How To Wear Shorts With Style | ULTIMATE Man’s Guide To Wearing Shorts
When it comes to the question of how to wear shorts, most men just don’t get it. 50% of guys avoid shorts like the plague and the other 50% end up wearing shorts that really don’t suit them.
It is perfectly possible to wear shorts and look stylish – if you follow a few basic rules. In this article, we’ll show you how to wear shorts with style.
In this article, you’ll find:
- History of men’s shorts
- When to (and when not to) wear shorts
- How to wear shorts that fit
- The right length for men’s shorts
- Choosing the right fabric for men’s shorts
- How to choose the right color for your shorts
- Different types of men’s shorts
- What clothing to wear with shorts
#1 History Of Men’s Shorts
Shorts started as ‘knee pants’ for boys in the 1890s and served as the basis for school and scout uniforms. Roughhousing and tripping over would mean torn knees if a boy wore full-length trousers. When a boy reached maturity, he was expected to stop wearing shorts and transition into wearing trousers.
This changed in World War II. Troops in tropical climates started wearing shorts to cope with the heat. They are famously shown in depictions of the British Eighth Army in North Africa from 1940 to 1943, also known as the ‘Desert Rats’. The German Afrikakorps, Italian army and Free French forces also wore shorts on the battlefield.
When men returned to civilian life after the war it was only a matter of time before shorts were normalized. By the 1950s, shorts were acceptable in casual situations in hot climates with masculine icons of the time like John Wayne taking advantage of the new trend.
#2 What Are The Types Of Shorts For Men?
There are plenty of men’s shorts styles to choose from. Let’s do a quick rundown of the key types you can find in stores.
- Running shorts are designed to facilitate the most freedom of movement during exercise. Most running shorts include an inner lining that doubles as underwear. Most are made with polyester.
- Swimming shorts (swimming trunks) are made with nylon along with a mesh inner lining to dry quicker.
- Denim shorts came into style during the late 1960s as part of the counter-cultural movement. I do not recommend denim shorts as they look sloppy – like you just sheered off your jeans at the knees.
- Flat-front shorts are the most common style of shorts. The material lies flat near the zipper for a slim, low-waisted look.
- Pleated shorts feature creases where material is folded and sewn before getting attached to the front of the waistband.
- Cycling shorts are skintight shorts designed to reduce wind resistance and friction.
- Boardshorts are long, loose-fitting swimming shorts with an opening at the front as opposed to an elastic waistband.
- Cargo shorts are loosely cut with large pockets on either side. They don’t look well on most men due to the bulging appearance of the pockets.
- Madras shorts are made with a lightweight fabric and are known for their vivid, brightly-colored patterns. The style takes its name from its home city in India – now named Chennai.
- Bermuda shorts – During a WWII clothing shortage, the managers of Bermuda’s two major banks hired a tailor to make shorts based on those worn by the armed forces. Bermuda shorts have been worn with a blazer in certain cultures ever since.
#2 When Should Men Wear Shorts?
Shorts are casual garments and a staple of warm-weather clothing for men. They are appropriate for summer events when you want to be free to move and comfortable to avoid sweating in the heat.
Lounging with friends? Walking around town in the daytime? Going to a private party? You’ll do fine in a well-fitted pair of shorts.
When to avoid shorts
Some casual workspaces do allow shorts. You might even get away with wearing them to casual business meetings though it isn’t the norm in most parts of the world.
It’s important to judge the situation correctly. Look at how those around you are dressed, identify the unspoken dress code and decide for yourself if you should wear shorts.
Any situation requiring business-casual wear will require trousers. Law firms, corporate offices and banks are a few examples where shorts should not be worn. Instead, wear chino trousers or dress slacks.
The golden rule is if you aren’t sure if you can wear shorts, then you shouldn’t wear them. Opt for trousers in any of these situations.
#3 How To Wear Shorts That Fit?
How are shorts supposed to look when you wear them? It’s easy to get confused by all the conflicting info on the web.
Fit is king when it comes to menswear. Let’s discuss the best fit for different body types.
Athletic Builds – Shorts for men with big thighs
Athletic men have broad shoulders that taper down to the waist. Such gentlemen have the widest range of choices when it comes to wearing shorts.
Men with muscular bodies tend to assume that loose shorts will balance the torso. It won’t, it will simply make you look disproportional.
Opt for a tailored fit that strikes a solid middle ground. You want shorts you can move comfortably in but won’t flap like a skirt.
If bulk is a concern, then consider a lighter color – these balance the body out more effectively.
Slim Builds – Shorts for men with skinny legs
Men with slim bodies are complemented best by slim-fitting shorts. Avoid baggy shorts as they will make your torso and legs seem disproportionate.
You also want to take precautions against flaring. Your shorts should go straight down without having excess material around the edges. Again, this will make for a ‘skirt effect’ if ignored.
Dad Bods – Shorts for men with average builds
Men carrying a little more weight around the midsection need to avoid slim-fitting shorts. Slim shorts will only emphasize your stomach.
