I t's the daily fix of The Outfit . If you haven't seen the first post on this, ladies, check it out here: The Outfit 1 . Another i...
I saw this lovely little outfit from one of the many inspirational stylish outfits from the Chic Feed app in my iPhone. I thought it so lovely that I have decided to post up, on a regular, an 'outfit of the day' type of material for this blog.
This outfit is very simple and very chic. The ease in which a young lady can wear this outfit is very appropriate for the last days of warmth.
Click image captions for more info.
This outfit is very simple and very chic. The ease in which a young lady can wear this outfit is very appropriate for the last days of warmth.
Click image captions for more info.
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| MbyM black tank top |
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| Preen knee length skirt |
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| Neil Barrett belt |
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| Alexander Wang Mia wedge sandals |
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| Gucci - Greenwich medium tote |
Remember, ladies, these only serve as inspirational purposes. As for the skirt, try and find it in a similar shade and don't forget to wrap your waist around with a black belt similar to the style in this particular outfit. The simplicity is key here. All you really need in this type of look is that one important piece of contrast to make this look standout. The skirt is the obvious eye-catcher and it will be so as long as you don't darken the shade of red too much. It's fun, care-free, and it does not compromise your elegance as a lady.
I saw this lovely little outfit from one of the many inspirational stylish outfits from the Chic Feed app in my iPhone. I thought it so lo...
The discussion of essentials is always most important right before the turn of a new season. It's the preparation or even an update to your wardrobe. Again, gentlemen, get ready to take notes. These are the Fall essentials.
Some of these items are a given, but in any case, the designs change and so do the details after every season. If you have invested correctly, there are certain clothing items and pieces of accessories you will be able to use with new purchases.
Click image captions for more info.
Gentlemen, these are the key items to cross of your list. Make sure every purchase is seen as a smart investment. I cannot stress enough that little but very important fact. The fit, comfort, and style should all be put into consideration, and in that order. Never sacrifice your comfort and fit for a flashy (and borderline arrogant) style. It's common sense, you will look more sophisticated with clothes that actually fit, rather than purchasing an item just because it reads Giorgio Armani on the tag.
Some of these items are a given, but in any case, the designs change and so do the details after every season. If you have invested correctly, there are certain clothing items and pieces of accessories you will be able to use with new purchases.
Click image captions for more info.
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| J.Crew Ludlow fine stripe |
- Grey Suit - You should have one already in your closet. It's one of the basic three colors of suits you should have. The difference here is there are plenty of different shades of gray. A pale gray suit is a favored shade this Fall. The cut of the suit is still on the lean side but remember, the most important thing is the fitting of the suit. Don't ever compromise your comfort for a trend.
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| Canali herringbone cotton shirt |
- White Dress Shirts - This is one of those givens I mentioned earlier. This is a must in any wardrobe during all seasons. The white dress shirt is the most versatile.You should always have more than a couple of white shirts in your closet. Keep it lively though to add to your style. Think of the different types of collars, cuffs, fabrics, and fitting as well. This also means you have to consider which type of knot you should have on your tie with certain types of collars. Hence, versatility; it's in the style and different colors you can group with. From casual to formal, this is a must!
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| John Smedley Bobby Merino wool v-neck |
- V-Neck Sweater - Fall is when all that quality layering begins. Try to keep this in a more slim fit and also keep in mind the shape of your torso. The neck-line should never plunge too deep; it should compliment the length of your neck. For example, if you have a slender/long neck, make sure the neck line is closer to your throat. Vice versa for those with shorter necks. Leave enough room for yourself to breathe and to show off the collar of the shirt or polo underneath. Also try to keep the collars within the border of your v-neck sweater.
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| Maison Martin Margiela wool blend |
- Dark Overcoat - Slim-fit, single breasted, in wool or cashmere is the way to go. If you ever find yourself wearing a suit on a regular, keeping the cooler months to come in mind, a black and or navy overcoat is the choice to have. Most of the coats nowadays are cut to right about around the knee, some you will find goes as long as the lower thigh region. The reason for this is so that it doesn't take away from the rest of the outfit. It's not the center piece, it only pays the compliment to the overall look and keeps the shape to look as if it was tailored just for you. Again, this also is an important layering article of clothing.
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| Richard James velvet suit jacket |
- Velvet Jacket - Believe it or not, as in fashion, this little item has returned to some popularity. I have mentioned plenty of times before, with new technology and design (like the corduroy), the jacket has come back as an essential. It doesn't have the formality of a dinner jacket, but it's classy and sophisticated enough to be worn for a dinner out - not just a piece to be worn at home in the evening. Gentlemen, it's also important to keep in mind that you should keep it simple and not go out of your away to look tacky. The color of the jacket should be of the basic shades so you don't have to struggle over what you should wear with the jacket.
