Smart Casual Dressing for Men

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Could you tell me if say a polo shirt with a white T underneath is in or out? I'm 23 in college. Also, what shoes are in? What Tees should I get other than white? When is it appropriate to wear athletic shoes? Can I wear them with khakis? What shoes would you like to see on a guy...also what clothes? I really don't know how to match up clothes. I have brown eyes if that helps. I like the casual look, but want to look sharp for a date of event.

A polo shirt with a crisp white T-shirt underneath is a classic look, and definitely in. Just don't flip the collar up. ;)

As for shoes, men's styles tend to be much more classic, and thus more enduring, than women's--most of which have a shelf life of a season or three. If you're looking for a more cutting edge look, I would suggest looking at what's currently available at Kenneth Cole (his styles are always cutting edge, and have the added benefit of enduring style--a tough line to walk, but he does it well!). You might also visit Banana Republic, either at the mall or online.

As for what I like to see on a guy, the answer to that is as broad-ranging as guys themselves. The short answer is what you're comfortable in, because when you feel good in something, the confidence this breeds emanates from you, and women pick up on it. That said, some favorite and very in looks are mock turtlenecks (they do a great job of showing off a man's throat, chest, and shoulders), and flat-front pants.

For advice on matching up clothes, visit your favorite stores and ask for help matching outfits--or ask a trusted female friend to help you put some outfits together. As you put things together, consider the fabric. Is it casual, or dressy, or rugged? Find a shirt and shoes that have the same feel, and chances are your outfits will work.

Athletic shoes are so much an accepted part of life that you can wear them practically anywhere. I say practically, because while Cybill Shepherd wore hers with a formal gown to an awards ceremony some years ago, it looked awful. Ditto that horrible corporate look of the mid-80s, when women would wear athletic shoes with their suits for their commutes to work.

My advice is that you can wear your athletic shoes with anything casual. They'll look best with jeans, but you can wear them with casual pants, like cargo pants or khakis, or with casual shorts. Don't wear them with dress pants, suits, tuxedos, or anything dressy, because it won't look right.

Make sure your athletic shoes are neat and in good condition, too--battered, dirty ones ruin even the most casual looks.

As for whether your polo shirt should be tucked in or not, either is fine,
depending on what makes you comfortable. If you're looking for a
guideline, tuck it in if the rest of your outfit is a little neater or
dressier, and wear it untucked for a more laid-back, casual feel.

I hope this is helpful to you--good luck! And remember--the most important thing about how you dress is how YOU feel about it, because your comfort level shows on your face. If you wear something and don't feel good in it, get rid of it.

Best Regards,
Kat