Ever scrolled through a striking fashion editorial and wondered, “How do I actually wear this without looking like a costume?” You’re not alone. Between dramatic photography, bold silhouettes, and perfectly lit textures, editorial menswear can feel out of reach — until you translate the concept into wearable outfits. In this guide I’ll show you how to adapt the adam bates editorial aesthetic into practical, polished looks that work for work, weekends, and everything in between.
What the “editorial” look really means
Editorial style in men’s fashion isn’t just loud prints and runway pieces. It’s a thoughtful approach to silhouette, texture, proportion, and storytelling. When done well, an editorial outfit has a clear narrative — clothes that look purposeful, confident, and slightly unexpected. The key is balance: pair statement pieces with reliable wardrobe anchors so the overall result reads as intentional, not theatrical.
Why the adam bates editorial approach matters
Learning from an editorial approach — like the one often associated with Adam Bates’ editorial direction — gives you a framework for building outfits that feel premium and curated. This method emphasizes fit, fabric, and a restrained color story. It’s especially useful if you want to elevate your everyday wardrobe without overhauling it.
Core editorial principles to borrow
- Focus on fit first: tailoring or a well-fitting off-the-rack piece makes everything look polished.
- Mix textures: wool, brushed cotton, suede and polished leather create visual depth.
- Limit the color palette: 2–3 main colors with a contrasting accent keeps looks cohesive.
- Add a signature detail: collar shape, asymmetric layering, or a single bold accessory.
How to wear the looks: outfit combinations that work
Below are three practical outfit combinations inspired by the editorial mood — easy to assemble from a curated menswear capsule.
1. Elevated Casual — Weekend coffee to casual meetings
- Top: heavyweight merino crew neck (charcoal)
- Outerwear: short, single-breasted wool coat in camel
- Bottom: tailored dark denim or wool-blend trousers
- Footwear: clean white leather sneakers or brown desert boots
- Tip: roll the hem slightly for a tailored, editorial edge and add a slim leather crossbody or watch.
2. Smart Office — When you want to stand out subtly
- Top: crisp white dress shirt with a subtle collar detail
- Layer: lightweight knit vest or a fine-gauge crew
- Suiting: unstructured blazer in navy or deep olive
- Accessories: matte metal watch, narrow tie (optional), leather loafers
- Tip: keep the blazer unbuttoned to maintain a relaxed editorial silhouette.
3. Date Night / Evening — Statement without shouting
- Top: silk-cotton blend shirt or tonal band-collar
- Outerwear: longline coat or tailored bomber in a dark tone
- Bottom: slim wool trousers or coated denim
- Footwear: polished Chelsea boots
- Tip: use a single pop of texture (e.g., suede pocket square or a leather bracelet) to add mystery.
Styling tips, fabric choices, and real-world advice
Turning editorial concepts into everyday style comes down to a few practical rules I always follow when getting dressed:
- Invest in tailoring: even an inexpensive jacket looks expensive with a good hem and tapered sleeve.
- Choose quality basics: merino, oxford cotton, and mid-weight wool hold shape and photograph well.
- Prioritize neutral building blocks: navy, gray, camel and black form a backbone you can remix daily.
- Keep one element interesting: a textured scarf, an oversized collar, or asymmetric layering keeps an outfit editorial without overwhelming it.
- Mix high and low: pair a designer statement coat with affordable tees to create contrast and keep budgets in check.
Grooming and finishing touches
Editorial style leans on polish. Hair, facial grooming, and shoe care matter:
- Trim and maintain facial hair so it looks intentional.
- Use a light-hold product for hair so silhouette looks clean but natural.
- Keep shoes scuff-free and leather conditioned — small details sell the whole look.
Where to start: building an editorial capsule wardrobe
Begin with a 12–15 piece capsule that includes: a tailored blazer, one longer coat, two quality knitwear pieces, two pairs of trousers, a pair of dark denim, two shirts, one pair of sneakers, one pair of boots, and two accessories. This minimal foundation allows you to create editorial combinations without clutter. For more detailed step-by-step guidance, check out my capsule wardrobe guide and the collection of seasonal looks in my style guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is “adam bates editorial” style?
The “adam bates editorial” phrase is often used to describe a refined, thoughtfully curated editorial aesthetic. It emphasizes tailored silhouettes, texture mixing, and a minimalist color story — an approach that is easy to adapt for everyday menswear.
2. How can I make editorial outfits wearable for the office?
Anchor bold pieces with classic elements: pair a statement coat with a simple shirt and tailored trousers, or tone down a patterned shirt with a neutral blazer. Focus on fit and muted colors to keep the look professional.
3. Are editorial looks expensive to recreate?
Not necessarily. The editorial effect relies more on fit, proportion, and texture than brand names. Invest in a few quality staples and use more affordable complements to achieve a high-end look on a budget. For shopping recommendations, visit the shop page where I list budget-friendly and investment pieces.
Conclusion — Make the adam bates editorial aesthetic your own
The adam bates editorial approach is less about copying a single image and more about thinking like an editor: balance, texture, and storytelling. Start small — pick one editorial detail to add to your next outfit (a longline coat, asymmetric layer, or textured scarf) and build from there. Want more tailored tips and fresh outfit ideas? Subscribe to the newsletter, explore the style guides, or shop curated pieces on my shop page. Try one editorial trick this week and see how it changes the way you get dressed.
