No one wants to invest in clothing they can wear only a handful of times. After all, we’re not Hollywood stars with endless closets and budgets! Many of us have felt the regret of splurging on a trendy item, only to find it collecting dust because we don’t know when to wear it. Trust me, I’ve fallen into that trap more times than I’d like to admit.
When I talk about versatility, I mean it in terms of adaptability. You wouldn’t show up to meet your partner’s parents or attend a job interview in ripped jeans, right? To help you navigate this dilemma, I’ve compiled a list of essential items that seamlessly transition between casual and smart-casual styles without looking forced.
blazer
This fall-winter season, blazers are set to make waves in Vietnam, especially in simple, soft colors.
While I can’t list every blazer style out there, I recommend keeping it straightforward: opt for a two-button blazer in navy or a slightly lighter hue, along with dark gray. This combo works wonders when mixed with dark jeans, loafers, and a white shirt for an everyday look. For the office, choose pants that closely match your blazer’s color and pair with a shirt and tie for a polished appearance.
Here’s a crucial rule to keep in mind about buttons: button only the top one and NEVER the bottom. Why? Buttoning the bottom can cause the lapels to bulge and shift awkwardly with every movement.
For those in Hanoi, check out Tuấn Bột 88 at 20 Phố Huế. I had a chance to chat with the owner, who shares my taste in fashion. He loves blazers, shirts, chinos, and sneakers. While many in Vietnam shy away from experimenting with this style, fearing it’s too formal, the right blazer can look effortlessly chic.
Go for a slim-fit blazer that fits well - avoid those tight, suffocating styles often deemed “trendy.”
Tuấn Bột offers stylish blazers featuring simple yet sophisticated designs in versatile colors. Particularly eye-catching are the subtly detailed blue blazers, like one with red stitching around the buttonholes, which adds a distinct touch. Plus, the slim-fit cut ensures a comfortable yet tailored look. Prices at Tuấn Bột are around 1 million VND.
Solid-Colored Pullover Sweaters
Whether you prefer crew neck or V-neck, a pullover sweater is an essential item for any man’s wardrobe. You can layer it over a shirt, letting the collar peek out, or wear it with a blazer and jeans - this choice is always safe and stylish.
Stick to colors like navy, light blue, and gray, as they pair well with nearly any outfit. For something fresh, consider dark green or burgundy. The ideal sweater length falls just over 2 cm below the waistband when standing straight.
For high-quality options, Uniqlo offers a wide range of sweaters made from materials like merino wool and cashmere. In Vietnam, Mango Man has offerings around 2 million VND, while Topman starts at over 1 million VND.
Tuấn Bột 88 also has budget-friendly choices at 650,000 VND, with various colors and styles in minimalist designs that are easy to match.
Button-Down Shirts
The defining feature of a button-down shirt is the two buttons at the collar's tips, which help maintain its shape and prevent it from collapsing.
These shirts can be worn under crew neck or V-neck sweaters or paired with a blazer and tie, giving you a youthful and modern look.
Even in formal situations, like client meetings, a button-down shirt pairs beautifully with a suit.
Uniqlo remains unbeatable for variety and affordability in this category!
Dark Solid Jeans
The appeal of jeans is universal, and I’ve mentioned them in previous articles. Dark-colored jeans should be your go-to for versatile dressing, particularly if they’re slim-fit and well-tailored.
Dark jeans transition effortlessly from casual to office-ready. You can rock them with a t-shirt and sneakers for a laid-back look, or dress them up with a shirt, sweater, and brown brogues when refinement is needed.
For an even sharper appearance, pair them with a plain white shirt, loafers, and a navy blazer.
loafers
Loafers are a sophisticated take on slip-on shoes. Originating from the Norwegian brand G.H. Bass, they gained popularity in the US during the 1930s.
With styles like penny and tasselled loafers, there’s a pair for everyone. Penny loafers are classic with a leather strap across the top, while tasselled loafers feature playful leather tassels.
To enhance your look, wear "invisible" socks that sit below the ankle. Loafers can be paired with dress pants, chinos, or cuffed jeans, creating different styles based on your outfit choices.
In Vietnam, brands like Aldo, Pedro, and Fugashin offer quality loafers to elevate your wardrobe.
By incorporating these versatile pieces, you can effortlessly navigate various occasions, ensuring you always look stylish without sacrificing comfort.
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