Styles OF THE METROSEXUAL MALE
Trendy, sharp and always current styles of the metrosexual male define all that is hot in the men’s fashion world.
The term “metrosexual” was initially coined in the early 1990s, but it was not until the 21st century that metrosexuality became a lifestyle for many men around the world. The media could be credited for drumbeating the word and bringing it to the street. Journalist Mark Simpson coined the word to describe a single man with a penchant for shopping and, in general, the “good life.”
Simpson made a correlation between the metrosexual of the 1980s, who was only found in the pages of fashion magazines, to the metrosexual of the 1990s, who was suddenly just as likely to be found walking down the street.
It was in 2002 that metrosexuality became recognized as a lifestyle, when Simpson wrote an article that introduced English soccer star David Beckham as a noteworthy metrosexual. Needless to say, the term’s mainstream status was solidified, and it was not long before major media publications picked up on it. Suddenly, metrosexual men were everywhere.
The metrosexual male is highly concerned with his wardrobe, his hair, his skincare routine and his fitness regimen. In short, he’s got a bit of a softer side, at least in contrast to the traditional macho image that many men aspire to. He might be a regular at the salon, indulging in everything from massages to manicures without a second thought. He’s no stranger to big name designers, frequents a slew of boutiques and confesses a great appreciation for improving himself in every possible way. It’s no surprise that the quintessential metrosexual is so fashionforward!
The typical metrosexual can wax poetic about everyone from Giorgio Armani to Louis Vuitton. His affinity for all things fabulous and fashionable lends itself well to a wardrobe chock-full of designer labels. No matter who designs them, though, there are a few basic styles of the metrosexual male that belong in every closet. Among these are some classic items:
Sweaters. He doesn’t wear a bold sweater vest, but he’s a big fan of crewneck sweaters made with Pullover Cable Knit Sweater. Turtlenecks are also popular.
T-shirts. He’s careful not to go overboard; there’s no room in the metrosexual’s closet for a collection of tops that pay homage to his favorite tourist trap or sports team. The metrosexual subscribes to the theory that “simple is best,” and in this case black-and-white T-shirts are considered the best bet.
Button-down Shirts. Most males own several buttondown shirts, but the metrosexual notes a great appreciation for the shirt’s cut and fit. It should skim the body and be worn in solid colors. At least one white shirt is favored.
Suits. A sharp suit is an impeccable find in any man’s closet. The metrosexual selects one that is cut to flatter, preferably in a dark shade like black or charcoal.
Jeans. Jeans are usually staples. At least two pairs in two different cuts and washes, preferably something appropriate for lounging and another for going out. These also mix-and-match well with everything from sweaters to blazers.
Short Coat. No trench coats here. The metrosexual’s coat is short, fitted and made with either suede or leather.
Pants. Beyond jeans and suit pants, basic dress slacks are necessities. Two pairs in dark, neutral shades will suffice; their legs are often cut straight and bear absolutely no pleating.
Accessories. The average metrosexual likely boasts a huge collection of trendy accessories already, but items such as sunglasses, wallets, watches and even handkerchiefs can be remarkably suave additions to an already fashionconscious wardrobe.
As with just about everything involving fashion, there are plenty of dos and don’ts with metrosexual styles:
• Do embrace solid and dark hues.
• Don’t make a habit of wearing bright patterns or anything overly embellished.
• Do hang your clothes instead of folding them, to avoid wrinkles.
• Don’t wear ill-fitting attire. There is nothing more unflattering than a too-tight anything.
• Do get alterations if your clothing requires it. In the long run, it’s worth the expense.
• Don’t mismatch your ensemble. Attempt to pull it all together by matching your shoes with your belt.