When it comes to men’s accessories, the phrase "less is more" couldn’t be more accurate. Just look at the difference between men and women in this area. Women often have closets full of bags in various colors, styles, and sizes. Men? We usually get by with just one or two solid bags in classic black or brown, and that’s more than enough. You don’t need to go overboard with accessories, but the few you choose should be high-quality pieces that will last and complement your style for years to come.
Accessories should enhance your look, adding that final touch of flair. If chosen well, they can even define your personal style. Here’s a list of some essential yet understated accessories that I believe every man should have in his arsenal:
Classic Watch
A simple watch is a must for any man who wants to accessorize without going over the top. What’s the key? Choose a sleek, minimalist design, preferably with a leather strap in black or brown. Steer clear of trendy or overly flashy models.
Uniform Wares Watch
James McCabe Heritage Watch
The great thing about investing in a classic watch is its versatility. It pairs just as effortlessly with a casual t-shirt and jeans as it does with a tailored suit and dress shoes.
Seiko SUR023P2 Watch - around 3.5 million VND.
Bracelet
While I’m not a huge bracelet guy, I do occasionally wear my Trashness beaded bracelet alongside my watch. If you're considering bracelets, remember: subtlety is key. One or two well-chosen pieces are all you need. Avoid turning your wrist into a display case.
Materials like silver (both polished and tarnished), copper, or paracord work well, especially if they include masculine elements like hooks or anchors. Choose a bracelet that fits snugly and comfortably around your wrist. Brands like Trashness, Miansai, and Giles and Brother are excellent options.
Necklace
Forget the chunky, outdated “dog chain” look. These days, sleek, minimalist necklaces are the go-to for men who want to add a little something extra to their outfit without overdoing it.
Your necklace should enhance your look, not overwhelm it.
I’m particularly fond of Miansai’s delicate chains paired with unique pendants. If you’re in Hanoi, the shops on Hang Bac Street are worth checking out. The craftsmen there are skilled enough to replicate designs at about 70-80% accuracy just by looking at a picture.
Belt
I’ve written an entire article on belts, covering various styles and how to choose the right size. Ideally, you should have a combo of three belts: black and brown leather belts for formal wear, and a paracord belt for casual outfits like jeans.
When wearing a suit, always match the belt color to your shoes. The reason for black and brown? They complement the most common dress shoe colors today.
Leather belts work just fine with jeans too, and you don’t have to stress about matching them with your shoes. There are plenty of places in Vietnam that make high-quality handmade belts and leather goods at reasonable prices, making them a solid investment for anyone looking for something durable and stylish.
Tie
Don’t limit ties to suits! A smart-casual look often pairs well with a shirt and tie, especially when topped with a leather or denim jacket - just as long as you wear it with confidence. Slim-fit ties with a narrow width are perfect for a younger, more refined look.
If ties are only an occasional accessory for you, stick with neutral tones like navy, gray, or charcoal. For those feeling adventurous, knitted wool ties are a refreshing alternative to the usual silk or cotton options. When pairing a tie with a suit, make sure the width of the tie is no wider than the lapel of your suit.
ASOS offers a variety of stylish ties at reasonable prices.
Pocket squares
Pocket squares, while a staple in Western men’s fashion, are still somewhat of a rarity in Vietnam. But any square piece of fabric around 45x45 cm can serve as a pocket square. The material, color, and pattern are entirely up to your taste, allowing you to express your personal flair. The great thing about pocket squares is that they don’t need to match anything else in your outfit - they’re all about showing off your sophistication and creativity.
Pocket squares are most commonly paired with suits or blazers, but they can also be used with any jacket that has a pocket. Challenge yourself to see how you can incorporate one into your look! 😀
Where to shop? ASOS, H&M, J.Crew, and more.
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