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| J.Crew ludlow wool suit trousers |
- Grey Wool Pants - The color of the season is actually grey. The brilliance of styling the color is that there are plenty of shades in plenty of different designs. But even in the most solid gray pants, you can find that it is pure class. Team it up with a nice white dress shirt, blue tie, and with black or brown shoes. A blazer isn't a must but it is recommended since the months are colder. Black, navy, and grey blazers are straight chic. If you want to sport a belt, make sure it matches with your shoes. Brown belt? Brown shoes. Black belt? Black shoes. Simple.
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| J.Crew ludlow tuxedo suit jacket |
- Dinner Jacket - Although, you should have at least one of these in your closet, it is important to keep this jacket simple. It's the most formal of all the jackets. Tuxedos don't come cheap so when the time comes, make sure it is the most basic solid black tuxedo you are purchasing. There is a slight forgiveness in the use of this. Really, how many times will you be wearing a tux in a single year? This is exactly why it is important to keep the cut and design very simple. It also means the comfort should be kept in consideration - you want to have fun in it.
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| Diesel shawl collar cardigan |
- Cardigan - Oh, yes. One of the very important items in the wardrobe that had its own post on this style blog. I absolutely love this style of knitwear. Another wonderful layering piece for the colder months. It can be used in dressed-up or dressed-down. With a pair of dress pants or some quality denim, it can be rounded up nicely with sneakers or even lace-up oxfords. (To view the cardigan post, click here: A Little Fall, Please)
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| Boss Black james stretch wool two-button |
- Blue Suit - One of those must-haves in your wardrobe, regardless the season. If you do end up buying a suit, make sure it's a blue one this season. The beauty of this trustworthy (and serious) suit is that it goes with white, pink, and pale blue shirts. Tie it up with a navy, burgundy, black, brown, and yellow ties. It's like having a grey suit, it can be still versatile. Shoes wise, black, brown, oxblood, and even navy. Although, it's recommended you stay away from completely wearing an all blue outfit. Again, remember to match your belt with your shoes. Black with brown is a no-no. If you want to keep it safe and your pants fit fine, it's perfectly fine to skip the belt.
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| YMC three button stretch cotton blazer |
- Blazer - I know what you are thinking, why so many? Just as I have mentioned before, the times have changed and so has the structure and make of the suit jacket or blazer. This time, regardless the color, aim for something that is less traditional. You can find real quality dressed-up styles of blazers now. It is more about the comfort, the cardigan type, or the corduroy blend. Something along the lines of deconstructed blazers is the way to go as well.
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| Gucci slim fit corduroy trousers |
- Corduroy - This, like the cardigan, had its own post on this blog. I may not love it as much as I do cardigans, but the important thing is it's an essential. From corduroy pants to shirts to blazers, this adds more comfort and style to your autumn essentials. (To view the corduroy post, click here: Plug in the Cords)
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| Salvatore Ferragamo faraone cap-toe |
- Black Lace-ups - One of those items that is a must in all seasons. The simpler the design the more formal it'll look. Remember, there are different kinds of lace-ups. There are Oxfords that come with cap-toes with/without an intricate design, plain toed, and wing-tips (or brogue), along with Derbys. These are mainly referred to a more "dressy" style of shoes. They can be worn to work or to a special event. They can be worn with a suit or dress pants and worn with a pair of jeans - don't forget the corduroys.
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| Gucci oxford wing tip brogues |
- Brown Lace-ups - Again, I cannot stress then enough, black and brown is a must in the wardrobe. You never want to limit yourself to only one color because being that simple just doesn't cut it. There's a difference between being safe and complete boredom. You want to make a statement without being loud. These beauties will go great with your grey and blue(navy) suits. That will also have you make a more careful judgement. You want to make sure the shade of the brown is darker than the shade of your pants and vice versa.
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| Gucci leather bamboo horsebit |
- Black Loafers - Yes, it doesn't stop with just lace-ups. You need something elegant and comfortable during the non-working or dressed-up hours of the day. Even then, you can actually head for a more dressed-up look with the right loafers. This can only be done if you are more comfortable with your style and you have the confidence in your step (pun intended?).
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| Salvatore Ferragamo Francisco leather slip-ons |
- Brown Loafers - Not surprised, right? You'd have to apply the same judgement into these as you would with the lace-ups. Carry these with the swagger even if it is in the most casual circumstance. The key to all of these quality pairs of shoes is that they should be seen as smart investments. They last even longer if you know how to take care of them. Gentlemen, like it or not, people (especially women) will judge you by your shoes! But it's not just the quality or color of the shoes, it's the way you were them with the entire outfit. Look smart, keep it stylish.
