Hi all! We’re finally back with part 2 of our accessories guide for men (aka “man-cessories”)! If you missed part 1, be sure to check it out here!

Pocket Squares

The handkerchief was once just a simple piece of cloth squirreled away in the pockets of men’s pants and jackets, revealed only with the need to catch a sneeze or mop a sweaty brow on a hot day. Then one day, someone thought his jacket could use a little extra pop of style and elevated that hanky to the status of pocket square. Pocket squares now remain in the breast pocket and are made with higher quality fabrics in a variety of patterns and colors that can turn the most basic black suit into a thing of beauty. And with a myriad of folding options, there is a pocket square look that will match any mood or personality you feel like expressing.

Shoes

Unlike the others, shoes are the one essential accessory on this list, though being so should never make them an after-thought. Don’t forget, wedding photos are mostly full-body shots and as such, shoes matter. So let’s just start with the basic footwear rules, especially when considering your wedding. To begin, no square-toed shoes, ever. Please! (But let’s also never go too pointy! Ugh) If you are going with a more classic look then you’ll want to adhere to the traditional idea of matching your belt to your shoes. At a minimum no black and brown together please. If, however, you are less of a traditionalist and like your kicks to do the talking, luckily these days there are a plethora of options that stretch beyond your classic Chuck Taylors (which still remain the go-to choice for many a non-traditional wedding look). When it comes to wedding attire though, just because you’re going casual doesn’t mean scruffy is ok. Make sure those sneakers are high-style and haven’t been dragged through the city streets for the past 10 years.

Accessorizing Tip

Whichever accessory or accessories you choose, try not to have too many competing statements in one look. Pick one or two bold pieces that will stand out. If you’re mixing colors and patterns between your neckwear and pocket square then choose a more muted tie bar or belt and simple shoes. Just remember to have fun with it and let your personality dictate the kind of statement you want to make with your look on your wedding day or any day.

—————————————————–

*****Fun Extra*****

Grunion Run is giving away five ties or bow ties of your choice over on their site! The giveaway starts today and ends on June 3rd, so head on over there to enter!!

 —————————————————–

Kevin + Yun are ELD contributors and are the owners of The Grunion Run Groomsmen Shop — an online shop for grooms and groomsmen looking for affordable, vintage-inspired wedding wear. They currently live in Los Angeles, CA with their precocious baby girl who keeps them on the move when they aren’t working to make guys everywhere look their handsome-best for their big day!