Styling your look

As the summer heat beats down, it's time to take a break from the rat race that's engulfed everyone in some manner or the other "" rather, it is we who have opted to make our work schedules a second skin.

So step aside for a second and focus on what you are wearing and how you're feeling.

What dictates how others view us, both at work and off, is how we portray ourselves through our appearance. Rule one is not only about dressing well, but feeling well.

This undemanding fashion mantra could be your daily dose of "natural remedies that allow you to remain ahead of the game" both on-time and off-time. After all, it's the age of the "nano" "" get big on style via small effort.

Many men go into a whirlwind effect when it comes to dressing right for an occasion "" as a result, very few get it right, usually going over the top, transforming oneself from the executive to the fashion victim or, on the extreme end, the very underdressed slob.

Since it's all about portraying the right image, it's very important to keep your audience in mind, whether you're choosing your attire, your accessories, or even your scent.

Sound a bit tough? No problem: take a clean chit, defragment your hard drive, and move on and get the right look for yourself.

The importance of distinguishing your style for your profile is key. Let's take a peep into two profiles that are as distinct as rice and roti "" the young CEO and the young politician.

LEO the YOUNG CEO

Workplace
Attire ""The shirt: Ivory, indigo or texturised weave in any classic colour. European cut (slimmest cut in the market), stiff formal stand-up collars with double buttons.

Pants "" Light earthy tone, pleatless, slightly tapered at the bottom with a comfortable cuff falling elegantly over the shoe, but not covering the laces.

Shoes "" Seamless, tan, front tapered, lace shoes, with socks to match the tone of the pants.

Accessories "" The belt: Two tones darker than the shoe colour, soft chrome buckle, preferably plain.

Watch "" Chunky, masculine chronograph in chrome.

Cologne "" A splash of a sporty cologne always goes a long way.

Weekend/Holiday
Attire "" Khaki knee length cargo shorts with a loose bush shirt in a summery solid tone.

Shoes "" Leather, single thick strap sandals, or natural tone kolhapuris.

Accessories "" Keep it light.

Cologne "" Fresh, mild.

KISHAN the YOUNG POLITICIAN

Workplace
Attire "" Crisp, just below knee-length, plain or self stripe, textured kurta, and deconstructed, lightweight waistcoat, with plain churidars or slim cut pajamas.

Shoes "" Kolhapuris, or lightweight, dark coloured slipper style sandals.

Accessories "" Two mobile phones (one personal and the other for the constituency), a leather strap watch.

Cologne "" Mildly spicy, portrays a serious look without being overpowering or too casual.

Weekend/Holiday
Attire "" Dark jeans with a short kurta, preferably plain colours, maximum detailing not to exceed simple kantha straight lines.

Shoes "" Kolhapuris for a relaxed feel, and slip-on, dark brown moccasins for a slightly more formal look.

Accessories "" Plain leather belt in brown or black only with a classic buckle, slightly chunky watch to portray a more casual day-off look.

Cologne "" Sporty enough to be casual without portraying an over-carefree attitude.

Ultimately, most men will find the right look only as they grow to learn what fits well and looks and feels right. Being well turned out and feeling good about oneself not only takes a little skill but also a lot of awareness.

If one is not careful in subtle ways, then not only does the exercise become a waste of time but, many times, a waste of money too.

The key is to take one step at a time and pick select pieces that accentuate your personal style.

Once you've mastered this, the rat race and the pit stops en route should be a little more pleasing.