Moody Vintage: December 2010

This is going to be the last post of 2010. Around this time is where we sum up the entire year. We relocate all the great and wonderful times and we even remember the moments of complete sorrow. People we have lost to natural or complete ignorance will never be forgotten. But that's the cycle of life no?
The past is the past. It no longer exists. We move on looking into the new year in front of us. Most of you have either already made your resolutions and the majority will not keep them. That's the problem isn't it? Instead of making "plans", take it one day at a time. The new year is simply a new start for the calendar...not you. You can choose to start anew whenever you please. That is why I've always "gone with the flow", taking it one day at a time. Embrace 2011 with open arms. We, just like the rest of history, have no idea what is in store for us in the future. If you want to look ahead, look ahead to next week. Don't go further than that. Not only will it stress you out, it will take most of your concentration away with what you have to deal with today.
I don't have to tell anyone of you to party responsibly this New Year's Eve. Keep it safe and keep it stylish.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!

~ Ladies First ~

No matter the theme of the New Year's party you are heading to, remember to always bring that attitude. Those who are lucky enough to party until the early morning this time around, let it out. I don't mean get drunk off your tushies. I mean just let all of that holiday spirit out. Have fun, ladies. Get rid of all that drama and avoid all those so called enemies you have (you should strive to not have enemies in the first place). The most important thing laugh as much as you can and smile until you fall asleep. This is the day to let it all out. Whatever you need to do during the day, get it done. When it's party time the only 'baggage' you should be holding is a cute and faithful clutch. Bottega Veneta perhaps? Remember to go light because let's face it, as cold as it is out there, the non-stop dancing will raise the temperature high enough.

Key fashion item: It's all about the shoes on this one, ladies. I know you will be doing plenty of walking and dancing so you have to wear something that is not only stylish but comfortable. Before anything, think about the comfort first.

Lanvin for H&M

- Gentleman Tip of the Day -

Well, gentleman, this is the time where you are allowed to act like complete fools. Keep in mind you still do not want to break any laws. You want to profess your love for that girl you have been chasing after for so long, let her know! She'll probably think you are half drunk and take it as a joke. As long as you know you won't get your heart broken, keep at it. What I am basically saying here is bring out the youth in you. We work all year and we simply forget to have fun at times. I know some of you make frequent trips outside of your town so this will not be something new to you. For those who weren't able to make those frequent trips, I hope you have something special planned where you can forget a few things for the day or night. Let's end 2010 in a good note so please stay away from the clubs and avoid getting into fights. Remember, this isn't high school. Love what you have and appreciate what you are about to receive. You have plenty to be thankful for, my friends. And if you plan on having a hangover, don't even think about driving anywhere. Stay wherever you are and face the consequences in the morning. I do not condone either, but I know boys will be boys.

Key fashion item: This is where you bust out that expensive blazer. Suede or velvet, whatever it is, make sure the overall look is in tune and stylish.

fashion - 6:15 PM

New Year!

T his is going to be the last post of 2010. Around this time is where we sum up the entire year. We relocate all the great and wonderful tim...

fashion - 1:11 PM

Last Week of 2010

I haven't been able to update this blog as I would like to. I have been caught up with someone's wedding and so on. It's kind o...

