2013 Men's Spring Patterns

It’s no secret that just like the color, the pattern on a shirt can alter you look.  Just like a tie is to a suit, a shirt will be to your casual attire.  Too loud can be distracting or cluttered and too soft can make no impact at all.  So the right pattern, although normally misunderstood and overlooked, can make you stand out in a way that others can only admire.

Simple

Stripes.  Having a traditional feel, with just a small twist, stripes are a safe and easy way to create a unique and stylish look.  Depending on direct, they can help alter your appearance with style.  Stripes running horizontally help you appear wider than you are, so this will help those who are thinner and want to appear more broad.  Choose larger stripes for horizontal.  Vertical stripes help with height, so this will help those who are shorter and want to have a longer, or taller look.  also helps those who want to look leaner.  Stick to the thinner and lighter stripes so they don’t take over too much.   Remember that a subtle yet defined look is better with summer fabrics than the bold overpowering stripes that can be a distraction.  At night however, bolder colors help pop when competing with the darkness, bar and lounge lights.

Sophisticated

Plaid.  Traditionally a fall and winter pattern, plaid has come around to spring and summer in a big way the last few years.  With their bold colors, plaid dances with solid colors and accenting textures.  Best paired with darker colors, the brighter colors will be more noticeable.  Denim is a great pair as well, allowing the pattern to stand out.  Wear plaid when its on a washed cotton shirt.  Think of it this way, Burberry, a well known and high end fashion icon, has the most notable plaid pattern on the planet, just what a sophisticated gentleman wants to be associated with.

Patterned.  If you are looking for the same effect of plaid, but want it with something other than just lines, look for a patterned look.  This year has seen an explosion of pattern shirts that are respectable and acceptable when wearing them.  Stick with a cotton style shirt to help the pattern display well.  Make sure it’s not too cluttered or not too large because you want people to notice you and not get vertigo.

Classic

Gingham.  Making a serious come back, the checkered, or gingham pattern is a great classic look that is timeless.  Named after the actual fabric, in the past two or three years, this pattern is perfect for not only a nice day out and about, but for happy hour, the evening dinner date and even the important boardroom meetings during the week.

Typically presented in white and another color, gingham allows you use a two toned approach, normally one neutral color with one to accent and help accentuate its presence.  Unlike plaid, which will surely attract attention, this is virtually works with everything and can help you work with many other patterns.  Solid ties are best to be displayed with at the office, and denim casually.