Boys are generally known to be the more clear-cut and uncomplicated between the sexes – they don’t need to wake up extra early to curl or straighten their hair, they have no qualms with which bag to match with what shoes, and they don’t linger inside malls just because a huge SALE sign is on display.  I guess we could say that the members of the XY pool usually take the easy, more unproblematic route, and that goes even for their fashion choices (or lack thereof). But since the advent of male style icons that scream effortless cool like Chuck Bass or sporty sophistication like David Beckham, there is no longer an excuse for boys everywhere to have only the word “sloppy” describe their style. Just because guys can get away with pulling the first shirt on top of the pile doesn’t mean they can’t step out of the house ready to ace an exam, hit the gym, and hang out with friends for dinner all while looking impeccably put-together. Being stylish doesn’t have to take much of your time, boys, so with just a few closet staples, gear up for the new school year looking unquestionably gwapo – and still just in time for that 8 o’clock physics class.

COOL CASUAL

Perfect for: Monday quiz, Tuesday group meeting

Manila weather can get very unpredictable, with scorching temperatures one moment and frenzied rainfall the next. A loose, comfortable plaid shirt like the one Bjorn Bedayo is sporting can bring you from sunny to chilly in no time. Simply fold up the sleeves when it gets warm at lunch, then tuck it in for a less slipshod look. Just make sure your handkerchief doesn’t match your polo and risk looking like you ran out with the rest of your picnic blanket.

COZY SPORTY

Perfect for: Wednesday track meet, Saturday movie night

Putting on a sports jacket on top of your everyday t-shirt and jeans ensemble is an easy way to add punch to your outfit while keeping you warm for the cool air-conditioning in class or at the nearby Starbucks and ready for the rain showers ahead, like David Guison does. Wearing your sports or org jacket amps up the cool too because it makes everyone know you’re part of the team – the well-dressed one, that is. Props if you can let your girl borrow the jacket by the end of the day.

UNRUFFLED REBEL

Perfect for: Thursday petix/inom

Give edge to the typical statement shirt by choosing one that comes in a bold color – that way the statement you’re making appeals on all levels of visual delight. Keep the rest of the outfit simple; jeans would be your best bet. Topping it off with a unique hat just like Juju Gosingtian can also add a more jazzy/trendy feel to your look. This look will make you stand out without even really trying – kinda like the new song your band is currently working on, or the drink you’ve been guzzling for the last six minutes.

CLASS ACT

Perfect for: Friday date nights

Nothing says “I mean business” more than the classic button-down – but nothing looks more attractive and engaging either. Look like a fine chap by donning a crisp white polo paired with khaki pants. You can also opt for a black blazer to add more polish and class (like how Carlos Concepcion styled this look). But really, all it takes is a natural, unforced grace to go with the shirt’s pristine whiteness and you have for yourself the recipe for a perfect gentleman. Just add a girlfriend and stir.

            Sure, our body clocks all need some readjusting as we prepare for the returning hurdle that is the new school year, but the boys need not worry about spending too much time overhauling their wardrobe before setting off for school. Now, early class time’s no excuse for a shoddy attire, just ask Oscar Wilde. “The man who can dominate a London dinner-table can dominate the world,” he said – surely the same goes as well for a man who can take over the streets of Manila. After all, if you can survive the overpasses and sidewalks of Manila, you can do it anywhere – and with panache at that. 

by Karla Bernardo