YOU MEN HAVE been neglected for long enough! If anyone needs direction in updating a fall wardrobe, it's you. And not because you aren't savvy shoppers with a keen sense of style, perfectly capable of pulling together an outfit. It's just that we know how hard it is to find cool, quality duds for men. Whether you're a khakis-and-pink-polo-shirt-wearing prepster, a designer-denim-buying club-goer, an artsy urban hipster, or just an average dude, consider these your fall essentials.
A crisp white shirt is always a must - but it can also be a little boring. Etro, the fashion house made famous for their use of bright colors and bold prints, toned it down a bit this fall. One of the great pieces from their fall/winter lineup is a classic white button-down with a hand-stitched, printed over-cuff in gray ($385). Get it at Barneys New York (Copley Place, 100 Huntington Avenue, Boston, 617.385.3300).
It's no great secret that denim is a staple of every wardrobe - and the more worn-in, the better. Going vintage is fun, but finding the right pair can be a long and frustrating process (and they might smell like grandma's attic). Take the easy way out and splurge on designer denim that's been worn in for you. The denim experts at Riccardi (116 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.266.3158) will help you find the right fit for your body and style. An added bonus: the alterations are free. Our current favorite? "Dark Vintage" jeans from Prps ($325).
Some men refuse to do the pointy-toe-shoe thing, claiming it's too feminine. Get over it. The shape goes great with the slimmer cuts we're seeing in suits, jeans, and pants this season. Opt for an understated, only-slightly-pointed version, like these extra-long lace-up leather dress shoes from Prada ($520). Find them at Saks Fifth Avenue (Prudential Center, 800 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.262.8500).
When the cooler air starts heading our way, outerwear becomes fall's most important piece. Look great and stay warm with a limited-edition waxed-cotton plaid Mackintosh coat from Nom De Guerre ($645), available at Stel's (334 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.262.3348). Half prep, half hipster, this is the coat for fall.
Looking good is ultra-important, but when it comes to great style, smelling good is equally crucial. We love the Bond no. 9 fragrance, Saks Fifth Avenue for Him ($125/1.7 ounces; $185/3.4 ounces), available at Saks Fifth Avenue. It's the perfect mix of cool and warm scents, including Sicilian bergamot, cardamom, amber, and cedar wood - a sexy, manly smell that doesn't overdo it.
