The Two Point Blue Collar Upgrade

Ask A Woman: Basics for the non suited man.

If you’ve got a question that needs the female treatment, chances are you’re not the only one who wants to ask it.  Beth is our source for the answers.  From opinions on men’s style to decoding the sometimes mysterious ways of women, she’ll take on a different question every Thursday.   And don’t worry, your identity will be protected too.  Click here to get to know Beth, then get in touch with her by sending your question to: askawoman@dappered.com
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Hello Beth:

I’ve read many an article about style, but they all seem geared towards men working in the white collard world.  My question is what are some good ways for a blue collar guy to upgrade his look in the blue collared world?  Even when I go out on the town I’d look over dressed wearing many of the things that most websites suggest.   I am almost always in jeans, and a casual atmosphere.

– Sean

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Hi Sean,

I think your scenario is no different than the guys who are tired of wearing scratchy dress pants and confining ties come the weekend, but they don’t want to schlub around in Zubaz when going out for a casual beer on Saturday evening.  There are two keys to accomplishing this: 1) keep it simple, and 2) use details to distinguish your look.

To keep it simple, choose items that don’t have a lot of dazzle, but that fit well and are made of decent materials.  I like this khaki colored blazer; the light color makes it more casual than a navy blue or black color would.  For spring and summer, linen is a great material to have in your closet.  It’s very casual, but very cool.  Double plus bonus: linen is supposed to have a slightly wrinkled look so you don’t have to worry about ironing.   Finally, make sure you have a pair of jeans that look great (dark washes look more polished than light washes), fit well, and are currently on trend.   (Do you have carpenter jeans in the bottom of your dresser? For shame, for shame.)

Details are where you can have a lot of fun with showing your personal style, but because it’s in small doses, no one will be “overwhelmed” by your sophistication.  These laid-back kicks are stylish but they’re still sneakers.  Either of these watches look great, but only occupy a couple inches on your body.   What about the smallest of details like interesting zippers, clever buckles, and well-placed pockets?  See them on this moto jacket, or this bomber jacket.  A striped canvas belt adds a bit of color while still remaining casual.

Still craving that pizazz in your wardrobe that you know the townies wouldn’t approve of?  Smuggle a pair of these bad boys underneath your pants.  You’ll be the flashiest dresser in the room, even if you’re the only one who knows it.

-Beth

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