The Uniform, Part 1

The uniform.  Everybody has one.  I have one.  I don't care to admit it, but I definitely do.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no one single "uniform" for men.  The uniform is a combination that for some reason or another, the wearer has decided has worked, works, and will continue to work for them until the end of time.  And in many cases, this is completely true.

However, a quickly thrown-together uniform that lacks cohesion is almost as bad as leaving in sweats and a tee shirt.  So I'm going to give you a few tips on how to refine your uniform!

Take for example, a very basic and popular uniform for clubs, bars, and casual social events.  Dark dress shoes such as Oxfords, dark wash jeans and a button-up shirt.  This is an ensemble that looks good as well as being safe, quick and easy.

Refining this uniform:

-Okay, you've got the shoes.  Take a moment to make sure you have on the right socks!  Nothing looks goofier than white, athletic ankle socks with dress shoes.  I personally like to make a statement with my socks, so I frequently go with patterned argyle socks with a dominant color that coordinates with my outfit, but with enough pattern that it breaks up monotony.

-Dark wash jeans?  Check.  I know you're not planning on leaving the house without a belt, right?  Right.  Also, think about what you need when you're out, and figure out slimmer ways to carry it in your pockets.  Consider a money clip with just your essentials as an alternative to a bulky wallet.

-Finally, we're at the shirt.  This is where I see a lot of people go wrong.  First, the shirt doesn't need to be pressed and creased, but it shouldn't be wrinkly, unless it's linen.  In which case, bold choice, I approve.  Don't tuck your shirt into jeans; you've already made the choice to go casual, so opt for a fitted shirt that can be worn untucked.  An age old question regards how many buttons to undo.  The correct answer is almost always "two".  If you're wearing a tie, make sure it's loose, and only undo the top button.  Undershirts are a tricky area, and in my opinion, are unnecessary, unless you're wearing a thin, lightweight white shirt.  Which is a poor choice to begin with.  Thankfully, we live in a day and age where no matter what your chest situation is, it's probably fine.  Tan or no, hairy or shaved, forgoing the undershirt and letting a little bit of chest show is always acceptable, unless you're a veritable Sasquatch.  Then consider going with the aforementioned loose tie with one button.

Next post: The Uniform, Part 2