Updating the gentleman wardrobe
When cinnamon lattes get traded for caramel frappuccinos and students lock themselves in their rooms to study, we all know springtime is here. This time also marks the shortening of hemlines, the departure of tights and the debut of décollages. This may be true for women, but what about fashion for men? Gentlemen, here are some essential pieces for the spring and fall closet.
The Classic English Suit
It's time to make the leap from boyhood to manhood. While every young man may not have a closet full of suits, one classic suit is always a must. This season calls for a double-breasted suit that is slim, not skinny, with a military cut that accentuates the shoulders, making them appear broader while sliming the waistline.
"A suit, far beyond the age-old Stern stereotype, is essential for everyone in the professional world," Stern sophomore Kayvon Mesbah said. "They provide a clean, tailored image that any high-grade company would want."
The Patterned Blazer
A blazer is always a great way to dress up a pair of jeans and a T-shirt. The patterned blazer just adds a bit more flare, whether pinstriped, plaid, with piping or a geometric pattern. Consider pairing a fitted blazer with a pair of shorts for a more athletic vibe and a casual look that is conducive for warmer weather.
"Blazers add an element of sophisticated chic to an otherwise simple ensemble. Mixing a modern blazer with an old school cardigan creates a timeless look of comfort and sophistication," CAS freshman Jeff Jackson said.
The Plunging V-Neck
American Apparel has them in every color. Not willing to shell out the money? Head over to Salvation Army (last year American Apparel donated boxes of clothing to the one on Fourth Avenue) for a fraction of the cost. A V-neck has always been the winning choice over the basic crew neck. This spring, it's time for the V to go deeper. Cool shades and pastels are perfect colors for a V-neck.
The Light Sports Jacket
It's time to put last season's ever-popular pea coat away and grab a light sports jacket. This trend allows for the rules to bend a bit. It can be a Members Only jacket or a windbreaker. Or go for a more rebellious attitude and think motorcycle black leather.
Patterned Button Downs
Last season, plaid made a bold statement. Now it's time for gingham. The gingham button-down is a dressier version of the plaid flannel shirt. It's a classic, simple look that offers a fresh pattern. Maybe you don't want to let the plaid go, and that's perfectly acceptable too. Opt for the traditional Americana feel with a red-and-black plaid or British-rock-reminiscent tartans in shades of green and blue.
Jeans
Skinny jeans are a classic fashion staple for both men and women, but the jean fit that will be popular this spring is the straight leg. Making a reappearance from last year is the distressed jean look — ones with rips and bleach stains. Whether you hold onto the skinny jeans or trade up for straight legs, just think of slim silhouettes and indie-inspired tailoring.
Aviator Sunglasses
The "Blues Brothers" style of sunglasses were a big hit for 2009, but this year we're returning to the style of sunglasses that never go out of style: aviators. Gold-and-silver-rimmed aviators have always been in style, but color-rimmed aviators are the way to go this spring. As long as pilots are wearing them, we will be too.
Lana Lee is fashion editor. Natalie Adeeyo is a staff writer.
The Classic English Suit
It's time to make the leap from boyhood to manhood. While every young man may not have a closet full of suits, one classic suit is always a must. This season calls for a double-breasted suit that is slim, not skinny, with a military cut that accentuates the shoulders, making them appear broader while sliming the waistline.
"A suit, far beyond the age-old Stern stereotype, is essential for everyone in the professional world," Stern sophomore Kayvon Mesbah said. "They provide a clean, tailored image that any high-grade company would want."
The Patterned Blazer
A blazer is always a great way to dress up a pair of jeans and a T-shirt. The patterned blazer just adds a bit more flare, whether pinstriped, plaid, with piping or a geometric pattern. Consider pairing a fitted blazer with a pair of shorts for a more athletic vibe and a casual look that is conducive for warmer weather.
"Blazers add an element of sophisticated chic to an otherwise simple ensemble. Mixing a modern blazer with an old school cardigan creates a timeless look of comfort and sophistication," CAS freshman Jeff Jackson said.
The Plunging V-Neck
American Apparel has them in every color. Not willing to shell out the money? Head over to Salvation Army (last year American Apparel donated boxes of clothing to the one on Fourth Avenue) for a fraction of the cost. A V-neck has always been the winning choice over the basic crew neck. This spring, it's time for the V to go deeper. Cool shades and pastels are perfect colors for a V-neck.
The Light Sports Jacket
It's time to put last season's ever-popular pea coat away and grab a light sports jacket. This trend allows for the rules to bend a bit. It can be a Members Only jacket or a windbreaker. Or go for a more rebellious attitude and think motorcycle black leather.
Patterned Button Downs
Last season, plaid made a bold statement. Now it's time for gingham. The gingham button-down is a dressier version of the plaid flannel shirt. It's a classic, simple look that offers a fresh pattern. Maybe you don't want to let the plaid go, and that's perfectly acceptable too. Opt for the traditional Americana feel with a red-and-black plaid or British-rock-reminiscent tartans in shades of green and blue.
Jeans
Skinny jeans are a classic fashion staple for both men and women, but the jean fit that will be popular this spring is the straight leg. Making a reappearance from last year is the distressed jean look — ones with rips and bleach stains. Whether you hold onto the skinny jeans or trade up for straight legs, just think of slim silhouettes and indie-inspired tailoring.
Aviator Sunglasses
The "Blues Brothers" style of sunglasses were a big hit for 2009, but this year we're returning to the style of sunglasses that never go out of style: aviators. Gold-and-silver-rimmed aviators have always been in style, but color-rimmed aviators are the way to go this spring. As long as pilots are wearing them, we will be too.
Lana Lee is fashion editor. Natalie Adeeyo is a staff writer.
