying attention to these two simple rules will surely point you in the right direction.
Image Killer No. 2
Clothes that don’t fit
When I tell you that your clothes should fit you, most of you may be thinking “Duh.” But, give me the opportunity to explain. Many men wear clothes that are too big for them or too small for them. A common misconception is that if you are a larger man, you should buy larger shirts to minimize your weight. This could not be further from the truth. What happens is that in an attempt to camouflage your weight you only make yourself look heavier and bigger than you are. On the other hand, some of you buy clothes that are smaller than they actually are. Just because you can button your pants doesn’t mean they fit. You will only look like a sausage if you leave the house.
The solution:
If you currently buy shirts that are too baggy, go down one size. You will be amazed at the amount of compliments you receive and the inquiries asking if you have lost weight. With pants, make sure you can place your fingers comfortably between you and your waist. This may require you to go up a size or even two. Don’t be afraid, you are not getting bigger, now you are wearing pants that fit you well.
Image Killer No. 3
Pleated / Cuffed Pants
Many men are guilty of these fashion “no’s”. Most men want to look their best. If the best means you want to look heavier than you are, use the pleats. But, if you want to appear slimmer and taller, then it may be time to ditch the creases. The goal is to create a nice straight line from the waist to the shoes. Anything that breaks your line of sight will keep you from looking your best. The cuffs of your pants are nothing more than an additional fabric that breaks up the crisp, clean line and ultimately gives you the appearance of being shorter than you are.
The solution
Go ahead and try on a good pair of flat pants with no hem. You will be amazed at how tall and thin you will look. This simple change will dramatically improve your appearance and image.
Image Killer # 4
Incorrect trouser length
Many men wear pants that are too short or too long. Both are detrimental to your image. Pants that are too short make you look like you’re in high water and frankly make you look like a big jerk. On the other hand, pants that are too long will only crowd into the shoe creating the illusion of being shorter and heavier than you.
The solution
Pants must be long enough to tear. The back of the pant leg should reach the middle or top of the scar. Remember that depending on the shoe you wear, some pants may fit some shoes and not others. If you wear boots, you may need pants a little longer than what you wear with dress shoes.
Image Killer No. 5
Tapered / distressed jeans
Tapered jeans are not only old-fashioned, but they damage your image and style. A tapered leg does not allow your jeans to fit over the top of your shoe. Instead, it has a cloth gasket on the top of its foot, creating a sloppy appearance.
The solution
If you’re not sure whether your jeans are tapered or not, here’s an easy test. Take your jeans and place them on your bed on your back. Take the bottom of the jean and fold the pant leg so that the bottom is aligned with where your knee would be. If the bottom is less wide than the knee, then they are indeed tapered and new jeans should be on your to-do list. When shopping around for new jeans, you’ll notice that there are a few different cuts or styles to choose from. Look for straight leg or even boot cut jeans. The goal is to allow the jeans to fall over the top of the shoe creating a nice clean line from waist to toe. Making a bunch of fabric will only make you look short and unkempt. None of these are attractive to anyone.
Image Killer # 6
Floral print shirts
Unless you’re in the tropics or on a cruise ship, these t-shirts are stupid. If you’re in the tropics or on a cruise … good for you and put on your shirts.
The solution
Choose shirts that are a solid color or small pattern. Don’t buy something that you think is “cute” or “fun.” You won’t look cute but you will look funny.
Image Killer # 7
Bad shoes
In my opinion, shoes are the most important aspect of an outfit. When choosing chunky or bulky shoes, you will only look like a clown. Too square toes (pilgrims) are also an idea of the past style. They were great a few years ago, but now they’re taking a backseat to a sleeker, more streamlined shape and trend. We must also include shoes that are too worn or scratched.
The solution
Take care of your shoes. Once a month, take the time to polish your shoes and make sure you don’t forget about healing. Spend the money on good quality shoes. If taken care of, they will last you for years. Choose shoes that are simple but elegant. Stay away from overly ornate stitching or overly drastic shapes (square or pointy). Remember, shoes should not draw attention to themselves, but rather tie the package together. Stay away from shoes that are very fashionable due to the fact that they will go out of style quickly.
Image Killer # 8
Sneakers with everything
Athletic shoes should be worn when exercising. They are not your right pair of shoes for every activity and occasion.
The solution
Most of the time, men choose to wear sneakers due to the lack of variety or depth of current footwear. Spend time and money shopping for a variety of shoes that are appropriate for a variety of occasions. You need a pair to wear with shorts (not sports), casual and professional.
Image Killer # 9
Belt and shoe do not match
The black shoes and the brown belt are the most obvious, however, you should also consider the style of the shoes and the belt.
The solution
Dress shoes require a dress belt. This means that if your shoes are shiny, the belt should also have a similar finish. Black is an easy color to match, there is only one black. However, brown is a bit more complicated; there are 20 different shades of brown. When trying to choose a belt that matches your shoes, wear the shoes at the store. If you try to just improvise it from memory, you will surely be disappointed once you get home.
Image Killer # 10
Inappropriate dress
Have you ever had the feeling that you are underdressed for a specific event or occasion? This has happened to all of us at one time or another. This is one of the most common mistakes that can be made.
The solution
Before attending any meeting or event, know what to expect. A good way is to look at your wife and what she is wearing. Are you wearing jeans and a T-shirt? If not, it’s a good indication that you shouldn’t be either. Remember, it is always better to overdress rather than underdress.
Remember to pay attention to those little details and you will have a spectacular image … instead of killing your image! alpha m. Image Consulting was launched in 2006 by founder Aaron Marino. Aaron realized that there was a lack of resources and options for men to receive help and advice from the real world regarding their image, style and appearance. Our goal is to help the modern man look and feel his best … every day of his life.