10 Style Rules That Are OK to Break

Erica Euse
Updated

When it comes to getting dressed, living by rigid style rules can definitely offer some easy guidelines. But, the evolving realm of menswear has proven it is sometimes better to break the rules. Dudes no longer have to accept that they can’t wear white after Labor Day or mix blues and blacks.

The best part is that ridding those outdated codes, some of which have been around for centuries, will refresh your wardrobe and get your style on point. Check out our 10 Style Rules That Are OK to Break.


  • Match Your Belt to Your Shoes

    This is one of those old fashioned rules that too many men live by. It’s OK to mix it up. Black doesn’t have to go with black, and brown doesn’t always have to go with brown. You change up the shades and experiment with color—live a little.


  • Don’t Wear Pleated Pants

    Over the years, pleated pants have been traded in for flat fronts. Sporting the extra folds became synonymous with grandpas and politicians. But, pleats are back in a big way. Designers like Billy Reid, Lemaire, and Patrik Ervell have sent the high-waisted, creased style down the runway with confidence. Pleat your heart out.


  • Don’t Wear Black With Blue

    Who made this rule? Please, wear black with blue—it looks great. Designers have proven this “don’t” works season after season. They have even incorporated shades of brown for a total ’70s vibe. Who knew breaking all the rules at one time could actually look dope?


  • Don’t Wear Socks With Sandals

    Wearing socks with sandals has been a universally known no-no. Most guys would laugh at the nerdy dudes rocking white gym socks and Tevas, but now the trend is hot. Whether you’re wearing Gucci slides or Birkenstocks, throwing on a pair of socks creates a casual, laid-back look.


  • Don’t Wear White After Labor Day

    This outdated style rule originated centuries ago, by wealthy people who wore white to keep cool in the summer months. But, wearing white, especially in the winter, looks super fresh. So get your winter-white game ready.


  • Don’t Tuck in Your Sweater

    Most guys probably don’t even consider tucking in a sweater, since this look was done away with decades ago. But, designers like J.W. Anderson, Raf Simons, and Christopher Kane are reviving this trend, featuring looks that include tucked turtlenecks and cardigans. As long as your sweater is slim and your pants are high, this look can be fire.


  • Men Can’t Carry a Bag

    Since carrying a bag has often been associated with females, many men don’t dare to rock this accessory unless they are on their way to the gym. Fortunately, these overbearing gender stereotypes are lifting, thanks to designers like Saturdays, Robert Geller, and Kanye West, you can freely carry a murse.


  • Don’t Mix Patterns

    Stripes, plaids, polka dots, and checks, they can all be worn together, as long as you do it right. You can take some cues from designer Dries van Noten, who continues to nail the art of mixing patterns. Of course, it’s easy to overdo this look, so don’t get too crazy with your matching.


  • Don’t Wear a Suit Without Socks

    Guys tend to get caught up in the formality of wearing a suit, but guess what? You don’t have to wear socks. Especially in warmer weather, sporting a suit with a loafer or oxford with bare ankles can take your look to the next level.


  • Never Button the Bottom Button

    Leaving the bottom button of a jacket undone is one of the most coveted style rules for men. The extra room makes it easier to sit, and creates a more relaxed look. But, go ahead and secure that last button, especially on three or four-button jacket. The extra toggle will give you a tailored military-esque look.

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