Navy Blue Blazer | H&M
Green Plaid Shirt | Land’s End Canvas
Gray Jean | GAP
Desert Boot | Clarks
Style Is Natural
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Monthly Archives: February 2012
Style To The Tee
Salmon Colored T-Shirt | Voy Voy
Rectangle Face Watch | Kenneth Cole
Caraway Corduroy Pant | Levi’s
Black New Wayfarer Sunglasses | Ray-Ban
Printed Ties, We Dig It
I was not really a big fan of printed ties, to me they seemed weird. However, I came across this bicycle print tie from Land’s End and for some reason, I kind of liked it. While it is true that there are many other bicycle print ties, this particular tie stood out to me–I think it was the random red bicycle that drew me in. Although, it is something simple, the red bicycle gave it character–something I love to see in clothing. And that is what I realized was the purpose of printed ties, they are supposed to give character to your outfit. However, they can also add too much character, which would make you look crazy. To avoid this never pair your print tie on a dark shirt or a shirt that has too many things going on. Instead, keep it simple. Many print ties come in darker shades, so pair them with lighter shirts–the rule to mixing patterns.
Bicycle Print Tie | Land’s End Canvas
Hawkings McGill Varsity Jacket | Urban Outfitters
White and Blue Plaid Button-Down | Land’s End Canvas
Green Pant | Levi’s
Desert Boot | Clarks
Men In Style: February Look #8
Plaid Flannel Shirt | Ben Sherman, Plectrum
Burgundy Merino Wool Sweater | Banana Republic
Denim Jean | Levi’s
Black Leather Loafer | Bass
Olive Corduroy Blazer | Club Monaco
Blue Wool Sock | FALKE
Peacoats Are Never Out
Although various types of peacoats are being released, the traditional peacoat is still the staple coat for men of style. Though, simple in look compared to its modern counterparts. The traditional peacoat still holds the title for representing sophistication. Its versatility and fit, allows for it to compliment your outfit, whether you are dressed up or dressed down.
Black Peacoat | J. Crew
Green Plaid Shirt | Brooks Brothers
Gray V-Neck Sweater | J. Crew
Men In Style: February Look #7
Purple Plaid Button-Down | GANT by Michael Bastian
Blue V-Neck Merino Wool Sweater | Banana Republic
Khaki Pant | PacSun
Blue Chukka Boot | Sperry Top-Sider
Style, You Create It
I was inspired to write this post after I got into a debate with a friend about style. For my friend style is not something everyone has. Of course, I disagree, I believe everyone has style. I know some of you are probably thinking I lost it, but I promise you I am as sane as ever.
Style does not have a single definition, it can be defined in many ways. For me style is a representation of art that you have created to reflect who you are. Simply put, style is something you create. Just because someone does not dress the same as you, does not mean they are unstylish. Everyone has a different style, if we did not then fashion would not exist.
One of my close friends dresses completely different from me–think Urban Outfitters with a more hippy-bohemian look–And although I would not wear loose-fitting jeans or tuck my pant in my socks like he does– I understand that it is his style, his art, and that it reflects who he is.
As I mentioned earlier, style is what you create. So, having a particular brand such as a Zegna button-down does not mean you have style, it just means you have a Zegna button-down. However, it is what you create with it that does.
Gray and Black Striped Sweater Vest | J. Crew
Gray Button-Down Shirt | H&M
Blue Denim Jean | GAP
Men In Style: February Look #6
Hawkings McGill Gray Tweed Vest | Urban Outfitters
Brown Wing-Tip Shoe | Banana Republic
Blue Plaid Shirt | H&M
Green Pant | Levi’s
Sew & Tailor
Every man of style should know how to sew because you never know what could happen–you rip a hole in shirt or you cause a small tear in your coat. I am not saying that you have to be a master in sewing. No one is expecting you to tailor your own clothes, but you should be able to sew a button on your jacket if it falls off.
