Spring is the perfect time to express yourself by incorporating livelier colors, patterns and textures into your wardrobe. Gone are the days of the heavy fabrics that keep you warm as you tackle the icy streets (yes, the icy streets of Gainesville) and the scarves that remind you of home or your bed, whichever is cozier.
However, thanks to GQ, gentlemen now have a reason to seize the day with their outfits. Its 2013 Spring Preview has just hit the Internet fashion world (where some would argue is the only place that fashion truly exists) and gentlemen, and ladies alike, should be very excited.
1. Pastels
GQ refers to these tones as chalky, but pastel will always be pastel. Embrace it and make it work. Light pink, green and blue hues are all wonderful for darker skin tones, and the men’s mag suggests mixing in a couple of different tones into one outfit. However, since we do live in Central Florida, it is wiser to stick to two colors. You don’t want to give the impression that you’re going on an Easter egg hunt or to a baby shower.
2. Mixing patterns
Some say that April showers bring May flowers, but in reality, April showers bring a revelation of dull, waterproof coats. Liven up your wardrobe by mixing in a fresh plaid raincoat or trench in a relatively light color. Add some contrast with bold colored prints that will enhance small details. Take for example a beige trench with similarly toned pants, and a shirt with dark stripes that accentuates the plaid pattern of the trench and the dark brown of the belt and shoes.
3. Loafers
Let us not even discuss the tragedy that is a pair of Sperry’s loafers and move on to the fact that there are other styles of loafers that exist out there. Gentlemen, beautiful footwear is achievable. You don’t have to look like you’re going boating all the time to be cool. A stylish pair of Ralph Lauren loafers at $100 will last 5 times as long as the $90 pair of Sperry’s. They are classier, more tasteful and an investment!
4. Denim
Usually, denim is a big no-no in a well-dressed lad’s closet, but this spring we’ll make an exception for the denim jacket. Create a contrast by layering a dark jean jacket under a light-colored, lightweight coat for those chilly days of spring. Style the two tops with bold-colored pants in red or green.
5. Polo shirts
The average, lackluster white or navy polo can be a damper on the exciting styles of spring. However, rocking a new polo with a softer texture and some subtle, monochromatic prints can be a fresh take on this classic piece. GQ advises to pair the polo with a linen-and-wool blended blazer in a couple of shades lighter for a casual, clean-cut look that is equally respectable.
