(prHWY.com) December 11, 2012 - New York, NY -- Buying a gift for a guy can be tough,
letterman jackets cheap especially when you're bringing ultra-feminine sensibilities to the table. I know what I like. I know what my friends appreciate. But when it comes to the opposite sex, I'm often clueless.
This year, my dad is the only male on my gift list. It wouldn't be daunting if I hadn't already exhausted my wealth of ideas. Last year, I got him a super-chic knitted cardigan paired with a woven button-down in a complimentary hue.
He liked the cardigan but could not fit the button-down. The previous year, I got him a camouflage hunting jacket so he could blend into the woods while enjoying one of his favorite pastimes, hunting.
For several years, I bought him puffer vests because he loved the first one that I gave him.
But this year, I'm fresh out of ideas. I like to buy him clothes, just because I enjoy the process. Also, shopping in the menswear section is refreshing.
To remedy this dilemma,
varsity jackets for boys I simply remember the trends. Fashion is reciprocal, even for men. This year, many of the popular trends are nods to past decades. Looking at vintage options can give you ideas. Plus, they may help you bridge the generational gap, if you are buying for a dad or grandpa.
While finding a suitable fit is challenging with vintage clothing, there's much uniqueness and quality to be had. You often can find trend-worthy apparel in vintage or thrift stores without the hefty price tag.
Here are some men's trends to watch out for while gift hunting:
The Cosby sweater: Who doesn't love Bill Cosby? Even if you can't envision your dad in a funky sweater or he has too many of them already, younger men are gravitating toward the trend. Grandpa sweaters are making a comeback, especially among hipsters. Stores such as Urban Outfitters have added these vintage-inspired sweaters to their clothing lines for men with a wink and a nod to thrifty chic audiences.
Look for bright colors, intricate patterns and loads of nostalgia in '80s sweaters. Make sure it fits. In the '80s, sweaters were oversized, which is now a trend for women. If a guy is going to don a grandpa sweater with style, it needs to appear tailored and intentional to make it look modern.
Argyle and more: The diamond-shaped Scottish print has been associated with sport, leisure and masculinity. Although a unisex print now, it still holds a certain prestige when worn. It's a classic and timeless piece that is sure to hold steady for men who may not favor trendy clothing.
Hats off to style:
varsity jackets guys Hats are a practical gift that can elevate a man's sense of style immediately. There are also a variety of trends from which to choose. There's the fedora for the ultra-stylish, the wetherby for the urbanite and the hunting cap for the man who has good aim.
A vested interest: Vests are simple and practical, two attributes most men can appreciate. Yet they can add so much interest to a look without even trying. Sweater vests are suitable for the geek chic. Try puffer vests for men who enjoy the outdoors. These come in a range of styles from plaid or herringbone prints to vests in bold colors akin to those worn while hunting.
My personal favorite is the wool vest for men. Typically a part of suiting, it does not have to be formal today. In fact, it can be worn over a long-sleeve T-shirt or a button down woven with jeans.
A loafer to boot: If you know the man's shoe size, footwear can be a viable gift option. From cowboy boots to leather loafers, personality type drives this style. Look for shoes outside the realm of athletic appeal, even if he doesn't typically wear these types of shoes. It might be interesting to see him in a pair of tailored shoes for a change. Remind him that he can easily pair these shoes with jeans and a wool blazer for a modern professorial look.
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