Moody Vintage: April 2011

fashion - 5:36 PM

Free Yourself

T he new project taken on by myself and my partner, S, is almost ready to commence. I hope most of you can understand why there have been lo...

Paul Newman

I haven't been able to post as often because there are things in the very near future that will take most of my time. What that 'thing' is exactly I cannot share with the rest of the world just yet. All I can reveal is that it will be a wonderful adventure and hopefully a huge success (I know it will be). It's good to know I can share my creative thoughts on the same level as someone else. Things in my life have gone very well as of late and I appreciate every moment of it. There's a reason for all of this gratitude towards life. As I said before, from time to time I will slowly reveal the project at hand.
With the personal update out of the way, let's get down to it! Ladies and gentlemen, it is very obvious when it comes to fashion we are, majority of the time, blinded by the high profile labels that carry a very high price tag. There are things we desire but simply, cannot obtain because of the budget constraints. The other obvious fact, everyone has a budget. Everyone has a limit. Yes, women are very good at being thrifty when it comes to their personal style. Although, women also have vices like bags or shoes. Regardless the price, women yearn for it like an alcoholic needs one more glass of bourbon in the afternoon. Nowadays, men are being very careful with their purchases. They see every purchase as an investment; they see long-term plans not short. Men are more fashion conscious nowadays, no secret there. Whether it's to impress fellow employees or the employer, or impressing a prospect soon-to-be life partner, it starts in the pocket.
The main message here is that, gentlemen, you can still look stylish and attractive without burning a hole in your pockets. Take these very basic and simple points to mind and start practicing them.

Vacheron Constantin

Can't afford it? Don't fight it. You have to learn how to use your resources. The number one problem for men is that we simply are too lazy to go out of our way to do a little bit of research. If you took the time to find a good tailor, you can go bespoke and find yourself in a $1,000 suit that looks like a $2,500. Knowing the fabrics, cuts, and different styles will help you in the long run. I'm not saying fork over a grand on a cheaper suit. It doesn't matter if it's half a grand, you can still look like you paid over two-grand for it. All those high end designer clothes only serve two purposes: 1) Buy and wear it if you afford it. 2) It is an inspiration - an example of what you should be sporting for the season. No one ever told you to always purchase the most expensive thing off the rack. Truth be told, there are so many labels now that still can rival the best quality at a much lower price.
Spend it wisely. Again, do the research and know the facts. For example, stay away from buying fashion branded wristwatches. You know, the Gucci, Chanel, etc. Stick with the names that are known for what they really are, companies that strictly make time telling instruments. While we are on the subject, stay away from watches that you don't really need. A chronograph watch are elegant but don't purchase it just because it 'looks' nice. If you do not plan on actually using the other features of the chronograph, stay away from it and save your money. Lean towards on a more classic simple time telling watch. Trust me, those who are horological enthusiast will acknowledge your style greatly and nod their heads in admiration.

Banana Republic (definitely affordable)

Buying an entire outfit of the same label is actually less stylish. Sure, it's a wonderful achievement if you have purchased your first ever Armani suit. The thing is most of us really do not have that type of cash to hand over at any time. It's never just about one name or label. You have to learn how to put one and one together. Remember, there are plenty of reputable and stylish labels out there that can be in the same neighborhood as your budget. For example, you can go ahead on buying a $325 dress shirt by Ralph Lauren Black Label, a $175 tie from Dolce & Gabbana, and a $590 pants by Dior Homme with, ready for this...a cardigan by Urban Outfitters that cost only $39 (USD). That's correct, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference between a Prada cardigan and that of which only costs 40 bucks.
There are things that are actually worth the price tag. It doesn't take an Ivy League graduate to separate the just and the unjust. A real stylish man knows went to save money and when to dish out. A quality dinner jacket will cost you plenty but a semi-formal blazer you can definitely be flexible with. The H&Ms and the J.Crews of the world make life a whole lot easier for today's man. It's perfectly fine to spend around $70 (USD) on some sneakers but not OK to spend less than $250 (USD) on a fresh pair of dress shoes.
I absolutely adore vintage clothing. No better way than to save money by going back in time. The beauty of vintage fashion is the timelessness. I tend to go to my father's closet and borrow his narrow (and very stylish) ties from the late 70s and early 80s. It's not just in the clothes, you can rock and respect a vintage watch as well or any other fashionably acceptable accessory from the past. The brilliance behind it all is that you can compliment your modern day style with a little blast from the past. No one will know the difference. And if people can spot it out, they will notice how you appreciate vintage and are in control of your image. You will ooze magnificence through your style in no time. This is also a notion to taking care of what is already in your closet. As long as you take care of your things kindly, they will last a very long time; it's common sense.

The most important factor is how certain clothes will make you feel. There should never be a substitute to your comfort. Don't force yourself into something just because its got Versace written on it. Think about your comfort first along with your style. Learn to balance the two and you will learn how to balance your budget. There is something for everyone out there. Keep it stylish.

fashion - 11:30 PM

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