Style 101: For My “Fellas”
[Fashion and Image Consultant: Michelle Washington]
Style-ology LLC
www.styleology.net From Head to Toe
(Part 2)
It’s All About the Shoes…
Shoes will make or break an outfit. No matter how well put together your attire may be, shoes complete your look. Guys…a little secret, women “do” judge you by looking at your shoes; a small indicator of style and character. “That is why the right shoes need to make a lasting impression, sending their eyes back up for a second look. You only have a few seconds to capture their attention, don’t blow it with the shoes” (TT, 2006). For every fashionable look you want to achieve, there is a shoe for it (something women know about ALL to well). “Different occasions require different shoes…every man should have a least 5 pairs of shoes” (TT, 2006).
Athletic Shoes:
The role of the athletic shoe has taken many phases. However, the recent retro and metro styles have brought athletic shoes to the forefront as a casual shoe with a more modern appeal. With the right look, a savvy dresser can wear a casual athletic shoe to various outings. Some establishments still will “not” allow athletic shoes; you should never wear this shoe to a formal occasion (unless it is specified). In general…the athletic shoe should only be for working out, modern casual/retro attire and playing sports.
Casual Shoes:
Your main comfortable shoe is considered to be your casual shoe…”for day events and wearing around the town” (TT, 2006). Although comfort is your priority, don’t sacrifice fashion. These shoes should not contain a lot of color (color will be determined by the look or statement you want to achieve). The basic color of the casual shoe should start with black or white. Black shoes require less maintenance, a little dusting. White shoes will need a lot of attention to keep them from looking dirty. This is a must…every man should invest in a basic shoe shine/shoe cleaning kit.
Casual Sandals:
Great pair of shoes for a nice sunny day, but “please” avoid wearing socks and sandals. If you are ashamed of your feet, then do something about it by showing your feet proper medical or pedicure attention…socks won’t help you). Sandals are a great warm weather look with either shorts or pants. The only place sandals should not be worn is to a formal occasion.
Black Dress Shoes:
These are definitely your “going out on the town” shoes. Every man should invest in a great pair of black dress shoes for going out on dates, dinner, and to any nice event; a woman needs to have a great pair of heels and a man needs to have a stunning pair of black dress shoes. Trust me…these shoes will definitely get her attention. The best way to accessorize with the black dress shoe is a nice black belt of the same texture (avoid wearing these shoes with shorts). As always, invest in a basic shoe shine/shoe cleaning kit to keep these shoes at their shiny best.
Brown Dress Shoes:
Perhaps not so much for a grand occasion, but the brown dress shoe is good for a casual night out. “These shoes should be worn on similar occasions as the black ones but only when wearing lighter colored materials” (TT, 2006). A brown belt of the same color and texture is a great way to accessorize with the brown dress shoe (don’t forget the basic shoe shine/shoe cleaning kit).
No matter how large or small your wardrobe may be, it is safe to say that you will express your own unique style through numerous outfits for various occasions, but never underestimate the decadent power of a good shoe to complete your look.
Reference:
Twin Taylors (2006). Men’s Fashion. Retrieved from the Twin Taylors website August 12, 2006:
http://www.twintaylors.com What is Style-ology?
Michelle Washington is the creative mind behind Style-ology LLC (www.styleology.net). This fashion industry professional (turned Fashion and Image Consultant) has distinct skills and knowledge as a Stylist, Fashion, and Image Consultant. As a registered and active member of AICI (Association of Image Consultants International) and a recognized fashion entrepreneur in the 2006/2007 “Manchester Who's Who for Executives and Professionals”, Michelle's forte is in creating a "true style" for clients; which means "being clever" and seeking out unusual shops. Michelle collaborates with top businesses and professionals to facilitate a full transformation for each client from beginning to end. Whether it is print, television, film, total image makeover, personal shopping, fashion styling, or company speaking engagements; Michelle's personal one-on-one comprehensive service is what sets Style-ology LLC above all others.
Do you have questions? “Ask Michelle”:
www.styleology.net
Posted By: Jehan Bunch
Wednesday, August 23rd 2006 at 10:21AM
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