BEFORE: Ricky Ng, in his usual work attire, says he is normally not very adventurous in his dressing.
As a customer service officer at a spa, Ricky Ng, 25, meets many people every day.
"I don't have an extensive collection of clothes so it's a challenge to let my customers, especially my regulars, see that I have a sharp dress sense despite having a limited wardrobe," he says.
An obvious solution would be to layer his clothes for variety.
But unlike his lankier counterparts who can do this with ease, Ng, who stands at 1.69m, says it is a challenge for him.
"As I'm not tall, layering will make me look bulky."
But it is possible to pull off the layered look without adding bulk to one's frame, says Terence Ang, Crocodile International's head of communications and in-house stylist.
"I would cap it at three layers, including a jacket or vest," he says.
He also advises: "Pick clothes made of lighter and thinner fabrics like cotton. Otherwise, the outfit will end up looking too heavy."
WANT A NEW LOOK?
Crocodile International, a home-grown fashion and accessories label for men, will make over one male reader every week in June and August. The winner also gets a new outfit from Crocodile.
To win a makeover, e-mail sturban@sph.com.sg with your fashion woes in not more than 50 words. Attach your photo and include your name, age and contact details.
AFTER: Pairing cardigans with shirts, a look popularised by celebrities like David Beckham and Justin Timberlake, is an easy look to wear. Just remember to pick a slim-fitting shirt or T-shirt to prevent bunching under the cardigan.
HE SAYS: I never thought a cardigan could be a part of my working attire. And wearing a tie with a T-shirt is new to me too. Maybe I've just been too cautious a dresser. Now I know that I can transform an outfit just by adding a tie.
Cotton striped cardigan, $119.90; cotton polo tee, $79.90; slim fit pants, $119.00; jacquard silk tie, $39.90; leather belt, $109.90, shoes, Ng's own
AFTER: If you dare to bare (a little), try wearing a vest under a coat without the shirt. It dresses down a formal look and turns it into an outfit great for a night out.
HE SAYS: This is a bit bold for me. I have to make sure I keep fit to carry off this look. What I like about this three-piece ensemble is that I have the option to mix and match the items to create many different looks.
White jacket, $189.90; black vest, $119; slim-fit denim, $89.90; and leather belt, $99.90
AFTER: If you are averse to colour, start with a simple top in a solid colour and pair it with denim jeans or khaki pants. After you get used to wearing colours, move on to bolder prints and patterns.
HE SAYS: This is closer to how I usually dress. I've never really liked bright colours but this T-shirt is eye-catching and will help people remember me. Maybe I'll give it a try.
Photographer: ERNEST LEONG (9800-8086); Hair: TIM TEO, Heatwave; Grooming: FELICIA CHAN (9791-9039); Art direction: JACOB YOW and TERENCE ANG; Location: CROCODILE HOUSE
This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times on June 19, 2008.
