A Fistful of Style

I got street spotted!

Seriously though, I think this is actually a great outfit for a Portland street style shot.  Usually the stuff I wear, though definitely me, and definitely awesome (come on guys, positive reinforcement!) Might be a bit too… outre? for the typical Portland male.

But this outfit could be worn by anyone.  It’s all major brands (LL Bean ranger mocs, Sandy Levi’s 505’s, Old Navy rugby shirt, and Converse for Target cotton bomber jacket.  Even brand spanking new this outfit is probably only slightly over $100 of stuff.  All pieces that are easy to mix and match.  Casual, but well fitting and with a little color (from the rugby) and a slight twist (khaki denim instead of khakis or indigo denim) and kicks that aren’t too upscale, but aren’t sneakers.

So the next time you’re in Old Navy or Target, eyeing up the hoodies and graphic t’s, think again.  Why not a cotton bomber jacket?  It’s still cheap, still comfortable, still “easy” to wear.  Why not a rugby?  It’s a jersey, it’s comfy, you can pull it on, nobody will give you a hard time for being “dressed up” (which is definitely something I catch flack for sometimes).  And both will look better than a slouchy hoodie with a giant brand logo.

Next time you’re buying jeans, try some 505’s or 514’s instead of the 569’s.  Try something “slim” or “straight” instead of “loose” or “relaxed”.  They will be just as comfortable, I promise. 

Upgrading your style can still be done on the cheap, without a thrift store (though I did thrift the jeans, and mocs) and you can start to look better without needing to immediately become comfortable with tailored clothes and ties.

Food for thought.

Thanks to Fore Front Fashion.

forefrontfashion:

I spent most of Monday wandering around our beloved city and ran into Alex and Ashley. You first met Alex when we snooped through his closet. They were on a walk, trying to avoid some sheet rocking in their apartment and apologized for being spotted not looking “too dressed up.” I thought they looked great, as usual, in casual and comfortable Monday afternoon attire. 

Check out Alex’s style blog here. It’s full of outfit shots, pocket squares and thrifting tips.