However, if you cannot sew, a good tailor would do. Now, you do not want to give your clothes to any tailor, do your research. Think of it as buying a car. Would you buy a car from anyone who calls themselves a car dealer? No. So, do not give your clothes to anyone who calls themselves a tailor.
Below are some useful tips on finding a good tailor.
Get Started:
Google tailors in your area, read the reviews, and visit them if you have to. It is your clothes, the fact that you are getting them tailored shows that you are invested, so make sure that your investment is worth it.
Experience:
Look for tailors with experience. Do not get me wrong, just because you have experience at something does not mean that you are good, but more likely than not, it does. However, make sure that you get references, it is always best to hear from others before you hand over your clothes.
Cooperation & Fashion Sense:
Is the tailor trendy? or old-school? Ask the tailor about their own take on fashion and decide if their view is in-line with yours. In addition, if the tailor resist your suggestions about the way you want your clothes, then move on to the next one. It is important to have control of your style.
Ask Around:
Do you remember that man, the one whose style you admire? Yeah, well ask him who tailors his clothes. That tailor might be the one you have been looking for.
Men In Style: February Look #5
Hawkings McGill Gray Tweed Blazer | Urban Outfitters
Brown Leather Round Toe Shoe | Banana Republic
Green Plaid Shirt | H&M
Blue Pant | Levi’s
Cuffed Denim + Button-Down = Casually Dapper
Jeans are no longer solely for casual wear, they have broken into the semi-formal and on some occasions, the formal realm. However, not any jean can be dressed up, it needs to have a certain look. By look, I am referring to the design, fit and cut of the jean. Do not expect to turn ripped or shredded jeans into something dressy–it just will not happen. Instead, get jeans of a simple wash or in solids colors. And make sure your jean is slim-fit or skinny. The slimmer leg opening, not only exudes a neat look, but it compliments the shoes and shirt. To complete the look, cuff your jean so that it touches the top of your shoes.
Brown Leather Belt | J.Crew
Denim Jean| J.Crew
Olive Button-Down | J.Crew
Watch | Timex
Desert Boot | Clarks
The Joy of Plaid
Men In Style: February Look #4
Plaid Button-Down Shirt | Club Monaco
Gray and Black Stripe Tie | Express
Forest Green Corduroy Pant | Levi’s
Brown Round-Toe Leather Shoe | Banana Republic
Blue Striped Socks | Smart Turnout
Just A Touch Of Color
Orange Quilted Jacket | Land’s End
Caraway Corduroy Pant | J.Crew
Gray Crew Neck Sweater | J.Crew
Watch | Timex
Striped Socks | J.Crew
Men In Style: February Look #3
Brandy Ranger Buckle Boot | Polo Ralph Lauren
Denim Jean | Levi’s
Blue Plaid Button-Down | Club Monaco
Introducing the Victorinox ‘Insulator’ Down Jacket
Lately, I have been hearing a lot of people talking about Victorinox, so I decided to give the brand a try–just to see what all of the hype was about. I read about the Victorinox ’Insulator’ Down Jacket online and from what I saw it seemed pretty cool, so I bought it. Although, the jacket looks pretty bulky–after all it is a men’s puffer coat, it is lightweight, which I love. It allows me to fold it and carry it around without any hassle. In addition, it is really warm for a light-weight jacket. And as for its design, I love the overall appearance, it is clean-cut, with a classic look. However, when buying this coat I recommend sizing down. For example, I wear a medium in jackets, but I bought this in a small because of the chest measurements (always check the size chart).
Men In Style: February Look #2
Merino Wool Crew Neck Sweater | Club Monaco
Blue Denim Slim-Straight Jean | Silver Jeans
Boat Shoe | Sperry Top-Sider
Orange Checker Button-Down | H&M
Watchstraps? Yeah, They Are In.
Watchstraps have become very popular among men, they are no longer used solely to replace tattered or worn down watchstraps. Instead, they have become fashion accessories–just like scarves. Now that watchstraps have become versatile–in the sense that they are being made in a variety of colors and patterns, I, like so many other men, use them to add that extra pop to my outfits. In addition, they give my watch a new look every time.
