Accessories

Upgrade Your Look: The Ultimate Guide to Men’s Accessories and Where to Buy Them

Why Men’s Accessories Matter More Than You Think

Think of accessories as the punctuation marks of an outfit — they tell the eye where to pause, what to emphasize, and how to read your style. A well-chosen belt, hat, or pair of sunglasses can raise a casual look to sharp, or bring cohesion to a suit. Accessories let you experiment without rebuilding your wardrobe, and they’re often the most cost-effective way to refresh your image. Whether you’re dressing for a meeting, a weekend getaway, or a casual night out, the right pieces make you look deliberate instead of thrown together.

Core Categories: The Accessories Every Man Should Know

Before shopping, it helps to break accessories down into core categories. Once you know what each piece does and how to style it, combining them becomes second nature. Below are the essentials with quick pointers on when and why to wear them.

Belts: Function Meets Fashion

Belts do more than hold up your pants — they bridge top and bottom, anchor the outfit’s palette, and can be a focal point. Leather belts in black or brown are wardrobe staples; woven or cork belts add texture and a relaxed vibe. Pay attention to width and buckle size to keep proportions balanced: thinner belts work better with slim trousers, while wider styles hold up with jeans and heavier fabrics.

Hats: Style and Weather Protection

Hats are dramatic in the best way. A bucket hat or fisherman hat adds a casual, contemporary edge, while a fedora or Borsalino signals refined taste. Wool bucket hats and fisherman styles work well in cooler months, and brimmed hats offer sun protection without sacrificing style. Match hat texture to the rest of your outfit for a cohesive look.

Ties and Bow Ties: Power and Personality

Ties remain a shorthand for formality and purpose. A solid silk tie is the cleanest bet for business settings; patterned or textured ties introduce personality. Bow ties are for when you want to stand out or throw a dash of vintage charm into an ensemble. Keep knot size proportional to your collar and lapel widths.

Scarves: Layering with Flair

Scarves are as much about comfort as they are about style. A slim cotton scarf can finish a spring look, while a heavier wool or cashmere scarf adds both warmth and depth in fall and winter. Colors and patterns can be used to inject contrast or to harmonize with your coat and shoes.

Sunglasses: Face-Framing Essentials

Sunglasses protect your eyes and frame your face. Classic shapes like aviator or wayfarer are versatile, while bold frames or colored lenses make a statement. Look for UV protection first, then fit and proportion. For style, consider metal frames for a refined look or thicker acetate for a modern, masculine edge.

Spotlight on Stores: Drestige and Cerqular

Two notable names in the accessories realm bring unique strengths: Drestige, with an emphasis on branded, designer pieces and refined classics; and Cerqular, known for artisanal touches and playful vintage finds. Both cater to different shoppers but share a focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Drestige: Designer Staples and Heritage Pieces

Drestige carries elevated everyday pieces that read luxe without screaming for attention. Think Ralph Lauren belts in black, Lardini tie options in classic black, and sunglasses like the Vogue Man 5620 model. If you’re after headwear, Drestige stocks a broad spectrum — from men’s wool bucket hats in rich shades to iconic Borsalino hats in black. For the man who prefers a polished, European-inspired aesthetic, Drestige offers reliable, timeless choices.

Cerqular: Artisanal Finds and Playful Details

Cerqular leans into texture and character. You’ll find cork belts offered in precise size ranges — for instance, a small sized 29.5 to 35.5 inches and a large sized 38 to 44 inches — which is great if you like materials that look different from standard leather. Cerqular’s selection also includes vintage-style bow ties, slim scarves like “Rachel - Le Petit,” and decorative sets like a matte clip set in burlwood. If you prefer pieces that feel unique and a touch nostalgic, Cerqular delivers.

Other U.S. Stores Worth Visiting

If you’re shopping in the United States or online from U.S.-based retailers, several stores offer wide selections across price ranges and styles. Each brings something different to the table, whether it’s value, curation, or heritage.

Nordstrom: The One-Stop Department Store

Nordstrom blends high-end and approachable brands with excellent curation. You’ll find a broad belt selection, designer sunglasses, ties, and plenty of seasonal hats and scarves. It’s a safe starting point when you want options and easy comparisons across brands.

J.Crew and Bonobos: Modern Casual Classics

J.Crew and Bonobos are great for modern, preppy, and city-ready accessories. Think woven belts, colorful pocket squares, textured scarves, and casual hats that pair well with denim and chinos. These brands excel at everyday pieces that play well in both office-casual and weekend wardrobes.

