3 minute read
Style
How to Wear a Mask… With Style. By Oscar B. Hult
As Oregon starts into phase 1 and 2 of reopening our economy here are some thoughts about looking stylish, or at least not too foolish wearing your mask.
Advertisement
Should your mask match, complement or contrast with your outfit?
Are you aiming for a smart or casual aesthetic?
what mask should you wear at work?
Is there ever a time for masks with graphics on them?
What do I do with my mask when I’m not required to wear it?
If any of these questions leave you feeling a bit unsure, read on to wear your mask with panache.
If you are someone who wants to look their best and wonder how the mask you must wear at work will make you look to your clients and coworkers. Then I have a few sartorial suggestions for you.
Choose your mask like you would any other accessory. It needs to harmonize with the rest of your outfit. Think of it like a pocket square… A pocket mask if you will.
Tonal monochrome shades work well for masks teamed with black or grey suits, for instance, while a vibrant pop of color adds interest to crisp blue suits, particularly in summer. Speaking of suits (and sport coats) remember your mask can be worn as a pocket square when you don’t need it on your face. It will keep it clean, neat and at the ready when a client or co-worker walks in.
A mask that is predominately white with either a colored edging or light pattern provides a relatively conservative look that will work in most business environments, but to really stand out, your accessories make all the difference. The mask you wear should complement the rest of your look: either by harmonizing or contrasting with your other accessories. If your tie has a pattern or print, for example, then pick a color from that palette to bring your look together and wear a mask of that goes with it.
Equally, you could choose a mask that is a shade lighter or darker than the core color of your ensemble. Remember, it’s all in the detail, so don’t be afraid to bring out an accent color on a subtle pinstripe or checked shirt.
Alternatively, if you work in a more relaxed setting and want to make your mask the focal point of your look then you can experiment with vibrant colors, eclectic prints, and yes maybe even a silly graphic. If you work at a place where you are required to wear a uniform, your mask should reflect the company’s brand image. If your uniform is a dark blue with a red logo, then a solid red or blue mask would probably be the best choices for a professional look.
Below is a handy guide when choosing your pocket mask:
Choose a secondary color from your shirt or tie as the primary color for your pocket mask.
Ensure that your pocket mask is of colors which will harmonize with your clothing.
Don’t directly match your tie and pocket mask.
www.facebook.com/thenattydresser
Oscar
For the most part white (or off white) pocket masks work all combinations and colors so you can never really go wrong.
Often a wedding is when all gentlemen like to look their Sunday best. Even for those not normally known for their elegant dress sense, it is one of the few times each year they will be prepared to make a concerted effort. With new social distancing protocols in place, a mask should at least be at the ready. However, this is NOT the place to wear a gawdy graphic design on your mask. You should always avoid wearing something that will take the focus from the happy couple. Keep it simple and Just slip it into the chest pocket of your jacket where it will be handy when it’s time to congratulate the bride and groom.
Oscar
Oscar B. Hult is a co-owner of The Natty Dresser in Downtown Albany. 541-248-3561
Contact him at
