How in the world do you get your husband to dress so stylishly?

Well isn’t that the million dollar question lol!

If you’ve been reading for a while, or following me on Instagram, you’ve probably seen my husband featured in many of my photos. Plus I’ve been giving his outfits of the day shout outs here and there on Snapchat. But besides my obvious infatuation with the love of my life, what’s the deal? How in the world did I end up with a guy that has so much swag?

The secret is actually a 5-year journey.

From Jock to  Gentleman

As I mentioned in last week’s post, I met my best friend during a capture the flag game at orientation. However, this isn’t just how we met. The very fact that we met at a “sporting event” is literally a clue to how he dressed back then.

Nate (aka hubby) could rock his favorite team’s t-shirt, athletic pants and some Jordans like the best of them. But when it came to dressing up, there was a definite need for a style focus. He used to alternate between his favorite grey Hollister sweater and his go-to argyle print vest, which is a pattern that still makes me cringe.

Nevertheless, I began to fall in love with him but my feelings towards his style didn’t change. I couldn’t stand it.

Any of you ladies ever been there?

If you nodded your head, raised your hand, or said to yourself, “Girl, yes!!!’ – then I feel you. It’s a tough spot to be in. On one hand you love the man to pieces but on the other hand, you wish he would just pay more attention to the art of dressing.

Don’t worry though! There is a solution.

In fact, here’s the exact blueprint of how I tweaked my husband’s style.

First, I remembered the Golden Rule. I needed to treat him just like I would like to be treated. I had to be honest with myself. If the shoe was on the other foot, how would I like to be approached? I definitely wouldn’t want to be told what to do. I would prefer the change to be my choice. Keep that at the forefront of your mind.

Secondly, I strategically gifted him clothing and accessories. Not in a mommying type of way though. It was more along the lines of surprise gifts like socks, ties and even casual shirts.

Thirdly, we began to shop together. After he became accustomed to the smaller gifts, we started to have little shopping trips together. The first time, it was for his cousin’s wedding. We’d decided that we were going to create his outfit using his favorite navy blue bow tie (*clears throat – the one I gifted him). By the end of the day, he had stepped out of his comfort zone and had purchased a striped navy blue cardigan to wear.

Next, I began to use positive reinforcement. Whenever, he put together a look that I absolutely loved, I intentionally praised him for it. Yes, I even said things like, ‘Babe, you look sexy in that‘ and ‘Oooooo, I like that on you!‘ Since I only made a comment when I truly meant it, he began to take notes.

Pause for a second.

Ladies, this is important! When you praise your boo for looking good, and let him know that it makes you happy and/or proud to be on his arm, guess what? He’ll most likely repeat that behavior again! Got it?

Ok, now let’s move on to the next point.

Lastly, we began to look at male celebrities’ style on the red carpet and in random photos. This was definitely a process of trial and error but it was very helpful, especially when we needed to purchase an outfit for him specific to an event. By doing this, I opened him up to the world of fashion but through a man’s eyes. He began to see it as a way of expressing who he was. And it began to have a positive effect on his overall confidence and attitude.

Dapper In DÁRA Shoes

Dapper:(typically of a man) neat and trim in dress, appearance, or bearing.

Fast forward to today, Nate has transformed into a gentleman who now has a very unique sense of style.

Even though his favorite colors are navy blue and maroon, he sometimes chooses brighter hues in an attempt to switch up his style. Not to mention that he has developed a weakness for paisley. And trust me it’s a weakness. I spent 3 days driving around Columbus, OH trying to find him either a blazer, tie or pair of shoes with the print for our New Year’s plans!

At the time, I didn’t succeed. However, a few months later, I discovered DÁRA, and they had the perfect shoes to match my husband’s newfound art of dressing.

Their Milan Slipper In Brown Paisley had the right amount of stylish flair and the multiple bright colors effortlessly complimented my husband’s existing wardrobe. And that wasn’t all. After we placed our order, and received these velvet loafers in early July, the intricate craftsmanship was apparent. They were so easy for Nate to slip on and off, plus the leather insoles made walking extremely comfortable. In fact, that aspect alone made these handcrafted evening slippers a winner! (Nate had had foot surgery in his younger years, and that meant that he was VERY picky about shoes.)

And let’s not forget how these shoes made people turn their heads!

When we attended a friend’s wedding in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he received so many compliments! It was to the point that I felt like chopped liver lol.

But that’s ok. I don’t mind sharing the spotlight with him.

After all, I put in the work to see him become this confidently dressed man!

             Outfit Details: DÁRA Milan Slipper in Brown Paisley | Macy’s Printed Shirt | Old Navy Salmon Lightweight Khakis for Men | Giorgia Armani Watch (similar)

So remember ladies, it may not be an overnight change but it is possible!

Let me know how this post resonates with you in the comments below! Even if you’re married or not in a relationship 😉