Outclassed. I hate to say this but my cousins and I showed up with one hell of a GQ performance. From head to toe, it seemed we were in a completely different league at the wedding.
Tonight was the actual wedding. Traditionally this is when the bride leaves with the groom for the night and the next day. This Saturday, the groom's side will throw the reception. The roles are then reversed. Groom gets to spend a few days with the bride and her family. The company was good, the food was delicious (surprisingly), and the audience couldn't stop but to stare. At one time, as my cousins and I were taking photos, everyone hovered around the groom and turned their heads towards us. Fail? Oh, definitely. (laughs)
I'm not the one to talk bad about anyone, but one thing was very clear throughout this entire thing. The bride and her side of the family lacked...well, class. Besides that little issue, there were a few others who were frowned upon over various reasons. It's not a South Asian wedding without drama. The sad thing about it all is that a wedding is supposed to be an event of happiness and people enjoying themselves. You ever find yourself in a Bangali wedding, take a scan of all the faces in the room and you will find a lot of unfavorable facial expressions. Someone is always jealous, or angry, or simply disgusted by the entire thing. I was too busy making sure my cousins were showing class and staying sharp. My cousins were very thankful for me practicing my skills on them.
What about me, personally? I was too busy looking the best I can. I'm a personal stylist for goodness sake, I have to look the part as well as be the part!
Suit worn today: Dior. I was all about Dior tonight with a classic black and white. White French cuffs shirt with fabric torpedo cuff links. A thin silk black tie. And had a Versace dress belt around the waist. My trusty LV wallet placed in my left breast pocket (inside blazer). Everything else, brought to you by Dior. I won't mention the watch...security reasons. ;-)

~ Ladies First ~
Straight to the point, ladies. It's OK to lie your pants off at a wedding...or erm your dress off? Never mind. I know there are plenty of wolves out there prowling into your territory trying to hook up. Most of them, you are completely repulsed by. Do what you have to for the night to avoid them. Even a proper lady needs to keep up with her reputation and telling a lie or two...or ten will not tarnish your image at all. Do what my girl cousins did today by clinging onto my arm to fend off the would-be-rejections.

- Gentleman Tip of the Day -
I will only say this once. Mainly because I caught one of my cousins doing it, but thankfully, I caught before we left for the wedding. The second time I caught another fellow at the wedding with a black suit and brown socks. I wanted to shout in his face and slap some sense into him. Never, ever, and I mean never wear white socks when it comes to suits or tie and shirt combo. The only time you can wear white socks is when you are in the course of doing something athletic or hitting the gym with your sneakers. Depending on the color of your suit/pants, you should stick with the classic black, different shades of brown, and different tones of gray colors. You have to be stylish from head to toe and everything within. Yes, even when it comes to your underwear.

lifestyle - 3:50 AM

Wedding Daze: Day 4

O utclassed. I hate to say this but my cousins and I showed up with one hell of a GQ performance. From head to toe, it seemed we were in a ...

Much better. It seems as if the lack luster of last night (say that 5x fast) was not a catching trend. Tonight it was the groom's side to party. And ladies and gentleman, that is exactly what we did.
The set up was impressive for something not as significant as the wedding itself. If you do not know what I am talking about, I recommend you read the post before this. I gave last night's festivities a C-, while tonight's deserved a B+. I would have given it a solid A except there were a couple of downers, which I will not get into. The layout wasn't fancy but it was fun. It also seems as if our side (the groom's side) spent a little extra cash as well. Well, it was obvious, they did. There was a live band playing while everyone headed for the bar for some 'street food'. For my desi people, it was all about the pani puri (fushca). The attire was the same as the night before - traditional South Asian wear for these particular events.
The rest of the crowd was, for the lack of a better word, lame. Two of my cousins and I decided to add a little spark to the place and dance for the crowd while the band played in the background. We did our little spurts here and there but nothing too wild. It was mainly us teasing the crowd with a little comedy and several "Bollywood" dance steps (I hate that term by the way). The result: success. Soon after, one by one, people started to show up to the dance floor and rid of their shyness. It was pure entertainment after that. Even though it was a bit embarrassing, my parents joined in with the dancing. (slaps hand to forehead) Let's just say they can be wild when they want to. It's awesome to have my cousins around in these types of events. We all gel pretty well. As the eldest, I really do not feel I have to set an example for them. One, I'm already an established stylish gentleman. Two, they are well behaved as it is. Now, for the wedding itself. Tomorrow. We ended the night at my place with never ending laughs...Everyone agreed, there was definitely something in the salad.

