It is a sad but true fact that we judge other people within the first 8 seconds of meeting them based on their style and appearance. Now the word 'fashion' means different things to different men. Some men live and breathe the fashion world, some are simply content to "fit in", while others still associate fashion with following around their wife on a dreadful Saturday afternoon from store to store. With 2009 behind us and summer just around the corner we, here at CFM, have provided you, the fashion focused or the fashion virgin, with some "do and don't" key trends that will keep you looking the part so you can create that solid first impression...even if it only lasts for 8 seconds.

DO!!!!

DENIM: They say that the shoes make the man, but I personally feel the trousers do and that is why a proper pair of jeans is invaluable. You don't have to look any further then Levi's for that perfect statement/fitting pair of jeans. From their fist pair in 1873, Levi's continues to be the leader in denim. A lighter colour jean for the day time and a dark slim jean for the evenings is an easy look for anyone to pull off. Remember that Levi's offers free alterations so take advantage of that rather than stepping all over the bottom of your jeans.

PREPPY GENT: In the basic cycle that is fashion, the college preppy look is again upon us. The preppy blazer, ankle length cuffed trousers, plaids, check patterns, and boat shoes are your basics for putting together this iconic look. Nobody does it better than Polo Ralph Lauren, that being said, Topshop and Office offer a great selection of similar items at a reasonable price.

OUTERWEAR: Military fashion is a key trend in Spring Outerwear and we can look no further then Fullcircle and Firetrap to see that. High standing collars, nylon, and khaki colouring. Both brands offer some outstanding jackets. A great leather jacket can last a good period of time so this area where we can afford to spend a touch more money. SuperDry's "The Brad" is a leather jacket fit for a king. Even David Beckham has been seen sporting one.

COLORS: Bright and loud colours will carry you right into summer. Purple is a colour that will stand out from the rest in most major fashion collections. A basic colored v-neck from American Apparel may be simple but it screams in-style.

ACCESSORIES: Accessories aren't just for women, gents. They are the easiest thing to throw on and most of the time gives the loudest statement about your fashion knowledge. Start with a nice watch from such makers as Kenneth Cole or Diesel. A nice watch says a lot about you. Something even simpler like a cap (not a sports cap!!!) but rather a vintage paper boy style hat offers about 100 style points. Finally a simple pair of sunglasses from H&M will pull together any look.

FOOTWEAR: A popular trend for spring/summer along with the preppy boat shoes is Espadrilles. The French Mediterranean shoe made a big splash last summer and will carry on where last summer left off. Popular brands include Toms, Tretorn, and Ralph Lauren. Match your Toms with a slightly rolled up pair of beige linen trousers and you'll be looking like you know exactly what you are doing.

DON'T!!!!

TRAINERS: Gentlemen, do not, I repeat do not wear your running shoes or trainers with your jeans! They call them running shoes for a reason.

SPORTING JERSEYS: This almost falls under the category above, but unless you're actually going to a football match, leave the team shirt in the closet. I promise you it will not attract the ladies.

These key trends will help you tweak your wardrobe here and there because after it's all said and done, we have 8 seconds to impress...so act quickly.

Written by Ryan Scapinello