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College 2016 Style Guide: Young Black Man Edition

When you dress well, you feel better. When you feel better, you preform the daily tasks of life more proficiently. I also believe that style is a way to express, and show your individuality. Clothes don't make the man. But, clothes add a layer of personality, and your appearance is the first thing people pay attention too. Therefore, dressing well is extremely important to me.

In this blog post, I will show you some major keys on how to dress, or even if you know how to dress well, then I will give you some of my inside tips.


1. My personal style

To understand this type of style guide, I want to start by addressing my personal style. As a young black male, we are judged and unfairly seen in a negative light. To me, no matter what I wear, I will still be seen in whatever manner people want to see me as for that moment. However, I believe that when dressing well, we are extremely more confident and in control. Independent studies show, people who dress well are seen as more mature, put together, and different. So, I guess I trying to say that people can see me in whatever way they choose, but when I dress well I feel best. I feel that I am actively changing the false negative narratives, and showing younger brothers that you can be whoever you want to be. No matter where you're from.


I am going to start by showing you a example of how I dress.

2. What I pay for my clothes

What I pay for my clothing will surprise you. I pay less than $20 dollars per base outfit. Let me explain. These two brothers in the pictures paid a decent price for their clothes. However, I keep it lite. Let's start with outfit one.

I have a gray blazer I paid $6. 99 (six dollars and ninety-nine cents) for at a thrift store. A plain white shirt there will also cost you about $5 bucks, and a simple tie should be three dollars. If you already have the (basics) jeans ($20 dollars from Forever 21) and any pair of Church Shoes ($25 Payless Shoes). You have the same outfit for under $20 bucks. Now, even if you don't have the basics, you are looking at $55 dollars for a outfit. That is cheaper than a single pair of jeans from the Levi Store or a pair of shoes from Nike.


Now Let's look at Outfit No. 2

For outfit number two, I would probably pay even less. Even though outfit number one is more suited and booted, outfit two is more versatile and comfortable. Probably a little cheaper.

First, the stripped polo is probably $10 dollars (US) brand new from a Ross or T. J Maxx. I have seen and bought numerous stripped or solid polo's for 5 dollars or less at local thrift stores. The khaki chinos or dress pants should be twenty ($20 US from Forever 21 or T.J Maxx) brand new. I can't fit modern fit pants in my size at a thrift store, you may have luck though.

Last, the shoes are a simple substitute. You may not find those shoes on the dude in the example (outfit number two) anyway. However, that is why I say a simple dress shoe. A solid black or brown (no outrageous colors or designs) should pair well with almost any outfit. As long as the shoe is modern looking.

Examples of Modern looking and Cheap dress shoes that pair well with any outfit. I did not include the solid brown shoe from Outfit Number One. These types of shoes are easy to find. This is just examples of substitutes for the shoes in Outfit Option #2.



3. Have a Personal Style Mentor

My Personal Style Mentor

Mr. Ryan Clark




If you don't know how to dress, or just want a style guide, it is a great tip to watch someone who has style. Rather a sports analysis or a family member, find someone with great style, and quietly observe. For me, that person was Ryan Clark. Mr. Ryan Clark is a former safety for the Pittsburg Steelers and Current ESPN Analysis. His style and confidence is unmatched.

Now, you can choose your own personal style mentor or just freestyle. Just make sure the patterns and colors coordinate. Here are some style examples of Mr. Ryan Clark:

 

4. Find Treasures-

When shopping, you are not going to find everything in one day. Especially if your on a budget or simply looking for a certain look. So, enjoy the search. Find certain pieces that go well with what you already have (solid colors and nice pairings). If you want to build a outfit from the begging, remember to find coordinating looks. Also, make sure your colors match. There are various shades of black and navy blue (You will not believe how many times I messed up before knowing about color shades).

Anyway, find some great treasures and build your wardrobe. Belts and ties are also a great form of improving a basic or regular outfit into a great one. Buy a brown belt so you can tuck in your shirt (if you are wearing brown shoes), and where a tie that match your color in your outfit. Also, think about suspenders. But, anyway like I said, "Don't rush the process, and be strategic." If you don't come with a plan for looking nice, you will spend more money than you have too and the ideal look will not be "IDEAL"




5. Make Sure Your Clothes Fit Well and You Feel Well

A simple, but extremely important tip. Make sure your clothes fit well, and are fitted. Also, make sure you feel well in the clothes. Again , clothes don't make the man, but enhances him. I am going to leave you with some more examples of great style. If this helped in any way, share the article on social media. PEACE!!!








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