Wear shorts that are slightly wider. Opt for straight-legged shorts. They’ll improve your silhouette and minimize the focus on the waist.
Pleated shorts should be avoided. Although rare, pleated shorts create lines leading right to your waist.
Never wear shorts that fall below the knees because longer shorts (like Bermuda shorts or boardshorts) will make your legs look smaller and your stomach bigger.
Avoid elastic waistbands in casual situations. It will pinch around the waist and make a muffin top. Using elastic waistbands with swimming trunks or exercising shorts, however, is fine.
#4 How Long Should Men’s Shorts Be?
The most common lengths for men’s shorts are 3, 5, 7 and 9 inches measured through the inseam.
Short-shorts (3-5 inches) usually include athletic variants like swimming trunks and running shorts. Longer shorts (7-9 inches) comprise common styles like flat-front khakis, pleated shorts, Bermuda shorts, and Madras shorts.
Longer shorts have a more formal look than shorter shorts.
How are men’s shorts supposed to fit?
The easy answer to wearing shorts correctly is this: never below the knee. Anything beyond that ambles dangerously into jorts territory, and that is never stylish.
It also defeats the purpose of wearing shorts. If the goal is comfort and flexibility, why would you restrict the knees?
The more specific answer depends on the occasion. Go 2-3 above the knee if you are wearing casual shorts with a t-shirt, button-down, or polo. This works well with chino shorts or khakis. Athletic shorts on the other hand can easily end 5-6 inches above the knee.
How should shorts for short guys fit?
Men who are 5’7 or below are considered short in the United States. In the image above we see a 5’2 man wearing a 7-inch inseam. Notice how the shorts travel precariously past the knees.
He wants to avoid shorts that have a 9 or even 7-inch inseam because it will make his legs look short. Instead, he should purchase casual shorts with a 5-inch inseam and swimming trunks with a 3-inch inseam.
Shorter guys should also avoid cargo shorts. Huge side pockets will dwarf an already small frame.
How should shorts for the average man fit?
The average height for men in the United States is 5’8 to 5’10. A 7-inch inseam will work well if the goal is to wear a polo and loafers with the shorts.
How should shorts for tall men fit?
Tall men like in the infographic above are taller than 6’1. They run into the problem of showing too much leg. If you’re in great shape, this isn’t a big deal. Just remember that the more skin you show, the more casual the shorts will look.
If tall men want to wear a casual button-down, a polo, or loafers, then a 7-inch inseam is the shortest they should allow. When it comes to swimming trunks or exercise shorts, 5 inches should work fine.
#5 Choosing The Right Fabric For Men’s Shorts
What’s the coolest fabric to wear in hot weather? It’s the question every man wants an answer to. Let’s take a look at the most common cooling fabrics shorts are made of.
Men’s cotton shorts
About 90% of all shorts are made of cotton, with cotton twill fabric being the most common weave. Twill weaves are dense but durable. The lack of breathability is offset by the shorts themselves which let air travel up the legs. What are your other cotton options?
- Seersucker is a three-dimensional weave that uses a puckered texture to facilitate airflow. It saw use throughout the 19th century for workwear, but it was in 1909 in tailor Joseph Haspel started making suits out of it. Seersucker also adds texture to your ensemble. It’s a great way to bring in a unique style few men will have.
- Madras is finely-textured cotton that makes use of bold checks and stripes. It began as the mainstay fabric of the Indian peasant class. Dutch and British traders fell in love with the stuff during the 1600s. Cotton plaid Madras reached America by 1718 and took off for its breathability. The problem arises with durability. Madras is prone to damage after a few years of continuous wear.
- Chambray can be thought of as ‘denim-lite’. It is the airy alternative to jeans but with an even crisper look. I recommend Chambray over traditional denim when it comes to shorts.
Men’s linen shorts
Linen is a durable fabric that is superb for summer wear. Wearing linen shorts will guarantee maximum breathability.
However, linen is prone to wrinkling. You can mitigate wrinkling by going with a tighter weave linen fabric, but you need to accept a few subtle wrinkles nonetheless.
Men’s wool shorts
You can also get shorts with tropical weight wool – the lightweight woven wool that is sometimes used in warm weather suits.
Wool is a luxury fabric in menswear and is rare in men’s shorts. It requires upkeep. You have to treat them as you would wool trousers.
Use a clothes brush on them regularly in order to remove any excess dirt or food particles. Make sure to hang them up after each wear. If necessary, use a steamer to work out any creases that worked themselves into the fabric.
Despite this, wool is an excellent choice for summer wear because it absorbs moisture better than many fabrics, keeping you feeling dry throughout the day. It also enhances your elegance in casual situations.
Men’s synthetic fabric shorts
Also known as technical fabrics, synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are going to serve you best when it comes to sports and exercise.
The advantage of synthetic fabric shorts is durability and low cost. They are less breathable though. However, you can find lighter weaves to compensate for this. Polyester is also excellent for repelling moisture and staying dry so maintaining these shorts is a breeze.
Uses of blended fabrics
Blended fabrics are made when at least two fibers are mixed together to create a new fabric with specific properties.
