Grads and Dads Pt 2

We’ve covered grads and now it’s on to DADS! I hope that you all had a lovely weekend celebrating the dads in your life.

Weeks after starting my blog, I received a note from a local radio station DJ asking if I would write about men’s fashion. I have to admit that I wasn’t sure where to start. It was about that same time that Oprah did men’s makeovers and the term “Dad Jeans” became almost as popular as “Mom Jeans.” Enjoy the before/after photos from that show. Note the significant differences in fit!

The networking groups I attend to promote my styling business are often dominated by men in the insurance and mortgage business. They ask… “Do you provide the same type of service for men?” I feel so comfortable helping women, yet somewhat intimidated by the thought of styling men. In reality, men are probably easier to work with–less issues and hangups than all of us women. A client recently asked me if I would help with her husband’s closet. Always up for a challenge I told her YES!

First, I consulted the founder of Holobi where I received my training. She plans to add stylist training for men in the next year. I’m excited. I think there is a market for it and hope to add that in 2011.

Next, I consulted my husband who was raised in a very “fashion forward” family. In college he worked in the men’s suit department at Dillard’s. In fact, when we met, he was probably more fashion conscious than I was. He often found clothing for me and had a different eye which encouraged me to step outside my box. He has not kept up every retail trend, but I believe it’s fair to say that he still knows how to dress! I have suggested that we tag team to help men who want a closet makeover and personal shopping. He’s still thinking on that one. In the mean time, he gets his fashion fix by buying used men’s shoes at Goodwill (some hardly worn) and selling them on E-bay. His selection varies week to week so check it out here. His seller name is Northwest Shoes where you’ll find him when searching under the E-bay community.

Now it’s time for all of you to weigh in. Does your husband need a closet makeover? Does he hate to shop and hasn’t been in a store in years? Down the road, I’m considering offering a fashion makeover giveaway for men. What do you think?

With my husband and I collaborating, we came up with these tips. We only scratched the surface trying to highlight the priorities. If the man in your life is breaking any rules, go easy and start with one thing at a time.

1. It must fit!! No differences here between men & women. Just as women hide behind baggy clothes, men do the same thing. Fit is crucial especially for jeans. It can take off pounds and years! By the same token, pleats add pounds. You probably know this, but pleated khaki Dockers need to go!

2. Do not be afraid of color and pattern. Many men stick with the drab dull colors because they are afraid color is feminine. Step out of the box gradually adding a splash of color or pattern.

3. Observe and Copy! This rule also applies to men and women. I say it all the time. When you see someone well dressed, take note of what you like and make it your own.

4. Take care of your clothes and shoes. When you think of what image you want to present there is nothing that makes a stronger negative statement than clothes that are pilled, stained or worn. My husband is a stickler for shoe polishing. Men’s shoes are expensive and can last for years if they are taken care of. Worn, unpolished shoes can ruin a look very quickly.

5. Your clothes must fit your lifestyle. Evaluate your clothing needs based on the typical week. I tend to ignore the generic lists: “Ten Pieces Every Wardrobe Needs” because they are too general and do not take individual jobs and lifestyles into consideration.

Well, it’s only a start. I’ll be curious to know your opinions on men’s fashion and if you would like more info on the subject!