MEN:How to Build Your Wardrobe

                                               

Every day we pass by hundreds of people on the subway, in hallways, or on the streets, never saying a word.  Yet despite the lack of verbal communication, decisions are being made as to the trustworthiness and intentions of those around you. Doubt this? Try wearing a ski mask and trench coat while gesturing wildly with your arms. In the 15 minutes you have before the police show up, take note that despite not saying a single word your appearance has sent a message.

Yes, what I just said is unfair. Right now you may be thinking “Judge me not by my clothing, but by the integrity in which I live my life” — and I couldn’t agree more. But life isn’t fair, human beings have and will continue to judge others based on the information presented to them — and in most situations this is at first our physical appearance. Dress like a thug and people treat you like one; dress like a professional and you’ll have doors opened for you.

A Man’s Wardrobe

There are many things that we can’t control — the weather, the economy, the fact that college football needs a playoff system. How we present ourselves to strangers and new acquaintances, however, is not one of them. When you shake hands with a potential partner, they form an instant impression of you which is not easily dislodged. First impressions are powerful because until we begin to speak, they are the only bits of information we have to make a snap decision as to whether we like or trust someone. Countless communication studies have shown a man’s visual appearance is initially more powerful than what he says; ignore your wardrobe at your own risk.

Part 1: How to Build Your Wardrobe — Making the Commitment & Understanding Your Needs
Before a man begins anything that will require substantial time and resources, he has to be committed to the change. In this article we break men up into defined groups based on their lifestyles and we then address their specific needs. The goal is to give you a quick checklist of items you should consider investing in depending on your career choice and personal requirements.
Part 2: How to Build Your Wardrobe — Clothing Specifics
In this article we address specific menswear questions such as the order in which you should assemble your clothing, which suit colors and style should you choose if you only own one suit, which shoe styles you will get the most wear out of, and how you mix casual wear into the wardrobe. We’ll also talk about where those on a very limited budget should invest the bulk of their money if they are starting from scratch.
Part 3: How to Build Your Wardrobe — Accessories, Maintenance, & Storage
In this final article we’ll cover the often neglected points of a man’s wardrobe such as how to incorporate hats, watches, and other accessories along with clothing storage and protection.

Part 1: How to Build Your Wardrobe – Making the Commitment & Understanding Your Needs

1st – Learn and Then Commit to Improve Your Personal Presentation

First, before spending a dime, you must commit to making the change. Do this by going through your current clothing and setting aside everything that you 1) have not worn for two years, 2) is noticeably stained, and 3) fits so poorly not even a master tailor could adjust it to fit. Package it all up and mark it for the Salvation Army or eBay. Now over the next week verbally inform a few close friends and family member as to what you are doing — perhaps even promise a new profile picture on Facebook of you decked out in your new clothing. The goal here is to create a network of supporters and audience; this puts pressure on you to fulfill your promise.
And do not forget to gain the support of your spouse or the person who will be helping you to pay for all this. I find my clients’ wives are ecstatic and fully supportive of their husband’s efforts to dress better. If you keep your partner out of the decision, however, you could be met with unexpected resistance.

Written by Antonio
 www.artofmanliness.com