Style Guide & Archetypes

Discover your personal style through our comprehensive guide to men's fashion archetypes, contemporary sub-styles, and practical how-to guides for every occasion.

The Three Pillars of Men's Style

Every man's personal style is built on these foundational archetypes. Most combine elements from all three, with one typically being dominant.

The Rugged Archetype

Practical, authentic, and grounded style that prioritizes function

Style rooted in authenticity and functionality. Values durability, practicality, and honest craftsmanship over flashy trends.

Man in rugged outdoor style wearing field jacket, flannel shirt, and hat by a lake - exemplifying the practical, authentic, and grounded Rugged archetype

The Rugged archetype in action: practical, authentic style that prioritizes function and durability

Key Elements

Chore coats & field jacketsHeavy twill & canvasQuality boots & workwearEarth tones & neutrals

How to Style This Archetype

Essential Pieces

• Well-fitted denim or canvas pants

• Quality leather boots or work shoes

• Flannel shirts and henley tees

• Functional outerwear (field jacket, chore coat)

Styling Rules

• Prioritize function over flash

• Embrace natural wear and patina

• Layer for weather and activity

• Choose quality over quantity

Contemporary Sub-Styles

Gorpcore

Outdoor-focused fashion bringing hiking gear to urban environments

Key Pieces:

Technical outerwear (Patagonia, Arc'teryx)

Hiking boots & trail runners

Functional pockets

Earth tones

New Americana

Modern interpretation of classic American workwear

Key Pieces:

Selvedge denim

Heritage boots

Flannel shirts

Made-in-USA emphasis

Coastal Grandpa

Relaxed, nature-inspired aesthetic with comfortable fits

Key Pieces:

Linen shirts

Khaki shorts

Boat shoes

Natural fibers

The Refined Archetype

Sophisticated elegance with attention to quality and craftsmanship

Timeless sophistication through quality materials, impeccable fit, and understated luxury. Values tradition and craftsmanship.

Man in refined style wearing black turtleneck, chain necklace, and watch - exemplifying the sophisticated, polished, and timeless Refined archetype

The Refined archetype in action: sophisticated elegance with attention to quality and craftsmanship

Key Elements

Tailored blazers & suitsPremium fabricsClassic silhouettesNeutral color palettes

How to Style This Archetype

Essential Pieces

• Tailored blazer in navy or charcoal

• Quality dress shirts in white and light blue

• Well-fitted chinos and dress pants

• Leather dress shoes and minimal sneakers

Styling Rules

• Fit is everything - tailor when needed

• Build around neutral foundations

• Invest in timeless, quality pieces

• Keep details subtle and sophisticated

Contemporary Sub-Styles

Dark Academia

Intellectual, scholarly aesthetic inspired by elite institutions

Key Pieces:

Tweed blazers

Cable knit sweaters

Oxford shirts

Rich, muted colors

Quiet Luxury

Understated wealth signaling through impeccable basics

Key Pieces:

Perfectly tailored basics

Minimal branding

Premium materials

Neutral palettes

Clean Minimalism

Ultra-refined approach focusing on perfect fits and quality

Key Pieces:

Monochromatic schemes

Impeccable tailoring

Investment pieces

Clean lines

The Rakish Archetype

Creative expression and confident individuality through fashion

Style as self-expression and creative rebellion. Challenges conventions while maintaining sophistication and artistic flair.

Man in rakish streetwear style wearing distressed denim jacket, ripped jeans, and cap - exemplifying the bold, creative, and expressive Rakish archetype

The Rakish archetype in action: creative expression and confident individuality through fashion

Key Elements

Statement piecesBold patterns & texturesUnexpected detailsCreative layering

How to Style This Archetype

Essential Pieces

• Statement blazer or unique jacket

• Interesting knitwear and textured pieces

• Versatile trousers in unexpected fabrics

• Distinctive footwear and accessories

Styling Rules

• Express personality through details

• Mix textures and unexpected elements

• Balance bold pieces with classics

• Confidence is your best accessory

Contemporary Sub-Styles

Maximalist Streetwear

Bold patterns, loud branding, and statement pieces

Key Pieces:

Oversized logos

Multiple patterns

Bold colors

High-low mixing

Soft Masculinity

Gentler approach embracing vulnerability and emotional openness

Key Pieces:

Pastel colors

Oversized fits

Cardigans & turtlenecks

Vintage pieces

Health Goth

Monochromatic, fitness-focused aesthetic with gothic sensibilities

Key Pieces:

All-black everything

Technical fabrics

Athletic silhouettes

Minimalist design