Are fabric blend shorts right for you? It depends on the purpose. One good example is cotton blended with spandex to give you more flexibility. However, blends made for the sake of cost-efficiency are usually poor quality.
Choose carefully. It may be simpler to decide between shorts with all-natural or synthetic fabric.
#6 Men’s Shorts: Understanding Colors And Patterns
Best colors for shorts
- Blue ranges from navy all the way to light blue. It’s a highly interchangeable color that goes well with the heat. Pairing navy chino shorts with a white casual button-down for example is a classic combination.
- Brown shorts are commonly found as khakis. It’s a timeless, simple color with considerable versatility. Khakis are even the common choice for slightly more formal situations.
- Gray is a noncolor that matches anything you could muster. You also have your pick of shades ranging from charcoal to light gray.
- Pastel colors such as lime, lavender, mint, and salmon are considered ultra-casual. They are highly versatile but draw more attention than their conservative counterparts above.
Make sure you have a solid foundation when it comes to blues, grays, and browns before delving into brighter colors.
Best patterns for shorts
With men’s shorts (and any clothing), extra visual detail will limit your ability to match patterns in clothes. They can add some flair when paired correctly, but proceed with caution.
- Solid shorts are the most common. No patterns mean that you can afford to get a more aggressive pattern on your chosen shirt, or even opt for busier shoes like tassel loafers.
- Stripes are sold in a wide range of sizes and color combinations. Seersucker weaves traditionally come with thin, alternating stripes known by different names depending on the time period and occupation of the wearer. In the old west, for example, a navy blue striped seersucker was called Hickory Stripe.
- Checks are a pattern of stripes that cross horizontally and vertically to form a square. They range wildly in density. You can easily find shorts bearing classic checked patterns such as Windowpane and Prince of Wales.
#8 What Can You Pair With Men’s Shorts?
Men’s shoes to wear with shorts
There are plenty of options out there depending on your preferred style. Considering how casual men’s shorts are, most dress shoes and dress boots are out.
- However, men’s loafers are classic, elegant summer shoes that you can pull off with ease. Men’s loafers are tried-and-true against the heat. They leave the ankle completely exposed which allows for better cooling. They are reliable for men seeking to enforce a more elegant air. Loafers offer a wealth of options as well – from streamlined penny loafers to the more casual tassel loafers. You can also opt for perforated leather to assist air circulation.
- Boat shoes are another option. They are simple, flat leather shoes with rubber soles designed to maintain traction on boat decks.
- Men’s dress sneakers are acceptable. White sneakers are preferable but are prone to tarnish.
What kind of socks can you wear with shorts?
Can you wear socks with men’s shorts? Of course, just stick with liner, ankle, or no-show socks.
Rely on no-show socks if you’re wearing loafers. You’re still going to need socks to keep the moisture in your feet from ruining the shoe. Don’t worry – the socks will not extend beyond the loafer’s upper. Your ankles can breathe safely.
Ankle socks should work well enough if you’re wearing sneakers.
Click here to discover how you can tell quality socks to pair with your quality shorts and shoes.
What shirts should men wear with shorts?
The kind of shirt you wear depends largely on the shorts. Athletic shorts will warrant an athletic top of a similar make.
Longer shorts of cotton, linen, or wool can easily be paired with plain t-shirts or casual button-downs. You can also sport a polo for a more formal feeling. Make sure to combine shirts with a belt if you tuck them in.
Is it OK to wear a jacket with shorts?
Pairing jackets and shorts can be tough. You don’t want to layer up if your goal is to stay cool of course. However, hoodies and athletic jackets can work well if your goal is to run or hit the gym.
You can also make effective pairings using light jackets. Consider a bomber jacket in suede if your goal is to go about the town. You can even wear a blazer with Bermuda shorts. The lighter the color, the better.
In some cultures, you can even pull off a blazer with long Bermuda shorts. As always, make sure to identify the unspoken dress code!
How To Wear Shorts – The Ultimate Guide Wrap-Up
Men’s shorts have a place in every man’s closet. As long as you understand proper fit and setting, you can turn them into a potent weapon in your arsenal.
With this basic guide, you have the knowledge to go out there and rule the summer. Wear them without fear, gentlemen.
Click below to watch the video – The Ultimate Guide To Men’s Shorts
The post How To Wear Shorts With Style | ULTIMATE Man’s Guide To Wearing Shorts appeared first on Real Men Real Style.
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By: Antonio
Title: How To Wear Shorts With Style | ULTIMATE Man’s Guide To Wearing Shorts
Sourced From: www.realmenrealstyle.com/how-wear-shorts/
Published Date: Wed, 21 Jul 2021 06:53:58 +0000
Most guys think women only notice men with the looks of Brad Pitt, biceps the size of Texas and more money than Jeff Bezos.
But this isn’t true. If you nail that first impression when you walk in a room women will easily notice you. That’s why in this article I’m going to give you the ten things a woman notices about a man first.
Take note because after you’ve read this article getting to know a woman will be infinitely easier.
#1 Women Notice Your Face
No debates here. If you keep your face in its best form – it means you’re taking great care of yourself.