How to change your watchstraps:
Watchstraps | Smart Turnout
Store Spotlight: Smart Turnout
I was first introduced to the Smart Turnout brand during my internship with GQ Magazine and since then it has become one of my favorite clothing stores. Drawing inspiration from the British Army and the colors of Ivy League Universities, they effectively make clothing that you want to wear. What I like the most about the brand is the way they use an array of colors and patterns to create ‘looks’ that I never thought of doing. For example I would not have ever dared to pair different colors of plaid together—for me it was a “fashion don’t.”
However, shopping at Smart Turnout changed my mind; not only do they embody the preppy look, but they bring it to the next level, such as taking inspiration from the patterns of traditional skiing sweaters and blending them with a jacquard sweater. Smart Turnout’s unique’s British style, has helped make a name for itself as the ideal brand for preppy attire worldwide, appearing in clothing stores such as J. Press (U.S.) and United Arrows (Japan).
As you can imagine, the clothing is not cheap. And why should they? Smart Turnout uses superior quality fabrics and great detail in designing their clothes, so it is worth every penny. In short, Smart Turnout is more than a brand, more than fashion; it is the definition of men in style.
Guest Post By Stylepilot
Fashion’s Golden Eras Are Getting Married In 2012!
What are the latest fashion trends for men?
Be A Rebel, Always.
Current key trends are edging towards smart distinct looks while embracing a spirit of rebellion and a refusal to conform to authority. Men should be looking to push the boundaries of their style this year and have a lot of fun seeing exactly what they can get away with. Key styles for this year embrace the feeling that a rebel movement is for all hours and not just for playtime. Many are stuck in the nine-to-five routine with little opportunity to break out, limiting their naughty tendencies to the weekend only.
Take It to Work.
Try something different in your work attire this year, whether you’re a formal dresser for work or you’re allowed something a touch more casual. All of the key aspects of fashion carry something with which you can rebel without causing too much of a stir! Get rid of the loose-fitting suit and get something with a little more bite into your wardrobe. Something slim fitting and figure hugging will make a great change from the oversized two piece you know hand on heart you could swim in if you tried hard enough.
Keep shirts white but again well fitted, while investing in some edgier designed and perhaps more vividly coloured ties. Navy is boring! Keep yourself fashionable and looking original in the office with a brighter outlook to your work style this year. Badges and brooches are now available from most menswear providers so you can add a thoughtful touch to your style. Let your speak for you at work and get people talking about how well you are dressed, instead of the typical office talk.
Something For the Weekend.
Ditch the suit at the weekend, the denim is coming out to be devilish with you. Every rebel knows ultra-skinny jeans are the way to go and is a must-have piece to start building any look this year. Boots fit in well with this year’s trends too, so you will have a striking, yet durable look to your bottom half at all times.
The shirt and tie can also be consigned to the past, for two days at least, so you can throw on the layers and give yourself an attitude defining twist.
Start At the Bottom.
Get online and find yourself an outfit building tool to really help you look the business. Outfit builders now go a lot further than just putting a shirt together with a pair of trousers. Build a look of stylish clothes which will almost feel as if they were made specifically for you.
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Style Pilot serves as an online personal stylist website for men, run by some of Europe’s top stylists.
Sperry Top-Sider 2 Eye Suede Boat Shoes
I love boat shoes because of their versatility, they can be dressed up–to an extent–or dressed down. Boat shoes can go with almost any outfit. However, a lot of people wear boat shoes and as men of style, we should always stand out from the crowd–if everyone is wear black, we should wear gray. With that being said, purchase boat shoes that you do not see a lot of people wearing. No, I am saying to go and purchase a boat shoe that looks hideous, instead buy boat shoes that are unique. The 2 eye suede boat shoe collection by Sperry Top-Sider is an example of boat shoes that are not commonly worn. Most men wear the typical brown leather boat shoe, so switch it up, wear suede or even cloth boat shoes. Stand out from the crowd, men of style always do.
