The way your guy dresses is certainly not one of his most important qualities, but at a point in time (when you’ve been in the relationship long enough, or just can't stand to see him wear another pair of bad mandals) it is totally fair game to have an opinion on how he puts himself together. After all, you know he likes you in specific pieces and perhaps with your hair swept off your face so it’s time to return the unsolicited favour. Here's how:

1. Take advantage of the turn of the season. Right now is a great time to help him out with his closet. While you’ve likely already spring-cleaned your wardrobe, car, and desk at work, he might be a little late coming out of winter hibernation. The best approach with the turn of the season is to flat out tell him he needs some new things for the warmer weather. If you’re with a thrifty guy, he might resist: “I have a ton of tees and shorts, I’m fine.” In this scenario, let him know that some of his gear dating back to a few summers ago needs updating. Board shorts in public are not acceptable if you’re over the age of 21! In all seriousness though, show him images you think he might like online: cuffed shorts, clean-lined sneakers and tailored, understated button-ups are classic, easy-sells. 

2. Don’t be vague. In my relationship experience, men do not respond well to indirectness or aloofness in any situation so I’m a believer in telling it like it is. In other words, don’t let him know under your mumbled breath that “yourpantsaretoobaggyandyourshirtissloppyomgyouneedhelp.” Having a candid conversation about sprucing up his style is most likely your best bet.

3. But don’t be mean! You never want to push too hard. What’s the point in getting in a legitimate fight over something as meaningless as the clothes on our backs? If he isn’t into the conversation or the idea of new styles, let it go and pick it up at another time. It’s not rocket science: you know your guy, so act accordingly in a sticky situation where he might feel vulnerable.

4. Establish yourself. If you love fashion and he doesn’t, put it this way: “If I wanted to pick up (insert his favourite sport here) and I wasn’t doing it right, would you give me tips?” (Likely he’ll answer yes.) In which case, point proven; he’ll understand what you’re getting at. You know your stuff and you’re only trying to help him out.

5. Shop with him. This is an obvious one. Help him pick out clothes and be his size-exchange gopher when he’s in the changing room. You both benefit! Be sure to pull clothes for him that he normally wouldn’t for himself.

6. People watch. When you and your guy are out for brunch, patio-hopping, in New York for the weekend or off on a European adventure, take advantage of the rotating, in-the-flesh street style on display. Talk about what you like and what trends you’re drawn to and vice versa. Essentially, try and engage him in an easy dialogue on style at large. If he’s totally uninterested in fashion, he still might surprise you here–it’s fun to weigh in from the (discreet) peanut gallery! A little visual inspiration goes a long way.

Best of luck! If these tips don’t work, you might have an extremely anti-metro guy on your hands which of course, has it’s bonuses as well. The less time he spends on his style might just mean the more he dotes on your fabulous self.

Have you ever had to have the "style talk" with your guy?

by Lia Parsley