~ Ladies First ~ & - Gentleman Tip of the Day -
Ladies and Gentleman, the dance floor is there for you to dance. Although, know the difference between actual dancing and having an orgasm. Please, keep your "seducing" dance moves for the bedroom. No one is trying to see if you can do 15 different sexual positions on the dance floor. No, thank you. A wedding is not a club with half of the capacity already under the influence. There are kids around for goodness sake!

lifestyle - 2:29 AM

Wedding Daze: Day 3

M uch better. It seems as if the lack luster of last night (say that 5x fast) was not a catching trend. Tonight it was the groom's side ...

Sore throat. I am sort of getting over my minor situation called the cold. It's nothing serious to the point where I can't go outside. I've lost my voice, even though I do not talk as much as other people.
Today was (in our tradition) to shower all the attention to the soon to be bride. For those who do not know, in the Bangladeshi culture we have this event - spanning two days - called the gaye holud. Here's what it actually is: Gaye Holud
It pretty much takes place a couple of days before the actual wedding and reception. Today was simply for the bride. We have somewhat of a first meeting with the bride's side of the family since we are from the groom's. Didn't really dress up as glamorous, but people couldn't help themselves but to turn their heads from time to time to check me out. It's by 'first-hand' eye contact. Once you get caught...well, you're caught. The food was nothing to brag about and to be completely honest, there were no single attractive women. What grade did I give tonight? C+. And that is only because my cousins and I were acting like fools throughout the entire evening. Don't worry I will be posting up pictures and even videos to see how at the age of 25 (almost 26), I can still act a fool...with style. (To Be Continued...)

~ Ladies First ~
The whole uniform hairdo should be tossed out the window. I understand that the bride's maids and so on have similar or exact dresses, but ladies, that doesn't mean do the same with your hair. Your hairdo/hair and accessories separates you from the rest. It's what makes you more attractive than the others. Not unless your friend or family member is a "bridezilla", you have no excuse for not giving some effort into fixing your hair different from the other lovely ladies in the group. And I will repeat it again and again, lay off the make-up! Your skin takes a beating from the winter cold as it is, do not make it worse by trying too hard.

- Gentleman Tip of the Day -
Glancing is one thing. To actually stare is plain rude; to a certain point, just plain creepy. All the men I saw tonight gawking at women was just disgusting. Exchanging glances with a stranger is fine to a certain point. Exchanging glances turn into exchanging fair words, then to exchanging numbers. There is nothing wrong with that but gentlemen, there is a proper procedure for such things.

Do not stalk the poor girl. Hovering around her is just disturbing.
If there is one attractive young lady, it does not mean she is surrounded by other attractive women. Keep your distance. The whole theory that beautiful women tend to be with other beautiful women does not exist at weddings. It's mainly a family affair.
If you are about approach the young lady, make light conversation. Do not compliment her. Instead, entertain her with some humor. Keep it PG, gentleman.
Before trying to bust a Wedding Crashers, try to find out if she is actually single. I have seen too many guys make the mistake of thinking with their "you know what" rather than their mind. Control your lust until you are 100% sure she has no baggage. Remember the "Stage 5: Clinger"?
Weddings are the perfect place to show your gentlemanly side. You know: Holding the door for a lady, pulling out a seat for her, getting up when a lady arrives at a table or leaves, etc. You show this genuine side of you and I guarantee you will have the ladies flocking...both single and taken. But of course, as a gentleman, stay away from the ones who aren't single. Trying to be a playboy is out of the question.

That's all for now. Got to get some rest, the cold has finally gotten to me, but trying to make a quick recovery. The real events will take place later in the week; hopefully, I'll be 100% by then. Stay stylish, people!

hair tips - 1:51 AM

Wedding Daze: Day 2

S ore throat. I am sort of getting over my minor situation called the cold. It's nothing serious to the point where I can't go outsi...

