Frank Martin, the University of South Carolina men’s basketball head coach, is widely regarded as a contemporary style icon. Martin’s coaching style is aggressive, and this is mirrored in his fashion choices. Here are a few ways you can steal his style and keep it classy, both on and off the court.
Garnet suit
Martin sported this iconic look during the Elite Eight game against Florida on March 26. He wore a deep garnet suit jacket paired with a simple white dress shirt, dress pants and a garnet tie. This look was classically effortless, but the bold color choice provided a nice contrast and revamped what could have easily been a stale look.
White dress shirt
This is a staple piece in Martin’s closet. You can find these shirts in virtually any department store — that’s the beauty of it. Martin wore white button-downs before they were considered “mainstream,” and he is quick to remind you that they looked better before everyone else started wearing them. Regardless, a white button-down is a classic and timeless look that looks good on everyone.
University of South Carolina hoodie
This is a comfortable option that Martin regularly wears for informal events or post-game press conferences. This is another piece that can be found at many clothing outlets on campus. The University of South Carolina Bookstore features a wide array of garnet hoodies to choose from, making it easy to find one that best suits your needs and that falls in your price range (but the idea that you can get something in your price range at the bookstore is the real joke).
South Carolina gold pin
This sentimental accent piece really ties many of Martin’s looks together. A palmetto tree and crescent moon is featured on the South Carolina state flag, and is the same design on a gold pin. Martin usually wears this gold pin on the lapel of his suit jacket during basketball games. It is a very kind gesture that shows his pride for the state.
A smile
“Annie” said it best in the ‘80s, but the old sentiment is still true — "you’re never fully dressed without a smile." Although the occurrence is few and far between, when Martin breaks out into a toothy grin, it really completes his look. The most notable example of this was when South Carolina successfully scored a position in the NCAA Final Four.
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