Homme Edition:: Tutorial...

Used some Alexander Olch ties today at work, saw this tutorial when I got home and thought it was too cute to not post.  Take note and practice.


{how to talk to girls at parties}

Don't forget the dimple!

Homme Edition:: Lapo of Luxury...

Doing some research earlier this week I got lost for at least an hour, studying every detail of Lapo Elkann.  After the initial exam, the Italian style icon has been showing up everywhere I look...and with good reason.  All week long I've kept coming back to these same images and video inspired, curious, and indecisive.

I have been completely seduced by his mirrored sunglasses, apotheosis demeanor, & definitive Italian style {with an eccentric touch}.  Check out the video below to see his painstakingly sharp style brought to life in vibrant colors.


{all images & video from Lifestyle Mirror}

Homme Edition:: The Spring Jacket...

(The Hood Shop}

I thought about my answer to this and decided to leave it to Gilt Man's Style Director, Josh Peskowitz (sometimes guys receive advice better when it comes from a man)!

"The math here isn't complicated. You want something that is light, but will also give you some protection when the showers come. There are plenty of great options based on army field coats and parkas...and don't be afraid of a little color (think red or yellow) in your selection."

{l-r Junya Watanabe, Penfield, Burkman Bros}

I love the chambray hooded jacket. It can function as a denim jacket but also protects you from undesirable elements (think April showers and windy spring nights).

{l-r Michael Bastian, Mark McNairy, Woolrich Woolen Mills}

Mark McNairy is a genius when it comes to giving old staples new life, and this neon anorak is just one example of his tongue-in-cheek reinterpretation of American classics. Matter of fact, I think I'll take one for myself!

Homme Edition:: Seeing Double Part II...

Earlier this week I picked up the latest issue of GQ to do a little research. While thumbing through the enhanced style filled pages, I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw Johan Lindeberg's "way-downtown" cool ensemble. A pair of everyday grey straight fitting jeans, crisp white t-shirt, and a pristinely pressed white double breasted jacket...Nailed It!

Post sartorial find, I took to the internets to find more.

The Caten boys sent down this luxe double breasted jacket as part of their Spring 2012 runway show.

For Spring 2011 Bottega Veneta showed a baggier version.

Here's a quick guide to get Lindeberg's full look::

Gents, maybe you want to think about giving this a go?! For you first timers trying a double breasted jacket, take note of one thing:: double breasted suits can come with any number of button sets. But no matter how many, they should all be buttoned with the exception of the bottom button set.

Seeing Double...

{Dsquared Spring 2012}

Quick preview of an upcoming blog post...stay tuned!

Homme Edition:: Casual Friday...

Although the week just started, I can't help but think about Friday. That said, if I see another gentlemen wearing a snooze worthy combo, aka chinos with a blue button down, I'm going to flip a table. The creative team at Park and Bond put this look together and I swooned!!

{image:: Park & Bond}

Lets break it down...Consider a well tailored suit to set yourself apart from your chino-dependent coworkers. The first step in owning this look is to give it a good dressing down. Start with a cotton khaki, slim fitting suit and then look for a polo that adds textural contrast to the smooth suit fabric. Keep it all casual with a pair of retro yet fresh sneakers and stick it to them by opting out of socks--a touch that says you don't take any of this too seriously when really you do!

{J.Crew Jacket, J.Crew Pant, Brooks Brothers Polo, New Balance Shoes}

A well tailored suit is in the midst of a serious revival but keep in mind the ol' saying, "you should wear the suit, the suit shouldn't wear you." Need more options to recreate this look, head over to the new Coco Canal store here!

Homme Edition:: The Pocket Square...

After attending a few weddings and full time fancy events over the last couple of months I've realized that pocket squares need to be addressed. There are many ways to wear one that are all stylish in their own right.

{styloko.com}

But sometimes this can be a little too much! Don't get me wrong, I completely understand the need to add some flare to one's look. Instead of going for an origami fold or the puff pocket, try this...pick a fabric that adds the desired pizazz (bold colors, prints, patterns, you get where I'm going with this). Keep the pocket square classic with the flat fold and the square the same width as your pocket.

