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“HERE COMES THE SUN, AND I SAY, IT’S ALL RIGHT……”
~The Beatles
By Lisa Dante
ONE FOR THE BOYS
Maybe by now, you have places to go and people to see! Spring is such a beautiful time of year, especially in Texas. Put some spring in your step and get going.
But hold on, you just got an invite and it says something like this: The dress code is ….upscale casual, business casual, smart casual, California casual, Country Club casual, or festive attire….. Wait, what? Good grief! What does any of this mean? It’s one of the most common questions I am asked as a fashion editor.
What the heck are you supposed to wear in order to meet the invites suggested attire request? Have no fear, I’m here to sort it out for you. If you Google “dress codes” you may be even more confused.
Some reliable sources say there are four basic dress codes, others say there are ten. What? Wait a minute. What’s going on here?
For the purpose of this article, I’m going to focus on options for men. All of the above mentioned dress code options basically mean no flip flops, shorts, ball caps, tank tops…etc. In other words, don’t dress like you’re going to spend the day at the lake or beach. Unless of course you’re actually going to spend the day at the lake or beach. Ha!
Smart, casual dressing was originally followed by the tech professionals at the software companies based in California…..casual shirts, t-shirts, slacks, jeans and sport jackets. “Dress how you want to be addressed.” Seems like good advice.
I’m going to combine all of the above dress codes into one, and that category is “upscale casual.”
Fashion doesn’t have to be an elaborate, crazy look put together. You should be comfortable.
White sneakers can automatically make your casual outfit go from 1 to 10. Low top sneakers are better than high tops for this look. Think Vans Old Skool sneakers, like the Doheny, or the Classic Sport. Always. Wear. Socks. If you don’t, your shoes can develop a permanent odor. No show, or low cut socks work best.
THAT JAMES DEAN DAYDREAM LOOK
Pair your white sneakers with white jeans, or any color jeans, a t-shirt or a collared shirt and throw on a blazer or sport coat of any sort and you have the perfect urban style.
No matter your age, the outfit is youthful and timeless. It’s your “Rebel Without a Cause” look and it’s a classic!
What about all black attire? White tennis shoes will still look great!
CASUAL LUXURY AND COMFORT
A white button-down shirt, your sweater hanging around your neck, skinny jeans and some white sneakers go great together!
Whether you’re going to a casual meeting, social event, running errands or traveling, you’re going to look dashing doing it.
CAN’T FORGET THE LADIES
Pastels and white eyelet for spring are white hot! I know, not exactly groundbreaking but florals aren’t stealing the show. The eyelet trend was seen on nearly every spring runway. It’s romantic, fresh and innocent, even if you’re not. Lol…. I love to see it paired with something “opposite” and edgy like a distressed denim jacket or faded jeans and a nude sandal.
Now go out there and be fabulously casual!
Happy Spring!
