I get it.
You want to change things up…
Maybe try out a trend.
But you're hesitant because you don't want to look like a FOOL.
So how do you add some spice to your wardrobe…
…without everyone losing their minds about it?
This article will give you 10 ways to experiment with almost zero risk.
Now notice I said, “almost no risk“…
Everything in life has a degree of risk – but I minimized it by making these tips:
- Inexpensive
- Reversible
- Easy To Execute
That way if you try it and don't like it? No harm, no foul.
This post was brought to you by Anson Belt & Buckle. My favorite no risk experiment? A fun belt.
The ones I show in the video (with interchangeable belt buckles & straps) are from Anson.
A father & son run company that I have known for 8 years (yes eight).
I love being able to grow these types of relationships with innovative, problem-solving entrepreneurs.
Click Here To Discover Anson Belt & Buckle
1. Clothing With A Closer Fit
A lot of times when you try on something that feels uncomfortable, it’s only a temporary feeling. That happened to me when I took my sister’s suggestion and bought a well-fitted pair of jeans. I figured I could return it within the timeframe if it just didn’t work. But in a couple days I got used to them and they became awesome to wear.
A closer fit helps men look more masculine. Oversized clothing doesn’t complement the average man. It downplays muscle tone and makes small guys scrawnier. But this doesn’t mean switching from XL to S! I’m talking about a rational sizing down where the only issue could be some slight discomfort.
See where you can go slim fit while still having about 12cm added to the area (chest, waist or hip measurement) to stay comfortable. It’s not such a bad idea – especially for an item you bought at a store with a great return policy.
2. Shirt Patterns
A different pattern for a shirt isn’t such a drastic change. The idea is certain patterns together with certain colors create an excellent piece of clothing.
It’s not about stuffing your closet with shirts of all kinds of patterns. It’s about finding one that you like and taking it from there.
In theory any guy can wear whatever pattern he wants. The trick is to discover which ones will make you look your best. Factors like height and body type should be taken into consideration. You also need to know where you intend to use that particular shirt – since not all patterns work in professional settings. And patterns should never be the same for a shirt and a tie in one outfit.
Start small when experimenting with pattern. You may want to read this useful guide on the different patterns of fabric before buying anything. It’s only when you’ve found the right one that you get an expensive custom shirt made.
3. Belts & Buckles
We know that normal-looking belts are the right kinds for work and formal occasions. But when it comes to casual – it’s not the worst thing to explore different belt straps and buckles. In fact the chances of getting a belt that ruins the whole outfit are pretty low.
A belt can be classified as accent which goes with the rest of your clothes for a coordinated look, or centerpiece which provides contrast and gets you more attention. You can try having both styles in your collection and maybe change up the buckles. See whether gold, brass, and silver are colors that work for you.
The good news is we have companies today that make it easy (and cheap!) to play around with belt styles. Anson Belt & Buckle is one that I highly recommend. Their belts are adjustable by every 1/4 of an inch. So you can enjoy a perfect fit anytime – even when you’ve gained or lost a few pounds.
Anson’s belts are also designed with an interchangeable system which makes traditional belts with holes look ancient. The straps and buckles are detachable so you can mix and match multiple kinds. This means you can get a perfect combination in just a matter of seconds.
4. Glasses
Here I think the best approach is to spend more time at optical stores. Maybe you won’t try on every single pair of glasses or shades but you can narrow down your options. Perhaps your current pair has a thin frame and you’ve never tried a thicker one. Or you’re leaning towards a certain tint. The important thing is you’ve visualized what you’re looking for.
For sunglasses you want to first know about the different frame styles – Wayfarer, Aviator etc. – as well as different materials before you go experimenting. This informative article on buying sunglasses serves as a perfect guide.
5. Hairstyle
You might think you’ll have to make a trip to the barbershop just to change your hairstyle. But that isn’t necessary. You can comb it differently in the morning – maybe slick it all back or add a side part. The risk involved here is a near zero because it’s easy to switch it back to your normal ‘do.
What can this lead to? There’s an opportunity to take your hair in a different direction. You might end up with a new style that highlights your personality or improves the way you’re perceived. So don't underestimate the power of good hair! And if you’re wondering where to even begin with yours, listen to this beginner's guide to hair podcast.
6. Hair Products
So most guys might be okay with their hair gel or wax and think “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” But a good number aren’t aware of different products that can benefit them in the smallest ways. What’s the harm in trying a similar product that others use? Nothing. If you try one that doesn’t turn out so well – simply stop using it.
You can try a spray with a stronger holding power. Or a shine product that reflects more light. Or another type of brush which makes your hair even straighter/curlier than it normally is. Whatever the case it’s good to find out what works and what doesn’t. Check out this article to learn more about hair products.
7. Jewelry
With so many jewelry options out there – it’s impossible not to find an inexpensive piece that can suit your style. I have one friend who’s replaced all the buttons of his dress shirt with cufflinks.
I know men who wear bracelets that give them a signature look. Not all guys can rock a bracelet well but if you're willing to try, you might find good deals on sites like eBay.
And then we have classic watches with interchangeable leather straps – which every gent should consider getting.
8. Socks
You’ll notice that I’ve left shoes out of this list. I of all people know it’s important to invest in excellent footwear. Shoes shouldn’t be bought or changed just for the sake of trying something new or interesting.
But socks are a totally different story. They’re the least conspicuous articles of clothing whenever you’re wearing pants. So if you feel like it, go experiment with brighter colors or alternative patterns. How often would someone notice and make a comment about them? Occasionally. And how cheap are they? Incredibly cheap.
9. The 15-Item Limit
Try making it through an entire month wearing only 15 of your most stylish pieces of clothing. You’ll probably end up realizing the following:
- You require fewer items in your wardrobe at any given time
- You should focus on spending more for better quality on specific kinds of clothes
- You have a bunch of stuff that’s better off donated to people who need them more
10. Thrift Shopping
There’s no better haven for super cheap clothing than the thrift store. All the items come from a wide range of time periods, which means they’re not exactly “boxed” in current fashion trends. So be adventurous!
Refer to the information here at Real Men Real Style to help you discover what’s usable in a thrift store. And keep in mind that whatever you buy – even if it ends up only being worn once in a while – is an act of charity. So there’s no reason to feel guilty about the money you spent.
This post was brought to you by Anson Belt & Buckle. My favorite no risk experiment? A fun belt.
The ones I show in the video (with interchangeable belt buckles & straps) are from Anson.
A father & son run company that I have known for 8 years (yes eight).
I love being able to grow these types of relationships with innovative, problem-solving entrepreneurs.