Gentlemen, these are the key items to cross of your list. Make sure every purchase is seen as a smart investment. I cannot stress enough that little but very important fact. The fit, comfort, and style should all be put into consideration, and in that order. Never sacrifice your comfort and fit for a flashy (and borderline arrogant) style. It's common sense, you will look more sophisticated with clothes that actually fit, rather than purchasing an item just because it reads Giorgio Armani on the tag.
T he discussion of essentials is always most important right before the turn of a new season. It's the preparation or even an update to ...
This autumn, it's all about trading in the chinos for corduroys. I remember sporting corduroys back in the school days (in the late 90s) yet they weren't too flattering. The reason for that is very simple. These specific type of pants weren't as popular as they are now. Times have changed - fashions change - and more men are making an effort into what their wardrobe looks like every season. The years have welcomed a more mature look for men who actually want to look like men without compromising the casual yet sophisticated nature.
A big difference into what makes this corduroy trend a must grab is that technology in design has obviously changed. The fitting and cut has evolved significantly over time in a more favorable way. The one thing that has always been true is the comfort of a corduroy.
Click image captions for more info.
A big difference into what makes this corduroy trend a must grab is that technology in design has obviously changed. The fitting and cut has evolved significantly over time in a more favorable way. The one thing that has always been true is the comfort of a corduroy.
Click image captions for more info.
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| Paul Smith London corduroy trousers |
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| POLO Ralph Lauren straight fit |
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| J.Crew straight-leg |
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| Brioni straight fit |
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| J.Crew straight-leg |
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| Gucci slim fit |
All you have to do to round these fantastic corduroy pants up is put on some quality sneakers or even loafers. A nice, well taken care of, pair of Chucks does the trick, if you want to work it simple. And if you're feeling a little extra attitude in your step, splash a little more with some new Jimmy Choo sneakers. Yes, Jimmy Choo now makes mens shoes. Keep the swagger intact. Keep it stylish, gentlemen.
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| Converse canvas Chuck Taylor |
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| Jimmy Choo motcombe snakeskin-effect |
T his autumn, it's all about trading in the chinos for corduroys. I remember sporting corduroys back in the school days (in the late 90s...
H&M, the Swedish retail-clothing company is ridiculously popular. In my last post, I showed a few outfits for the ladies from Express. My admiration is genuine, just as my admiration for H&M is. I don't usually single out a particular brand or label, but these sorts are more than just a brand. These "lower-end" labels are battling against the giants of the industry and doing a darn good job at it. Don't let the price-tags fool you, they are incredibly chic at a more than affordable price. I believe their adverts and celebrity backing speak for themselves.
The idea behind true authentic style is to over-look the tags and labels. Sure, H&M's fabrics and production level may not be as costly as high-end labels, but the purpose behind it is the affordability and availability to the regular consumer. For example, a young lady can wear an H&M top and a Banana Republic pair of trousers with some Louboutin pumps. It's making every purchase an investment. It's taking care of your clothes and accessories so that they last for more than a single season. It's about taking one simple item and grouping it with something more glamorous. This goes the same for the gentlemen.
Here are a few favored selections of mine from H&M's fall collection for men (new arrival).
The idea behind true authentic style is to over-look the tags and labels. Sure, H&M's fabrics and production level may not be as costly as high-end labels, but the purpose behind it is the affordability and availability to the regular consumer. For example, a young lady can wear an H&M top and a Banana Republic pair of trousers with some Louboutin pumps. It's making every purchase an investment. It's taking care of your clothes and accessories so that they last for more than a single season. It's about taking one simple item and grouping it with something more glamorous. This goes the same for the gentlemen.
Here are a few favored selections of mine from H&M's fall collection for men (new arrival).
Click image captions for more info.
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| V-neck with buttons |
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| Cardigan |
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| Vest |
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| Blazer |
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| Leather gloves |
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| boots |
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| Chinos |
There is plenty of more to browse in their stores and website so don't be shy to take a look. Keep it stylish, gentlemen!
H &M, the Swedish retail-clothing company is ridiculously popular. In my last post, I showed a few outfits for the ladies from Express. ...
As a former Express employee (as a sales associate) back in California, I have been impressed lately of their style evolution. I'm not saying this because I'm bias, but because I have always loved Express' style. Recently, I have noticed their improvements, especially in the women's section. I'm not sure about other former employees or current ones, but I always felt super comfortable working and shopping there.
With the autumn collection upon us, I wanted to show the ladies some really outstanding outfits from Express. Unfortunately, Express is a domestic company based in the U.S. This doesn't mean the particular outfits cannot be mimicked, you have all the necessary skills of going out and shopping for similar styles to the ones shown on this specific post. Keep your eyes open and check out the details in the outfits.
