Charlie Hix once said, “Looking good isn’t self importance, it’s self respect”, so why are you still starting your day looking like you just graduated college or assuming your image doesn’t matter! Well, I am here to tell you that image is everything: and what better way to hone your image than visiting the many boutiques and custom service providers in Newport Beach catering to men’s esthetics. First though, let’s get some basic rules down with a little cheat sheet of the best places in the area to get them.

1. Fit is King – The most dramatic improvement you can make in your style is to make sure everything fits impeccably. Most men wear clothes that are too large. Make sure everything you wear is almost hugging the shape of your body – without being tight. There’s two worlds of thought here, buy off the rack and nip and tuck the garments to get the perfect fit by visiting a local tailor or have a master tailors make custom pieces. If investing in a classically curated wardrobe I suggest looking into Mark Pomerantz Custom Suits. Mark creates bespoke pieces by marrying impeccable attention to details and precise finishing; as a result clients are delivered signature luxury goods through personal appointments.

Mark Pomerantz Custom Suits

2. Change the way you see casual – casual doesn’t have to be boring. Have fun with collared shirts, or take some inspiration from those who approach casual a bit differently. Original Penguin in Fashion Island does a superb job with creating casual and stylish pieces for men with a more laid back esthetic or one that wants to be far away from their suits on the weekends. Original Penguin men’s clothing continues to exude a blend of confidence and relaxation. Their golf shirts and men’s polo shirts are their most iconic pieces and pair well with Original Penguin pants and jeans to create a look worthy of the great ones.

Original Penguin, Located in Fashion Island, Newport Beach

3. Pay attention to your supporting pieces – Some sweaters are lean and others are big and chunky. The first rule of thumb is that your top and bottom halves need to match. If you’re wearing a big, chunky, rugged fisherman knit sweater, your bottom needs to be rugged, too. Don’t wear a fisherman’s sweater with a beautiful silk-and-wool suit pant. Instead, wear it with something as casual as cargos or jeans, or dress it up with a Harris Tweed blazer.

4. Never go shopping alone – Most of the time, it’s tough to trust the sales people because they usually work for commission. Shop with a friend or a stylist who will give you their honest opinion on what looks good on you.

5. Stay a notch above – Don’t overdo it to a fault, but dare to take some risks. It’s always better to be a little bit overdressed than underdressed in any setting. All you have to do is think about where and who you’re going to be with and just step it up one notch.

6. Never underestimate the power of details – The last thing on is usually the first thing noticed. So mind the details instead of throwing together the main parts of your outfit. “Details” can include a scarf, a subtle pocket square, or the way you tie your tie knot.

Eaton of Sweden, found at Gary’s Fashion Island

8. Invest in a superb pair of shoes – If it’s one thing that women will notice, it’s your shoes. Especially how clean and sharp they look. It’s easy to wash and press the rest of your clothes to keep them looking new, but most guys disregard their shoes. Show that you’re a man of taste by getting a great pair of shoes and keeping them in pristine condition.

Gary’s in Fashion Island has become a Mecca for men’s style here in Newport Beach, from, suits to casual wear, shoes to accessories and of course custom tailoring. Gary’s is a one stop shop for everything men need to curate a complete wardrobe.

9. Disregard trends – Beware of buying something just because it’s “in” right now – stick to what you truly like. A lot of people rush to get in on the latest trend and end up with a bunch of clothes they don’t wear. It’s better to learn to build a versatile and timeless wardrobe first – then bring in your own twists with some of the new fashion. This one tip will save you so much money!

10. Don’t be a sucker for brand names – Don’t be a Patrick Bateman. Before you decide to purchase an item, ask yourself if you are buying it simply because of the brand name or because you love the quality and style. Ask yourself, “Would I buy this if there was no logo on it?”

11. Continually cultivate your image – Invest more time and money into your image. Cultivate your fashion sense. Your style is a huge mode of communication, and is worth caring for as much as your education, career, and relationships.

12. Upgrade your shave – Even if your fashion is golden, an unkempt face can be an attraction killer. Achieve a perfect shave by booking an appointment with 18|8 Fine Salon in the Bluffs Shopping Center. They offer a ‘Classic Shave’ which includes a 30 minute treatment that includes hot towel, hot lather, a straight edge blade shave and is finished with an aromatic hot towel.