Why Details Matter: Elevating Your Look from Good to Great
Blending in can be useful at times, like when going through TSA screening or dealing with the IRS; you don't want to draw attention to yourself. However, there are moments when it’s better to stand out, such as during a performance review where you want to be noticed for both your results and attention to detail. This idea extends to personal style as well; small touches, like matching your watch with an interesting strap, can show sophistication. Before overhauling your wardrobe, consider starting with subtle improvements.
Fit is Key
Whether your style is formal, semi-formal, or smart casual, ensure your clothes fit well by consulting a tailor. No amount of accessories can make up for poor-fitting clothes. Properly hemmed trousers and shirts that match your silhouette are the bare minimum. Often times a skilled tailor can reform or resurrect a piece of clothing you had exiled to the DNF pile. Better quality items lend themselves to being repaired or serviced over time- think shoes that can be re-crafted rather than recycled. This approach provides the right foundation upon which you can build your personal style.
A Certain Je ne sais quoi
Subtle changes are the hallmarks of good taste and great style. The most stylish people rarely have one standout article of clothing, but rather focus on the whole ensemble, so no lone feature steals the spotlight. As expected, the French have a phrase to describe this phenomenon: je ne sais quoi. Literally translated it means, “I don’t know what”. The actual meaning is to have an elusive quality that cannot be easily named. People can’t put their finger on it, but they recognize it. So instead of opting for a bold new shirt color, start by adding a pocket square. Or a jaunty pair of socks. Something incremental and tasteful. Yes, our watch straps fall within this category, naturally. Marginal gains, people. If you’re still unsure, ask someone you trust for sartorial advice before you commit.
Learn the Rules Before You Break Them
Picasso was able to usher in a revolutionary style of painting figures with Cubism. But before he could enter the vanguard, he had already mastered traditional painting techniques and compositions when he was a young pupil. Same applies for some of the most legendary Jazz musicians. Alas, most of us can only marvel at the feats of such artists. But we can freely adopt the lesson they offer. To master style, start with the basics. Understand color theory to know which colors work well together and which do not, based on your preferences. Experiment with textures in your wardrobe just like you do with colors, mixing fabrics to find the best combinations. Visit reputable clothing stores to see how they arrange outfits, and ask salespeople for help if needed. You can adopt a complete look or draw inspiration from it to combine similar pieces you already have.
The Great Fear
Many people fear being seen as “trying too hard” when making changes. However, they should be more concerned about missing out on new opportunities and remaining unnoticed. The solution is to embrace change in an evolutionary way. Choosing quality accessories and using them well shows confidence and ambition, helping you stand out rather than blend into the background.