Men's summer wardrobe accessories - Part 2

It's those small things that make your look count

In part one of our three-part series, we focused on the wardrobe basics necessary to weather the extreme heat during the summer months. But wardrobe basics, while certainly capable of standing on their own merits, are merely the rudiments of pulling together an outfit. In part two of our series, we will examine accessories and the role they play in transforming your basic pieces into crafty works of natty genius. In addition to lending interest to your look, key accessories also aid in the development of your own personal style.

ACCESSORY CENTRAL

Keep a Cool Head

Hats not only protect you from the sun's harmful rays, but the right chapeau will instantly boost your style ratings. Summer hats—like summer suits—are all about the fabric. Throw on a cotton driving cap with pretty much anything, or take it up a notch with a straw trilby, porkpie, or fedora.

In Pictures:  Men Who Define Style

When selecting a hat, consider the shape of your face. Rounded hats with low crowns and wide brims work best on guys with long faces. Hats with high crowns and medium to wide brims are ideal for round faces. Oval shaped faces can get away with just about anything.

Of all the hats to choose from, my all time favorite is the fedora. Fedoras, packed with attitude, can take a simple tee and shorts to a whole new level. Personalize it by playing with the brim or changing the pinch in the crown to varying degrees. 

Finally, know the rules of hat etiquette and pass the information on to future gentlemen.

Eye Candy

Retro styles in men's eyewear took a strong turn in 2008, and this season appears to be no different with the classic aviator shape leading the popularity pack. Carrera Champion sunglasses offer these plastic aviators in a variety of color, and are the perfect accessory for the warm weather season.

Some Timely Advice

Are watches passé? That's what some news and blog reports would like you to believe, citing widespread use of cell phone and iPods, which have time displays. But ask me and I'll be quick to tell you that a watch still serves as a man's most important fashion accessory. Neither cell phones nor iPods can hint at the health of your bank account like a watch. And while you can't bring a Bentley into the boardroom, you certainly can wear your Brietling Bentley watch if you’ve got it like that.
 

Step out in Style

Shoes frame your look so they’re absolutely critical. White sneakers are classic and versatile because they go with pretty much anything. I’m loving these Armani woven slip-ons found on the Armani Exchange site. The woven weave makes them a little more modern and gives a look of casual sophistication. And with no laces, you can just slide them on and go. Minimalist simplicity at it’s best.

Stay tuned for the third and final part of our series, where we will look at some of top grooming products in the market.

For more info:     In Pictures:  Men Who Define Style