10 Spring Style Tips Real Guys Can Learn From Street Style

Image via Complex Original

Whoever said you can't wear a denim jacket or shirt, with jeans doesn't know how cool it looks. You can pull this off easily by making sure the washes are at least two shades different from each other—or go to the next level wear colored denim. Don't be afraid to step outside the blue zone and rock acid-washed grays, stark white denim, solid black, or even super light "dad jeans." Don't get annoyed at people who call it a "Canadian tuxedo." Plenty of cool things have come from Canada, like Ryan Gosling, hockey sweaters, and Drake.

Wearing a licensed jersey is cool, but there's plenty of athletic-inspired gear out there that looks good off the court too. Whether it's high-fashion inspirations like Les Plus Dores or other interpretations from Topman, Stussy, and Alexander Wang all have great options of you are looking to jump on this trend. 

You might be sick of looking at it, but camo is here to stay. It's a pattern that all guys can pull off, and with all of the variations on this classic military staple, it's easier than ever to rock it well. If you want to take your style up a few levels, use camo like you would bright colors—contrast it with solid pieces and consider getting unexpected accessories like bags or cell phone cases to add that necessary pop that takes an oufit from 10 to 11.

The simple details on a shirt matter in menswear. Minor things like fabric variations can speak volumes to people who notice your individual style. So things like paisley elbow patches and speckled chambray shirts can easily spell the difference between bold and boring. The best dressed guys look absolutely comfortable in their clothes, no matter how expensive or affordable they are. The key to style is noticing things that other people don't. Develop a discerning eye for the kind of stuff you think your less stylish friends would sleep on, and rock it like you've had it for years. When they ask where you got a fly shirt or cap, just reply: "oh, this old thing?"

Every guy needs that one piece of outerwear that jumps out at him when he opens his closet. If you're in the market for a new jacket, cop one in camo, plaid, or an equally eye-catching pattern. But choose carefully—go too trendy and you won't touch it again after a couple of wears. Your best bet for maximum versatility? A bold pattern over a conservative color. Opt for colors like black, olive, tan, and navy —the pattern still looks cool over it, but doesn't overpower an entire kit.

Backpacks are the city-dwelling guy's bag of choice. And for spring, instead of buying a classic style, spend your money on a backpack designed with stand out details, made from more luxurious materials, or designed like an old-school rucksack for a bag that's as grown up as you are. 

Designer sneakers are pricey, but when you have a pair of these kicks on, you could be wearing a garbage bag on top and no one would even notice. Brands like Maison Martin Margiela, Raf Simons, Common Projects, and Our Legacy have made a name for themselves with understated kicks made from luxe leather and suede, but they've lately been introducing silhouettes inspired by running sneakers. The result is a chunkier shoe reminiscent of a futuristic car, and kicks that will break necks when you walk by.

Denim jackets have been around for over century, so no need to question their relevance in your wardrobe. They're also more versatile than you think. You can wear them over top of hoodies, or underneath your raincoat as a layer on rainy days. Got a 9-5? Fight against "the man" by slipping a slim denim jacket on underneath a blazer, or heck, wear it as a blazer with slim (read: non-denim) trousers, an oxford shirt, and a tie.

Sometimes a little neon action is great for some minor shock value and to shake up your outfits in a good way. If you choose a bight color or patterned classic plimsoll like Vans Authentics, or Converse Chuck Taylors, you'll look like a style pro by taking a risk, and chicks dig a guy who's not scared to stand out. Just keep the rest of your kit muted with dark colors. Let the kicks do all the talking.

Black is the easiest color to build a daily uniform with. Why do you think so many fashion people and rappers are so keen on the look? You'll look dressed up and super cool even when you're not trying to. The black tones don't have to exactly match, but two things are important when wearing dark colors in warm weather: fabric and fit. Cotton and linen are breathable fabrics that'll let you feel cool breezes, while a looser fitting T-shirts and button-downs ensure that if you do sweat, your clothes won't get glued to your body as a result of it.