We all know that accessories are the subtle gems that can take your outfit from 0 to a 100. As famously quoted by fashion icon Anna Dello Russo, “Accessories are like vitamins to fashion – as such, you should use them liberally”.
When it comes to menswear, the foreplayers of apparel such as jackets, shirts and jeans, outshine the more subtle constituents of fashion. This is rather unfortunate, as accessories make a significant difference in the overall formation of your outfit. Hence, they should not be overlooked. Below is a list of the top 5 mens accessories that we believe to be timeless in their style, effect and importance.
1) WATCHES
If men could only wear one accessory, watches would most definitely be amongst the top choice. They are the top contenders in men’s accessories and will most likely preserve their high stature in fashion.
When accessorizing a formal outfit, a style preference amongst men is to match their watch strap with their belt. Leather being of a more lavish material, watches with leather straps are generally paired more often with formal apparel. Metal straps, preferably gold and silver, fall into the same category. Watches that have fabric straps are more appropriate for casual settings. Although the primary function of a watch is to show the time, other visual elements play an important role in its quality and style. The layout should show the time as accurately and clearly as possible. Additionally, creative details can often be a pleasant addition to watches. That being said, over-the-top watches can be distasteful and loud. There is elegance in moderation and subtlety.
2) BELTS
Belts are the accessories that most working men need to wear almost daily. Despite their general simplicity, they help piece together the entirety of an outfit. Knowing and applying certain fashion hacks can help you wear these pieces properly. For formalwear, match your belt to your shoes. Coordinance is elemental to formalwear, and is appreciated in such context. Mismatching your belt and shoes is accepted, and often recommended in casual settings. Depending on the style of choice, belts can be used for practicality, formality or even as a fashion statement.
3) TIES
Most often than not, ties are reserved primarily for formalwear. Although it is true that ties are more appropriate for formal occasions, experimenting with textured and patterned ties can enhance your casual attire. Woolen ties are an appropriate choice for the in between, semi-formal outfits.
4) CUFFLINKS
A good pair of cufflinks is a great way to add a bit of debonair to your look. Not only are they aesthetical, but they also serve a useful purpose in holding the shirt cuffs together. Previously cufflinks were associated with the more formal looks, however in today’s time the variety of designs can allow them to be more casually implemented into your outfit as well.
5) RINGS
It is common practice for men to only wear the ring given to them on their wedding day. Perhaps this is because rings were culturally deemed to be more feminine items. This perception, though, is shortsighted. Luckily, recent breakthroughs in fashion have showcased the potential of rings in mens style. Large jewels and flashy rings tend to look tasteless and showy, and distract from the outfits effect. Simple and moderately bold pieces generally look the best with menswear.
6) GLASSES
When paired and worn properly, glasses can be the statement piece of an outfit. Fake glasses though, are tacky and unfashionable. If prescription glasses are not needed, switch to sunglasses. Recognizing your facial structure is important in deciding the style of glasses you wear. Rectangular glasses pair well with round faces, while round glasses complement structured faces with sharp features. This accessory will forever be symbolic and important in the realm of fashion.
