While running errands, I photographed a man I'll call Mr. K, twice in the past two weeks. Both times, he caught my eye and stood out from the rest as a man who blends casual comfortably with style.
The first time I saw him, I was on borrowed time, pushing my cart through the aisle like a woman on a mission. Suddenly, I was distracted by a man walking towards me. He had on casual, leather loafers, jeans, a blue, striped shirt and a wool overcoat. I stared at his shoes as we walked past each other, and then after glancing at my watch in exasperation, I turned my cart around and literally ran after him. He graciously agreed to let me take a quick photo.
A week later, I was perusing the produce at Trader Joes when I noticed a man ahead of me wearing a blazer, jeans and distressed, leather loafers. Upon closer inspection, it was Mr. K again! This time, I had more time to talk with him a bit. I complimented his jacket choices and mentioned the fact that many men in the Pacific Northwest wear a performance jacket (e.g. North Face) with jeans and a dress shirt. Mr. K said he's tried wearing that, but it doesn't feel "quite right" and instead, picks a blazer. I applauded his choice. I also liked his leather shoes which were a nicer option than the commonly seen outdoorsy or athletic shoes. Casual, comfortable, style. It's the style that's often missing.
Mr. K's loafers are distressed without looking scuffed or dirty. His striped shirt-tails are un-tucked and hang below his sweater; not too long, not too short. The bold colors of his striped shirt were a good way to add style and interest to the solid layers above. His blazer is a nice pairing with his shoes (they are both in the brown family-but not overly matchy-matchy). His v-neck sweater was fitted versus baggy or blousy, and was a great layer in between the shirt and jacket. Lastly, his corduroy blazer adds a touch of style to finish his comfortable, casual look. Perhaps a white undershirt would be a bit more suave instead of the aged, green T-shirt, but overall, his look was casual done well.
Thank you Mr. K for your participation and input. I hope to see more men like you blending comfortable and casual in an attractive way.
-Lisa Bruckner Trunk Club Consultant
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