Image by senivpetro on Freepik

               “Fashion changes, but style endures.”― Coco Chanel

Throughout history, clothing has always remained a common feature of humanity. Whether it is women’s clothing or men’s, fashion has always remained a form of expression of self and a way of carving out one’s identity from the crowd. 

Right from the 1900s till the 2000s, fashion styles have continued to improve and evolve with many fashion brands offering bespoke styles of dressing that catered to the myriads of age ranges starting from the young and trendy to the old and refined.

Fashion was exclusively the preserve of women until the 1940s and 50s when men began focusing more on casual wear and the finish of their suits. For Black Men’s Fashion, more emphasis was focused on the accompanying accessories like belts, wristwatches, shoes, etc.

Black boys in suits in Chicago, 1941. Russell Lee, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

From the 1960s to the 1990s  we experienced a gradual evolution in Black men’s fashion. Greatly influenced by the predominance of several music icons along with various socio political changes, fashion among Black men began to take a life of its own, more so with the predominance of Hip-hop, Afro hair, and the need to flaunt wealth and success. Fashion styles among Black men were not only expressive they were audacious as well. 

1975 Street photography of a fashionable Black couple-- a gentleman in light blue suit with bowtie with afro hair, and a lady in red dress and white hat and scarf. Perry Riddle, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In the 2000s, and with the exploration of several luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Ralph Lauren into Black men’s fashion, we now see a vivid expression of not just the style, and patterns in Black men’s outfits which are representation of his African roots, these outfits also carry a powerful presentation of his identity.

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In exploring Black Men’s Fashion, we present 5 styling tips that exude a powerful wardrobe and also ensure confidence and expression. 

1. Know the color that fits: According to realmenrealstyle.com “color isn’t just your skin color. Understanding the color of your skin and the clothes that compliment them will build a powerful Image for the Black man”.

While some fashion sites suggest lighter-colored shirts/T-Shirts as a way to accentuate the skin tone of the Black man it is advisable when shopping for new clothes to try on as many colors as possible and never settle until you find the right fit. Also when selecting lighter-colored T-shirts, as a rule, it is advisable to match lighter colors with darker ones.

Black man in mint green suit and black and white spotted hat. Photo by MART PRODUCTION from Pexels

2. Invest in Quality Accessories: A unique watch, a strong leather belt, perhaps even a simple chain or wristband, and sunshades/glasses can complement your outfit and make you stand out. Always ensure the simplicity of your accessories is strictly adhered to. 

3. Select the right suits: Suits are a timeless piece of clothing for all men irrespective of race. Always in vogue and never going out of fashion, it becomes necessary that in purchasing a suit, you get not the right color but the perfect fit.

While making choices on the types of suit to get it is also important to ensure that among your collections, you have at least these three suit color types – Navy Blue, Black, and Charcoal Grey. Above all else, stay clear of shiny/sparkling outfits.

Man in black and white striped shirt and gray slacks, wearing black loafers. Photo by Drew Williams from Pexels

4. Wear the Shoes to match the outfit: Irrespective of whether you are formally or casually dressed, without the right shoes your outfit remains incomplete. Two essential colors of shoes that should make up your wardrobe collection are Black and brown. Whether they come in work shoes or sneakers, these colors are suitable for all clothing styles and make you stand out. Also, ensure your socks match the color of your pants while avoiding mismatched socks. As a final consideration, owning white sneakers or canvas can also be an added advantage.

5. Grooming:  No matter how ironed your outfit might look or how well-polished your shoes might appear, it all gets ruined by unkempt hair, unshaved facial beard, and nose hairs. No matter the hair type, steps must be taken to get a decent haircut, properly shave, or trim facial hair as well as nose hair. Also, investing in good colognes and perfumes can create that masculine appeal all ladies love.

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 Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. [email protected]

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