The 7 Deadly Sins of Style Sin #7: Getting the Details Wrong

Accessorizing for a man can be a difficult task. The range from what hat to wear for the shape of your head, pocket square color and importance, the stylistic flourish of a boutonnière, and jewelry can be overstated or underdone.

When accessorizing with a hat, focus on the size of the head. If the head is wide and large, avoid a bowler type hat. If the face is narrow, steer clear of a sharply peaked hat. Formality is also important as well as color. Neutral toned felt hats should be worn with business as soft caps or leather hats are more casual and should be worn with casual attire.

Pocket squares can set a man apart from the crowd. It is an individual item of clothing and shouldn’t be matching the entire outfit. It should work with the general color scheme and not distract from the whole outfit, but it is an accent to define the outfit as a whole.

You haven’t worn a boutonnière since your high school prom? That’s probably good. It is really only an important item for formal occasions involving a tuxedo. If shopping for a boutonnière, contact a florist and they will assist you with the right flower and color. Generally carnations, gardenias, and blue cornflowers are worn.

Male jewelry is the most abused accessory there is. Keep jewelry such as bracelets, necklaces, and rings to a minimum. It distracts from the outfit as a whole and can be seen as too casual in formal situations. Wedding bands are the exception to this rule.

Lastly, wear smart cufflinks! In business and formal situations, the type of cufflink a man wears can be under strong scrutiny. Be aware that people notice and this is the accessory that should look clean and professional.