2 Eye Suede Green Boat Shoe | Sperry Top-Sider
Men In Style: February Look #1
Blue V-Neck Merino Wool Sweater | Banana Republic
Plaid Button-Down Shirt | H&M
Denim Jean | Levi’s
Brown Wingtip Shoe | Urban Outfitters
Argyle Socks | Pantherella
Candid Style: Trevor
Trevor’s color coordination is a good example of how to create an outfit composed of the same color. What I liked about Trevor’s outfit was that he did not try to match the blue with each other, instead, each item was a different shade, which worked out great because they blended together very well. I also liked that he kept the shades of blue within in the same range. By doing this, Trevor prevented the different shades of blue from clashing with each other. Thus, making his outfit easy to look at.
Candid Style: Ray
When I saw Ray’s coat, I knew that I wanted to write about it. I love that the coat is lightweight, which makes carrying it around less of a hassle. In addition, it is made with Columbia’s trademarked Omni-Heat technology, which prevent heat loss in cold weather. The color and design of the coat is two other factors that drew me to it. The rich blue of the coat made it stand out and complimented its overall look.
Androgyny: Blur Gender the Line
Androgyny has been around for decades, dating back to the 1970s when glam rock became popular with artists such as Queen, David Bowie, and Elton John. However, Androgyny has also become very popular in fashion. Androgynous models such as Andrej Pejic, Freja Beha Erichsen, Eleonora Bose, and Kristen McMenamy have become famous for walking the runway for high-profile designers from Jean-Paul Gaultier and Louis Vuitton. Androgyny has become popular in fashion because it not only challenges the meaning of gender, but it blurs the line of gender stereotypes. In addition, it allows designers and fashion lovers to experiment and explore men’s and women’s fashion.
Candid Style: Keith
The thing like about Keith’s outfit was the way that he coordinated his colors. I liked the pairing of the neutral colored short and boat shoe. Not only did they blend with each other fairly well–the neutral colors did not look too uniform nor did they over power each other, but they complimented his polo shirt and overall style.
In Love…With Fair Isle Sweaters
Arm Parties!
Arm parties–the stacking of bracelets, have become huge, not only with women, but with men as well. Kanye West has been constantly spotted wearing numerous bracelets on his arm. Arm parties definitely look good, when done correctly. I know it is supposed to be a party on your arm, but men, do not over do it–no more than 8 should do. And be sure to mix the bracelets up, you do not want to make it look uniform.
Wood Bracelets | Good Wood
Woven Bracelets | Urban Outfitters
Bronze Watch | Fossil
V-Neck Turquoise T-Shirt | GAP
Brown Boat Shoe | Polo Ralph Lauren
Denim Jean | GAP
Vans California 106 Waxed Canvas Sneaker
I love Vans, they are not only comfortable, but they have a different look to them. So when I saw the Vans California 106 waxed canvas sneaker, I knew that I had to have it. What I like the most about this shoe is its uniqueness, it does not look like your typical sneaker. In fact, it reminds me of a sneaker-boot hybrid. This is the perfect shoe to wear on a casual day, with a slim-fit jean and a calm–not to flashy, slim-fit button down or v-neck sweater.
106 Waxed Canvas Sneaker | Vans
Suspenders Are No Longer for the Nerds
Once seen as the defining accessory amongst nerds, suspenders are slowly but surely making a comeback. Celebrities from Ed Westwick to Ashton Kutcher have been spotted wearing the elastic straps. What I love most about suspenders are their versatility, they can be either dressed up with a crisp button-down or dressed down with a plain graphic t-shirt. Either way, suspenders just work. If you are looking to add pizzazz to your outfit, then suspenders are the way to go.
Blue Cardigan | Urban Outfitters
White Button-Down | H&M
Suspenders | Buffalo Exchange
Caraway Corduroy Pant | Levi’s
Samba Sneaker | Adidas
White Watch | Ted Baker