Think of it this way...wear your pocket square like you would drink your whiskey...simple, straight up, no frills!

Homme Edition:: Socks...

It appears that genders are sharing trends these days. The first trend to decode--socks. I'm all for the ever so popular no socks with a bold, dramatic shoe but for even more spunk, kick up your shoe game with a fun accent.

1- No socks:: If you want to knock your socks off, show some leg...well ankle. Intentionally roll the hem of your pant shorter than usual, and a messy roll is always welcome.

2- Subtle socks:: Not ready for the bold and the beautiful, no worries. Opt for a sock in neutral tones with subtle prints/patterns. Great with pant hems rolled again, but earn a fashion gold star if you pair suit pants with NO break.

3- Heavy duty socks:: There is no hiding this chunky monkey. For the daring and adventurous tuck your slim/straight leg pants into the socks and scrunch accordingly. Here I would wade in the family of black, white, gray, camel--add texture and depth with socks that are heathered. Evident from the two gentlemen below, the look is cool with boots or sneakers.

Men's Shop:: Lesson in Layers, Patterns, & Textures...

Within minutes of my last Men's Shop post I was delightfully overwhelmed with more questions/concerns on men's styling--you guys are really into this! While perusing the internet I stumbled upon this image and fell hard. Such a solid look and so much to learn from it, so lets get started!

{image from Garcon}

::GET THE LOOK::

*Layers:: Since you're piling on garment after garment you want to make sure that all your layers are thin. This look is a great way to get the most out of those pieces in your closet you reserve for those cooler spring/summer days. Too keep your look slim, avoid super bulky knits and air on the side of cashmere, merino wool, light lambswool or cashmere-cotton blends. Keep the same agenda in mind for your scarf options. You can rock a pair of your favorite suit pants or mix things up with denim, classic chinos, or slim (I repeat) slim cargo--however you'll lose some of the texture pairing appeal with the latter options.

*Patterns:: Don't be afraid to pair a stripe sweater with patterned (plaid, pinstripe, hounds tooth, etc) pants--or vice versa. You can even experiment with a third pattern by way of your collared button down. The key to being "Prints Charming", keep the color of your patterns in the same family. They don't have to be identical but varying shades of one color is always safe, and there is always the classic neutral combinations that are fool proof--navy, hunter green, black, white, gray, tan, brown. Your patterns should not be competing with one another. One should be bold (ie the gentleman's stripe shirt) while the other is more toned down (ie his pants).

*Textures:: Leather, knit, and chambray--a winning combination. You can even substitute the chambray for a raw denim button down to add even more flare. If you aren't comfortable or "think you can't pull off a leather jacket," try a waxed canvas jacket instead, denim jacket, or even a members only jacket--something with edge to it. A wool pant is a great option if you want to substitute the suit pant or swap for a pair of jeans or chinos but you run the risk of wiping out a patterned element.

Ok, I've given you a formula, options, and a few rules. Now go forth and conquer this layering, pattern, textured bonanza!!!...and let me know how it goes, photographic evidence much appreciated!

Mens Shop:: How To...

My guy friends have been asking for some fall style advice and before we hit the ground running, lets cover a couple of basics. Once you've mastered these "rules" be all means, make it your own--after all the rules were made to be broken but you need to know them in order to do so!

I Spy...

This isn't the first time I've come across this and by the looks of things it probably won't be the last. Designers flaunted bright ensembles down the runways for spring and fall, the trend hit high street and low street, and now it appears that our gentlemen counterparts are taking sips of the color blocking kool aid.

{all images Tommy Ton for style.com}

Looking good boys, looking good!

Yours, Mine, Ours...

I'm all for sharing a wardrobe with the boys. And when I say share, I obviously mean sneaking items without their knowing (I just outed myself to many of my guy friends). Well McQueen is making it easier to nix the stealth moves and instead, go halfsies on a his' and her's coat.

I mean HELLO!!!!

I first saw the coat in the recent women's prefall collection. A couple weeks later I was scanning through the men's FW 2011 collections (to see what I wanted to snatch) and saw it again.

I like this idea of designing for both sexes, and it all ties in with the "would you rather" post from a couple days ago.

