There’s something about men in suits that make them super attractive, but that doesn’t mean that every time you want to look smart, you have to put on a suit. A casual look can still make you look sharp. When it comes to men’s fashion, there’s a whole list of things that can be altered or emphasised to get the look you’re looking for, but for now, let’s focus on these pro tips to dress sharp without a suit:

1. The right fit

You’d be surprised how much difference the right fit makes. It sounds so simple, but it’s actually one of the things that tends to have the greatest impact. There’s a reason that wearing even a basic T-shirt from Givenchy will make you look sharp. It’s not just because of the quality they have to offer, but because a huge part of the brand name develops due to the amazing fit that they take the time to develop. Whether it’s a basic T-shirt, a sweater, jacket or even pants, getting the right size and a fit that suits your body type is key to looking attractive. The reason behind this is that when the sizing is wrong or the fit doesn’t suit your body type, they throw off your body proportions; they can make you look shorter, wider, thinner or even just shabby and sloppy. However, the right fit will emphasize your body and give the appearance that the clothes you’re wearing were customised especially for you.

2. Watches matter

Accessorising your wrist makes a huge difference and will not go unnoticed. Just like shoes, a watch is the other item a woman will notice instantly and will make a whole lot of difference in your general appearance. You don’t have to be wearing a ridiculously expensive watch, just wear one with style. You can opt for a classic leather band or a titanium or stainless steel band that has something unique, special or just purely classic.

3. Throw out your graphic tees

The term less is more has never been more right than in this situation. While wearing graphic tees might be a cool thing, they definitely aren’t sharp in any way. They bring out the boyish-teenager look which is automatically combined with a cheap, shabby look instead.

In order to gain the attractive, sharp look you’re going for, it’s time to replace your graphic T-shirts with a simple plain fitted T-shirt with a V-neck or round neck according to your body type.

4. Stick to solid neutral colours

There’s something about black that automatically makes anything you wear look sharp. The same goes for most neutral colours such as white, grey, nude and sometimes even blue. Wearing solid neutral colours is soothing to the eye and just makes you look neat and clean. You can’t go wrong with this style as you’re always matching and place-appropriate. The neutral colour palette is very masculine and makes you look refined, smart and put together.

5. Use the layering technique

There’s something about wearing different layers that gives depth to your outfit. Having a shirt beneath a V-neck sweater will emphasise the general look by adding more detail and making it look visually appealing. You can even mix it up and add more than one layer by adding a scarf, a jacket or a vest. All these extra layers add to your style and make you look more sophisticated.

6. Find the perfect pair of jeans

Looking sharp doesn’t mean you have to give up your denims. On the contrary, wearing a nice pair of dark blue jeans even if combined with a simple, solid, neutral-colored T-shirt can still make you look exceptionally smart. The key is in wearing a pair of jeans that fit just right. You should also avoid any sort of embellishments or accessories on your jeans: no ripped jeans, used look, graphics or any big logos. Keep it simple, plain, clean, fitted, in other words: just perfect.

7. Footwear is important

One of the first things people will notice are the type of shoes you’re wearing. You don’t want to be wearing a pair of sneakers that have been over-worn and look dirty, even if they’re your favourite pair. You don’t even have to always wear sneakers, you can start trading them in for brown leather shoes or boots and you’ll be surprised how much sharper you’ll instantly look.