2018 is the year of the moustache and buzz cut for men. These retro grooming trends are making a big comeback. Here’s how it all works out for the guy who wants to be up with the latest physical fashions:
The bushy Tom Selleck mustache has never really gone out of style, but what’s kept it down for most men is the fact that it’s hard to grow a good mustache that is filled in and has body like Magnum’s. With today’s new and improved hair toners and thickening creams, as well as the ease of dying a pale ‘tash, anyone can have a lusty soup strainer under their nose in a matter of months.
The buzz cut is a logical choice for the man who wants to make the statement that hair is not what it’s all about. Buzz cuts work well for guys who exude self confidence the way a maple oozes sap in the spring. It’s especially popular this year with star athletes.
And men this year are discovering that a good dermatologist is a must, to keep their skin from sagging and becoming sallow and pockmarked with micro acne scars. Grooming conscious men should visit a licensed dermatologist as often as they visit the dentist – at least twice a year.
There’s often a mixture of anxiety and excitement when you start a new job. Many potentials and promises hang in the air, and you want to be prepared for what’s coming your way. Along with doing your best to learn your role and excel in your position, don’t forget that first impressions can impact how others perceive you.
It’s important to look your very best when going in for a new job, even if it means changing your existing style. If you’re not sure where to begin, here are some tips to make you look great on your first day:
1. Spring for a Pricey Ensemble
People can tell what you’re willing to spend on clothing for the office, and while you don’t need to break the bank, be willing to shell out some cash for something nice. A fashionable, expensive-looking ensemble will serve you well for the first few days of work and in the future.
If you’re worried about the cost, consider tailoring an existing suit so that it looks better. You might also be able to make some extra money out of what you already have.
“Shop in your closet first,” image consultant and author Mary Lou Andre told Monster. “We wear 20 percent of what’s in there 80 percent of the time. Give yourself permission to get rid of that other 80 percent. Turn it into cash by selling it or give it to charity.”
2. Take Care of Your Hair
If you’re not in the habit of styling your hair, change that. A little gel or mousse goes a long way in taming your tresses and making you look professional. Research modern hair trends and experiment to find a style that suits you best.
Hair loss is another thing to consider. Unfortunately, it’s very common in men. About two-thirds of men will have lost some hair by the time they’re 35 and will experience significant hair loss by the age of 65.
“During the early stages of hair loss, most people try hair shampoos, lotions, potions and other over-the-counter solutions,” says an article from MAXiM Hair Restoration. “Unfortunately, none of these provide a permanent or real solution to hair loss and are unable to re-grow hair.” They recommend more permanent hair loss solutions like follicular unit extraction (FUE) or Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT), also known as the Strip technique.
3. Pay Attention to Your Feet
When adopting a new wardrobe, many people put little thought into what’s on their feet. Shoes complete the outfit, whether you’re a man dressing in a tailored suit or a woman wearing a fitted dress.
Do your best to avoid squared toes. Rounded or slightly pointed shoes offer a better silhouette. Additionally, watch out for chunky or rubber soles. It gives off a much too casual and off-trend vibe that you want to avoid when first impressions are at risk.
4. Be Friendly
The outward appearance has a huge impact on your first impression at any job, but so do your outward interactions with others. Friendliness goes a long way towards fitting in not only with your new boss, but also with your coworkers.
“Answer questions about yourself, obviously, and engage in conversation. But try and turn the conversation around to your new coworkers to show interest in learning about them as a person, not just the person in the next cube,” Todd Dean, co-founder of the app Wirkn, advises in a CIO article.
5. When in Doubt, Go with the Classics
Trends refer to cutting-edge style that won’t be around for long. You might purchase an expensive outfit according to current trends, only to have it go out of style a month later. Many people also fail to identify with current trends, so they don’t feel comfortable dressing accordingly.
The good news is, you don’t have to follow trends. Classics never go out of style, and most people can get behind wearing fitted suits or slacks, even if it’s not something you’d see in the fashion magazines.
It’s also a good idea to take what you see in those magazines with a grain of salt. Sometimes, the tabloids’ idea of appropriate work clothing is far too extravagant for your workplace. When in doubt, keep it simple.
“Avoid being too flashy,” suggests Anthony Ukaogo Jr., the founder of Laidback Allure, a lifestyle publication. “This includes crazy colored socks, headwear like fedoras, or printed shirts. With ties, you want to be subtle. Avoid crazy patterns if you’re interviewing for a more reserved job. If the job allows you to be a little more eccentric, then you can wear a tie with more patterns.”
Looking and feeling your best doesn’t have to be a struggle. Knock ‘em dead on your first day of work with a killer look.
