Taste in menswear is not innate; it’s cultivated. The refined eye that distinguishes a well-cut jacket from a mere blazer, or recognizes the subtle depth of a fine fabric, doesn’t appear overnight. Like any art form, developing taste in menswear is a journey of curiosity, observation, and discernment.
Much like bespoke tailoring, where each stitch serves a purpose, taste in style requires deliberate attention to detail. A pocket square peeking just-so, the roll of a shirt collar, or the proportion of a lapel - these small considerations coalesce into a cohesive expression of personality. But how do you refine your sartorial palate and develop a sense of what truly works for you?
Immerse Yourself in the Classics
The timeless nature of classic menswear provides a sturdy foundation for building taste. Look to icons like Cary Grant, Steve McQueen, or even modern tastemakers like Ralph Lauren. Pay attention to the fits, fabrics, and understated elegance these figures championed. The goal isn’t imitation; it’s learning the principles that underpin enduring style.
Consider the power of a navy blazer, a white Oxford shirt, or a pair of well-polished brogues. These staples endure not by accident but because they balance versatility, function, and elegance. Mastering these basics gives you the tools to experiment later.
Understand Proportion and Fit
Good taste in menswear is as much about fit as it is about fabric or design. A perfectly tailored $100 suit will outshine a $5,000 one that doesn’t fit right. Pay attention to shoulder seams, sleeve lengths, and trouser breaks. The harmony of proportions - where clothing complements your body’s natural shape - is a hallmark of refined style.
Don’t hesitate to develop a relationship with a trusted tailor. Small alterations can transform an off-the-rack piece into something that feels bespoke. Learning to see fit is like training a muscle; the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes.
Develop a Fabric Consciousness
Texture, weight, and drape matter more than you think. Developing taste means recognizing the seasonality of fabrics - linen for summer, flannel for fall, and the year-round versatility of wool. Touch fabrics, learn their properties, and appreciate how different materials behave when worn.
A man who understands his fabrics can convey refinement without saying a word. The way a soft tweed jacket falls naturally over the shoulders or how a cotton poplin shirt holds its crispness tells a story of thoughtfulness.
Embrace Subtlety and Restraint
Bold statements have their place, but good taste often thrives in subtlety. It’s the restraint in choosing a muted pocket square over a loud one, or the decision to forego an extra accessory that elevates the overall look. As Coco Chanel famously advised, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” The same principle applies to menswear.
Cultivate Your Eye Through Observation
Good taste is trained through exposure. Pay attention to stylish men on the street, in films, or in fashion editorials. Notice what works and ask yourself why. Is it the balance of colours, the fit, or the way different textures play together? Over time, these observations shape your intuitive sense of style.
Experiment Thoughtfully
While classics form the foundation, personal taste blossoms through experimentation. Try new colours, patterns, or silhouettes, but do so thoughtfully. Ask yourself whether the change feels authentic or forced. Taste is not about following trends but discerning which trends align with your personal aesthetic.
The Journey of Taste
Ultimately, developing taste in menswear is about self-awareness. It’s a dialogue between you and your wardrobe, a process of refining what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and genuinely yourself. As your life evolves, so too will your style. The journey isn’t about perfection but about authenticity - an ongoing exploration of taste that, like a finely tailored suit, always fits just right.