By nature, I am selfless and always put on my positive costume. At any one time, I always sort of feel guilty when there is a shade of selfishness in me. In the world we live in now, you cannot help but to be selfish from time to time. There is a reason for that, though. You have to think of yourself first to put you in a position where you can take care of others better.
I have a wedding to attend to in the coming week, which I have mentioned in earlier posts. This is usually the time I take the given opportunity to do my job as a stylist. This is also the time for me to go shopping for my own attire that is saved for these weddings. Since I'm not that big of a spender, I never wear the same thing twice when it comes to these special events. I'm also wise in the decision of purchasing specific items. Remember, think long-term. For example, a blazer now will be used over and over again in a casual manner throughout the year. I obviously won't wear the article of clothing everyday so the quality of it will not deteriorate anytime soon.
I had the opportunity to continue sharpen my styling skills yesterday with a cousin of mine. Practicing on family is always a plus. I had to get my cousin a near complete make-over for his cousin's wedding (on his mother's side). I also had a non-official assistant with me. To sum it up, it was fun. As I stated on my Facebook status recently, my job is pretty much going shopping with someone else's money. It's addicting. I love my job. I am looking forward to next week because South Asian weddings don't just last a day or two...it's the whole damn week!

~ Ladies First ~
During the winter season, not only is it important to protect your lips from the harsh cold, it's important to keep them stunning at the same time. Fortunately, I decided to run into askmichaelcohen.com and picked up the top five designer lipsticks for Winter 11. (These are not ranked.)

Nars Little Darling Lipstick
Guerlain Rouge G Le Brilliant Jewel Lipstick Compact in Bee
Chanel Rouge Coco Hydrating Creme Lip Color in Patchouli
Dior Serum De Rouge in Soft Pink
Lancome French Touch Lipstick in Cherry Kiki

You cannot go wrong with these colors, ladies. They are the ones to look for and hopefully toss into your clutch for the next party you are heading off to.

- Gentleman Tip of the Day -
All of you know by now of my fondness to everything GQ. The latest feature puts down a list the editors have picked up and put on. And gentlemen, it's very affordable for the holidays. There's an entire list but I've chosen the ones I'd check off my list. Here they are:

Orlebar & Brown board shorts: These are for the fellas who are in the warmer climates. They are $245 (USD) each.

GAP Maximum Heat Tees - This is like the Under Armour for non-athletic use. You gotta stay stylish without looking too bulky. The Long Johns are around $25 (USD) & Tops are $25 as well.

Brunello Cucinelli pocket squares - At $90 (USD) each, these are perfect for men who pay attention to detail. It's not as formal so no need to fuss about anything, really.

H&M Slippers - Looking chic playboy status. Just imagine slipping your feet into these velvet (with a fancy crest) bad boys that will only cost you around $30 (USD)

Art of Shaving shaving set - All you really need is in this package. It's a $150 (USD) buy that takes shaving to a whole different elegant level. It is the art of shaving.

Tom Ford pocket squares - This man is one of the few I really look up to when it comes to inspiration. These pocket squares are for men with a swagger.

From Left: $145, $140, $155

Target fedoras - That's right, I said it. Target. These are just surprisingly perfect to add a little attitude to your attire. Mind you, this is only around $15 (USD) so keep the occasions casual or take it to work (if you are allowed to). These are for the younger guys.

WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie Tote - Not only is this ($195 USD) a perfect bag for the weekend it's professional to take it to work as well. Remember, canvas gets better with age so don't be afraid to let it take a beating as well.

Lacoste Polos - We are no strangers to the perfect polos. At around $80 (USD) each, these should be a staple to your wardrobe, if not already.

Ray-Ban Wayfarers - These shades are the top finish winners this time around in the sunglasses department. It's around $140 (USD) and they fit well with pretty much any face.

Remember gentleman, if you are unable to grab onto these items, search for those that are similar. Not all hope is lost because you still have online stores to go through. Stay stylish and keep warm.

beauty tip - 9:37 PM

That's Amore

B y nature, I am selfless and always put on my positive costume. At any one time, I always sort of feel guilty when there is a shade of self...

