Style Profile
tim tzeng
One of my great regrets this semester has been this section’s rigorous focus on women’s style. The truth is, it’s easier to obsess over this season’s “Wait-List Bag” or “Must-Have Platform” than to ponder the nuances of men’s style. So much of what constitutes style is elusive, and just as with their female counterparts, some men just have “it.” While that indescribable quality may be difficult to achieve, Columbia certainly boasts a few stylish men. One superlative example is Tim Tzeng, CC ’10. Using his closet as the starting point for an examination of men’s style, I hope each of you will find something that inspires your inner sartorialist.
-Shirley Chen
The basics are always crucial. Tim’s fashion staples are tailored shirts, cashmere sweaters, polos, and that one pair of perfect jeans.
For shirts, Tim favors American classic Brooks Brothers in a variety of colors. I also likes Michael Bastian—think French cuffs with matching mother-of-pearl button cuff links, hard-gathered shoulder pleating, and four-centimeter contrast color collars. Ralph Lauren Purple Label is always perfectly proportioned.
Cashmere sweaters are versatile and forever useful. Guys should invest in all fits and colors, both light and heavy. The V-neck has a cool, summer-fling vibe, but the grandfather cardigan is always a classic, and Steve McQueen high-collar sweaters are making a serious comeback.
Polos are the summer essential, and I recommend that you don’t shy away from intense colors. Tim’s polos are personalized, a small detail that gives them a special edge.
Jeans can really make or break the deal. A.P.C.’s New Standard is amazing: unadorned, with a lower rise than the original, but still maintaining that beautiful raw denim that is just begging to be broken in. Rag & Bone’s premium denim is also worthy of envy, with soft cotton lining and tri-tone stitching on its oversized back pockets. On the flip side, I can’t think of a more devastating deal breaker than a Swarovski encrusted backside. Unless you’ve recently escaped from the Ice Capades, rhinestone studs are not attractive.
When choosing basics, fit and comfort are the most important factors. Once you’re confident, start experimenting with colors, layers, and proportions. Next come accessories, which give a man’s outfit charm and a sense of his personality. After all, who would Chuck Bass be without his scarf and bow ties?
Scarves, bow ties, and pocket squares are all about a nonchalant dandy attitude. Tim has a Columbia scarf from Ivy ideal J. Press. Avoid looking like you’re attending the prom by investing in high quality goods. Brooks Brothers and Thomas Pink make some quirky patterns, but I recently saw a strikingly aristocratic black velvet bow tie that used texture to full effect.
Choosing shoes can be tricky. In the summer, flip-flops and light leather shoes are acceptable. If you are looking to make a statement, dangerously hipster wingtips and refined gentleman Oxfords are the best options. Conservative loafers are romantic and remind me of lovely nights on the shore. My favorite, however, is Tod’s driving shoe—the embodiment of elegance and comfort. Derek Lam is revamping the classic with red sole pebbles this summer.
You can never have too many sunglasses. Rayban Aviators and Wayfarers have definitely stood the test of time. Pick one or both. The optimal shape and style depend on your face shape, but recent styles by Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Jacobs, and Tom Ford are all great choices.
Scent is a strong aphrodisiac and it should be the finishing touch on your outfit. Tom Ford for Men is masculine but also surprisingly understated. An Indian root called cypriol is used instead of musk, swallowing the citrus undertone just enough to create a surprise. Another personal favorite is L’Homme by Yves Saint Laurent. It has a sharp, sweet smell—and for those of you who have you seen the movie Unfaithful, I’ve said more than enough.
As a final note, don’t be afraid to rock your own vibe. These are the basics for a preppy, modern, sophisticated look—it’s not for everyone. Follow your whims: as the mood strikes you, be either subtle or bold. The final details (gloves, hats, socks, jewelry) are mastered after years of practice. Your style will develop and grow to reflect who you are as a man.
For more inspiration, look to Tom Ford, Thom Browne, Bjorn Borg, Christopher Walken, Serge Gainsbourg, Robert Redford, Michael Caine, David Bowie, and the peerless Cary Grant. To their credit, these stylish men always look effortless.