Man Fashion Tips: Mix it up a bit

Want to pop a paisley-patterned collar after the CIAA? Maurizio Wade, the owner of Verse 9 Classic Menswear, teaches clients how to achieve the over-the-top suit style often seen at the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament. “I tell them, first things first. Take all of your ties and put them in a bag and give them away to your little cousin or brother, because we’re going to upgrade you,” he said. He offers a few tips on how to step outside the fashion box: When you think of a black suit, assume that it goes with everything. But don’t forget that the same goes for other colors such as blue and brown. Don’t just stick to one shade. Don’t stick with the obvious color pairings in shirts and suits. White and black match, but try a pink shirt with a chocolate suit instead. Don’t be afraid of different patterns. If two patterns have the same color palette, try pairing them. If a tie and shirt of different patterns seem too difficult to pull off, look for collared shirts that have one pattern outside and another in the lining. By Jessica De Vault