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As unalike as they are, both Jack Nicholson and Pierce Brosnan have made “sexiest men alive” lists; and women have been attracted to the high charged confidence of a Cary Grant, as well as the hesitating, eye-blinking uncertainty of a Hugh Grant. What all of these men have in common is a certain sense of style. And though their sense of style may be different in each case, in each case it is magnified by the man’s appearance. Undoubtedly, attire has something to do with the impression each man creates. Because although it’s true that attitude will go a long way in conveying something about what you’re made of, your personal style will either enhance or counteract that message. One’s style sense (or lack thereof) is the earliest projection of personality; yet surprisingly, most people leave this important aspect of themselves to chance. However, with only a little effort, you can begin to broadcast an effective and attractive message. Building a wardrobe to project style requires a slightly different tact than the usual “wardrobe essentials” approach. For one thing, personal style must be wrapped up in personality. One size won’t fit all. A famous designer wears trademark black against the pastels and shapes of his line of haute couture, and it comes across as significant and edgy. An infamous Wall Street profiteer wears ubiquitous black suits against the backdrop of financial shenanigans and communicates moral ambivalence. So how do you effectively define and project your style sense to carry a message of your choosing? Begin by not fighting who you are. Don’t go for the avant-garde, if your personality is conservative. Maybe simple lines and solid colors will do – the old instead of the new. Conservative personalities will generally do well in going for the traditional look, without adding in modern elements. The more adventurous will either blend the old and new or else go off in completely new directions. Despite what you’ve been told, the simple black dress on some people is a simple black dress, nothing more. Find a style that expresses something of who you are.   
For conservative guys, trademark your style. You do that by causing people to make connections between you and your style. This can only happen with a little thematic repetition. For example, if polo shirts are your thing, find one brand that really works for you and stick with it. The same principle applies with dress shirts. In the case of suits or pants, it may be a particular cut. For women’s wardrobes that lean heavily towards flexibility of cut and color, even if conservative, your trademark may be in consistency of the message itself: severe, lighthearted, adventurous, or mysterious. Women, much more so than men, may alternate several themes effectively within a personal style framework. More bohemian personalities, regardless of sex, may adopt a much more eclectic approach to style, blending old and new and otherwise blurring the lines between different style-distinctives. Don’t be afraid to push the envelope if you don’t like being button-downed or button-holed. And don’t assume that only Hollywood, MTV, and fashion runways can launch new trends. Experiment with textures, colors, accessories, and fit. Remember style is a holistic concept. It obviously encompasses not only personality, but the entire exterior as well. Thus, all the pieces must reinforce the message. Shoes, hats, belts, eyeglasses of any sort, and hair must all be consistent with the stylistic message of your attire. Above all, be genuine. You should wear your clothes, and not let them wear you. Don’t follow the advice of some and complete your wardrobe with an attitude of confidence at all costs. Confidence may not be your thing, so you probably won’t carry it off anyway. Be who you are. It’s not uncommon for shyness in a person to be more winning than boldness; and sometimes, uncertainty in a person can be sexier than absolute confidence; even hesitation has its merits. Ultimately, your personal style should project the real you in a way that’s consistent, attractive, and appealing, since what makes any sense of style most effective is how well it communicates the underlying personality. _______________________________ By Martin Remy
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