Click the image captions for more details.
With the autumn collection upon us, I wanted to show the ladies some really outstanding outfits from Express. Unfortunately, Express is a domestic company based in the U.S. This doesn't mean the particular outfits cannot be mimicked, you have all the necessary skills of going out and shopping for similar styles to the ones shown on this specific post. Keep your eyes open and check out the details in the outfits.
Click the image captions for more details.
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| chiffon maxi dress with accessories |
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| vest & Editor pants |
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| graphic tee and wide leg pants |
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| Dolman tee & maxi skirt |
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| One-shoulder ruffle dress |
There are plenty of new looks and items still to come in Express. These have only been a few of the ones of new arrivals as you can browse more on their website. Remember, ladies, my favorite season is right around the corner and I'm sure, it's your favorite as well so get ready to add to your closet!
A s a former Express employee (as a sales associate) back in California , I have been impressed lately of their style evolution. I'm no...
There is a dialogue from one of my favorite television shows, White Collar. This specific line, in one of the earlier episodes of the show, is one of the many style quotes I live by.
A character named Vincent Adler was explaining to Neal Caffrey (the main character of the show as he was portraying himself under a false identity), what it was all about, "Some people say dress for the job you want, I say dress as the man you want to be. Nick, men like you and I, we have an obligation to assault the common place every chance we get. From the clothes we wear, to the art we collect, to the women in our lives."
There's a couple of reasons why I decided to go with this post. One being, a gentleman in England, not too long ago, was revoked his membership from a club because he violated the dress code of the club. He wore a tie, which is apparently against the rules. I know, seriously? How would you feel if your membership was taken away because you were dressed too...sharp? With class? Elegance? Insulting, if you ask me. It made quite the commotion and it was even featured in the latest issue of The Journal at MRPORTER.com.
To me, wearing a dress shirt without a tie feels strange. I feel naked without one. Still don't get it? The whole quote and the club incident? The point here is, as proper stylish gentlemen, we are obliged to make subtle fashion statements in common places. For example, sporting a different blazer every time you go out. Or in this case, get a chic narrow tie to wear around your neck. It doesn't have to be "flashy" just enough of a statement that differs you from the rest of the crowd. The tie is one of my favorite accessories, no actually, it is my favorite.
Here are some Fall worthy ties to sport next time you actually have to wear one.
Click image captions for more info.
A character named Vincent Adler was explaining to Neal Caffrey (the main character of the show as he was portraying himself under a false identity), what it was all about, "Some people say dress for the job you want, I say dress as the man you want to be. Nick, men like you and I, we have an obligation to assault the common place every chance we get. From the clothes we wear, to the art we collect, to the women in our lives."
There's a couple of reasons why I decided to go with this post. One being, a gentleman in England, not too long ago, was revoked his membership from a club because he violated the dress code of the club. He wore a tie, which is apparently against the rules. I know, seriously? How would you feel if your membership was taken away because you were dressed too...sharp? With class? Elegance? Insulting, if you ask me. It made quite the commotion and it was even featured in the latest issue of The Journal at MRPORTER.com.
To me, wearing a dress shirt without a tie feels strange. I feel naked without one. Still don't get it? The whole quote and the club incident? The point here is, as proper stylish gentlemen, we are obliged to make subtle fashion statements in common places. For example, sporting a different blazer every time you go out. Or in this case, get a chic narrow tie to wear around your neck. It doesn't have to be "flashy" just enough of a statement that differs you from the rest of the crowd. The tie is one of my favorite accessories, no actually, it is my favorite.
Here are some Fall worthy ties to sport next time you actually have to wear one.
Click image captions for more info.
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| Aubin & Hills hynecroft corduroy |
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| Burberry silk-blend tie |
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| J.Crew downtown wool tie |
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| Paul Smith knitted tie |
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| Gucci cashmere plaid tie |
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| Dolce & Gabbana narrow knitted tie |
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| Polo Ralph Lauren cotton denim chambray |
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| Dolce & Gabbana skinny plaid silk |
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| Thome Browne plaid shetland wool |
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| Alexander Olch "The Bosweel" gingham wool |
There are so many more you can work with. The tie to a man is how shoes are to a woman, you can't have enough of them. The ultimate goal is to reach a complete sartorial look that others around you will identify with. Whether it's a fedora, tie, or pocket square, you have to wear it with pride. And if you are not welcomed into a club that is discriminating against tasteful fashion, you are better off somewhere else. It's simple as that. A gentleman should never have to compromise his elegance.
T here is a dialogue from one of my favorite television shows, White Collar . This specific line, in one of the earlier episodes of the show...
