Springtime fashion poses dress problem for males

Let’s face it, there are simple, deeply embedded characteristics that separate men from women. As a result, society has come up with analogies to explain these differences, e.g. saying things like men are from Mars and women are from Venus.

I have become painfully aware of these differences in the world of fashion. Most women have an idea of colors, textures and other fashion items that are appealing to the eye. Women’s sensitivity and understanding of these factors can help them understand the basics of the fashion world.

Men, however, do not seem to have this luxury. Most males’ fashion sense is limited to the colors associated with their favorite sports teams. Therefore, men need fashion help, and lots of it.

In order to explain the basics of fashion, I will try to compare essential wardrobe facts in terms of stereotypically male terminology.

Springtime fashion is like the Final Four of basketball, during which every designer or team is trying to compete and show off their best skills. Therefore, you should do most of your shopping during this season when the clothes are hot. Remember that shopping is like a game where the goal is to find a few items to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Therefore, scope out the competition by visiting stores and taking note of prices and styles. Then, pick out a few items that are trendy enough to keep you up-to-date, but classic enough to wear for years. If you want some home-field advantage, get some help from a female friend.

Now that you know how to play the game, you need to know the rules for picking great clothes that match your personal style. Treat your wardrobe like a team, which needs a range of talent and abilities to achieve overall success. Having 20 black shirts is like having 20 quarterbacks and no linesmen. Invest in colors you typically wouldn’t buy. Aside from colors, tryout different thicknesses and textures. For example, purchase heavy and lightweight sweatshirts, cotton and linen shirts and shirts with long and short sleeves. Variety is the key to staying strong all season long, whether in fashion or in sports.

Finally, do not be afraid to take risks. The biggest mistake I see men make is in wearing clothes that are too simple. Beef up your uniform by layering sweaters over shirts or jackets on top of sweatshirts. Just like detailing a car will set it apart from stock cars in performance and appearance, the same goes for fashion. Upgrade your clothes by investing in ripped jeans, or cool stitching that turn a boring outfit into an interesting one.

Now, you are free agents of design and you must fight your way through the fashion world.