A Beginner's Guide to Using Men's Style and Fashion Forums

Before you join that online community of style denizens, take heed of these items or thou shalt be trolled the f*ck out.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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The underbelly of the fashion world resides not in the blogs or online publication comments section, but rather the denizens of the many message boards that are flooded with people who discuss designer clothing, denim, shoes, and all things style-related at length. While their initial layouts aren't exactly as user-friendly as popular men's style sites, many of your favorite style bloggers, designers, even rappers have been a part of a fashion forum or two. 

If you want to get the most out of these resources, there are certain rules to abide by—kind of like Disney World, but replace Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck with Rick Owens and Martin Margiela. Diving right into a What Did You Wear Today with a fit pic or asking an ignorant question can get you trolled faster than walking under a bridge. Before you settle on an online community to take part in, learn how to properly conduct yourself. Here's A Beginner's Guide to Using Men's Style and Fashion Forums.

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Fashion forums have a mob mentality. Develop a thick skin, and don't be afraid to argue.

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There is a lot of member cross-over from forum to forum. Don't be afraid to try a few out at the same time.

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Every forum has its own lingo.

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Don't make any posts without lurking for a few months

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Do your homework. Read up before asking stupid questions.

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Quoting a huge post with a bunch of pictures in it is a cardinal sin punishable by death

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No matter how good you think your fit is, be prepared to get made fun of or ignored for your first WDYWT post.

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Hypebeasts, they know 'boutcha. "Dressed by the Internet" was born here.

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Have a store or brand? There's a wrong and right way to promote it.

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Meet-ups are common; it's okay to make friends on the Internet.

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For the most part, it's a boys' club.

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Need some detective work done? Approach your fellow fashion forum members.

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Yes, you can buy awesome stuff from other members. But be aware of seller feedback.

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You don't always have to talk about clothing.

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Don't be a complete dickhead.

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