Secrets of male model: Fashion skilled JOANNE HEGARTY’s12-step information
Two things I could never do. First, share a wardrobe with my significant other, as this space is my happy place and I don’t need anyone else rummaging around in there. I have a whole system that leads to inner peace. Second, stand back while the man in my life (this is the men’s issue after all) dresses decrepitly.
If my latter point chimes with you, here are my tips to help your other half look his best, and also some of the pitfalls he should avoid as he gets older.
Feel free to subtly pass these on – or, indeed, unsubtly shove them under his nose!
Jacket, Cos. Trousers, Toteme. Bag, The Row
The looks to retire
- Double denim. This is a contentious issue and I have met men who work in TV who think double denim is a great look. And it is – in your 20s and 30s. Equally contentious are T-shirts with motifs such as favourite rock bands or holiday destinations. These are cute on children, not on grown-ups.
- The wrong shoes. It must be smart footwear for suits; open-toe sliders for shorts; trainers for casual looks such as jeans; and suede or leather loafers for the rest.
- Hoodies – they are a no-no! The same goes for leather jackets, biker boots and anoraks.
- Backpacks or bum bags. These should never be permitted unless you are actually hiking.
- Sportswear needs to be restricted to exercise, too. Or possibly sporting events.
The pieces to rock
- A polo shirt instead of a T-shirt instantly elevates jeans.
- For a dinner date, a white shirt with a pair of slacks and loafers never fails.
- Come autumn, a blazer with an open-neck shirt and chinos or denims is très chic, while a cosy selection of knitwear for winter looks attractive and sleek.
- Good quality socks are a must – bin any with holes.
- While trends come and go, lapels widen and narrow, trousers flare then taper, an expertly tailored dark suit never gets old.
- Take pride in your grooming. Look after your skin, teeth and hair. Women do, so should you!
- When shopping, it pays not only to think quality over quantity but also to take care picking the right size and fit – there’s no point wasting money on something that won’t flatter your shape.
Now sit back and watch as he enjoys his new stylish life. It will affect his happiness more than you think.
Cashmere jumper, £155, cos.com
YOU OLD SOFTIE
Nothing says autumn like a cashmere knit. This grey one will go with everything in his wardrobe and, teamed with a white tee underneath, will brighten his complexion.
Polo shirt, £39.95, massimodutti.com
HELLO POLO!
This chic style from Massimo Dutti, in on-trend olive green, is a no-brainer. Goodbye old T-shirts!
SPOTTED
George Clooney at the recent Venice Film Festival working the same look he’s done for the past 20 years – his signature grey suit, fitted to perfection. In doing so he proves that wearing something on repeat isn’t boring. In fact, it’s the opposite – stylish and chic. If it isn’t broken…
