Follow these 25 ways to become drop-dead stylish (and stay that way!)
1. Lay Out Your Clothing The Night Before
Mornings are hard enough to get the kids out the door, get yourself ready and fight traffic to work.
There are enough decisions to make in a day… so why waste a minute debating on gray vs. blue, or striped vs. solid?
What to wear should NOT be the first thing you have to think about in the morning. So lay everything out so you can just grab and go.
2. Know How To Properly Wear A Tie
Neckties are powerful items. Maybe you’ve mastered how to tie the perfect knot for work. You feel really good in your tie – what else is missing?
All that’s left is a little dimple found under the knot. This slight fold of fabric adds depth and edge to your whole outfit – especially for elegant ties.
The best styles enhance details in the subtlest ways. It comes down to things like the brand of your necktie. Are you going for a classy and refined look? Then you'll love these quality silk ties offered by The Dark Knot. There's a wide collection to choose which one will best suit your look.
3. Always Keep Your Shirt Tucked In
Ever seen that guy who has to tuck his shirt in 10 times a day… and distract everyone by sticking his hand down his pants? Yeah – don't be that guy.
When I was in the military, I discovered shirt garters – which saved my life whenever I had to go on forced marches. These quality shirt stays will keep your shirt in place ALL DAY no matter what.
These days you'll find shirt stays/garters extremely useful whenever you're rushing to work or sitting down every day.
Enough of those unpleasant, awkward moments that feel like the adult type of wedgies. Read how to help your shirts stay put all the time.
4. Own An Indestructible Dopp Kit
Packing for travel can be a nightmare – especially when it comes to toiletries. Should you just suck it up if your shampoo leaks onto your clothes while traveling? No.
Every guy needs a rubber dopp kit to store liquids. It’s the best way to guarantee no colored clothing when you open your bag after the flight. But that little bag should also look stylish – we are stylish men, after all…
That's what I love about the Wurkin Stiffs Doppel Bags. They do their job extremely well while still being a cool-looking accessory. They're made of 100% silicone and come in unique colors like red, navy, silver and black.
5. Buy Core Pieces, Not Outfits
Do you ever walk into a store and pay close attention to the mannequins? All the clothes they show off have been decided for them.
Do you get the urge to buy a whole mannequin’s outfit? No – you buy things piece by piece. You’re not just aiming for one specific style.
The key to smart shopping is to buy core pieces. These are essential items which work well for interchangeable looks. They determine the factors of all other clothes – fabric, color, pattern, texture, etc.
6. Know Your Measurements
As good as Chris Hemsworth looks in his red carpet ensemble, most of us, unfortunately, can’t wear those exact same clothes and get the same results. But you can pull off a Hollywood type of look with another set of pieces.
The trick is to know and embrace your body measurements. These are important when you walk into any clothing store or tailoring shop.
Remember that fit is every stylish man’s best friend. Your body deserves the best fit.
7. Own A Shoeshine Box
Do you enjoy doing last-minute shoe shining before big events? It’s quite a stressful thing. You have to rush it so only half the job is done. And semi-polished footwear doesn't help your overall look.
I suggest getting a shoeshine box. It’s always there to remind you about polishing shoes – a deep shine once a week, a light shine after each wear. Every tool inside will be ready WHEN you need it. So use this box to make shoe shining a top priority.
8. Iron At Least 4 Shirts At A Time
I know what you’re thinking. Ironing shirts is unpleasant, even though it’s important. There’s really no way to turn it into something enjoyable. But hey – there IS a way to minimize the hassle of it.
You can speed things up by taking a batch of 4 shirts for you to spread out during a 3-minute setup time. This is a more efficient way of doing the job. You’ll still end up having nice shirts ready whenever you need them.
9. Care About Skin Care & Wash Your Face Twice A Day
Don't wait until you wake up at 40 and notice premature signs of aging. Your skin is meant to be cared for… it is, after all, the largest organ on your body. Yet it’s also the most neglected one.
If you haven’t already done so, start washing your face regularly. Don’t allow the dirt from your clothes, hands and the air around you to mess with the youthful glow you deserve. Your future self will thank you for starting a consistent skin care routine right now.
10. Treat Stains ASAP
Imagine walking into a room in your best outfit… only to have it ruined by a distinct stain you didn’t see beforehand.
Sadly you can't take the humiliation off the equation. The damage has been done.
Like a number of things in life, stains cannot wait. Treat any clothing stains immediately (or at the earliest appropriate time) or they can ruin your clothing.
Also, do NOT apply heat on the stain or it’ll set it in the fabric (a.k.a. don't throw it in the dryer).
11. Buy Less Clothing, But More Value
I don’t think any guy needs a massive amount of clothes regardless of how much he makes (unless he’s in the fashion industry). Does quantity make you more stylish? Absolutely not! The perfect clothes are NOT based on price – but value.
Value has everything to do with how often you wear something, plus how happy and confident it makes you feel. Fit plays a big role – so does the quality of fabric. Spend your money on the BEST stuff – not the most expensive.
12. Don't Forget About Fragrance
Isn’t it funny how a lot of things look even better when they smell nice? Think of the leather seats of your brand new car… or newly polished shoes. A good scent helps something or someone maximize attractiveness.
So to take your style to another level, you need to figure out the right types of fragrance to use. This can double your chances of getting women to approach you – and even give you their number!
13. When In Doubt, Keep Your Outfit Simple
You may find yourself in situations where you’re trying to impress your boss or the lady on a first date.
You’re thinking this color works better… or maybe it’s too showy… or maybe you’re overanalyzing.
