Men’s Accessories: How to Choose a Wallet
Have you recently found yourself inexplicably dazzled by the bright lights and tinsel which have come to adorn otherwise ordinary streets? Do you feel bewildered by the number of ex-celebrities who recently seem to have crawled out the woodwork with the sole objective of appearing in panto? Perhaps you’ve even found yourself indulging in an ‘eggnog latte’, or some other equally ridiculously-titled concoction. All these signs can only point to one thing: the festive season is upon us.
Like it or not, this will inevitably result your having to undertake some type of Christmas shopping Unless you plan to spend Christmas day innocently explaining how you ordered it online but it just hasn’t arrived yet, then a trip to the shops is in order. Of course, this is but another opportunity to flaunt your Autumn/Winter attire. Since such an excursion is sure to require taking out your wallet on more than one occasion, it is essential that this particular accessory is in-keeping with the rest of your overall style.
Left to right: Carhartt Black Leather Cardholder Wallet: £38 Urban Outfitters; Firetrap Born Belt And Wallet Set: £45 mainlinemenswear.co.uk
Nothing will shatter the illusion of style quite as quickly as producing a scruffy, Velcro-fastened wallet from the pocket of your tailored suit jacket, or from almost any item of clothing for that matter. Maintain your style credentials by opting for a timeless black leather wallet, complete with a range of oh-so-practical compartments. Alternatively, why not follow The Cheat’s Guide to Looking Stylish by simply investing in co-ordinating accessories, ensuring that your wallet is effortlessly in sync with your belt/cufflinks/watch at all times.
Left to right: Paul Smith Las Vegas Mini Cooper Billford Wallet: £149 my-wardrobe.com; Post Wallet: £45 AllSaints
The wallet is another item where the tendency to cater for practical use often overrules the importance of style. However, this needn’t be the case. Wallets can offer just as much opportunity to stand out from the crowd as any other menswear accessory, and what better time to flaunt that fact than during the Christmas shopping frenzy. Photographic print designs are always particularly eye-catching, and wallets with vintage images on the interior offer the perfect way to incorporate a subtle nod to retro style this season. A good wallet undoubtedly adds a sophisticated touch to any outfit, but if your style is somewhat less formal then there are several other options before one should resort to carrying their change around in a Tesco carrier bag – something which I have witnessed on far too many occasions. For a more casual look, opt for washed or distressed leather wallet in a pouch or envelope style, fastened with poppers or a zip.