Do you need a super handsome face? Nope! Not all of us are born with the Hollywood movie star look. If women only wanted that, there’d be a huge surplus of single men on this planet!
What you really need are good grooming habits. You want to show the ladies your well-maintained facial hair (whether it’s short stubble or a full-grown beard).
Or maybe you prefer a clean-shaven look – just make sure there are no post-shave bumps or red marks plaguing your face.
And then there’s the skin itself. Some guys still think they are ‘too manly’ for skincare. They wait for an acne outbreak or pain issue before seeking treatment.
The truth is, it’s every man’s responsibility to find the right lotion, cleanser or anti-aging cream to keep his skin healthy 24/7.
#2 Women Notice Your Smile
The most important part of your face is so valuable it’s worth talking about separately.
A captivating smile is a “welcome” sign that you’re waving from afar in a woman’s direction.
Combine that smile with seductive eye contact and a confident posture? You’re well on your way to impressing a woman.
BUT
Your smile can also be a hindrance if the teeth are noticeably dirty. Or worse… discolored! That’s why you need to watch out for:
- Stains from drinking lots of coffee, tea or wine (see your dentist every 3-4 months).
- Stains from smoking (as if there aren’t enough reasons to quit smoking).
- Too much fluoride from certain toothpaste brands or environmental sources (e.g. water) can darken your teeth.
- Teeth as you age – the outer layer of enamel wears out over time and starts revealing the natural yellow color (of the inner layer of dentin). You may want to consider some teeth-whitening products at home when you’re older.
#3 Women Notice Your Silhouette
Here the term silhouette refers to the outline of your body PLUS your clothing. Women are unsurprisingly drawn to a hyper-masculine silhouette:
- A built-up chest.
- Lean torso.
- Strong shoulders.
For those of us without the body of Adonis, what is the easiest way of getting this look? A suit jacket or blazer.
There are many types of suit jackets and it’s important you find the right one for your body shape. The sack-cut suit is very common in America because it is affordable to produce and fits over most men. It is not the fit that will make you look your best though.
A structured jacket adds subtle padding to the wearer’s shoulders, making them appear larger and broader. A fitted jacket tapers towards the middle to give the wearer the appearance of a leaner torso.
Just be careful to avoid a fit that is too tight in the search for a flattering jacket. A jacket should drape gently over your shirt and body. If a jacket creates an X-shaped crease when buttoned you have gone too far.
The same principle applies when matching trousers with your jacket. Avoid skinny trousers and jeans – they create an unattractive ‘matchstick’ silhouette that signals a lack of muscle. Swap them for slim-fit or subtly tapering cuts that create a muscular but lean silhouette.
#4 Women Notice Your Style
We are taught growing up never to judge a book by its cover. The truth is though, women (and men for that matter) make judgments and assumptions based on what you wear.
Don’t underestimate the power of nailing the 3 core components of dressing well – ever.
- Fit.
- Fabric.
- Function.
Also consider what your clothes say about your status, lifestyle and personality. Make an effort to choose clothes that send positive messages like maturity, sophistication and passion.
Women seeking a long-term partner are attracted to men who can be good providers – so knowing how to dress like a grown man helps if you’re looking to settle down.
#5 Women Notice The Details
Sure. You may initially impress with a well-fitted blazer and slacks. But if those are the only elements you work on – you won’t get far.
Any man who understands the laws of men’s style can find good shirts, jackets, and pants
- Hairstyle – consider this list of most attractive men’s hairstyles.
- Eyewear – choose the perfect sunglasses or eyeglasses for your face shape.
- Watches/Jewelry – discover how to match a watch to your outfit when buying one.
- Shoes – learn how to identify quality men’s leather shoes.
#6 Women Notice Your Mannerisms
Picture yourself as a contestant on The Bachelorette. You step out of the limo on Day 1 with all the guys. Your bachelorette is waiting by the mansion door.
You’re all on an even playing field appearance-wise, so what can you do to instantly get noticed?
Nail the greeting. This small act sets the tone for everything else that follows.
- Offer a firm handshake.
- Make solid eye contact.
- Smile!
Communicate to a woman that you are giving her your full attention.
Take just a few seconds to acknowledge her presence. Make her believe you’re invested in courting her.
OK, so chances are you’re not a reality show contestant. It’s the same principle in real life though: greet a woman poorly or have bad manners and you’ve immediately dug yourself a hole.
Showing a disregard for others’ feelings or basic courtesy might seem like a small issue to you. Women quickly pick up on these things though and assume you’re a loose cannon.
What are some examples of bad manners?
- Forget about your phone and other distractions. Keep your cell in your pocket.
- Arrive early. Aiming to arrive exactly on time is a recipe for being late.
- Go easy on cursing and foul language.
- Avoid constantly interrupting. Don’t cut a woman off in the middle of saying something.
- Meeting a woman online? Don’t say anything you wouldn’t say in real life.
#7 Women Notice Your Hands
What good is a handshake if your hands look like you’ve been digging through garbage? Always wash your hands and take care of your nails before an event. Even better, build it into your daily routine.
