Looking at mens accessories for formal wear, every man should own cufflinks and a tie. Working attire has become more informal with a move to business casual, and consequently formal accessories are not as essential as they once were. There are always occasions when we need to dress up and it is vital to be prepared. For a tie that covers all bases, I would recommend a stripe tie with a predominantly classic colour such as navy or burgundy.
Avoid very loud ties with busy patterns as they will not suit all occasions. A good idea is to match the dominant colour in your tie with your cufflink, although this may mean other ties wont match your cufflink. For a pair of cufflinks that will match any tie, why not choose a chrome cufflink which offers a sleek and elegant look. Stick to classic shapes such as ovals, circles and squares and avoid any novelty designs.
Mens bags are becoming increasingly popular, as designs are becoming increasingly stylish. The messenger bag is the best choice as it is suitable for all occasions and can be worn with casual or formal wear. The backpack is only suitable for travelling and walking, whilst the briefcase is a bit old fashioned and wont work with jeans and a t-shirt. A plain black or brown messenger bag made from leather and nylon is smart and lightweight, but not too formal.
For the Winter, gloves and scarves are essential for keeping warm and looking good. Plain black leather gloves work with all types of clothing, and a cashmere lining offers warmth and comfort. It is best to steer clear of woollen gloves in bright colours, unless they act as a second pair.
Every man owns a wallet, and its one of those accessories that can last a long time. Be careful though that it does not become dog eared and faded as this can ruin your image and look. A classic choice would be a plain black leather wallet, and stay away from velcro and large logos. If you like to dress more fashionably, then there are some very cool wallets by J.Fold that use perforated holes and great colours. The money clip is a bit old fashioned, and coin purses are too feminine.
Perhaps the most important accessory a man will every buy though is his watch. Avoid oversized straps and faces, and coloured faces (white, black or off white is best). A stainless steel band watch offers a masculine and sporty look, and is very durable. A leather wristband has a timeless and elegant look, but is less durable and should not be taken into the water. Avoid oversized straps and faces, and coloured faces (white, black or off white is best).
Avoid very loud ties with busy patterns as they will not suit all occasions. A good idea is to match the dominant colour in your tie with your cufflink, although this may mean other ties wont match your cufflink. For a pair of cufflinks that will match any tie, why not choose a chrome cufflink which offers a sleek and elegant look. Stick to classic shapes such as ovals, circles and squares and avoid any novelty designs.
Mens bags are becoming increasingly popular, as designs are becoming increasingly stylish. The messenger bag is the best choice as it is suitable for all occasions and can be worn with casual or formal wear. The backpack is only suitable for travelling and walking, whilst the briefcase is a bit old fashioned and wont work with jeans and a t-shirt. A plain black or brown messenger bag made from leather and nylon is smart and lightweight, but not too formal.
For the Winter, gloves and scarves are essential for keeping warm and looking good. Plain black leather gloves work with all types of clothing, and a cashmere lining offers warmth and comfort. It is best to steer clear of woollen gloves in bright colours, unless they act as a second pair.
Every man owns a wallet, and its one of those accessories that can last a long time. Be careful though that it does not become dog eared and faded as this can ruin your image and look. A classic choice would be a plain black leather wallet, and stay away from velcro and large logos. If you like to dress more fashionably, then there are some very cool wallets by J.Fold that use perforated holes and great colours. The money clip is a bit old fashioned, and coin purses are too feminine.
Perhaps the most important accessory a man will every buy though is his watch. Avoid oversized straps and faces, and coloured faces (white, black or off white is best). A stainless steel band watch offers a masculine and sporty look, and is very durable. A leather wristband has a timeless and elegant look, but is less durable and should not be taken into the water. Avoid oversized straps and faces, and coloured faces (white, black or off white is best).
About the Author:
David Cole is a trained designer, and has worked in the mens fashion industry for 4 years since graduating. He has a particular interest in mens accessories, and runs a website called Herbert Jones Mens Accessories that offers underwear, socks, belts, bags and more from the leading designer brands.
