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Basketballer knows exactly how to make your suit more comfortable

Take a few style lessons from the King
Basketballer knows exactly how to make your suit more comfortable
Basketballer knows exactly how to make your suit more comfortable

LeBron James has long been called the King, and it’s easy to see why. Last night, the Cleveland Cavaliers star accepted the Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year award for the second time, and looked damn good doing it.

From his beard to his shoes, James’s key stylistic (and sneaky comfortable) choices made his simple look stand out. Here’s what he got right—and how you can copy it.

1. Nail the Fade

Hats are great winter accessories, but they can make a good hair day go bad in an instant.

Instead, take a cue from James by getting a fade for the winter. You won’t have to fix your hair every time you take your hat off.

He has a tight skin fade, which specifically works for him: His thick, dark strands create a visible contrast between his skin and hair.

Guys with lighter hair and skin want to keep it a bit longer, so you can see where your skin ends and hair begins.

Talk to your barber about the length and style that’s right for your face shape, head shape, and hair texture.

2. Grow a Great Beard

A full beard is a classic winter look. It’s warm, it’s fuzzy, and it will shield your skin from harsh winds.

James’s grooming stands out here because his skin and beard are smooth; there are no rough patches or ashy areas.

Make sure your beard and skin stay moisturized all winter by using a good face lotion and applying a beard oily daily.

The Vitamin E keeps your skin and hair soft.

This beard is especially cool because of the shape: James’s fade haircut blends perfectly into his sideburns, which gradually get thicker through the fullest part of his beard.

The outline of his beard is defined, but not an unnatural, razor-sharp line. He also has a few personal touches (like the thin mustache and soul patch) that are risky, but the texture of his hair makes it work.

If you were hesitant about rocking a thick beard, now is the time to try it.

3. Go Laceless

Your feet don’t have to suffer when you’re dressed up, either.

Instead of a stiff dress shoe, opt for a soft double monk like the ones James wore. It’s as comfortable as a slip-on, and looks as polished as an oxford.

He went with a classic black leather, which adds a stylish edge to every suit.

4. Rethink the Dress Shirt

A buttoned up, collared dress shirt looks great with a suit, but it isn’t always the most comfortable choice.

James went for a soft turtleneck instead, and the dark navy looked sharp paired under a gray windowpane suit.

Merino wool is our turtleneck fabric of choice for this look. It keeps you comfortable, but it also has anti-microbial properties that stop any sweat from stinking up the fabric.

This is also the perfect opportunity to ditch the tie. You can add your own stylistic detail elsewhere—like James did with his understated lapel pin.

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