Brooks Brothers and Ralph Lauren: Timeless Formality

For formal ties, classic belts, and traditional scarves, Brooks Brothers and Ralph Lauren supply heritage pieces that age well. These shops are ideal if you favor conservative cuts and colors with proven longevity.

Sunglass Hut and Specialty Eyewear Retailers

When sunglasses are a priority, dedicated eyewear shops like Sunglass Hut offer an extensive range of fits and lenses, from polarized options to designer frames. Trying several shapes is key to finding what flatters your face shape best.

How to Choose the Right Size and Fit

One of the most common pitfalls when buying accessories online is sizing. For belts, use your trouser waist measurement: belt sizes are typically given in inches, so look for a belt that’s 2 inches larger than your pant size. For example, a belt labeled small covering 29.5 to 35.5 inches aligns with those wearing roughly a 30 to 33-inch waist who prefer adjustable fits. Hats require head circumference measurements — wrap a tape measure around the largest part of your head above the ears and compare it to the brand’s size chart. Sunglasses should sit comfortably on your nose and ears without pinching; temples are typically measured in millimeters, but try on similar styles to estimate the right fit.

Style Rules and Tips: Mixing Materials, Colors, and Scales

Accessories are all about balance. Here are a few guiding principles that act like a cheat sheet when you dress:

Match Metal Tones to Your Accessories

If your belt buckle is silver, think about pairing it with silver-toned watch hardware or cufflinks. Mixing metals can work, but keep one tone dominant to avoid visual friction.

Scale and Proportion Matter

Chunky knit scarves and heavy wool hats pair well with thicker coats, whereas fine silk scarves and slim ties sit better with tailored blazers. Keep the scale consistent: narrow lapels go with narrow ties; wide lapels demand wider knots.

Texture Adds Depth

Mix a smooth leather belt with a wool scarf or a cork belt with cotton trousers to add subtle contrast. Think of textures as the seasoning of an outfit — a little goes a long way.

Care and Maintenance: Keep Your Pieces Looking New

Accessories can last for years with the right care. Leather belts benefit from occasional leather conditioner and should be stored flat or hung to maintain shape. Wool hats and scarves need gentle brushing and airing; if they pick up moisture, let them dry naturally away from direct heat. Sunglasses should be stored in a hard case when not in use and cleaned with lens-safe cloths and solutions. Treat each accessory like a partner — a little attention preserves appearance and function.

Budgeting: Where to Spend and Where to Save

Not every accessory needs to be splurge-worthy. Save on trendy pieces you’ll replace seasonally and spend more on items that endure: a high-quality leather belt, a classic pair of sunglasses, or a well-made hat can be wardrobe anchors for years. Use lower-cost scarves, novelty bow ties, and seasonal hats to inject personality without breaking the bank. If you’re buying branded items like Ralph Lauren belts or Borsalino hats, weigh longevity and resale value against upfront cost.

Sustainable and Ethical Options to Consider

If sustainability matters to you, look for brands that disclose material sourcing and production practices. Reclaimed materials, natural cork belts, and recycled fabrics are becoming more common, and smaller brands often provide transparency you won’t find at big chains. Buying quality over quantity also reduces waste — a well-made piece replaced less frequently is better for the planet and your closet.

Where to Compare Prices and Find the Best Deals

To get the most value, shop across several retailers and use comparison sites to track deals and availability. You’ll often find that a particular hat or tie appears across multiple stores with varying prices, so checking a few sources helps you land the best offer. Look for seasonal sales and clearance sections for deep discounts on previous-season colors and styles.

Putting It All Together: Outfit Examples

If you’re wondering how to combine these tips into real looks, here are a few quick ideas. For a smart-casual office day: pair a slim brown leather belt with dark chinos, a navy blazer, a patterned silk tie, and tortoiseshell sunglasses. Weekend casual calls for a cork belt with light-wash jeans, a cotton tee, a wool bucket hat, and a casual scarf tossed around the neck. Going to a wedding? Choose a solid silk tie, polished leather belt, and a minimal pocket square for refined restraint.

Final Thoughts Before You Click “Buy”

Accessories let you experiment. Treat them like small investments that pay style dividends. Think about longevity, fit, and how each piece complements existing items in your wardrobe. Whether you’re shopping designer labels at Drestige, eclectic finds at Cerqular, or staples from big U.S. retailers, the right accessories turn outfits into signatures. Remember — wearing accessories should be fun, not forced. Start small, build slowly, and let your choices evolve with your taste.

Conclusion: Accessories are the finishing notes that define an outfit. By understanding categories, sizing, styling principles, and where to shop, you can build a compact yet versatile collection that elevates every look.