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Summer is right around the corner; although in some places in the world, it's been summer or at least it feels like it. If you are sitting down and you start sweating, consider summer come early. This one is for the gentleman to make a statement or at least be seen this summer in a stylish manner. Here are a few tips for you guys out there to jump into the pool of colors.

• Stay away from black. Unless you have a special event to go to, wearing black is senseless. The most obvious reason is basic science, black is just a welcome mat for the sun. If you want to burn, be my guest. There is a reason why Spring and Summer fashion flashes more colors than a crayon box. Go with light colors but not bright ones. For example, try exchanging your black jeans for some white ones. Wear light orange socks with your navy colored suit; a gray outfit with some lavender socks works quite well also. This isn't to say you can't wear black at all, just don't wear black head-to-toe.
• Lighter fabrics. I have stressed this plenty of times before. Cotton is good, but the gathering of linen, silk, seersucker, etc. outfits are the way to go. The aim here is to keep your body odor at bay and let your skin breathe on those scorching long days. There are also"eco-friendly" fabrics out there as well. They aren't as common as the others but definitely something worth trying.
• Your signature piece. Unfortunately, men don't have the variety of clothes to play with like women do but that's OK. That is what sets the men apart. We are restricted to pants and shorts. What you are trying to accomplish here is to set yourself apart from the rest of the field. Try sporting a vintage wrist watch or even a lightly put together scarf. A fine fedora (of casual nature) works perfectly fine as well.
• Welcome the patterns. The cool thing about the warmer days is that not only can you work with so many colors, you can also make different patterns come alive. Patterns such as stripes are a great way to pick up on having some fun for amateurs. You don't have to be a complete fashion aficiondo to make stripes work for you, or even check patterns.
• Dress according to occasion. Remember, there is a time and place to sport different patterns and colors. If your work place allows it, there is no harm in wearing orange with blue or pastels with micro-checks. This goes same to weddings or other get-togethers. There are times to tone down the colors but at the same time mixing 3 colors in one outfit. Just remember not to go too loud (too bright).

D&G SS11

• Never...ever...wear flip-flops in the city. I don't care how many times a week you get a pedicure, it is unacceptable to be wearing flip-flops in the city. The city is a place of work, you are in a professional scene. Regardless the business, you want people to welcome you not judge you. Yes, people judge and so do you. Don't sit there acting like you don't, we all judge. From the moment you spot someone wearing something not so flattering you start assuming about their habits and what they were thinking. I don't condone the action, but it's something we must be aware of.

Keep it simple, keep it stylish. If you don't feel comfortable taking a risky step, stick with the basics. Go with colors  like different shades of gray and blue or plain out beige and tan. The goal here is to not look boring and morbid during the summer days. It's time to have fun so act like you are going to in the most stylish way without being an eye sore.