About A Boy...

I've fully embraced the leopard trend...well I embraced is back in junior high when I had my mom turn my room into an animal print jungle! I've never met an animal print that I didn't like...but this is about a boy.

I found this image, an oh so chic homme, and found myself starring at the computer screen for a few minutes. Studying the silhouette, neutral and minimal color palette, and THE SHOES. I love that even the gents are indulging in the feline frenzy!

{elle.com}

As my friend Jana would say as a seal of approval (aka I like what he's wearing), "This is something my boyfriend would wear!"

Doppelganger Dress Up...

I'd like to introduce you to my doppelganger, Ryan...

21 years old//Works in the film industry//Comic aficionado//Partner in crime

Really, you don't think we look a like?! I use the term doppelganger loosely. Ok, we do not look anything alike, but we are so similar in life that it feels like we were separated at birth. Ryan was visiting this past week from LA for his sister's birthday. Monday I spent the day running around the city shopping with Des (sis) and Ryan. Towards the end of our shopping afternoon, while in TopMan, I was informed that I could pick out anything for him to try and and we could have a dress up session. I literally think I squealed and was overcome by joy rage!

As you can see, I was more than excited to hit the dressing room with some new digs! Styling makes my heart beat!!

My favorite part of this look::the pants...intentionally shorter than Ryan is used to. I would have finished off the look with either a black bow tie or skinny tie and a pair of oxfords.

Christmas in October!!! We all agreed that this would be the perfect holiday sweater. It's paired with navy wool pants and a denim button down shirt (you all are fully aware of my love and uncontrollable tendency to layer)! For this look I would have thrown on a pair of vintage dark brown lace up boots with the pants tucked in and laces undone.

Here go the layers again!...and I've realized that I like a polished look that is a little undone...hence why shirt tails are often showing! I can't totally strip Ryan of his comfort level so I would throw on a cool pair of kicks (a new pair of denim Margiela high tops I spotted yesterday).

Des, thank you for documenting the day's adventures! Ryan, thanks for ditching your West Coast disposition and letting me play dress up/boss you around!! Just so you know I've sent these images to a couple modeling agencies so it looks like you'll be back in NYC before you anticipated!...

you're welcome! :)

His and Her's

Men's fashion week has commenced in Milan showcasing collections for Fall 2010. If the ladies weren't representing androgyny enough, the men just took it to a completely new... and exciting level. An abundance of fur has walked down the runway as hats, coats, shirts, gloves, vests, and stoles on the distinguished and rakishly clad men. ***sigh*** be still my heart! Gents, I beg and plead with you to indulge in this luxurious trend. You want this, I know you do! Proof, as any fur enwrapped woman will confess from experience, without consciousness you continuously caress our fur coat/jacket/vest/hat/stole...all of the above. Now you can have one of your very own, and of course I'll benefit too because I WILL be borrowing whatever you partake in. Please take note gentlemen, one fast track way into my heart is investing in this trend (wait, does that mean I'm looking for a pimp?!?!).

Fur was just the beginning of the rich-androgynous inspired trend. Dsquared accompanied by other designers like Junya Wantabe sent sequined ties, jackets, and shirts glistening by the light of the photo pit. Some design houses resurrected the kilt, while others reinvented overalls in the style of a feminine jumper.

Men's fashion week is just the beginning of many shows to come and we're already off to an inspiring start!

{all images from nymag.com}

Old Dogs...New Tricks

Classic by any other name could be called Calvin Klein. I don't think Francisco Costa, Italo Zucchelli, or any of the other team members get enough recognition for the art/craft they put forth. The brand flies under the radar season after season because they aren't screaming for attention or throwing a tantrum. The collection founded in 1968 was established on design principles that reflect ideas like being polished and refined without being stale. While the collection often reflects neutral color palettes, it's the attention to detail and experimental techniques that keep this brand cutting edge and relevant.

After suit shopping with a friend this week for a wedding, I spent some time looking through a folder of men's runway images I had bookmarked the last couple of seasons. I was impressed with Calvin Klein's Fall 2009 collection. The innovate techniques paired with gentle simplicity proved the brands longevity and competitive stance.

