I absolutely love fashion. I know…duh, right? But seriously. Not only are there constantly new ideas and trends being introduced, some of which stick for longer than others (cough, parachute pants, cough), I also love it so much is because of the cyclical nature of the space. Certain styles will get re-introduced every so often with modern adjustments and it creates a constantly evolving structure. Fashion is pretty deep stuff if you let yourself get into it, haha!
One such piece I’m discussing today is the “Cuban” style collared shirt. These are also often called “Revere” collars, too. It’s a classic design that was extremely popular in Cuba and made it’s way to the US in the 1950’s. What sets it apart is the small lapel style collar under the normal collar. Right around the collar bone. The style had fallen from grace, typically only worn by bowlers and Charlie Sheen in Two and a Half Men.
ASOS has brought a lot of different cuban style collared shirts back in slimmer, modern cuts and interested designs and colors. I’m showcasing three of them for you today. Let’s do it!
Black and Classic
If you’re ever at a loss in terms of where to start with an outfit. Hop on Google and type in “1950’s mens fashion”. It’s probably going to be a lot of suits and hats, but when you find the casual styles, they’re a perfect template for something you can build upon. This black and gold sateen shirt is super vintage and SO cool. I love the way it falls and how the fabric has a bit of a shine.
When styling a black shirt, your safest bet is always to wear some black pants. Other colors can definitely work, but you have to be careful with a shirt like this because it’s easy to slip into “Dad style”. The black jeans and classic Clubmaster style shades create the vintage aesthetic but also are modern enough to work really nicely.
Cubano
Another tip for fashion in general is to learn where something comes from (as stated above, Cuba, in this case), and just go for a similar look that you’d find there.
The classic ribbed tank, white denim or linen pants, and your shirt fully unbuttoned is a move that’s been pulled by most every style God for the last 100 years. It’s a perfect way to stay casual and cool while also allowing yourself the opportunity to be formal enough for an afternoon party.
Contrast the base layer of your look with a different colored shirt, as I did with the blue ASOS wave shirt here.
Christian from Clueless
One of my all time favorite style aesthetics is the casual 1950’s Dad. “Casual” wasn’t anything close to what it is now. It essentially meant anything other than a suit and tie. If you look back at photos, you’ll often see guys with their shirts tucked in but almost completely unbuttoned. If you’ve seen Clueless (has anyone NOT seen Clueless?) you’ll remember Christian having that old school style. Something about it is so effortlessly cool so I had to mimic it. A shirt in an off shade of pink is pretty on trend right now. I like it because it works great as a layer piece as well under a jacket.
Combine the high waisted khakis, tuck your shirt in and you’re on your way. It’s an homage to a simpler time, but you’ll be feeling anything but simple.
