A wise [wo]man once said: “If his status ain’t hood, I ain’t checkin for him. Better be street if he looking at me.”
Coincidentally enough, the same scholar also spoke of Audemars Piguet watches, dimples in neckties, Hermes briefcases, Cartier tie clips, and silk-lined blazers. Alright fine, I’m speaking of no ingenious philosopher here, just Beyoncé. But the point is: Vixens all look for different things when it comes to our ideal mate’s sense of style. Whether you lean towards the rough and rugged Tupac’s, fashion savvy Pharrell’s or always-dapper Diddy’s of the world, there are still general areas that all men should give attention to, in order to keep themselves up. We can’t possibly be expected to maintain top-notch hair, nails, skin, bodies and style with nothing in return. Ha!
Dear fellas: Here are eight things men should take note of in order to match our fly!
Fit: Whether your style is inspired by the streets, the runway or the board room, all men should be semi-conscious about the fit of their garments. There’s no reason for your whole behind to be hanging out over the top of low-slung jeans. Nor should your skinnies be more fitted than mine. If I can see every muscle, bone, and leg hair through your denim, you ain’t steppin’ out with me! Saggy collars, capri-length jeans (or are they just long shorts?) and too tall (or small) tees will also get you left behind . . .
Risks: I am completely aware and, grudgingly, accepting of the fact that most men aren’t motivated by fashion; many of you don’t keep up with what’s going on in the magazines and stores, nor do you have any desire to experiment with your looks. Fine. I guess everybody can’t be my boo Andre 3000, after all (tehehe!). But it would be nice to find a man who does mix it up. Whether it’s throwing on a bit of color, adding a print/texture, or trying a new fit of pant—it’s the little things that make the biggest impact. Be creative.
Special Occasions: As fine as some men I’ve dated in the past have been, God forbid we have to step out to a formal gathering or special event! The thought of throwing on a blazer would be considered downright disrespectful to some of those fools. However, at this age men should be able to 1) discern which settings call for a more polished look, and 2) clean it up for the night! Understand that a well-fitted suit is sexy. And let it be charcoal or all black with a black shirt and tie to match—whew! Now, you’re on to something . . .
Teeth: A beautiful smile is like that divine cream cheese icing upon a warm red velvet cupcake—to die for! And while we know every man doesn’t have perfect teeth, it would be nice for them to be kept clean and white! Even a slight gap or gold tooth is kinda cute to me. Really, it adds character! But sir, if your car is candy-painted on twenty-fo’s while your teeth are looking like the yellow brick road, Houston, we have a problem!
Hair: Now I, myself, have a “thing” for either long, well-kept locs or a fresh cut with that perfect line. Yes! But hair preference varies vastly from one woman to the next. Whatever style you decide upon should at the least be kept clean. Even a grungy Justin-Bobby ‘do is deserving of some shampoo every now and then.
Scent: Mmmmm, there’s nothing more sexy than a nice-looking, well-dressed man who smells good. A woman’s sense of smell is very sensitive and closely tied to memory. Surprise us with a subtle spritz of something good, and watch us embrace you just a little bit tighter when we hug. Note: Please don’t get trigger happy, spraying every limb and ligament. If I can’t breathe when you walk into the room, the date won’t last long.
Feet: I don’t care too much if my boo is a construction worker or high level executive–bad feet are bad business. Granted, I’m not looking for a man who has a standing bi-weekly Chocolate Pedicure appointment, but guys should be conscious of your man-toes. Please, pull out the nail file and clippers every once in a while, because scratching your woman up under the covers won’t get you far.
Attitude: At the end of the day, guys, we don’t expect you to be “fashionistos,” but we do appreciate a positive attitude, open mind and willingness to put half as much thought and effort into your appearance as we do ours. Be fair. We don’t always wear skin-tight dresses and five-inch heels because we want to; it’s a temporary compromise we make to look good for ourselves and you! Return the favor, why don’t you, and step ya game up . . . Match our Fly!