Winter (in most places) has not - technically - started yet. The temperature has dropped but in the fashion world, the picks for spring has already been laid out. It's hard not to look forward to the next couple of seasons because they haven't hit the market yet. I try to stick with today, today is still cold. I love wearing warm clothes, which is a little off since I'm a stereotypical Southern Californian.

Most of you are rushing into the stores this week and even next week trying to get everyone gifts - those that celebrate Christmas, of course. The problem in holiday shopping is that there is literally countless things you can get for only one individual. You don't need to break the bank, just spend wisely. It's the same when it comes to shopping for your own clothes this season. It's wedding season around the corner in this side of the world. This means only one thing, shopping for new clothes for me. I take that spending it wisely strategy and put it into effect. What most people do not realize is that the best way to spend money is to invest it in things you know you will be using over and over again. Purchase items that will last for a long time, for example, a classic pea coat. The quality should always be considered first. The most important part is that you do not need to spend a fortune on one article of clothing simply because of the designer label.
No one will criticize you for shopping at Banana Republic rather than hitting up your local Gucci store. You always have to be familiar with the styles so that you aren't shopping for something that is completely opposite of what is "in" for the season. The real problem with shoppers is that they are just too damn lazy. Save yourself, do not be lazy. Quality purchases comes from minor research and patience. In the long run, you will thank yourself for making that purchase.

~ Ladies First ~
Take off the gloves, ladies. It's Gossip Girl status. I'm sure some of you very attractive women have dealt with the occasional creep. Coincidently, I have a couple of young ladies who happen to be in that situation. Funny enough, both are of the same age - teenagers. The thing is, ladies, doesn't matter if you are in your late teens or in your early-mid 20s. Those border-line stalkers and wannabe bad boys are simply not good for your health.
If there is a guy you are seeing who is tagged with that 'bad boy' persona, get out while you can. Whatever faith you have in your "change him for the better" project, it simply will not work. I repeat, it will not work. Here are some ways to remind yourself to stay away from these types of troubled men...and or erm boys.

http://joehersh.files.wordpress.com

Check out his background. Where he comes from and who keeps for company. There is a different between a person's economic background and his personality so don't judge him just because he's an average Joe with a 9 to 5.
The most obvious in interactions is the guy's behavior. If he is showing you too much attention (sort of clingy), your next step is to distance yourself as quick as you can. Make up a story that you are seeing someone and you rather not confuse things.
You're spending what on him? A bad trend to not follow is when he's the one spending your money. For example, you are spending your cell phone minutes on him all day. Does he ever call you? And when he does, how long does the conversation last? He's a gold digger, simple as that. A real man knows his worth and knows well enough that it is never a one way street. The spending goes both ways, stop trying to act like a second mom.
Another one of his behaviors: around other men that you associate yourself with. There is a clairvoyant line between being protective and being obsessive; in other words, psycho. If his attitude around other men you know is anything but gentlemanly, consider him a liability. Last thing you need is him conjuring up black magic and separating you from your close ones.
Not taking NO for an answer. There is romantic persistence and then there is, of course, creepy stalker guy persistence. Even after you are being blunt with him, he still insists that he can convince you otherwise. Stop being so nice to him and bring out the mean girl in you. There is a limit to how much you can take from guys like these. Take your gloves off and start swinging (not literally). A restraining order should be your last option.

I know it's difficult for many of you single women out there. The thing is, there are gentlemen like me who can make your life much easier by taking our words into consideration. Don't be deluded in thinking things will work out if you just 'go with the flow'. This is the only time I suggest you do not go with the flow.