Otherwise – you can come off as neglectful, unhygienic or even ‘poorly raised’ (making your parents look bad).
Let’s not forget about dry hands with cracked skin! Should you use hand lotion? The natural oil your body produces normally keeps your skin supple. If your hands have a lack of natural oil I strongly suggest you regularly apply a hand lotion or cream. No woman wants her man to have hands covered with calluses.
#8 Women Notice Your Fragrance
You can nail every other category on this list – but none of them will count for anything if a woman doesn’t like how you smell.
Most men settle for using deodorant to keep their smell ‘neutral’… but why not go one step further and smell GREAT?
It’s no mystery. Studies prove that smelling great and wearing cologne makes you more attractive to women.
Get into the habit of routinely wearing a fragrance.
TIP: Learn how to apply cologne to avoid over-spraying and smelling like a biohazard.
#9 Women Notice Your Voice & Language
Yep. Women care about what they’re going to hear from you.
This time you can’t throw money at the problem. Even the most expensive jacket and fragrance won’t make you a smooth talker.
So what do you do?
It’s about self-development. Expand your knowledge and vocabulary. Set yourself apart from guys who always talk like they’re at a football game.
The next step is to read quality books. Click here to discover ten books every man should own. Find books that go deep into enriching topics (not just entertain you) – and help you grow as a person.
You’re aiming to show women you’re relatable, that there is no ‘intellectual barrier’ between the two of you. How enthusiastic you sound and whether you say “No” or “I’ve heard of that” when she mentions a topic – all these factors come into play.
Learn how to speak in an engaging way once you know what you are talking about. It comes easier to some than others but there are techniques you can learn. Use your voice in a way that grabs a woman’s attention and makes them eager to listen.
Who knows? With a little rhythm and use of your diaphragm – you may end up with a deep and booming voice like Neil deGrasse Tyson. That will definitely intrigue a few women!
#10 Women Notice Your Body Language
Actions speak louder than words.
Fun as it might be to talk knowledgeably and engagingly – don’t forget what your non-verbal communication is saying. Like your voice, body language can be more powerful than whatever clothes you are wearing.
Avoid any closed-off, negative or aggressive gestures that can catch a lady off guard. Particularly if a woman is getting to know you, even a subtle finger wag or angled neck can make the wrong first impression. Remind yourself every now and then to keep your arms unfolded.
Over time understand how men can use body language to signal positivity and openness all the time. It will take practice and a conscious effort at first but before you know it you’ll be using positive body language without realizing it.
TIP: Do NOT clench your fists in front of a woman (as if you’re about to punch someone!) You’re probably stronger than her – so why make yourself more intimidating?
BONUS: Women Notice Your Attitude/Personality
Some important points regarding attitude that you ought to take note of:
- Women do perceive some men as ‘douchebags’ unfortunately and it often stems from try-hard macho male behavior. One-upping people, wrecking someone’s home you’ve been invited to and taking your shirt off at every opportunity might have been cool when you were a frat bro. However, grown-up women want a grown-up man. This kind of attitude sends a negative vibe regardless of how nice you are in actual conversation.
- What you find funny tells women a lot about your attitude in general. You may not think about what your sense of humor says about you but there are different advantages to using ‘positive’ humor (using optimism, puns or wittiness) versus ‘negative’ humor (being sarcastic or self-disparaging).
- Be a ‘nice guy’ to start a serious relationship! Some women might want a fling with a bad boy but that’s all it will be. Have good manners and show maturity if you’re searching for your soulmate.
Click below to watch the video – 11 Unusual Traits Women Find Surprisingly Attractive
The post 10 Things Women Notice First In A Man appeared first on Real Men Real Style.
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By: Antonio Centeno
Title: 10 Things Women Notice First In A Man
Sourced From: www.realmenrealstyle.com/first-things-women-notice/
Published Date: Wed, 27 Sep 2023 16:27:10 +0000
Did you miss our previous article…
https://mansbrand.com/ultimate-seiko-watch-buying-guide/
When most men think of buying a reliable, high-quality wristwatch, brands like Rolex and Audemars Piguet stand out. But what also stands out is the price tag of those brands. Ouch. But what about buying a Seiko watch?
Not every man has the budget for luxury, Swiss timepieces. With a Seiko watch, you can get a durable, high-quality timepiece starting around $100.
Seiko has been around for 142 years, and to this day, they are one of the world’s top watch manufacturers. With a wide selection of timepieces ranging from affordable options to high-end luxury offerings, they have cemented themselves for their durable and high-quality timepieces.
But why buy a Seiko watch over any other brand? What does Seiko do differently? Which is the best Seiko watch to purchase in 2023?
In today’s article I’m going to cover:
- Why You Should Buy A Seiko Watch
- A Brief History Of Seiko
- What Makes Seiko Watches Special?
- Top Seiko Watches I Recommend
- When And Where To Buy A Seiko Watch
Why You Should Buy A Seiko Watch
Seiko Watches offer a lot of benefits that other watch manufacturers can’t match. But why should buy one? Here are a few reasons why you should buy a Seiko watch.
