‘Tis the season to make some meaningful new year’s resolutions. Why not make 2022 the year you take your wardrobe to the next level? Fresh Clean Tees is here to help. It’s easier than you think to start off your new year on a stylish note that’ll keep you looking sophisticated and dapper all year long.
Commit to the eight style resolutions below and you’ll be well on your way to looking and feeling your best in the upcoming year.
1. Invest in strong basics.
If you follow only a single tip from this list, make it this one. Well-made men's basics in versatile colors should make up the backbone of your wardrobe, allowing you to effortlessly build tons of different looks. Make sure that you have a good mix of both short-sleeved shirts and long sleeves, so that you can customize with a winter coat and some smart layering.
Don’t forget about your fundamentals either! The new year is a great time to toss out things like your old socks and invest in fresh socks for men.
2. Purge your closet.
Start off the new year with a fresh, clean slate by purging your closet. Now’s the time to get ruthless by donating anything that no longer fits, that you haven’t worn all year, or that’s stained, old, or simply out of style. If you’re on the fence about any item, toss it.
A clean, well-organized closet full of clothes that you actually want to wear will make getting dressed way easier each morning. You can even maximize the space by adding in a few more essential items that speak to your style and elevate your look, such as a reversible bomber jacket.
3. Accessorize strategically.
Good accessories can elevate plain outfits and add visual interest to your look. The best way to accessorize strategically is to find items such as scarves, rings, and watches that echo your aesthetic and can be used for several different outfits.
You can use a nice cashmere scarf in muted navy to add a shot of sophistication to any look, and it’ll keep you warm all season long too. You don’t have to spend a bundle on accessories either. A statement watch from Swatch can prove gloriously retro and would perfectly balance stark black and white for a playful piece that’ll cost you less than $100.
4. Level up your skincare.
Winter can wreak serious havoc on your skin, leaving it dry, patchy, and rashy if you’re not careful. Leveling up your skincare regimen will keep it supple and soft, even on the harshest January days.
Make moisturizing the centerpiece of your skincare routine. Look for a heavy moisturizer with SPF that will protect your skin from drying out or getting scorched by the winter sun. A hot shower might feel amazing on a chilly day, but you’re not doing your skin any favors. Instead, try to wash in lukewarm water to preserve that moisture barrier.
5. Don’t slack on hygiene.
Although it may be tempting to let your beard grow wild and free during the chillier months, try to avoid the urge. Hygiene and style often go hand in hand, which means that proper dental care, beard maintenance, and trimming unwanted ear and nose hair are vital to looking and feeling your best.
Grab a seasonally scented beard oil that doubles as a classic cologne for some extra style and hygiene points.
6. Get savvy with color.
Although we all love our neutrals, getting creative with unique color combinations can really pay off, both by elevating your look and helping you resurrect some of your older pieces. It’s okay to start small if you’re a little bit color shy. For example, accessorize a navy suit with a yellow and white pinstriped pocket square, or pair a cobalt-colored polo shirt with a gray sweater and dark jeans.
A simple maroon t-shirt looks fresh and style-forward with some salmon-colored chinos. You can even pair yellow and green. This duo is excellent for late winter and early spring.
7. Find a great tailor.
The most fantastic wardrobe in the world isn’t worth much if it doesn’t fit you properly. Ill-fitting clothes generally look sloppy, regardless of how much you paid for them. So one of the smartest investments that you can make is finding a great tailor.
Although you can, and should, tailor your casual clothes, it’s absolutely vital that you take your suits in for a good once-over.
8. Don’t neglect your shoes.
Finally, don’t neglect your shoes or belts. Good winter footwear like Chelsea boots can keep your feet warm and stylish even on the slushiest, wettest, most miserable of days. Just remember to waterproof your shoes before you head out.
— Elizabeth Lavis