- Gentleman Tip of the Day -

A little flavor from the guys at Details. And it's true what they say. A man should own a tuxedo. I know may be easier for you to walk into a shop and rent one, but lets face it, we aren't headed off to prom or some school dance. For much more important black-tie affairs, a legitimate quality tuxedo needs to be in your wardrobe.
Gentleman, it's really not that difficult. The cool thing about owning a tux is that you only need one. Just like everything else, real quality does have a higher price tag. But this particular purchase, you will hold on to for a very long time. As long as you keep your body shape, you won't have to go out of your way to fit into your own tux. Here are some boxes to check off:

Choose a classic style. Remember, you are making a purchase thinking long-term. It's almost as if it is a uniform. You can wear it over and over without taking cheap shots from some snob. Buy a tux with a shawl collar, in a modern, slimmer silhouette.
If you can, look for shops that sell tuxedo pants separately. The comforting feeling knowing that you can disregard the 'matching' jacket makes your life easier. It also benefits you in the fitting department. Remember, before showing off, you always have to feel comfortable first. The perfect fit means the best look and better times. J.Crew is a great source of these types.
The shirt comes down to two categories. On one hand, there is the original pleated white shirt. Modern times has given us the choice to look as sharp in a crisp white poplin shirt. It still gives off that party mood - take your jacket off and show your moves on the dance floor.
I will always suggest all of you stay away from the bow-tie entirely when it comes to other outfits. A bow-tie is obviously a must for a tuxedo. In plain English, a day time bow-tie is a risk. It's a 50/50 chance of being a hit or a complete miss. Stick with the classic bow-tie that goes with a tuxedo; there are only a few who can pull of a bow-tie in a stylish and modern manner. (I'm more of a neck-tie guy, I've never worn a bow-tie)
The shoes. You, honestly, do not have to always go with the patent-leather lace-ups. A pair of polished brogues will do fine; it is a contemporary alternative.
Daring, you say? There is an alternative to the tux as well. It's not for every man but my goodness, it makes one hell of a statement. A tailored made velvet blazer stands out like no other. It's pure class and sophistication, but more importantly, one hell of a stylish statement. As long as you keep the rest of the outfit simple (white shirt and black pants), and keep your control under the spot light, you are good to go.

There is no wiggle room whatsoever in wearing a tuxedo. Keep it simple and stay away from threatening tackiness. You may think you are being funny, but no one is laughing with you. They are laughing at you. Hog the spotlight in an alluring manner not in a way where you will be the butt-end of the joke for the rest of the evening.

fashion - 1:30 AM

Oh, The Formalities

W inter (in most places) has not - technically - started yet. The temperature has dropped but in the fashion world, the picks for spring has...

Irina Shayk - my current fav super-model

It's like I breathe fashion now. I never thought I would be so passionate about something and actually deliver. It's a wonderful and accomplished feeling. Although, my goals are still very high and far from my grasp at the moment, but the path I'm on is the correct one. Not to get all spiritual, but things do happen for a reason. I sound like a broken record. The point is stick to your dreams. You may not have that dream come true but those moments of the day where you just zone out and picture heaven on earth plays a vital role. They, almost single-handedly, become a source of realistic inspiration.
Following those specific dreams, delivers you to a field with many paths. Majority of those paths clouded which makes the rest very clear. It's an obvious window of opportunity. I know some of us, if not most, have to deal with 2 to 3 jobs and really don't have the ability to switch roads and follow our hearts. For those who do have that opportunity, please do not be afraid. Do not fear the outcome, worry about the consequences. What I mean is don't do anything stupid. Make sure those steps to your dreams are wise ones. There is nothing wrong with following your dreams and doing what you makes you happy - as long as you have the passion behind it, you have nothing to fear. I went from graphic designing to scriptwriting and right into the profession I feel the most comfortable in. All the attempts before have helped me become a more well-rounded stylist in the world of fashion.

~ Ladies First ~
I know how it is to go crazy over hair sometimes. We all know how much of a pain it is during the summer. Trying to avoid all that salt water, chlorine, and exposure to the sun can take its toll. The thing is ladies, even winter brings a battle of its own. Here are some pointers so that you keep those locks gorgeous and healthy.

