March 13, 2013

The Dapper Man: Spring Into Fashion

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Spring break is just around the corner, and with it comes a brand new season. Spring not only elicits joyful howls from everyone on campus, but also the induction of beautiful spring fashion. Lucky for us, spring is an incredibly versatile season for fashion because it’s a transient season between the absolute, raw coldness of winter and the blistering, sultry sun of summer.

The end of March through May sees temperature highs well into the 50s and 60s. This means spring is at the correct temperature for it to be appropriate to wear layers and long sleeves one day, and shorts and a tee the next. Fashion during the spring is not restricted like in winter (when we have to bundle up every day) or summer (when we have to dress sparingly every day), so enjoy it while it lasts! Here are some guidelines to make the most out of this stylish time of year:

Warm Colors

Warmer temperatures mean warmer colors. The exceptionally standout colors of this season are definitely white, salmon (or coral), navy blue, tan, rust, mint and yes, guys, even pink. This outfit is certainly a good indication of what a strong spring outfit looks like. Gray and black are still completely appropriate choices for matching colors, but try to reduce the use of these darker colors due to the shift from cruel winter to balmy spring. White and tan are both welcome replacements to gray and black because white and tan match well with every color and still maintain a brighter, lighter feel.

Blazers

Blazers are always a good idea. Always. Girls love them on guys; they are extremely classy and chic when dressed down with some jeans and a casual shirt, or dressed up with a dress shirt and tie. To look like a smart, modern man, blazers are a no-brainer. They are intensely trendsetting, and I’ve gotten at least three compliments a day whenever I wear a blazer. They’re just so unique when compared to the ho-hum conventions of clothes most guys wear. Blazers are also a perfect fit for the spring because they are technically jackets, but they are lightweight and aren’t sweltering. I mean, just look at this guy! Blazers make an outfit.

Design Shirts

There are so many different shirt patterns to choose from, I almost don’t know where to start. Well, first of all, plain, one-colored collared shirts and tees are always great because of their multifaceted nature. Gingham and plaid shirts spice things up substantially as well, and if you can manage to find one of these shirts with three complementary colors instead of two, then more power to you. Chambray and denim shirts keep things nice and leisurely while still looking cool. Pairing these collared shirts with a skinny tie or a bowtie elevates the outfit to a business-casual look, which impresses more than you would think. Whatever collared shirt you decide to wear, rolling up your sleeves is a subtle, yet attractive variation on just wearing the sleeves down.

Shoes

What I’ve been seeing on people’s feet around campus lately are boat shoes and chukkas. Personally, I don’t like chukkas because they look too raggedy and simple, but they do seem to look stylish on many people. Shoes can easily ruin an outfit by clashing colors, but chukkas usually come come in the classic tan/brown color that complement so many outfits. Boat shoes, on the other hand, I love. The white bottoms and rope-like design make for an irresistible style. Many students on campus flaunt their boat shoes from the famous Sperrys, a shoe company that makes high-end boat shoes. Boat shoes, like blazers, can be worn dressed down or up, and look good with pants or shorts. Boat shoes can even be worn without socks!

So, when you’re out partying, traveling the world, or just going home this spring break, keep it dapper.

Original Author: Eric Ding