Luxury fashion is all about simplicity, and investing in quality garments that are designed to last over passing trends that won’t be around beyond the end of the year. Flawless craftsmanship, plush fabrics and timeless style are all key ingredients when it comes to getting the high-end wardrobe right, but once you’ve got the basics down, you might find that your look is lacking a little bit of ‘you’.
It’s true that the key to dressing well as a man is to avoid overkill, but a carefully chosen accessory or two can make all the difference and inject some personality into your look. From casual occasions to formal events, they can help to ensure you stand out from the crowd without deviating from the tried-and-tested recipe for fashion success, adding just a sprinkle of individuality whilst remaining in-keeping with the unwritten rules of sophistication and flair.
Here, we take a look at five classic and timeless ways to dress up your look – just be sure to pick one, and don’t try them all at once.
A classic neckerchief
When it comes to classic but quirky accessories, a stylish neckerchief should be your go-to. Exuding an air of European sophistication and old-world charm, it’s the perfect choice for the discerning gentleman and can quickly add a sense of individuality to any outfit. Whether you choose to add it to a casual open-collar shirt and jeans combo, or team it with a tailored blazer for a formal ensemble with a twist, the neckerchief promises to add an air of refinement whilst creating a look that is uniquely you. Opt for luxurious silk or cashmere fabrics in rich hues or bold patterns to make the ultimate style statement. The tighter you tie it, the more polished your look, so adjust accordingly for the occasion.
A statement pocket square
If you prefer to make a more understated statement – if that isn’t too much of a contradiction – the humble pocket square is an easy way to elevate your outfit without overkill. Crafted from premium fabrics like linen or silk, a simple block colour always works well, but you can add interest with intricate prints in a pared down colour palette. The great thing about pocket squares is that they’re versatile and easy to change up to suit the mood or occasion, so if you occasionally get the urge to try something more bold then punchy geometric patterns are a great way to add interest to a simple shirt or sharp suit. Choose one with hand-rolled edges for added flair and sophistication.
An opulent pair of cufflinks
Nothing makes a sharp outfit seem polished and put together in quite the same way that a lavish pair of cufflinks do. Keep the rest of your outfit understated and allow a glimmering pair of platinum or gold cufflinks to do the talking to command instant respect and assert yourself as a man who knows what he’s doing when it comes to crafting a flawless image. A crisp white shirt makes for the perfect blank canvas against which to set them, and you can choose from a variety of different styles to suit your personal taste. Bejewelled and monogrammed varieties are both popular choices for the sartorial male, but keeping things understated and the bling to a minimum shows that you don’t need to resort to flashiness to gain recognition.
A bespoke lapel pin
In the world of luxury fashion, less is always more, and if you’re the kind of guy who likes to keep it simple then a bespoke lapel pin will add a dash or personality without compromising your typically minimalistic aesthetic. Having a pin made especially for you means you’ll always have an accessory with meaning, whether it features a family crest, monogram, or symbolic motif, and it’s almost guaranteed that nobody will have anything even remotely similar. Precious metals like sterling silver or gold, and enamel detailing, will all exude a sense of opulence and refinement. Wear yours with pride on the lapel of your suit jacket or blazer to reflect your unique taste and style.
A designer watch
Another accessory that will quickly assert your excellent taste and impeccable sense of style is a designer watch. Showing that you mean business each time you shake hands with someone new and that you value time as much as money, brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe have long been associated with opulence and have also become synonymous with wealth and success. When it comes to accessories that will stand the test of time, look no further, because an expensive watch is an investment piece that will stay with you for years to come and that will often appreciate in value over the years. As well as being your favoured accessory now, it could even go on to become a family heirloom later on, and see many a man in your family through every occasion in style.