Keeping your scalp less flaky and dry - When the colder climate hits that means those natural oils are not able to spread through your scalp. If your locks go limp all of a sudden, you have super dry face, or notice redness on other parts of your body, you will most likely develop dandruff. Switch to another shampoo that can fix this issue. Use those that contain zinc or sulfur. This kills the flakes within a few weeks.
Your hair is flat when you take your hat off - For longer hair: twist hair into a bun high at the crown of your head, secure with a hair elastic (a one covered with fabric to prevent creases) and then put your hat on. For shorter hair: pull the front section of your hair into four mini bumps, and secure with bobby pins before you put on the hat. Once your inside and the hat goes off just simply remove the instruments and let your hair fall and style with your hands.
That darn static - For fine/straight hair - rub an antifrizz cream on just the tip of your hair to avoid a greasy scalp. Carry a dryer sheet for touch ups during the day. For medium/wavy hair - your hair is thick so it can handle a rich conditioning spray to lock in moisture and beat the heat. Apply it on a damp hair before you blow-dry. For full/curly hair - coarse hair needs an overnight cream. Avoid alcohol-based gels, which can dry out curls.
The hair looks super dull, here's how to fix the habits:

Habit: Shampooing everyday. Fix: Look for ingredients like B5 and panthenol, which smooths the hair shafts.
Habit: Blow-drying regularly. Fix: Mist your brush with a nourishing heat-protections spray to fend off dryness.
Habit: Flat-ironing regularly. Fix: Rub regular olive oil into the plates of your straightening iron once a week to keep hair from getting fried.
Habit: Coloring your hair monthly. Fix: Switch to a dye formula that actually adds moisture while you color.

Your hair is really brittle and you are getting tons of breakage and split-ends. Besides doing all those necessary hair treatments, you need to hydrate! It's not just about drinking plenty of water or eating healthy with plenty of vegetables. Try using something as simple as a humidifier in your room when it's your bedtime.

These are some few important things to remember as the cold is really making its impact. Do your best to keep those beautiful locks in place and shining. (for the entire article: Cosmopolitan)

- Gentleman tip of the Day -

Proper fit is always a must when it comes to a man's clothing. I know some of you (like some of my friends) who are more into the urban style of wear. That's fine, but even they have to wear proper attire for specific events. What drives me insane (a bit of an exaggeration) is when I see guys wearing dress pants like they are some hipster jeans in a music video they saw earlier in the day. Gentleman, do not sag...period. Tuck your dress shirt firmly in and make sure nothing is hanging out. Here are some other important fits to keep in mind when it comes to the supporting characters to your outfits:

Neckties - The best way to choose a tie is use it with a proper fitted shirt so that the collar can play its role as the frame. Guidelines to keep in mind:

Your tie should hang just above your belt buckle.
The tie knot should not force the tips of your shirt collar up.
The inverted triangle of the tie knot should fit neatly into the triangle created by your buttoned-up shirt collar.

Overcoats - Buy a coat that is one size larger than your suit size, to ensure that it fits over your sweaters and suits.

The coat's sleeves should rest on your thumb knuckle when your arm is hanging loose at your side.
The coat's back should lie straight and flat, like a suit jacket. Horizontal wrinkles are a sign of the coat being too small. Vertical wrinkles are a sign that the coat is too large, and requires tailoring.

Belts

When it comes to belts always buy one size larger than your pant size. A 34" waist requires a 36" belt.
The buckle's notch should fit in the center hole of the belt. This is usually in the third hole since most belts (with holes) come with 5 holes.
The tail of the belt should end just past the first loop on your pants.
The edge of the belt buckle, the row of buttons on your shirt, and your fly should all line up vertically.

Left: You should be slapped. Right: Spot on.

Get the basics down and the advanced stages will be easier. Being sloppy is simply looked down upon. Have some taste and some class so that you look GQ status in the correct manner.

fashion - 10:18 PM

On Cloud 8 1/2

Irina Shayk - my current fav super-model I t's like I breathe fashion now. I never thought I would be so passionate about something a...

fashion - 10:04 PM

Baby, It's Cold Outside

F or confidentiality reasons, some of the terms of this scene have been substituted with the appropriate replacements. It's a chilly da...

