Raoul

SOCKS and sandals, mobile phone holder on belt, the list could go on. Traditional male stereotypes dictate the sex to be uninterested and hopeless when it comes to fashion. From many experiences this is much the case.

Is it really too much effort to look at least half decent? The fashion industry has for decades been primarily focused towards woman but with more and more clothing ranges and male style icons being filtrated through the media, is it not about time we dress the nation properly?

There really is now no excuse for sloppy dressing. High street stores are full with the latest in male fashion but why is it that men still get there better halves shop for them? Shop for yourselves, you need to know what looks good and works for you.

So many times I have been on the train or waiting at the bus stop and I see men who just do not know how to dress themselves. Many admit to being useless when it comes to fashion but for those who don't, well, they just need help.

Oversized jeans and t-shirts are great if you are on the Hip-Hop scene but otherwise just no. What happened to looking sleek and sharp as opposed to dull and miserable?

It's all about looking good, more so than before men dress to impress. The past year saw the departure of the unwashed grungy look and the arrival of the new, sharp, well-groomed male. 2007 marked the restoration of the classy cardigan and the facelift of the casual shirt, but why are so many men still getting it wrong?

There's a huge range of clothing on the high street but nonetheless we still see countless men dressing for function not fashion. You don't need to come across as the ultra style chic, a little effort goes a long way. It's not hard, regardless of age or dimensions break away, experiment.

Below are top ten trends for 2008.

1) Do not accessorize: There is nothing worse than going over the top. With the wide range of clothing accessories available it is easy to go off the rails. Necklaces, bracelets and rings — they do not do anything. Invest in a simple black belt, and this will go with anything. Wear it with your jeans, suit or trousers. This will break up your clothing giving you a smart edge.

2) Add a touch of colour: Black and white looks good but where is the fun in wearing it all the time? Get out of your comfort zone and experiment with a bit of colour. Colourful t-shirts are the best way of going about this. Don't go applying this everywhere though; green and red trousers are not going to win you any favours.

3) Knitwear: Just go simple and buy yourself a plain cardigan. Forget dogs, the cardigan is definitely a man's best friend this season, it will go with anything.

4) Know your size: Watching a larger man struggle into a pair of skinny jeans or an XS top is not good; you may think you know the latest fashion trends but they do not look good on everyone. Measure yourself or get measured, know your dimensions. You need to find something that fits you.

5) Shirts: The return of the casual shirt in the past year has been a landmark. Make sure it's fitted. The shirt should end at your waistline, not halfway down your thighs. Smaller men should think about wearing a plain t-shirt underneath. If you are going casual, roll up your sleeves, you will look great.

6) Jeans: As always they are an essential part of
the wardrobe, simple black and dark blue look good with anything. Straight jeans would suit most, don't go baggy though. Make sure your jeans touch your foot but do not let them scrape along the ground. Boot cuts and anti-fits are out. Skinny should be approached with caution, only wear if you have a smaller frame.

7) Footwear: So many men get this wrong. Wearing the brown slip on with a pair of jeans does not look good. Purchase a pair of plain white trainers for the casual look and for a more formal occasion treat yourself to some black pointed lace ups with a slight heel.

8) Suits: To pull off the polished male look this year, you need to own some sort of formal attire. Don't go loose, make sure you suit is fitted. Maybe even add a waistcoat. A skinny black tie with a white shirt would be the height of style.

9) Novelties are a no-go: Do not even think about it. A leopard skin thong or singing tie will not impress the ladies.

10) Feel good: There is no point in going to all these lengths to hate the clothes you are wearing. Feel comfortable, feel good. Be confident, people will see this. Clothing only looks good if you wear it with passion.

About the Author:
As a freelance columnist Robert James is always looking for new stories. Specializing in lifestyle and fashion. Robert is always looking to put his interesting, sometimes strong, views on all the up to date trends and styles