It’s the little things that count, and men’s fashion is not the exception. A carefully chosen accessory can add personality and flair to even the most basic outfit. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the 5 essential accessories that every dapper man should have in his wardrobe.

1. The Necktie

The necktie is a classic accessory that has been a staple of menswear for centuries. Originally worn by Croatian mercenaries during the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century, the necktie has evolved over time to become a symbol of elegance, formality, and style.

But with so many styles and materials to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start when it comes to selecting the right tie for your outfit and occasion.

Trust me, I’ve been there many, many times. In fact, every time I put on a tie I have to deal with this. But there is a way out of this.

First and foremost, it’s important to consider the formality of your event or occasion.

For a formal event, a solid-colored silk tie is always a safe choice. Black, navy, and burgundy are classic colors that pair well with a variety of suit colors and patterns.

For a less formal occasion, you might opt for a tie with a pattern, such as stripes or dots. Just make sure that the pattern complements the rest of your outfit – a patterned tie with a patterned shirt or suit can be too much.

We’ll cover some basic and advanced matching rules in future blog posts.

When it comes to material, silk is the traditional choice for neckties. It’s smooth, luxurious, and drapes nicely, making it a great option for formal occasions.

However, silk ties can be expensive, so if you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider a tie made from cotton, wool, or a blend of materials. All good and acceptable choices depending on the style you’re going for.

Just be aware that these last few materials may not drape as well as silk, so you’ll need to experiment to find the right knot and style for your tie.

The width of your tie is another important consideration for every man. In general, wider ties are more formal, while slimmer ties are can be considered more modern and casual. A standard tie width is around 3 to 3.5 inches, but you can go narrower or wider depending on your personal style and the formality of your event.

My personal recommendation to you would be to stick with 3-3.5 inches ties to stay safe and maintain a timeless style in your neckwear approach. But style is personal and you should always feel free to experiment to find what works best for you.

Finally, we should not forget about the knot. The most common knot is the Four-in-Hand knot, which is simple, easy to tie and classic. For a more formal occasion, consider a Windsor knot or a Half-Windsor knot, which are more complex and create a fuller knot.

Looking for a balanced necktie knot? Not too big, not too casual? Give the Prince Albert knot a try, it is my favorite knot and the one I use 90% of the time.

Moving on…

2. The Pocket Square

The pocket square is a small accessory that can make a big impact on your outfit. It’s a versatile accessory that can be worn with a suit or sports coat to add a pop of color or pattern to your look.

Here’s what you need to know about pocket squares:

Firstly, choose the right material for your pocket square. As with neckties, material play a huge role in pocket squares. Cotton or linen pocket squares are great for casual outfits, while silk or wool pocket squares are perfect for more formal occasions.

As a general rule, the material you choose will depend on the style of your outfit and the occasion you are dressing for.

Next, let’s talk about size. A pocket square that is too small will look out of place, while a pocket square that is too large will look bulky and awkward. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pocket square that is about the same size as your jacket pocket, but this rule can easily be broken if you have a clear style in mind that you’re going for.

When it comes to folding your pocket square, there are many different styles to choose from.

The most common styles include the straight fold (you may encounter is as the presidential fold as well), the puff fold, and the one-point fold. The straight fold is the most basic and classic style, while the puff fold adds a bit more volume, texture and personality. The one-point fold is more formal and structured, and is a great option for business or formal events.

Finally -and perhaps the most important thing to consider when thinking about pocket squares- make sure to coordinate your pocket square with the rest of your outfit. Choose a color or pattern that complements your tie, shirt, and suit or sports coat. If you’re unsure what color or pattern to choose, a white or cream pocket square is always a safe and classic option.

One thing to always avoid: matching necktie and pocket square sets. Excessive matching, which occurs with these sets, can sometimes be detrimental to your outfit.

The pocket square is a small accessory that can make a big impact on your outfit. By choosing the right material, size, folding style, and coordinating it with the rest of your outfit, you can create a look that is polished and elegant. So don’t feel limited, go ahead and experiment with different materials, colors, and folding styles – the possibilities are endless!

It’s no wonder the pocket square is one of my favorite accessories and one can’t miss in all of my daily outfits.

3. The Dress Watch

Every dapper man who considers himself a dapper man should have a dress watch in his collection. It’s the perfect accessory to elevate your outfit and make a statement. But what makes a good dress watch?

