Re: GQing yourself
The 5 New Rules of Summer Style!
Adjust your shades.
Choosing khaki for a summer suit is like watching the past season of Survivor--a little tired. Shock the world with light gray instead. This crisp neutral already goes with almost everything you own. "You can wear it with a range of warm and cool colors," says Leatrice Eiseman, author of More Alive with Color. "Just about anything in your wardrobe. Even brown." It also fits a wider variety of complexions. For men with fairer skin tones and light eyes, Eiseman recommends grays with blue undertones. Men with brown eyes and darker hair should try grays with hints of brown.
Stay cool and camouflaged.
The right undershirt will keep your microclimate--the space between the body and the clothing--cool. A breathable fabric such as cotton is always a classic, though other natural fibers, including hemp, soy, and bamboo, have excellent moisture-absorption properties. Bamboo and hemp also inhibit bacterial growth, which will cut back on your seasonal man-stink.
If you're still prone to perspiration, manage the drip factor with dark or patterned shirts. Small geometric patterns, checks, and gingham conceal your pooling pits better than light solid colors do.
Hang up your jeans.
Lightweight cotton pants maintain the casual vibe without looking sloppy, and looser cotton allows air to circulate so sweat dries quickly. "The thickness of the fabric determines the ventilation and transfer of moisture," says Michael Tyndall, managing director of product development and implementation at Cotton Incorporated. "Thinner fabric allows moisture to move." Tyndall estimates that typical denim is around 14 ounces (the weight per square yard), while twill and canvas usually weigh around 7 to 8 ounces.
Streamline your shoes.
Ever notice that those lightweight summer pants seem to catch in your shoelaces? The lighter the fabric weight is, the less bulk the legs have to keep their shape, so they're more prone to snagging and folding. Before cursing your cuffs, slip on laceless kicks, like Sperry Top-Siders or Vans. Their level surfaces help the break of the pants and your hems stay streamlined. For more dressed-up looks, try leather loafers or short Chelsea boots.
Balance your look.
Your clothes say a lot about you, so make sure they're all speaking the same language. Mixed messages can sabotage a look. Make sure your accessories agree with your outfit. For instance, you can take your summer suit down a notch with the right casual shoes--but not those grungy basketball hightops you've worn since college. Classic sneakers, like Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars and Adidas Stan Smiths, add just the right dose of nonchalance. To keep your style message balanced, leave the fancy watch and leather belt at home with your dress shoes. Hint: Snug pants with a tab closure are ideal for a belt-free summer.
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