Men & Style (1)

I’m sometimes asked about whether I run workshops for men; the simple answer is No. I choose to focus on women’s style, I like working with and helping women (besides, most guys I know aren’t that interested).

Having said that, I had one male attend a small group workshop and we had a great time identifying his personal style - Colours, Style Personality etc. What a difference! Apparel shopping is now quick and easy, and very successful for him.

Usually, the query is from a woman wanting to help the man in her life. Well, the style basics for his personal style are very similar to her own.

Start with determining which Colours compliment him. Is it the warm, yellow-based colours or the cool, blue-based shades? Can he wear the clear, bright, vivid tones or do they overwhelm him? We want to see him first, not the colour. Do the muted, smokey hues work better?

Is there a difference between men’s seasonal Colours and women’s? Yes and No. Most Kiwi males – even if the colour suits – wouldn’t wear some of the shades in women’s seasonal swatches eg Winter’s bright pink. Keep to the basics: yellow-based or blue-based, clear and vivid or muted and smokey.

These days most budgets require wardrobes that co-ordinate well, and are efficient rather than extensive. The simplest way to achieve this is to build ensembles around a base of neutrals that (a) flatter, (b) work well together and (c) harmonise with all other colours worn.

Second step: what’s his Style Personality? The four main types I refer to in my workshops are Classic-Chic, Feminine-Romantic, Natural-Casual, and Exotic-Expressive. (Just alter the terms a bit to suit a guy ie delete ‘chic’ and ‘feminine’). Remember one type usually dominates, with another as a secondary influence.

Don’t confuse dressing appropriately for the occasion with his Style Personality. Keep in mind we need clothes for casual (at home, relaxing), smart (business, going out) and dressy (formal events, weddings, etc)

Kiwis tend to live a casual life-style with few formal affairs. Many women bewail the lack of opportunities to dress up. In some circles it’s even acceptable to wear jeans to weddings, and many don’t own a smart jacket.

I wrote the last sentence about males but horrors! I realise it applies to women too.