Who says girls have more fun when it comes to dressing up? Ladies give their two cents’ worth on how guys—from brothers to boyfriends, even hot celebs like Derek Ramsay—can look spiffy for everything from laid-back casual weekends to elegant formal evenings. Even workwear gets a makeover with a few fashionable suggestions.
Kelly Misa, model; Look Magazine beauty editor; and Inquirer Lifestyle beauty columnist
On casual dressing: Comfort is key, but still keep in mind that you want to look presentable. Wearing a great-fitting shirt with khaki shorts and loafers always looks good.
On formal dressing: A formal event usually states its required dress code (barong Tagalog, a dark-colored suit or a tuxedo) in the invitation, so make sure to read the invite. If it doesn’t mention a dress code, just wear a suit that’s tailor-made for you, and finish off your look with a dress watch. Steer clear of funky necktie designs.
On workwear: Unless your office requires you to wear a short-sleeved barong every day, there are ways to go about looking sharp in the office. Neutral colors make it easy to mix and match your wardrobe. Your belt and shoes should be leather and understated, either black or brown, and not too bulky or pointy.
Ann Jacobe, founder, Shoephoric
On casual dressing: Wear jeans with a sensible cut for your body shape. Pair them with pieces like a cotton button-down shirt with brown loafers and a cashmere sweater or a crewneck sweatshirt with white sneakers and a tweed jacket. Never wear flip-flops—regardless of how expensive they are.
On formal dressing: Go for the timeless suit that gives a sleek silhouette. Always match your suit with leather shoes that have wooden heels than those with rubber soles.
On workwear: With the merging of business and casual in the workplace, there is a fine line between dressy and casual dressing. Dark denim or slacks and long-sleeved shirts are must-haves. Opt for slightly square-toed laced shoes or loafers.
Agoo Bengzon, beauty director, Summit Media
On casual dressing: I would suggest a pair of khaki shorts or chinos and maybe a crisp linen shirt or a collared tee in a bright or pastel hue with some cool sneakers (Onitsuka Tiger shoes come to mind).
On formal dressing: Say no to boxy suits. Opt for a well-crafted and fitted suit in a dark hue like navy or gray and leather wingtip shoes.
On workwear: A well-dressed man will always stand out. Therefore, try not to be too casual. A crisp shirt and well-tailored pants or dark-rinse jeans with a fitted and textured blazer is casual but still professional-looking.
Clothes, shoes and accessories, all from Adora, 2/F, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati.