Cover Menswear boutique | Pexels
Menswear boutique | Pexels
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Top menswear stylists share quick tips on how to elevate a look and things to avoid in styling your own wardrobe
Styling can either elevate or downgrade a look. For most men, simplicity is key. But in an evolving world where more and more fashion trends are becoming acceptable in menswear, the space has become wider for men to level up their fashion game.
Lucky for you, stylists at the pinnacle of their craft who have styled our country’s leading men reveal their styling do’s and don’ts for menswear.
David Milan
David Milan is a creative director and stylist whose creative eye has been key in setting up successful stage-ready ensembles behind some of the country’s industry legends. He has styled the likes of Piolo Pascual, Matteo Guidecelli, Richard Gutierrez, Jericho Rosales, and Paulo Avelino, to name a few.
What is a quick styling tip for men to instantly elevate their look?
An easy way to upgrade one’s look is to blend a statement item or a conversational piece into a basic outfit. You don’t necessarily need to wear something extra from top to toe. I think one item can do the job in levelling up a look.
You can make a classic white shirt and jeans look more interesting by wearing, let’s say, a vintage timepiece or a hand-me-down [archival] jacket—the more storied the item, the better. Another example is adding a dimension to a plain outfit by wearing something textured, like a woven belt or a fun shoe in croc leather, or faux, of course.
The ideas are endless. The trick here is that before you choose an outfit, you can decide on that certain item you want to highlight, the focal point of your whole look. Can’t choose just one? That’s okay, too. As long as there’s balance and you don’t look like it took you an hour-long to decide what to wear.
See also: Never Dampen Your Style: 5 Menswear Must-Haves for the Wet Weather
Above Marco Gumabao styled by David Milan | David Milan Instagram
Above Richard Gutierrez styled by David Milan | David Milan Instagram
Marco Gumabao styled by David Milan | David Milan Instagram
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What are some styling "don'ts" that men should veer away from?
I don't really have a lot of "don'ts" when it comes to dressing up. But my golden rule is [to] always know what your proportions are. Know the silhouettes that work for your body type. Choose pieces that highlight the best parts of your body and conceal those you don't want to show too much.
If you're vertically challenged, maybe stay away from wearing clothes that are too long that cut your frame even more. Or, If you're on the extra lean side, avoid skinny clothes that don't give you shape.
Skin tone is also another factor when choosing a colour for your outfit. Although this one is subjective as I support wearing any colour that gives you joy. I guess this is more [about] being self-aware of what shades work for you and what doesn't.
See also: Men's Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2023: The Best Looks From Louis Vuitton, Prada and More
Florian Trinidad
Flo Trinidad offers a fresher take on menswear that puts an elevated street style twist to match the edgy vibe of our coolest young male celebrities like James Reid and Massiah. She has also styled fashion campaigns that featured Donny Pangilinan. Khalil Ramos, and Ronnie Alonte.
What is a quick styling tip for men to instantly elevate their looks?
Accessorize. Add accessories to your look that can complement and complete your outfit. It doesn’t have to be loud — it can be a ring or a watch. The smallest detail can definitely elevate a look.
See also: The Best Street Style From the Spring/Summer 2022 Couture Shows
Above James Reid styled by Flo Trinidad | Flo Trinidad Instagram
Above Massiah styled by Flo Trinidad | Flo Trinidad Instagram
James Reid styled by Flo Trinidad | Flo Trinidad Instagram
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What are some styling “don'ts” that men should veer away from?
Not to force a style that you don’t feel comfortable in. It’s okay to experiment, but if you are not confident with how you look, just go for a style that makes you feel good.
See also: The Most Stylish Asian Celebrities at Men’s Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2023
Myrrh Lao To
Myrrh Lao To’s eccentric take on fashion influences the show-stopping looks of top entertainers. Myrrh is the brain behind some of the iconic looks of the boy group VXON, LA Aguinaldo, Unique Salonga, and Rico Blanco.
What is a quick styling tip for men to instantly elevate their looks?
Invest in pieces that fit you perfectly. Knowing your silhouette really helps you find clothing easily—be it a classic button-down shirt or tapered trousers. Collecting these perfect-fitting pieces doesn’t just lessen your time from putting together looks but would also save you money in the long run.
Purchase quality over what’s on-trend. Research on brands and different labels that put importance into their craftsmanship because that would translate into your personal style.
See also: 10 Bespoke Tailor Shops In Metro Manila For Dapper Men
Above VXON styled by Myrrh Lao To | Myrrh Lao To Instagram
Above TJ Monterde styled by Myrrh Lao To | Myrrh Lao To Instagram
VXON styled by Myrrh Lao To | Myrrh Lao To Instagram
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What are some styling “don'ts” that men should veer away from?
Disposable—meaning trends that only last a season. Instead of getting those oversized track shoes, go for a pair that doesn’t have its logo all over it. Understated is always more tasteful—and as they say, if you know, you know.
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When Jio is not creating content for Tatler Philippines' social media channels or covering style-related stories, he's probably binge-watching David Attenborough-narrated documentaries or nursing his vintage shopping fixation. He plans on using fashion criticism as a force for good. Follow him @hijowho or send him an email at jio@tatlerphilippines.com.
