3 Simple Ways To Stand Out This Party Season

Your five-minute guide to taking your getup from good to great.

Party dress codes often go straight out the window when the harsh heat of the Australian summer, plus the generally relaxed nature of an Aussie shindig, come into the equation. Even formal occasions like summer weddings often call for a different approach Down Under than they would elsewhere, and the last few years of a certain playfulness making its way into men's fashion have upended the rulebook even more. But in this new era where guys are more willing to take sartorial risks than ever before, how do you stand out in a crowd where everyone else is also trying to do the same thing? Here are three simple ways to take your outfit from already killer to an absolute thriller.

Patterns, patterns, patterns

Loud shirting has been the order of the season for the past couple of summers now, whether it's in the form of Riviera-inspired knitted shirts or light, breezy party shirts paired with more formal trousers. And it's fairly easy to see why, with patterns and prints being one of the most approachable, accessible ways to add a little intrigue to your outfit. Double Rainbouu's loud-as-loud-can-be camp collar shirts are as effective worn under a blazer as they are at the beach.

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Embrace jewellery

Want to know what separates the good from the great when it comes to the best-dressed men on the red carpet? Often, the answer lies in those shiny little accoutrements that guys often lack the confidence to invest in. A playful, wear-anywhere sports watch like Timex's Q Malibu is a great place to start, as is a simple chain that can drape over a t-shirt or under an open-necked shirt or a signet ring. From there, the world is your oyster—or should that be pearl.

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Put a little pizzazz into your eyewear

Australians love to get down as the sun does the same, but guys are often hesitant to deviate away from the standard round lens or Wayfarer-style shades that they've been rocking since they first bought their first pair of sunglasses. Experimenting with coloured lenses and frames however can add an eye-catching, low-effort layer to your occasionwear, whether it's to offset a simple suit or to purposely clash with a party shirt. Don't be afraid to stock up on the shades.