Mens Fashion | Closet Tips Part 2: When To Save

With the beautifully warm and cheerful summer weather now well underway, you want to look cool and casual for days on the beach or barbecues with friends. Here are a few tips on where to save, yet still look stylish for summer...

(available at Uniqlo from $4.90)

Simple cotton t-shirts in bright colours work wonders for any summer outfit. Adding a splash of colour atop a pair of tailored shorts or linen trousers can really add a nice flair to your look. Whilst graphic design t-shirts can often cost a pretty penny, a plain coloured option is friendlier on the wallet. The added bonus is that rather than relying on the print as the main focal point of your outfit, a simple colour play can look great. Make sure to choose a lighter colour, whilst keeping in mind which colours work best for you.

(Topman Orange Candy Stripe Scarf - £10)

Although you may think of scarves as a winter option, a linen or fine cotton piece is just as useful for summer. A summer scarf can actually be a great way of keeping cool in the heat, whilst also adding a nice touch of interest to your outfit. Try to keep it simple, with plain light colours, or fine stripes. Whether you wrap the scarf around you twice, or simply let it hang around your neck and flutter in the wind, remember that your tying method will change the dynamics of your look.

(Topman Yellow Stitched Stripe Belt - £12)

Whether you decide to wear shorts, light wash jeans or linen trousers, adding a colourful belt can really help finish a look. Your accessories actually play an important part in keeping the colours and theme of your outfit in union. Try adding this yellow belt to a pair of light blue jeans and a white polo shirt for an unexpected twist. Or match your colourful belt to your equally colourful canvas shoes. Try to keep the belt design simple, however if you want to add patterns, make sure that they do not have to compete with the rest of your outfit.

(ASOS Oxford Plimsoles - £10)

(ASOS Striped Espadrilles - £15)

Whilst flip flops may be the footwear of choice poolside or at the beach, you are probably going to need something a tad more hard wearing for general use. Rather than sweating it out in leather shoes or chunky sneakers, try adding a simple pair of canvas shoes to your closet. The lightweight material is perfect for warmer weather. Feel free to dispense of socks when wearing espadrilles and keep your feet cool. Cheap and cheerful plimsoles come in a vast array of colours and patterns, so you are sure to find something that suits you.

Harrys of London the Premier Shoe Boutique

With the dial of the world's media ostensibly stuck on covering the global 'Credit Crunch', one can not help but think that maybe now is the time to start being more careful with purchases. Investment pieces are essentially, by nature, classically designed, quality pieces, which are fashionable yet will be able to stand the test of time. As such a store such as Harrys of London, is the perfect place for a man with his eyes set on spending a little bit more to invest on some new footwear.

Allen Port Brush Calf Shoes - £350

A pair of classic leather oxford shoes are something no man should be without. They are the very epitomy of timeless footwear, and are the perfect addition to a suit. Indeed they are also a worthwhile investment due to their versatility, one can wear them for both meetings in the office, and for formal evening events. Remember that going too smart is better than going too casual.
Bentley Kudu Suede Olive - £325

Suede desert boots are also one of those designs that will never truly go 'out' of fashion. They are suited wonderfully to these colder months, adept to keeping one's feet dry, should a puddle get the best of you, with their raised ankle support. Desert boots can be worn both smart and casual, and this versatility again makes them a wise investment choice. They can be worn with jeans and a shirt or equally with a shirt and flannel suit for a more laid back smart approach.

Stanley Boot Vintage Bridle Dark Brown - £425

If you would rather not play it too safe, and have the yearning to express yourself, military lace up boots are the perfect option. Appearing regularly on the Fall/Winter runway, military boots are both practical and fashionable. They can again be worn in a variety of ways, adding an edge to a smart look, or creating a more relaxed casual look. Indeed an added choice is whether to allow one's jeans to fall over the boots, or if wearing a slimmer cut, to have them tucked inside. How far up one laces them is also a choice that will determine their overall 'look'.

P.S. Remeber that footwear lasts far longer if properly maintained! A shoe tree will help keep shape and regular gentle cleaning will stop the leather deteriorating quicker than natural.