The Brand
When it comes to Japanese watchmakers, there are really only 2 that come to mind for most men – Seiko and Casio.
While Casio is a great company and you can find plenty of classic Casio watches to choose from, they tend to offer more rugged and digital options than Seiko.
The key selling point of the Seiko brand is that regardless of which model you choose, you are always getting a top-notch watch from a company with great heritage.
The Value
Seiko has plenty of offerings that start around $100 – sometimes less depending on where you shop. But even on their high-end offerings, you are still getting an incredible value.
Often times, luxury brands like Rolex or Patek Philippe are only available directly from the manufacturer, if you decide to buy new that is. This means you could end up paying a massive mark-up on your watch.
Seiko is available almost everywhere you can buy a watch. With the digital landscape of 2023, you can easily head to a major online retailer and buy almost any Seiko watch you’d like.
The Design
Just because Seiko has affordable watch options, does not mean that you’re getting a poorly designed timepiece.
Unlike other watch companies whose claim-to-fame is only producing clones of famous designs – think Invicta’s clone of the Rolex Submariner – Seiko has real heritage and history behind their designs.
Over the years, Seiko has even given some of their watch designs refreshes to keep them modern with the times. This is the attention to detail that separates companies like Seiko from others with their dedication to design and authenticity.
The Selection
As I previously stated, there is a Seiko watch for everyone.
Anywhere from casual field watches and dive watches, to formal dress watches and everything in between. Do you want a Seiko watch to wear when hiking? They have that. Do you also want a Seiko watch you can wear with a tuxedo? They have that too.
Seiko truly has one of the best selections for beginners to get their feet wet in classically designed timepieces. And the best part is, they only go up from there.
A Brief History Of Seiko
Where It All Began
In 1881, Japanese clockmaker Kintaro Hattori opened a shop that was dedicated to selling and repairing watches and clocks in Ginza, Tokyo.
He excelled at this for the next 11 years, until 1892, when he founded Seikosha, the company that was to become one of the most important manufacturers of timepieces in the world.
It was here that Hattori produced his very first clocks.
Then in 1895, he built the first pocket watch, the Timekeeper. This was an important development for timepieces from Seikosha that heavily paved the way for Japan’s first-ever wristwatch.
How Japan’s First Wrist Watch Came To Be
After creating the first pocket watch in Japan, Hattori would go on to create the first wristwatch made in Japan, named the Laurel in 1913.
At the time, the company was only able to produce a small amount of watches. Then, unfortunately, in 1923, a large earthquake struck the company’s headquarters and the Seikosha factory burned down.
In 1924, after a fresh start and under the new name of Seiko, the first Seiko brand watch went on sale.
For the next 30 years, Seiko would go on to create and innovate in the timepiece space, even, becoming the official supplier of pocket watches to Japan National Railways as the railway industry was expanding in Japan.
How Seiko Became So Prominent
From 1956 onward, Seiko solidified itself in horology by innovating and designing some of the most well-known components in wristwatches we know today.
Seiko went on to create the Diashock in 1956 – a component that Seiko used to absorb shock in their watches to better protect them. Then in 1959, they created their own proprietary “magic lever” system, which is an innovative self-winding system that is still used to this day in Seiko watches.
Hitting a pinnacle in 1960, when the first Grand Seiko model was created, Seiko wanted to create a watch that was more durable and legible than any other watch. It was their flagship and really set off the next 60+ years of innovation to where we know Seiko today.
Here are some more staple moments in Seiko’s history of innovation:
- 1964 – created Japan’s first wristwatch with a stopwatch on it, the Chronograph
- 1965 – produced Japan’s first diver watch to handle deep water pressure
- 1969 – introduced the world’s first quartz watch
- 1973 – introduced the world’s first 6-digit LCD quartz watch
- 1982 – introduced the world’s first TV watch
- 1983 – introduced the world’s first voice recording watch
- 1999 – created the Spring Drive – this gave mechanical watches quartz accuracy
- 2006 – introduced the world’s first E-Ink watch
- 2012 – introduced the world’s first GPS solar watch
What Makes Seiko Watches Special?
While it’s well known the vast majority of watchmakers use different types of the same components, what’s less known is the types of materials that each brand uses.
For example, Seiko creates their watches with commonly used materials mixed with proprietary technology and designs to create timepieces that are durable and high-quality.
What Materials Does Seiko Use In Their Watches?
Much like other manufacturers, Seiko uses a broad range of top materials to create their watches. This is a list of what you’ll find in most offerings of Seiko watches:
- Steel 316L – industry standard, used for watch cases, bezels, and bracelets
- Sapphire crystal – premium option, extremely scratch resistant, less shock resistant
- Mineral crystal (also known as Hardlex) – budget option, relatively scratch-resistant, more shock resistant
- LumiBrite – proprietary lume found in regular Seikos AND premium Grand Seiko watches – 10 minutes of bright sunlight = 3-5 hours of gradually fading light
- Premium Leather – used for straps and bracelets
What Movements Does Seiko Use?
