At some point or another, one has felt overdressed. And trying too hard can translate to pathetic. Therefore, each aspect of your presentation needs reason, and no individual article should not be chosen based on one defining characteristic. Just because you own a tux coat, it doesn't mean you should wear it whenever you feel like looking look good.
When textures and colors match seamlessly, people don't notice minor discrepancies. Instead, they notice the positive aesthetics like complementary colors or unique textures. So make sure each style you combine matches another piece, to make it seem cohesive and intentional. (The "overdressed" rule becomes null and void when one is in Las Vegas, though.)
One tip for those who are just beginning to delve into their personal presentation: be careful mixing stripes, pinstripes and patterns. Generally, the primary concerns come when two textures of similar size and color are combined that compete with each other. It becomes chaotic, which is the opposite of elegance. It's certainly OK to wear contrasting textures, they just need to vary in size, and have matching undertones, which brings me to this next outfit.
Pinstripes convey power and seniority. One should utilize them carefully, because they garner a lot of attention. That's why they need to be combined with something that balances their intensity. I chose a maroon tie, with a very different pattern (tiny dots) than the stripes on the black shirt. The maroon tie is bold enough to take a little focus off of the cuffs and collar, and helps create a very balanced image. Another way of balancing the intensity seen in the shirt and tie is to use unconventional shoes and belt. They seem insubstantial, but when the outfit is looked at as a whole, some reddish-brown cap-toe shoes and belt add the perfect amount of color to break the larger, darker masses.
Lastly, a cream colored overcoat is a good substitute for a sports coat or suit jacket in the workplace. The lighter color helps brighten up the overall outfit and always looks classy. Never wear a nylon jacket by the way. The new intern will think you're directing traffic when you hold the door for her.
The cream overcoat should be worn open, to show the tie and shirt.
A light band watch is another way to lighten the feel of a mostly dark outfit. The band is cream colored like the jacket and matches the red-brown leather shoes and belt.
Brown captoe shoes are a retro style that must be handled with finesse. They can look clunky if your pants aren't the proper width at the bottom. But for the most part, they are versatile and can be confidently worn with most pants, including [dark] jeans.
Cufflinks make a bold statement. To keep modest, I used black square ones. They match the belt finish and the shirt color, without appearing overstated.
Slim pants are a great way to achieve a bolder top-half. In combination with a well-tailored shirt, the right pants create a healthy triangle with your shoulders.
Argyle socks are fail-safe. They can be worn with most plain-texture pants.
Without the jacket, the outfit appears crisp and bold, without feeling too metro. The heavy reds and blacks add a sense of formality, but are loosened with the bright collar.
Alright guys, I appreciate you looking. As always, comments are great conversation.
We've got lots of exciting segments planned. So stay posted. -TCG
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