RUNWAY TO EVERY DAY MODEL SERIES: IAN

Today we’re bringing you the very handsome Ian, our bravest Runway to Every Day model.

Ian is 46 years of age and was our only male model for the event and did a wonderful job showcasing the men’s AW14 fashion collections.

Ian’s wife was the initial driver behind his personal shop with Style With Cindy. Ian was re-branding himself in business and seeking a professional wardrobe where he looked the part.

I helped Ian consider some new styles, stores and step out of his comfort zone helping to boost his confidence that has begun translating from his wardrobe to his professional world.

And naturally when you’re well dressed and have a mostly female audience applauding you, we are pleased to say that Ian took to the runway with a little swagger in his step.

Body Shape:

Ian is an inverted triangle which is defined by a broad chest and shoulders. Ian carries most of his weight in the top half of his body which meets a narrower waist and hips. This is actually the desired  body shape for men.

Aim: Rather than attempt to “balance” Ian’s body we will actually work to his strengths and make use of his inverted triangle shape and broad shoulders (a traditionally attractive shape for men).

 

Outfit One:

Well let’s just say it – Ian looks uber cool!

I’ve opted for a dark top to toe look for Ian which is perfect for the cooler months.

Like women’s fashion, leather is very on-trend for men and there are styles for every age. I’re seeing leather jackets as the new sports blazer, they’re great for layering and this seasons cut for men sees a more traditional, structured jacket minus any rockstar-esque metal studs or exposed zips.

With the right style, leather jackets can also be brought in to a smarter environment; again this depends on the occasion.

I’ve kept Ian’s top half the one color so as not to draw attention to his tummy and worked in a colour via the lighter two-tone scarf which is draped over Ian’s neck. The scarf can covers any large stomach concerns but can also elongate his body. In this case, it’s more an accent rather than for warmth.

Also notice that I’ve opted for dark trousers and a dark shoe for Ian. For a final style note,  keeping colors the same throughout help to elongate the body.

Clothing: Witchery

Shoes: Aquila

 

Outfit Two: Smart Casual

I’ve looked to Country Road to create this look for Ian and in order to take the casualness up a notch; I’ve looked to a shirt and blazer sans tie.

When wearing a shirt without a tie, men should keep the two top buttons undone. Anymore than this and it will look a little beach-side and untidy for the office.

I love the navy blue trend on Ian and we thought I’d bring in colour via the wine-coloured shoes. This is a great way to play with seasonal trends as well.

Now unlike some of us women who will wear accessories purely for décor, men’s accessories are mostly practical and then ornamental. Consider belts; they hold pants up or wallets; to carry cards and cash.

So I thought beyond Ian’s wedding ring as an accessory, we chose a Ted Baker satchel to complete this outfit. With men’s bags, it’s important to consider fabrics.

Corporate professionals should opt for a stylish more structured bag while a canvas messenger could be reserved for a more relaxed professional, perhaps one that can wear denim to the office.

Clothing: Country Road

Shoes: Aquila

Bag: Ted Baker

 

Outfit Three: Evening

Ian looks dapper in his final evening look and the suit fit is flawless – as it always should be.

Here we’re going to talk about pant hem and jacket fit but firstly note that brogue shoe, a classic that is having it’s time again this season.

I’ve opted for a light suit from Ted Baker and the quality fabric and tailoring is evident in the cut and style. I’ve also brought in a patterned tie with a gorgeous paisley print to add some interest and wow to his look.

Now let’s observe the classic length on Ian’s pants. Notice that there is only one horizontal crease across the pant leg? Too many folds means the pants are too long and you’ll need the hem raised.

Also, if shoe heels are stepping back on pants, they’re again too long and if a man is not particularly tall, this can shorten their leg and there is a good chance you will ruin them after a couple of wears.

There is also a hem known as a high-water hem (exposed ankles) but these are generally reserved for slim fitting trousers and the younger generation – leave it with them.

In terms of Ian’s jacket, it fits perfectly across the shoulder and you’ll see that the sleeves don’t pass his wrist. If a sleeve rests against the back of your hand, it needs to be taken up.

Clothing: Ted Baker

Shoes: Aquila

So ladies and gents, Ian’s model review is complete. Did you like these looks or are there any trends you might want to try as a guy or for your male partner/friend?

I think Ian has proved that ladies don’t have all the fun when it comes to fashion and that professional fashion needn’t be bland – style can be found for the office.

Please leave a comment below of on our Facebook page – I’d love to hear from you!

 

Love Cindy xx