Fashion help!
 

I've always been a "blue jeans white t-shirt" kind of guy, it's a style that suits me and has worked well for years, but sometimes an event will call for something a bit smarter.

So, I graduate from university next month and we're (students, lecturers, and partners) having a smart-ish garden party/lunch type thing. It's not a graduation ceremony, but we will be given our awards at that time. It'll be outdoors under a marquee, and summer.

It's gotta lean more towards the "smart" than the "casual", but no tie. As for me, I'm about 6'1", 180lbs, stubble short hair.

What do you guys reckon would work??

Pair of nice jeans, a white v-neck t-shirt, a thin sweater (see: GAP, A&F, AE, something simple), and a black blazer.

Then you aren't stepping out of character.

Hm.

Since it's outdoors in the summer, and it's bound to be hot, I'd go for a lightweight Tommy Bahama Port-O-Fino long sleeve white linen shirt. White will keep you cool in the sun, long-sleeves will make you look sharp.
http://www.rochesterclothing.com/sto...il/pR1192b.jpg
With Tommy Bahama St. Thomas silk twill khaki pants
http://www.usline.co.kr/images/userd...19933111-1.jpg

Steve Madden Novo tan shoes
http://slimages.macys.com/is/image/M...t=jpeg&qlt=100

Fossil Evan Jean belt
http://slimages.macys.com/is/image/M...0.5,0&fmt=jpeg

Good luck, and have fun!

I agree with genuintegirly on the pants, except make sure they are flat front and not pleated. Also agree with the belt suggestion, but remember, black does NOT go with blue.

Choose your shirt color based on your hair color. Never wear a short sleeve shirt, to anything. The lighter your hair, the darker the shirt, the darker your hair, the lighter color the shirt with the exception of natural black hair, then you can wear certain dark colors.

If you wear a light color shirt, wear a V-neck t-shirt in case of unfortunate sweating. Obviously light in fabric, not a heavy one like you would wear if it was cold.

Agree with the genuintegirly on the shoes. Of course, never wear open shoes to any semi or I - think - I - need - to - look - nice event.

After you receive your award(s), roll the sleeves of your shirt 3/4 of the way up your forarms for the stylish but I'm in control look. This also gives you something to do with your hands if you are anxious, push your sleeves slightly, fuss with the cuffs , etc.

Meticulous stubble, nails, hair, eyebrows etc. No gum or mints. Get a dental cleaning before hand if you need to. Light cologne. Smile. Extra cash. Condom(s).

You are there for a reason. Casual, quiet confidence wins. You've earned it so own it.
Have fun.

And congratulations! :thumbsup:

Thanks for the tips so far... some sound advice! :) I'm liking the white shirt/khaki pants/brown belt/tan shoes look. The shirt... tucked in or not?? It seems the general rule is untucked if you're not wearing a blazer or tie.

Time for some window shopping this weekend I think!