The Ultimate Guide To Men’s Accessories
By Jason Martin on Aug 27, 2023
The Ultimate Guide To Men’s Accessories
For the modern man, accessories are no longer just an afterthought - they are an essential way to polish off a look and show your sense of style. The right accessories can bring together and elevate even the simplest outfit.
Follow this guide to build your arsenal of men’s accessories. We’ll explore the essential pieces every man should own, along with tips on choosing the best options for your personal look.
Must-Have Accessories for Men
A watch is the quintessential accessory for any man. Choose a versatile timepiece with a leather strap or stainless steel band that suits your lifestyle. Everyday watches, dress watches, chronographs, dive watches – find the types you need and invest in quality. Look for water resistance, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and quality craftsmanship. Match metals to other accessories you wear.
Sunglasses add instant cool factor while protecting your eyes. Go for timeless silhouettes like aviators, wayfarers, or clubmasters. With plastic frames, look for propionate or acetate rather than cheaper polycarbonate. Glass lenses offer excellent clarity. Size frames based on your face shape.
A belt is crucial for finishing off a dressed-up look. Go for full-grain leather belts with sturdy buckles, in a width of at least 1 1/4 inches. Match the belt finish to your shoes. Keep it simple with no flashy embellishments.
Ditch the overstuffed wallet for a slim, minimal style that fits in a front pocket. Choose full-grain leather or metal wallets. Leather should be supple, not rigid. Check stitching is tight. Metal wallets should be solid aluminum plate. Go for a streamlined design.
Subtle jewelry like a bracelet, ring, or necklace makes a stylish statement. Opt for hypoallergenic metals like titanium, stainless steel, tungsten. Go for thin chains and pendants. Match metal tones across pieces.
A quality tie elevates a dress shirt. Build a collection of go-to solids and subtle patterns. Wool, silk, and cotton ties last. Always match tie width to lapel width. Clip-on ties are a shortcut for fast styling.
Professional Accessories
For the working man, accessories like briefcases, pens, and organizational tools exude professionalism.
Invest in a high-quality leather briefcase or messenger bag to hold important work items like a laptop, files, and more. Opt for a structured style with a shoulder strap for maximum utility. Look for features like padded laptop compartments, zippered inner pockets, and trolley sleeves to seamlessly transport your professional necessities.
An elegant pen makes a statement and allows you to execute important documents with polish. Metal pens with some substantive heft, such as those made from brass or stainless steel, give an air of precision. Consider having it engraved or monogrammed for an extra level of personalization.
Don't underestimate the impression a business card case can make. A dedicated card holder crafted from fine leather keeps important contacts protected yet accessible. Opt for a case that fits nicely in a pant pocket or bag. Stay organized and prepared for impromptu networking opportunities.
Cufflinks and pocket squares adorn the final touch of formal business attire. For cufflinks, choose simple, high-quality shapes and materials that quietly finish off your dress shirt. And a pocket square adds a splash of personality, color, and visual interest to enhance your business look.
Key Takeaways:
- Invest in versatile, quality accessories built to last.
- Accessories should coordinate not compete. Match leathers, metals, and colors.
- Choose accessories that communicate personal style. Use them to express yourself.
- Build your collection slowly over time. Start with foundations then add standouts.
- Keep accessories streamlined and functional. Focus on pieces that elevate your look.
Accessorizing doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these tips to build a collection of men’s accessories that takes your outfits to the next level.
