Style & Swag's Tips of the Day: Tuesday, March 1st

Just some random thoughts that popped in my head and tips of the day (in no particular order):

1. Dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Going above and beyond standard aesthetic expectations shows you want more for yourself, and that you aren't complacent in what you're doing. It also sets the bar higher for others who realize they may need to do more to compete with you.

2. Small details make a difference. Take a look at the people in your office, or walking around the city wherever you are. Now imagine how small tweaks here and there could drastically alter their appearance. Example, instead of looking like every other guy wearing an overcoat/pea coat on the street during cold weather, try popping the collar on your coat. You'll look instantly more stylish and will set yourself apart from the rest of the sheep (in a good way).

3. Now, most of us in professional workplaces wear a tie to work. You should know a) how to tie a tie of course and b) how to tie the knot of your choice (yes, there is more than one type of knot; I prefer a full, double windsor, personally). The key to looking your best is making sure your tie is of proper length. It should ideally hit at your belt buckle. Anything lower/longer makes you look sloppy, and anything higher/shorter makes you look like you have no idea what you're doing.

4. Make sure you look "complete". I have seen one too many guys going to work who pull the "shirt/tie/slacks" look but fail at completing their ensemble with either a suit jacket/sport coat/blazer or proper overcoat. Gentlemen please, the parka/North Face is reserved for outdoor winter sports, it has no place at the office. If you find yourself wearing pants that are part of a suit, just throw on the jacket for God's sake. Otherwise, there are plenty of places you can invest in a nice wool overcoat for a good price. And remember, there is a huge difference between an overcoat and a pea coat.

5. Color coordinate, please. Black belt? Black shoes. Brown belt, brown shoes. 'Nuff said.