Here’s my take as an admirer but not necessarily the most knowledgeable man in the watch world (hey, you have you recognize your strengths and weaknesses):

First off, choose a watch that suits the occasion. A dress watch should be simple, elegant, and understated. Avoid anything too flashy or sporty, those watches have their time and place and when in a suit, they are not the best choice.

I prefer a leather strap for my dress watch, but a metal bracelet can work too depending on your outfit.

When it comes to the size and style of your dress watch, go for something slim and refined. I recommend a case diameter of around 36-40mm. Keep the dial simple and easy to read, with a minimalist design that exudes timeless sophistication. Stick to classic colors like silver, gold, or black. You really can’t go wrong with any of these options.

Now, let’s talk movement. Quartz watches are great for their accuracy and low maintenance, but there’s something special about the traditional feel of a mechanical watch. It’s a personal choice, so consider what matters most to you and your budget.

Lastly, I’ve got a very useful rule to share with you. Remember to coordinate your dress watch with your outfit. If you’re wearing a black leather belt and shoes, opt for a black leather strap. If you’re rocking brown, choose a brown leather strap to keep things neat and polished.

A dress watch is a must-have accessory for any dapper man. It’s a timeless piece that can enhance your outfit and make you stand out from the crowd.

4. The Leather Belt

A leather belt is a staple accessory for any dapper man’s wardrobe. It not only holds up your pants, but it also adds a touch of style and sophistication to your outfit. As a men’s style enthusiast, I believe that a high-quality leather belt is a must-have accessory for any stylish man.

I know, I know. If you know me well, you know that I do favor suspenders or waist adjusters over belts when wearing a suit, but please bear with me, this post is mostly aimed at the public in general and men interested in their own style journeys, we will discuss all the benefits of suspenders in a future post. Please be patient.

When it comes to choosing a leather belt, there are a few things to consider. First, the color of the belt should match your shoes. If you’re wearing black shoes, go for a black leather belt, and if you’re wearing brown shoes, choose a brown leather belt. This creates a polished and cohesive look.

Next, think about the width and thickness of the belt. A thinner belt is more suitable for dressier occasions, while a thicker belt works better for casual events. Additionally, make sure the belt fits properly and sits comfortably on your waist.

It should be snug enough to hold up your pants, but not too tight that it digs into your skin. Whenever possible, try on a belt before purchasing to see how it really sits on your waist.

Another thing to consider is the buckle of the belt. A simple and classic buckle design is ideal for dressier occasions, while a more ornate buckle works better for casual events. Don’t forget to match the buckle with the color of the rest of your outfit (see the dress watch section above).

Lastly, investing in a high-quality leather belt is crucial. A good quality leather belt not only looks better, but it also lasts longer. Consider spending a bit more money on a belt made from full-grain leather or top-grain leather, as they are more durable and look better with age.

5. The Tie Clip

I can confidently say that a tie clip may be a tiny accessory, but it can make a big difference in your outfit. It not only keeps your tie in place, but it also adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your overall look.

When it comes to choosing a tie clip, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the material of the clip. A metal clip, such as silver or gold, is a classic and timeless choice. If you’re feeling bold, you can also opt for a more unique material, such as wood or even leather, although these are not as common nor as easy to find.

Next, think about the size of the tie clip. A general rule of thumb is that the clip should be about ¾ the width of your tie. This ensures that the clip is not too small or too big and looks proportionate on your tie.

In terms of placement, there seems to be a lack of consensus, some say the tie clip should be positioned between the third and fourth button of your dress shirt, while I’ve read some others claim it will site better between the fourth and fifth buttons. In my opinion and as a personal preference, I go with the former. This allows for the clip to properly hold the tie in place and also prevents it from being too high or too low on your tie.

When it comes to patterns or designs, the options are endless. From simple and classic designs to more intricate and unique patterns, as with all accessories listed in this article, choose a tie clip that matches your personal style and the occasion you are dressing for. Just remember to keep it tasteful and not too distracting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 5 accessories are must-haves for any dapper man looking to elevate his style. From the necktie to the dress watch, each accessory serves a specific purpose and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.

By investing in high-quality pieces and taking proper care of them, you can ensure that they last for years to come and become staples in your wardrobe.

Remember, your style is a reflection of your personality and can make a lasting impression on those around you. By incorporating these accessories into your daily outfits, you can exude confidence and elegance on every occasion.

If you have any questions, comments or additional tips for these accessories that you would like to share with this community, feel free to leave a comment below.

Oh, and don’t forget to check out my other men’s style blog posts for more dapper style inspiration and advice.

Thank you for reading!