This post is sponsored by Foundation Menswear. Use code: MODEST20 for 20% off your order.
We’ve all see him, hell we’ve all been him. That demoralized fellow leaning against the bar in a bumblebee yellow shirt, a black suit and
a shiny black tie. Why has this once proud lad done this to himself? One word: love. Yes men do crazy things for love. We will go to any length to make our significant other happy. Unfortunately sometimes “happy” means matching her bright yellow, fuchsia, coral or any other testosterone depleting colored dress.
Fortunately there is a much better alternative than the adult Prom/Homecoming look. It’s actually quite simple and will elevate you and your date to power couple status instantly.
All you need to do is implement this one technique:
Instead of matching focus on complimenting
Let’s be honest matching is lame. Have you ever seen a couple at your local pub looking like this:
Like I said ..lame. Actually nausea inducing. Regardless, instead of matching we aim to compliment. In this scenario she is the star of the show and you’re just going along for the ride.
Follow these 3 simple tips to execute effortlessly:
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1. Start with a “blank” canvas.
The suit as in nearly every formal situation will be your foundation. We want something subdued as our base, we’ll be adding a pop later. A neutral colored suit in Navy or medium Grey would be an excellent choice here. If you’re a novice you probably want to stay away from patterns as well. In regards to your shirt you can never go wrong with crisp white or a light blue.
2. Focus on her primary color
Say your lady has chosen a dark red number like this:
Your goal now is to work off this color. That does not mean going to Macy’s and picking up a burgundy, wine, or any other god forsaken shirt. This color looks great on her but will most likely look terrible on you. Remember…shirt..white or blue. Moving on.
3. Accessorize and Compliment.
We’re almost there. You have the suit and she has the dress. We now pick one or two accessories that pulls it all together. This could be:
- A Tie – the preferred choice. Stay away from that super shiney abomination. Keep it to a width between 2.5-3.25 inches. No more no less. Extra points for seasonal fabric: Winter/Fall – wool or flannel; Spring/Summer: Cotton, linen, or knit; All season: silk (remember say no to this).
- Pocket square – See above. Generally silk or cotton. Pull her primary color and choose a square. Definitely does not need to be solid.
- A tie bar – this can be an awesome accent piece and they come in tons of colors. personally I like to keep it subtle in a silver or gunmetal. In case you forgot here’s how to wear it.
- Socks – Here’s a great place to add some pop and pattern. Just don’t overdo it at a super formal event.
- A lapel flower/Boutonniere – Like this or this . Keep it subtle. More of a trend in my opinion that I’ve moved away from personally.
And there you have it, you’ve both leveled up! Have some great tips? Leave a comment below!
This post is sponsored by Foundation Menswear. Use code: MODEST20 for 20% off your order.