It's the simplicity of the styling that I love about both of these looks. A completely monotone slate is the perfect vehicle to display professional, faultless tailoring.

I'm currently obsessed with wool skinny ties. It is an immediate fall/winter update to any wardrobe and exudes a dapper, methodical stature.

The most innovative styles/techniques that went down the runway are easily expressed in these two looks. One jacket is made of stretch merino wool and the other, stretch nylon. When I first looked at the pieces, I thought it had to be neoprene, material most notably used for wet suits. After reading the fine print, I've come to find out that the material had been manipulated and "molded." A bit futuristic, much appreciated, and completely germane.

I think Calvin Klein has a good foundation under their feet, and moving into the future at just the right pace. Nothing is broken, so why fix it?! Instead, stick to what we know, a place that is familiar and comfortable, and occasionally mix in a few unexpected and intriguing pieces that reiterate the fact that you've still got some tricks up your sleeve!

{all images from Calvin Klein}

Style...It's All in the Family

Tonight my cousin Jimmy and his family came over to hang out, catch up, and celebrate his son Josef's 2nd birthday. I don't remember the last time I was able to spend an entire evening with them...it was such a treat! Jimmy has always been very well dressed, and not much has changed. He walked in with long hair which I haven't seen since his high school days, and the most adorable winter wardrobe that included slim/skinny jeans. I couldn't resist and had to take a quick snap shot of him.

Hat: F21, gift from his daughter's

Scarf: F21

Hoodie: L.L. Bean shearling lined zip up

Shirt: Grey and white stripe Gap thermal

Jeans: Fossil slim fit jeans

Stuntman Style: Victor Paguia

The last couple of weeks I've been doing some personal shopping for my friend and neighbor Victor. He has quickly become one of my favorite shopping partners and clients because he's always up for anything and willing to experiment with his style. Today I pulled together three quick looks and took my turn behind the camera.

Weekend Look

* H&M green chunky knit cardigan

*Helmut Lang raw denim jeans

* J.Crew striped henley

*Clark suede boots

Who doesn't love a man in a cardigan?! I think Becky and I talked Victor into this purchase a while back. It's a great layering piece and a great alternative to a jacket when it's just cool enough to need a little coverage. Everyone should have a pair of raw denim jeans in their arsenal. They mold to your body like a second skin and develop character unique to each individual. The boots were a purchase V made on his own and I love them! He wore them around for a while and let them develop some added character and charisma before water proofing them for the winter. Smart!

International Date Night

*Phix military inspired jacket

* J. Crew button down shirt

*H&M wool trousers

*H&M skinny tie

*Officine Creative boots

Vic was definitely a little weary of the tie with the jacket and boots but I love the combo. Yes it might be a bit on the literal side of the military trend right now, but it is a departure from what he would normally choose to wear and that was the appeal. Push him just over the threshold of his comfort zone but still being relevant to who he is. After looking at this picture I've realized that much of the styling and look is inspired by Dsquared (you already know how I feel about the Canten brothers) and Coldplay... oh my subconscious! I think this would be a perfectly appropriate date ensemble for his trip to Paris!

Everyday- Go To

*H&M coat

*Urban Outfitters plaid shirt

*Corpus grey jeans

*Officine Creative boots

This is definitely Victor's everyday, go to look. I'm all for guys tucking jeans into boots right now and this opportunity was no exception. Last week Victor and I were shopping in Bloomingdales in Soho and stumbled upon these grey slim fit jeans by Corpus. The reason for the trip to Bloomies was actually to find a pair of boots and did we ever! 1930's military inspired boots just screamed for us to buy them. We didn't jump the gun, spent the day checking out our options, but when it came to it, nothing compared to the style, quality, or appeal of the Officine Creative boots. I'll have to post a close up of them cause the details are exquisite. The coat was another lucky happenstance purchase at H&M. It easily incorporates with so many things in his wardrobe but what I love most is it isn't just a boring black coat. It's actually navy and has great military inspired details to it. It won't be hard for him to replicate a similar look. This makes for a great template and base to mix and match with other things in his closet.

"Give a man a fish and he has food for one day. Teach a man to fish and...!" You get where I'm going with this!