buttoned up | a formal wear guide for pinoy men

This post is supposed to be a Style Guide for PROM, 

but I have come to realize that it’s a little too early and I actually have gone through sources that discusses formal wear on broader contexts, so I told myself, hey why not simply make a simple 

Formal Wear Style Guide for Pinoys.

And so, here it is…

First of all, to set this post different from all other Style Guides to Formal Wear, this one tackles in particular the need of Filipino men. We Pinoys are set on a different context as that of the highly discussed western fashion and so we have ‘some’ other things to consider.

When it comes to FORMAL EVENTS, the rule STRICTLY FORMAL sometimes imposes upon guys the boring, up-tight, put-your-best-foot-forward kind of situation. Well, it is, and it is not. Thing is, you can have as much fun as you get to have on a pool side party from a cocktail sipping event. The trick simply lies on how you are dressed and how you behave. Everything else follows – that I have said, and would say it again. It’s all in the attitude – and the dress.

Let's break it into three; 

TOP, BOTTOM and DETAILS.

TOP. 
It’s is a conventional choice to pick a tux (that’s a lengthy jacket and bow ties) for most men. It is very regal and prim; I myself like it. But there are also alternatives that would make you even more gwapo, and so is the word. A crispy white shirt under a tailored jacket or blazer is the epitome of a modern gentleman. Keep it close to your body shape and you’re good to go. The only thing to consider though, since the weather in the country is tropical, is the fabric. Pick pure cotton or silk ones for a fresher feel. Avoid wool and leatherette – unless the venue permits.

BOTTOM.  

Pants. There are no much rules in here, just this, make it go with your over all color scheme, meaning silver jacket needs silver pants, black on black, white on white, period.  Color blocking is fun, but it is really kind of ‘too-forward’ for formal events. Also, mind the hem. The hem, as the way I like it should end just where the shoe top begins. Others like it a little beyond, just a little beyond. That’s fine, but never NEVER ever let a single line come to existence when the hem and the shoe meets – because that’s the end of your ensemble.

DETAILS. 

Meaning; the tie, the shoes, the belt, the cuff links and the watch. Any guy can actually rock a plain tux provided he is able to look into the details pretty much good. The choice for the tie is crucial, because it gets attention.

Decide which looks good on you, a bow tie or a tie. I’d pick bowties ‘cause am comfortable with them, that too, my man, comfort, is a great consideration.

The shoes and the belt goes together. Black on black is the safest, but make sure it look great with the top and bottom. Also, lace up leather shoes like Brogues are the BEST shoes, leave the loafers for walking.

The cuff links are optional, but a simple but well placed cuff link would highlight an ensemble and give you more character. Lastly, pick a good, quite pricey watch. It’s a man’s measurement – sort of. A formal event talks about serious men trying to live a life, trying to make their time pretty much worth it. And a good watch is a must.

***

In the end, I’d say this again; 

ATTITUDE my friend is the greatest wardrobe there is. 

 Its hides the flaws and flaunts what should be – if used rightly.  Learn and reap the value of ethics by being the best gentleman that you can be.