The month of the December has gotten off to a somewhat busy start for me. It's a good transition into the new year. I don't know about the rest of the world but the weather down here is beautiful. My love and appreciation for the colder months is no surprise. When I'm not dressing stylish and looking sharp, I'm home in my basketball shorts - shirtless. I kid you not. The weather is about around the mid 70s, that's just heaven to me. Everyone else here (in South Asia) have already resulted to their sweaters and what not. I laugh.
Even though some things could be better, I have no reason to complain. I have always been a true believer of 'everything happens for a reason'. I've always rolled with the punches, I'm still up getting toweled down in the corner waiting for the next round. I'm walking out of that ring as the champion.

~ Ladies First ~
For those who celebrate the holidays in style, there a couple of looks that will compliment anyone given the right place to wear them.
Here's Fearne Cotton (a British television and radio presenter) sporting a cream jumper with skinnys, a leopard print scarf, and heavy duty boots.

One of my favorites, Lea Michele. Remember ladies, you can stand out simply by sporting different hues, like Lea, in paper white or understated creams.

I couldn't pass her up. Kelly Osbourne has come along way. She is stunning than ever and this look swept me off my feet with the old Hollywood touch in this classy outfit. You can actually take a break from all that black like Kelly with gorgeous electric blue color. And all you need with the dress is your favorite pair of black heels and a charming clutch bag.

You, honestly, didn't think I'd leave this woman off the list? Talk about Hollywood. Angelina Jolie is pure class and style in this outfit. These items together will never go out of style. The camel coat, tan boots, and the tote bag does it all. The shades aren't a bad touch either.

(more on Glamour.com)

- Gentleman Tip of the Day -
We aren't done yet, gentleman. There are still some dos and don'ts when it comes to winter fashion. We've got the grooming part covered so let's roll onto what to wear and what to avoid.

DO stick with a classic winter hat. Basic ski caps, fedoras (my personal favorite), newsboy hats, bowler hats are the way to keep that head warm and keep stylish. Although, stay away from ear muffs, ear warmers, pom-pom hats, and anything a family member has made for you. Sorry grandma.
DO wear leather but also take very good care of it. Guys, I'm talking about real leather not the faux-leather, nylon, or flame hazard polyester. Take care of them buy purchasing a water-repellent sprays from leather good stores. Once you are indoors dry those shoes off with a damn cloth to get rid of all that nasty salt lines. For suede, a simple toothbrush can get rid of those pesky problems.
DO strap on the vest. Layering with a vest is the ultimate layer when keeping away the cold. The chunkier the vest, the heavier the sweater should be. Be careful though, always avoid oversize vests and sweaters with reindeer and or Douglas firs.
DO learn how to tie a scarf. There are 3 simple ways to tie them. There is the Parisian: created by folding the scarf lengthwise and pulling the two ends through the loop created on the opposite side. There is the more casual once-around knot: works by placing the scar on the neck with one side slightly longer than the other and then wrapping it around and through the loop. And if it's not too cold you can simply take the once-around and keep it loose and limber.
DON'T wear an oversize puffer jacket. Those large extravagant jackets are played out. You are better off layering with more fashionable choices that are soothing to look at.
DON'T sport UGG boots. Shame on you if you do. That was introduced in 2004, let's keep it there.
DON'T bulk up. Those heavy sweaters and jackets will make you look like a colored freezer. To avoid this, just put on the layers. Go for the thermal tees, cashmere hoodies, tailored topcoats, or you can not leave the house for the remainder of winter.
DON'T match or mismatch the gloves. It's one thing to sport those athletic gloves when you are hitting the slopes and another when you wear them with your suit. It's a bit obvious, but remember to have two separate pairs of gloves - one for fun and the other for the professional look.

Stick to the rules and guidelines and look stylish as usual. Keep warm and don't fall into the trap of over doing it because the cold seems to creep into your skin.

dos and don'ts - 3:15 PM