Out with the old and in with the new! Let’s wage war against conformity, and by that I mean take a good hard look at a few of our clothing staples – boat shoes, button ups and polos. Frankly they’ve gotten boring. I already hear my friends:
“What’s wrong with the way I dress?”
“CP you wear Sperry’s all the time…don’t forget your roots man!”
“The Chris I know wore polos and gym shorts…at the same time” (no joke, this was my thing)
“You’re still writing this blog?” (Yes. Yes I am.)
But don’t get me wrong, I am still an advocate for all of my old fraternity prep gear. It’s a classic look that you can’t go wrong with. It’s the uniform I naturally settled into and is safe. Yet, sometimes I feel like everyone around me is wearing the same thing and I get bored with it. To stand out a bit more, consider these second string sleepers.
This: Penny Loafers
Not That: Boat Shoes
Now I know that I am shaking the foundation here, but bear with me (and possibly crack a beer for your own good). Boat shoes have taken men’s style by storm, as they should because they look good with just about anything. However, there comes a point where they seem more collegiate and should probably be thrown out by the hazmat crew (you know exactly what I mean). Penny loafers essentially get you the same look with a little more polish. It’s time to graduate the Sperrys.
These cognac loafers from Banana Republic are a great deal and can be found here. Use code BRSPRING for 40% off.
This: Linen Shirt
Not That: Classic ‘Stiff’ Button Up
All bro-ness aside, linen clothing is the shit. Let’s be real, I live in hot sweaty Missouri where the summers can be brutal; summers where you step outside and get slapped in the face with the humidity. Linen is a godsend for hot weather. This fabric is extremely breathable and very durable (which is why it is referred to as a seasonal fabric).
Also, linen is not just for Hawaiian shirts. Suits, pants, button ups and t-shirts are also made of linen (although you may have to hunt them down). Again, don’t throw away those button ups. Just swap some out with amazing linen, my favorite fabric. Just be aware, linen wrinkles easily but gives you a unique, relaxed texture.
UNIQLO is a well known brand and currently has a sale on their linen collection here.
This: The Henley
Not That: A plain-ass T-shirt
I know you’ve seen them before and they’re called henleys. This is a simple one. Add some buttons to give you some definition and “wah lah”, your lady starts to notice you again. Not much to say here but incorporate a few of these into your rotation.
J Crew has plenty of color options here.
Again, there is a certain safety in dressing the same way each week. However, if you tweak a few options here and there it can make a noticeable difference and freshen up your wardrobe. Good luck.
-CP