Possibly some of the most interesting aspects about Seiko watches are the internal movements that make each watch tick – pun intended.
Now while I won’t get into too many details about the specifics and terminology of mechanical watches, I will dive into a few different movements from Seiko specifically.
If you’re looking for a deeper dive into mechanical watch research, check out the Ultimate Watch Buying Guide.
Here are 3 of the most common movements that Seiko uses and some features of each:
1. Seiko 7s26 – The Less-Expensive Movement
- Non-hacking, automatic and manual winding not possible
- 41 hour power reserve
- Accuracy somewhere between -20 to +20 seconds a day out of the box, settling down to somewhere in the range of -15 to +15 seconds a day or better
- Found on Seiko 5s and other older models
2. 4r35 – The Mid-Range Movement
- Hacking, manual and automatic winding possible
- 41 hour power reserve
- Date display
- Accuracy of -20 to +20 seconds a day, settling down to -10 to +10 seconds a day or better
- Found on Seiko Cocktail Times and newer lines
3. 6R15 – The Higher-End Movement
- Hacking, automatic and manual winding possible
- 50 hour power reserve
- Date display
- Accuracy of -10 to +10 out of the box, settling down to -5 to +5 seconds a day or better
- Found on Seiko Prospex and old Alpinist models
Top Seiko Watches I Recommend
It’s important to find the Seiko that’s perfect for you. But with such a wide selction to choose from, it’s understandable that you would want somewhere to start.
Without further ado, here are some of the best Seikos I’ve owned and some I wish I owned!
Seiko Ion Prospex SRPB55
- Quality dive watch
- 200m of water resistance which matches other luxury watches (think Tudor)
- Around $400
Seiko 5 SNK793
- Highly affordable dress watch
- Features day-date, sunray dial, and exhibition case back
- Around $100
Seiko 5 SNZF17J1
- A more adventurous Seiko 5 option
- Features a chunky, unidirectional stainless steel bezel and lumed hands
- Around $200
Seiko 5 SRPC61
- Smart-casual Seiko 5 option
- Features 120-click unidirectional bottlecap-shaped bezel
- Around $300
Seiko 5 SNK800
- Classic field watch style
- One of the most versatile Seiko options available for the price point
- Around $100
Men's SNK805 SEIKO 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Watch with Green Canvas
$187.72
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time SRPB43
- Classic style dress watch that works for both office and cocktail attire
- Features mid-century design with a sunray dial combined with 3D markers
- Around $400
Seiko Alpinist SPB121J1
- One of Seiko’s most popular watches online – design slightly updated in 2021
- Features sapphire crystal, 200m water resistance, and a 70 hour power reserve
- Around $700
Seiko Prospex"Alpinist" Compass Green Dial Sapphire Glass Leather Watch SPB121J1
$664.90
Seiko Prospex SBDC051
- Premium dive watch that combines old and new design
- Features a rugged stainless steel case with 200m water resistance
- Around $1,000
When And Where To Buy A Seiko Watch
The easiest answer to this question is “when you have the funds”. But the better answer is that it depends. And this goes for any watch, not just a Seiko. Let me explain.
A watch is highly visible on the wrist, making it a deeply personal part of a man’s wardrobe. For this reason, a good time to buy a watch is at a major life event such as graduating college, milestone birthdays, getting married, or a promotion at work.
But whatever the reason, the best time to buy a watch is when you are ready to buy one. Find your perfect watch, not someone else’s.
Certain iterations of Seiko watches may have more value at one time or another if you’re into collecting. Regardless, if you are looking for a good quality watch at a decent price, Seiko is one of the best options on the market.
As far as where to buy a Seiko watch, unlike other luxury brands that require you to go direct to the manufacturer or risk massive mark-ups from dealers, Seiko can be purchased just about anywhere.
Online is probably the most viable way to get one in 2023 but some large department stores, retailers, and dealers, will have plenty of Seiko options for you to choose from. When in doubt, a certified Seiko dealer will be your best bet.
That’s it. I hope this guide helps you to find your next Seiko watch so that you can finally get your hands on a well-designed, classic Japanese-manufactured watch that has withstood the test of time.
The post Ultimate Seiko Watch Buying Guide appeared first on Real Men Real Style.
——————–
By: Antonio Centeno
Title: Ultimate Seiko Watch Buying Guide
Sourced From: www.realmenrealstyle.com/seiko-watch-buying-guide/
Published Date: Wed, 27 Sep 2023 12:24:39 +0000
Most men have no clue when it comes to mixing and matching colors.
If you err on the side of caution and avoid bringing any color into your wardrobe, you’ll look dull. Or, if you get it wrong and add too much color – or the wrong colors – you’ll look like a clown.
This article will help you understand how to match colors in men’s clothing.
You will learn how to:
- Focus On Neutral Colors
- Use Small Pops Of Brighter Colors
- Don’t Overthink Your Skin Tone
What Does Understanding (And Using) Color Do?
