There is nothing more attractive to a woman than a sharp-dressed man.
So we’ve selected four local gents with great personal style to showcase that the guys can do it up with duds, too. So, whether you’re a Suit & Tie type, a Prepster, a Casual man, or the Hipster guy, here's some inspiration for a stylish summer.
Casual
Mark RatcliffeAge: 54 From: Wyomissing Day job: Founder of the Reading Pretzel Fest
It is easy to see that Mark’s background in retail and the arts has given him a discerning eye. Mark’s style is refined and relaxed, making him a perfect fit for our “Casual Guy.”
Q: If you could pick one item or accessory that represents your signature style, what would it be and why?
I think cuff links. The bigger, the better. I do not wear jewelry and rarely wear a watch, but I like a subtle statement. There is a local company, Olive Park Links, which makes cool, one-of-a kind cufflinks.These days it is hard to find big cuff links, but they have them. Check them out at oliveparklinks.com.
Q: Is there one item or accessory in your wardrobe that has sentimental value?
My father was a concert pianist, so I have some black tie accessories that mean a lot me.
Q: How would you describe your personal style?
I prefer traditional styles and cuts with a twist…brands like Richard James, Paul Smith, ETRO and the local Bills Khakis are among some of my favorites.
Q: What style advice would you like to share with male readers looking to update their wardrobe?
Quality over quantity, and the older you are, the better the clothes should fit.
What's he wearing? Sweater, Overland Quarter Zip in Cream, $145; Pant, Island Twill Parker Pant in Weathered Red, $98.50; and shirt, Blues Shirt Collection, Tea Label in Blue, $145, all from Bills Khakis, Reading. billskhakis.com
Suit & Tie
Justin ColonAge: 29 From: Reading Day job: Program Director at I-LEAD Charter School
Justin was the perfect choice for “The Suit & Tie Guy” look. His style is influenced by his career as a professional educator and a natural born leader.
Q: How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style depends on the occasion and season of the year. Over the years, I have developed a newfound affinity for tailoring, and not just for formal wear. Tailoring is beneficial for casual attire, too. Once you nail down the tailoring basics and a find high-quality tailor, you cannot fail to look good in clothing.
Q: Who are your celebrity style icons, and why?
Pharrell and Jay-Z. They are both one-of-a-kind men with unique style and great taste.
Q: Where do you typically shop for clothing?
TJ Maxx, Gap and upscale department stores and boutiques that carry more exclusive designers when I have the opportunity.
Q: If you had to pick one item or accessory that represents your signature style, what would it be, and why?
My signature accessory is sunglasses/eyeglasses. They are essential to a gentleman’s style regime. Another one of my favorites is a stylish watch. A watch can often serve as a great conversation starter.
Q: What style advice would you like to share with male readers looking to update their wardrobe?
Splurge on high quality pieces and save on versatile basics. Invest in a quality tailor to get a precise fit. The fit is essential to a polished look. And most importantly, wear what you want with a heavy dose of self-confidence.
Hipster
Daniel HeiferAge: 29 From: Sinking Spring Day job:Technical Writer at 1&1 Internet Inc.
Dan has an organic approach to fashion and shopping, with a knack for mixing basic jeans, slim ties and great shoes, making him our natural “Hipster Guy” pick.
Q: How would you describe your personal style?
It is organic, I suppose. I like natural textures and fabrics in linen and cottons for shirts, suits and ties.
Q: Who are your celebrity style icons, and why?
I don't follow fashion or celebrities, but when Shia LaBeouf was on the cover of GQ wearing a grey waistcoat, skinny black tie, with rolled up sleeves, I thought, "Right on! I'd wear that."
Q:Where do you typically shop for clothing?
Levi's, Express, H&M, J. Crew, American Eagle.
Q: Is there one item or accessory in your wardrobe that has sentimental value?
My Tissot wristwatch. Before my father passed away, he gave me his gold Seiko watch and said he wanted me to have it. I had never worn a watch, so I eventually went shopping for my own watch, and I felt as if my father was there with me, helping me choose the one for me. I keep his tucked away safely at home.
Q: If you had to pick one item or accessory that represents your signature style, what would it be, and why?
A classic cotton T-shirt. Just basic. Classic.
Q:What style advice would you like to share with male readers looking to update their wardrobe?
Take the time to go and shop. I know it can feel like a chore, but it's worth it. Go to stores you have never been to before and TRY stuff on.
Hat, The Kingpin Chemist Pork Pie, $38.99.hats.com
Preppy
Tadd CasnerAge: 37 From: Centre park, Reading Day job: Watchmaker for Rolex
Tadd has a style that is undoubtedly unique. From his affinity for British tailoring to his collection of whimsical bow ties, he was the obvious choice for the “Preppy Guy" look.
Q: How would you describe your personal style?
My style is classic, with a sprinkling of vintage. I do not follow trends. I appreciate getting dressed for the day. I favor American and British tailoring, and I am drawn to menswear from the late 19th century.
Q: Who are your celebrity style icons, and why?
The Prince of Wales, and the former King of England, Edward the VIII. Also, Fred Astaire. Both men were elegant and their style was evident.
Q: Where do you typically shop for clothing?
Brooks Brothers, T.M. Lewin for shirts, New & Lingwood, and Lock & Co. Hatters. There is a great store in Hell's Kitchen in NYC called the Fine & Dandy, where I have found the most unusual pocket squares.
Q: If you had to pick one item or accessory that represents your signature style, what would it be, and why?
My gold signet ring; it is classic and timeless. Also bow ties.
Q: What style advice would you like to share with male readers looking to update their wardrobe?
Just stay true to who you are and dress for yourself, and always be mindful of fit. A good tailor can make a huge difference when purchasing a suit.
written and styled by Elaine Fioravanti | photos by Tania Colamarino, Ama Photography
