First things first, being considered stylish is not the most important thing in the world. I would never advise getting yourself into credit card debt so that you can dress well. The most important thing is to make sure your bills are paid and that you live within your means. Designer shoes are not worth sleepless nights because of debt.

Having said that, if you’re in the fortunate position of being able to afford to buy clothes after paying your bills or you still live with your parents then investing in your appearance is certainly something that you should consider.

I first became interested in clothing when I was in my teens. I started working at around 15 so I was able to buy my own clothes from a fairly young age. There have been missteps along the way. There’s a picture of me floating around somewhere from a friend’s 16th birthday dinner where I was wearing a black shirt with a white tie (yeah, I know) but aside from looking like a Swedish tour manager for The Hives, it gave a good indication of where my style was headed.

I dress well. I have been told by several people that I am the best dressed person they know. I have also been stopped on the street and told in restaurants, shops etc., that I look nice or that they like my jacket which, if you know how socially repressed the English are, particularly in London, it’s certainly noteworthy. I’m not recounting these stories to appear conceited but merely to illustrate that when it comes to throwing an outfit together, I know what I’m doing.

This brings me to the crux of my article; why should you or anyone make an effort with their appearance? I think it’s important for several reasons.

Firstly, there’s a sense of satisfaction that comes from being well dressed: you’ll look good, you’ll feel good and you’ll carry yourself with confidence. Secondly, you’ll be taken more seriously: in work and in life. Studies have shown that people dressed well are more likely to be perceived as confident and a higher earner. Like it or not, people make snap judgments about other people within seconds of meeting/seeing them. Why not give them a favourable impression by dressing the part?

Finally, and I think this is the most important point, it’s just nicer. I love history and I love photography. If you look at old pictures, from the 50’s & 60’s for example, everyone looks so stylish and elegant. In a world where people wear pyjamas to the supermarket and tracksuit bottoms/yoga pants are the uniform of the masses, it’s nice to make an effort with your outfit and stand out from the crowd. It may even mark you out as a gentleman.

So, why should you listen to me when it comes to dressing yourself? Why me over all the other men’s style sites out there? I’m not a model. I’m not 6 foot 4” and exceptionally good looking. I’m certainly not rich. I’m just a regular guy with a passion and flair for style. One that will advise you on how to dress a little smarter, to give you an added layer of polish.

I would describe my own personal style as a mix between Italian Riviera and traditionally British, varying on the season. My preference being for a slimmer but not skinny fit. I personally have a penchant for tailored separates and I understand the difference between being fashionable and being stylish.

If you haven’t already, read my post about acquiring a well-rounded, versatile wardrobe. It’s packed with great ideas that will elevate your style game. Best of all, my recommendations are all sensibly priced. Like I said, I’m not rich. I have a budget to work to and my rent comes first but I know style. Truth be told, it’s not too difficult. Not everyone can or wants to dress well but once you’ve learned the fundamentals, it’s much easier to start dressing more stylishly.

Subscribe to the site for email updates for when new articles go live. In the coming weeks, I’ll be posting about proper clothing and shoe care too. Finally, do you agree with my points? Or do you think that in a world that is becoming less-and-less formal, style doesn’t really matter? Leave a comment below, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Thanks for reading,
Terry