- Avoids blatant mistakes
- Guides people’s eyes
- It makes people subconsciously “feel” things (red enlivens, brown = trust, dark navy or gray = power)
- It makes shopping MUCH more straightforward when you know what works best for you
But how does that translate into an actual outfit?
It’s not enough to know that red and green are complementary colors that go well together.
Even though the colors are good in combination, the wrong shades or the wrong amounts of each color will make you look like a Christmas decoration.
Menswear has to find a good balance between the dominant colors of the suits and shirts and the accent colors of things like neckties, pocket squares, and jewelry.
Combining colors tastefully is one of the hallmarks of the genuinely well-dressed man.
Although people have written dissertations on color-coordinating your wardrobe, the basics are pretty simple. All you have to remember are these 3 quick rules for combining colors in men’s clothing (courtesy of my friend Barron).
Trust me; it’s a lot easier than you might think.
For this article, I collaborated with Barron Cuadro from Effortless Gent, a men’s style blog that guides you towards building a lean wardrobe.
Do you ever look in your closet and think, “I have all this clothing, yet there’s nothing I want to wear”? If so, you’re in luck! Barron has helped many men like you take advantage of a flexible and interchangeable set of clothes for daily use. He makes it an effortless task regardless of your age, body type, or budget.
Whether you’re starting your wardrobe from scratch or just bringing in a few classic pieces to fill in the gaps, I highly recommend browsing Effortless Gent. You might also want to visit the EG online store for some stylish items that will upgrade your wardrobe even further.
Now for Barron’s 3 essential rules for how to match colors in men’s clothing.
How To Match Colors In Men’s Clothing Rule #1: Focus On Neutral Colors
Think of all the possible clothing color combinations like a pizza. You’ve got the base made up of bread and cheese and then an assortment of toppings that cater to different tastes.
Which would you say is more important: the base or the toppings? No-brainer! What kind of pizza has no crust? Similarly, a stylish outfit needs a good base of neutral colors like these:
- Black
- White
- Gray
- Navy, Light & Sky Blue
- Brown & Khaki
- Olive Green
These are the colors that go with most others. They set up the foundation for your outfits, making your job of finding matching clothes in your closet much more effortless.
That’s why they should constitute the majority of your wardrobe in terms of color percentages. With the right proportion of neutrals and non-neutrals, you can focus on the following rule (and have fun with it).
How To Match Colors Rule #2: Use Small Pops Of Brighter Colors
This rule is where you do get to do a bit of experimentation. Just remember what happens to a pizza if you overload it with multiple veggies or meat types that don’t go well together. The same principle applies when it comes to color in your wardrobe.
The key, as always, is moderation. Stick with only small touches of 1-2 brighter colors to prevent them from clashing with or overpowering the rest of your outfit.
A yellow or pink pocket square, for example, will pair well with a charcoal sports jacket and all other neutrals you have on (white or light blue dress shirt, dark blue jeans, black belt, etc.). It will easily pop out with that combination. The same goes for a red necktie or gold buttons on a neutral-colored jacket.
Shoes are slightly trickier. While black is the only option in some cases, e.g., formal dress, shades of brown complement most of the neutrals above far better. So what’s your best bet here? In a nutshell, brown is the answer. For a more thorough explanation, check out this article on matching dress shoes with neutral-colored suits.
But what if you’re planning instead to wear a bright suit color for a friend’s wedding or another special event? A bit of trial-and-error is in order. Do a bit of research on your best options. Ask the groom’s opinion. Or the bride’s. And remember – there’s always Pinterest and Instagram to help you out!
How To Match Colors Rule #3 Don’t Overthink Your Skin Tone
When dressing up, men often wonder: “Does this color look good with my skin tone?” Ever asked yourself this? Don’t worry about this too much. It’s more a secondary issue and not a huge limiting factor in what colors you can wear.
Shouldn’t skin color matter here? Well, yes, to a certain extent. But it should only play a part in about 10% of your decision-making regarding your color choices for clothing, and only after you’ve considered the two rules mentioned above.
It does help to know the type and amount of contrast between your skin tone and hair color. But that info should only require minor adjustments to your style. Don’t let your skin completely overhaul whatever you’ve taken time to put together. Stick to the neutrals and pops of color mentioned above, and chances are you’ll look good regardless of your complexion.
Matching colors is essentially a personal skill. There are no official rights or wrongs. The rules listed in this post – and all other rules about color – are not strict. As much as it helps to follow them (especially if you’re beginning to upgrade your style), there are times when you have to follow your gut simply.
With some practice, you’ll eventually be able to tell whether your outfit works with a single glance in the mirror.
When it comes to understanding how to match colors in men’s clothing, remember this: If you like what you see and the outfit suits the occasion, go ahead with it! Forget about how much it defies conventions. Be confident – and it’ll show. And confidence always looks good.
The post 3 Main Rules To Match Colors In Men’s Clothing appeared first on Real Men Real Style.
——————–
By: Antonio Centeno
Title: 3 Main Rules To Match Colors In Men’s Clothing
Sourced From: www.realmenrealstyle.com/match-colors-style-rules/
Published Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2023 11:51:28 +0000
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