Menswear Monday - What NOT to Wear

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So, I just finished my first fashion police column for Sonoran Living, and I got to thinking that I should definitely do a post on what's no longer in style for men. Granted, everyone is entitled to express themselves in their own way, but there are certain things you should avoid at the moment unless you want to look dated. They are as follows...

I don't even know if there's a name for this type of dress shirt. Just stay away from swirly designs, embroidery, paisley prints and anything that looks like it could be wallpaper.

Faded jeans, especially ones with lines and have holes in them are dated. The look right now is clean and classic. Keep it simple.

T-shirts will always be in, but ones with this type of print are dated. Again, keep it simple.

Wearing these type of shoes with your jeans and a paisley dress shirt is SOOOOO dated. Please keep your dress shoes with your dressy attire and rock some casual loafers instead.

I know that I can speak on behalf of all women when I say, "We're tired of smelling Curve for Men!" We all probably have an ex-boyfriend or love interest by now that has worn this fragrance. So, unless you want women to associate you with their old love interests, I suggest you stop wearing this cologne, go to Sephora and try some new ones.

Kiss anything and everything Ed Hardy good-bye! If you want to associate yourself with Jon Gosselin then keep wearing it. Otherwise, take it to the consignment shop.

Denim, Denim, Denim

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It has been a couple of years since denim jackets were "cool." Well, they're back and being worn with denim pants! That used to be such a  big fashion faux pas, but now it has been embraced by designers, brands and retailers.

Years ago, I worked at J. Crew and invested in a great jean jacket. I'm so glad that I have held onto mine over the years because it is a wardrobe item that consistently comes in and out of style. So, if you don't have one and you plan on tapping into this trend, invest in a jacket that has a classic wash and is made well.

Here are some examples of men and women wearing their jean jackets...

Socks with Heels

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Alright, let's talk about this interesting trend that's happening - socks with high heels. I've had two people ask my thoughts on this, so it's time for a dedicated blog post.

First off, I'm accepting of this trend, BUT with certain stipulations.

1. ONLY thin, short socks (unless with boots) 2. The socks should be close to the color of the shoe, and coordinate with the outfit. 3. Worn only with shorts or skirts that hit ABOVE the knee.

I also think that it takes a lot of confidence and a high fashion look for it to translate well to the public. For those of you that are completely opposed to this trend, you are going to see a lot more of it come fall. Maybe then it will have rubbed off on you.

Here are some examples what to do and what NOT to do...

How to wear pleated shorts...

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How to wear pleated shorts...
Every summer we pull out our shorts from our summer storage bins - some of us groan and some of us say, "Finally!"

Well, this season shorts are looking a bit different and are in the spotlight for summer.

Keep the following in mind when putting on your shorts...

1. Pleated shorts are in along with denim. 2. Tuck your tops into your pleated shorts. 3. Add a belt to the mix 4. Wear your shorts with wedges or shoes that lengthen your legs
Here are some more examples...