I would say in this case – just play it safe. Choose a simple outfit that’s appropriate for the event and has the fit, fabric and function in check. Often times less is really more.
14. If You Go Tieless, Make Sure The Collar Is Strong
You don’t want to be that guy in a wedding shot or company photo whose shirt looks a bit “off.” A weak placket that makes your shirt look flimsy? Yep – that doesn’t flatter anybody.
Strong collars frame your face. That’s why I love using collar stays. They keep your collars in their best form 24/7. You've got to hand it to Wurkin Stiffs. They're the reason we don't have to keep buying new shirts just for a decent collar!
15. Learn To Pack Light & Interchangeable
Do you overpack for trips? Most of us tend to. And it might be because we see a potential need for every chosen item – like better to be safe than sorry. But overpacking still sucks!
So learn how to pick out clothes that allow for unlimited combinations. These are pieces that work well with one another, which you can easily mix and match. Check this guide on interchangeable wardrobes.
16. Systemize Dressing Well
I know the feeling of dressing up for a big event (or just another day at work) like it’s a damn chore. Are you overwhelmed by all the “rules” of good style? Don’t be – you just need a good system.
It’s a matter of certain style equations. Understand how fit, fabric, function, color and pattern interact – then break your wardrobe into “groups” based on compatibility. Use categories like classic colors, patterns and non-patterns, formal clothes, etc. This saves lots of mental energy whenever you get dressed.
17. Fit, Fit & Fit
Do you ever see buff guys killing it with their outfits – and feel like a couch potato who needs more gym time?
Don’t jump to conclusions! First, consider how clothes fit them perfectly.
Fit applies to men of ALL sizes. You don’t need a six-pack or bulging biceps – you only have to know what best suits your body type. Anyone who incorporates the right fit can look like a stud.
18. Beware Of Sales
Yes, I know how tempting sales can be. They welcome the thought of spending the “extra money” you have – who knows if prices will be that low again?
But hold on – you don’t actually need what you might buy.
That’s why I say it’s best to avoid sales – especially when you’re alone and without a plan. It’s better to have someone around when you’re shopping. They can offer opinions, suggestions and different perspectives on things.
19. Dress Boots Will Elevate Your Casual Outfit
Isn’t it a bummer when you put on some nice leather shoes and go out – only to see the other guys wearing similar shoes? And then everyone looks good but no one stands out? Nothing to be proud of.
But with dress boots – it’s a totally different story. Dress boots can amp up your casual style and heighten your rugged, masculine appeal. So consider investing in a great pair of these.
20. A Little Overdressed Is Always Better Than Underdressed
There’s a saying that the true winners in life aren’t those who never fail – but those who never quit. And I think that applies to any guy who tries to look sharp, but ends up a bit overdressed.
Slightly overdressing isn’t a failure in itself – it’s just missing the bull’s eye. And that’s okay. It's better than completely missing the mark (a.k.a. underdressing). You committed to the goal of being stylish, which is something that underdressing never shows.
*Note* Don't overdo overdressing. There comes a point where it becomes disrespectful to the hosts, and it looks like you're trying too hard.
21. Always Pay Attention To The Details…Because She Does
You can own every type of shirt and trouser in men’s fashion – but these only take you so far.
If you want that woman at the bar to engage with you, or your boss to take you more seriously… embrace the small details.
Watches, cuff links, pocket squares and lapel pins are some of the best accessories around. They represent status & intention – that you’ve earned people’s respect and experienced success.
Wear them confidently and feel twice as powerful anywhere you go.
22. Ditch The Disposable Razor & Upgrade To A Straight Or Safety Razor
You might be fine with disposable and cartridge razors – but for how much longer are you going to be lucky? How long before one of them fails or gives you a nasty cut?
I definitely recommend an upgrade. A straight or safety razor is a pretty good product – you can use it a lot. Consider the long-term benefits of a quality razor.
23. Don't Be Afraid To Break The Leather & Metal Matching Rules
I believe when it comes to leather and metal, the rules shouldn’t be rigid. Think about it – aren’t these elements there to help you stand out? They bring out individuality. The rules are really just guidelines.
If you’re wearing cowboy leather boots, don’t limit yourself to cowboy-like jackets. Feel free to try suede or a black color. The same goes for bracelets, watches and belts – there's no need to make them “themed.” If it’s more you – it’s okay to bend the rules.
We have our own favorite brands. Some of them we don't mind seeing big logos occupying the shirt space. Or maybe the logo size works for that particular t-shirt.
But remember – you’re NOT a walking ad.
Avoid any tees that have a huge logo popping out. Not only can it steal the attention away from you – it can turn off people because it looks gimmicky. This is one style risk you don’t want to take.
25. Always Sharpen Your Sword
As cliché as it sounds, practice makes perfect. Make it a habit taking small steps every day to improve yourself.
Read up and learn more about men's fashion. Nobody's style gets sharper overnight – mine didn't.
How about studying style from the very basics? I'm happy to suggest these online courses and e-books so you'll know where to start.
I'm Antonio Centeno, the founder of RMRS. I'm a former Marine Corps Officer with a BA in Evolutionary Biology and Philosophy (Cornell College 98') and an MBA from The University Of Texas at Austin (07'). I studied the Science of Style in London, Hong Kong, and Bangkok and have created over 5000 videos/ articles to help men dress better. Click here to discover more about me and our mission here at RMRS.
Ready to earn more money and command respect with the right clothing? Want to start dressing sharp today? Click here to discover The Style System , the BEST Professional Style Course on the planet!
