STANDOUT Style for the New Year

So it’s a happy new year and hopefully a happy new YOU! We’re stepping into a new year and a new decade – exciting!  I personally don’t make New Year’s resolutions because I forget what they are by Feb 1st. Instead I continue to focus on enhancing myself in every way, mainly internal attributes, but also my goals and of COURSE finding new ways to consistently revamp my style.

I’m going to share with you some not-so-secret tips to help develop the ‘standout’ style and image you’ve always desired or maybe have but want to continue improving: Get rid of every ill-fitting article of clothing you have in your closet! Be it your favorite vintage tee, too short, suffocating nightlife dress (ladies), spandex shirts (men), old, unstructured shoes, tattered belts, oversized jackets and coats etc.  Nothing is less flattering than being garbed in what appears VERY uncomfortable, no matter how “cute” you think you look.  

Gentlemen, have your clothes tailored for your size and build, especially suits and high quality dress shirts. Nothing is more flattering when YOU wear the suit, not the other way around. This can be used for office environments and for casual, dressed down suits. Try wearing your new well- fitting suit and tie with a tee or nice sweater and maybe some stylish sneakers. 

Ladies, on the same note you want to adorn yourself in garments that flatter and enhance your physique, not expose it. You should also invest in tailored suits – every woman is not built the same so it’s important to accentuate your form properly. You want to appear confident in your being and appearance, not as if your appearance is blatantly begging “PLEASE STARE AT ME!” Stay away from trends!  Ok well maybe not all of them but don’t try all of them! Everything you see on television and in magazines isn’t made for you simply because it’s the hottest new look. Know your body and frame and what highlights them.  Tip: Transform a trend to work for you! For example skinny jeans on men. If you aren’t skinny or don’t have the build for skinny leg jeans, try straight leg jeans cuffed or un-cuffed. Paired with a well fit top you’ll achieve the slim and fresh-fashion look. For ladies, if you’re into the tights and cigarette pant look, the same look can be achieved with various new washes of denim and heavier materials instead of Lycra and spandex. Or compliment them with chic sweater, jacket or dress.

 Finally, an almost fail proof way to give you that “brand new” appeal is to infuse new styles and looks into your wardrobe. As we age, many of us get set into a certain look that becomes expected of us and is frankly a bit bland. Tip: SHAKE THINGS UP! Try new colors, new suit/dress styles, infuse hats and accessories, different styles of shoes, and even new layering techniques. And invest in quality statement pieces, such as an exquisitely crafted timepiece, luxuriously made shoes (that DO last longer), or even a fine overcoat that fits you quite nicely. Remember, you usually get what you pay for!

The most important thing is to be honest with yourself and be sure that you shine within because that’s where  true happiness emanates from. Wear what truly enhances your appearance and personality and makes you feel like a million bucks and more importantly, what makes you smile.

Kenny Hibbler, Contributing Writer