Jeans are the first choice for casual bottoms, but what about the top half? Drum roll please…

It’s all about casual shirts! There are a few casual shirt styles that are as essential to know as learning how to go to toilet so here they are and be sure to pay attention, because once you’ve read the post, you’ll need to go get at least three to give your wardrobe some variation…

1. White T-Shirt

The white T-shirt is a classic men’s staple. Every guy should own at least one. The key here though is to get a good fitted tee that’s not too loose around the neck. It should hug well but not like Simon Cowell’s and it shouldn’t be too loose that you’re rivaling Juelz Santana in the hip hop stakes. When rocked right, there’s nothing that looks more cooler and cleaner. Think Marlon Brando or James Dean.

2. The V-Neck

The V-Neck T-shirt is another great casual style. It offers something a little different as the collar dips, helping to add a little depth while accentuating the chest. Avoid if you have excessive chest hair that can house woodland creatures. As much as our mum endorses it, ‘The Bollywood Hunk’ look is not a great achievement.

3. The Polo

The polo is another classic, but it is so often underratted. They come in a variety of colours, patterns, hues and shades. Did we mention that you can wear them with almost anything?

4. The Henley

A real casual piece is the Henley. Like Kristen Kreuk, its mixed heritage is something that makes it that much more special. A cross between a T-shirt and a button-down shirt, the Henley is a great weekend staple. Just promise us you’ll wear it unbuttoned.

5. The Rugby

A great alternative to a polo, the rugby top is another casual shirt that can be dressed up a little and it’s become a little trend over the last couple of years too.

Stay Stylish,

Aaron C.

Related Posts: Yoko Devereaux Polo Shirt, Top 4 Polo Shirt Styles, Men’s Staples Part 3,

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This week’s ‘P.O.T.W.’ comes courtesy of Yoko Devereaux. Unfortunately, the brand are shutting up shop but they are having a massive ‘everything must go sale’ so head over there now and snap up as much as you can.

The longest day of the year is fast approaching and that means long BBQ’s at friends and an extra few hours to either kick, bowl or bounce your favorite balls.

So you’re going to have to wear something that feels comfortable, cool and chic’ it’s time to grab your polo shirts.

Here’s our top four styles…..

1. The Plain Polo 

The polo shirt is a summer classic and an essential for every guys wardrobe. They come in a variety of  block colours and unlike the rugby shirt, they seem to break down age barriers; whether you’re in your tempting 20′s or fatherly 40′s, they’ll always work.

Get the right colour and fit and almost anyone can look great in a plain classic polo shirt. 

2. The Striped Polo 

The striped polo is just like the classic style, but adds a little more variety into the mix. A classic golf shirt, the striped polo should be worn with a pair of chinos or even under a well fitted blazer. 

3. The Contrast Polo 

The second alternative to the plain style. By trying a polo shirt in a contrasting hue, you’re leaving the well-dressed world behind and stepping into a stylish realm. The contrasting colours also provide a variety of shades  to subtly co-ordinate with.  

4. The Long Sleeve Polo

The long sleeve polo is probably more suited to us fellas living here in the UK. A little more dressier than its short sleeved cousin, they have the added benefit of keeping your arms warm when the weather turns foul. 

Stay Stylish, 

Aaron C.

Twitter Page: www.twitter.com/individualism 

Facebook Page: Individualism Group

Forum: www.individualism.co.uk/forum

We’ve reached the final week of our staples posts. Although these items are in week three, they are by no means less important. These staples are the foundations of a stylish man’s wardrobe. Without them, you’ll have an incomplete wardrobe and you’ll struggle to make the rest of your pieces work.

It’s a little like a football team; you need each player to be present and playing their part to win the Champions League. Your wardrobe needs to contain the best elements- it needs to be the MAN U of wardrobes. If you leave things out you’ll only end up like ARSENAL. (Arsenal fans, you may have your say in the comments section below!)

11. Polo Shirt

Polo shirts are great for summer. The may not work all year round but they give you a little choice and provide you with some breathing space from your shirts. They can be paired with shorts, jeans or dressed up a little when matched with a blue blazer.

Colours and patterns will add interest to your look and there is no specific style or colour here. It’s your time to get personal and creative, for the main forcus is the style of the piece; the humble polo shirt. 

12. White -T-Shirt 

A good quality white T-shirt can really aid your casual wardrobe. When one fits just right and is actually WHITE,  it can ooze style. A White T works best when rocked simply. If matched with a pair of jeans or shorts, a white T-shirt need not scream out ‘Look at me’, as it’s subtle style and history does it all.

Think or James Dean and you’ll catch my drift. They’re also a perfect layering piece. White T’s provide a casual alternative when worn underneath a V-neck sweater instead of the the over-used dressier shirt choice.

You’ll need them to fit just right- not too tight, not too loose. By the way, XXXXXL White T’s have NEVER looked good, even on rappers and if you live in the UK,  don’t EVER attempt to pull it of. Too tight T’s will have you looking like Simon Cowell, which is never a desireable look. 

13. A slim Dark Tie 

It’s one of the main accessories for a man. Tie widths can vary alot, however getting a medium width- slim but not too skinny- will keep you looking modern as well as stylish.

The dark tones will compliment the rest of your neutral staples and will stand out when worn with a colourful sweater. 

14. Coloured Cardigan 

Cardigans are now an essential staple for every man. There was a time where they were considered too old or grandaddy but those times have now passed.

They are- hands down- the perfect layering piece. Having one in a bright colour will also bring some much need vibrancy to your wardrobe. Cardigans can be worn underneath a grey blazer or teamed simply with a white T-shirt. Just no ‘Nu Rave’ neon colours. You’re best off sticking with a variety of blue or red tints.

15 White Canvas Trainers

Nothing makes me smile more than the sight of a fresh pair of white canvas trainers. Notice I said FRESH! There is an endless debate about whether they look better scruffy or clean. In general, the Americans like theirs fresh and the Brits prefer the ‘I’ve shat, pissed and vomited over myself but I still look Cool’ scruffy look.

Sorry, but I’m with the Yanks on this one.

The reason being, is if they are kept fresh, they can be paired with a suit. Fresh kicks look just as good with trousers and chinos as they do with jeans. So make sure your pair are crisp and try to stick to designs that have few logos.

Stay Stylish, 

Aaron C.

Related posts: Mens Staples 1, Mens Staples 2, Tie Styles, Top 5 Shoes Every Man Should Own, Cardigan Styles

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