Published: August 01. 2010 2:00AM

By Stephanie Morgan
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The selections aren't quite as vast in men's fashion as they are in women's and the trends don't move quite as quickly, but one thing is for certain, looking good no matter where you are is just as important.

Boost your business casual

A plaid fall sport coat with accents in rust, orange and wine, complemented by a quarter zip vest and orange club tie and topped off with a pocket square by Peter Millar, is picture perfect for a business casual Friday fundraiser for your favorite candidate, or cocktails and cards with longtime acquaintances.

According to Rush Wilson of Rush Wilson Limited, business casual is the most difficult for men to understand and often the dress target most missed. Wilson says, “Those who work in businesses where ties and professional dress are required should always include a sport coat in their business casual dress regardless of summer heat!” This offers a layer of professionalism and a higher level of confidence. “This is a detail that is very important,” he adds.

Choose a lightweight silk or cotton sport coat paired with lightweight wool pants rather than cotton khakis. Wool pants are crisp and cool and hold shape much better than cotton. Leave the khakis at home if business casual is requested. Serge trousers or gabardines make a nice option for hot days.

Black tie best

Tuxedos are special. A traditional black tuxedo will take you far and is well worth the investment. Any formal event, be it wedding, gallery show, celebration or holiday affair, that takes place at 6 or later in the evening should be treated as a black-tie affair unless specified as otherwise. Black is always best, according to Wilson, and that goes for the color of the tux as well as the cummerbund and bow tie. As with any other fashion ensemble, the details hold the flair. One little detail that adds sophistication is a pocket square in white linen or silk, which can be added to the traditional tuxedo all year. Studs and cuff links are also great additions for detail and fun.

Looking good while golfing

Whether on the golf course or in the sales office at Bright's Creek, a golf and equestrian development just 60 miles north of Greenville, Michael Waldrop knows the importance of looking good to make a lasting impression and being unforgettable. Oftentimes, when his clients are trying to decide where to purchase their vacation home, being the one they remember is most important. He likes bright colors in the summer months. A lime green or orange Peter Millar is a good quality shirt that is sure to last, and as a Clemson fan, Waldrop finds orange to be a good choice for the fall as well. The surprise for clients comes with a perfect coordination of pants and shoes for the outfit. Lime green pants? Yep. Shoes? You bet. Waldrop knows the perfect factor for golf attire is color combinations that are just as fun as the sport itself.

To conclude, let's clear some things up:

Find some nice traditional suits and a tuxedo that will last you 15 years if you take good care of them. Pleated pants or flat-front pants will work in your wardrobe; the key is that they fit well. Make certain that the seams are loose and the waistband is too. If you want to combine patterns, feel free, just be careful not to overdo by choosing too many bold patterns. For example: Choose a suit with a small stripe and a tie with a bold or vice versa. Make sure that your shoes are well cared for and polished. If the soles on your shoes are worn, replace them. Your clothes represent what kind of person you are. Enjoy life and look good in it.