Guest Post by Alice Lawson

Guest Post by Alice Lawson

Here we go again…..

Sad but true, it’s undoubtedly time to say hello to winter…..

It can be so easy to just throw on our old shabby boots when the weather turns, but this can only work depending on your surroundings. Take a look around you and think about your audience, if you live in the middle of nowhere and your only judges are the local cows and pigs, then yes this may work, but walking through chic Soho in a snow storm wearing something which looks like it was made in the 1920s is a is a completely different story.

Being warm and comfortable this winter doesn’t have to mean wearing your oldest most unfashionable outfits. Winter is here for all of us fashion enthusiasts to get out our fantastic winter coats and snuggly scarfs, and wear stylish boots, which keep our toes from contracting frostbite.

There are hundreds of brands that do cool men’s boots, but I especially like the ones from House of Fraser as they have a huge selection to choose from, and are obviously up to date with our fashion standards. Whether buying for yourself or your lady friend, you won’t be short of choice from this stylish UK retailer.

Unlike others, I like my men to wear matching outfits, but this isn’t always everyone’s cup of tea. Instead of opting for everything black, add a splash of colour to your winter wardrobe, I love dark greens and reds and I think these look really stylish for the winter seasons. One main piece of advice I would say to all of you gentlemen reading, chinos are our women’s Peplum! They go with everything; they can be worn during the summer or winter seasons, and are effortlessly stylish. By putting on pair of cool chinos you have immediately upgraded a standard t-shirt and boots.

However, don’t forget, when picking your winter warmers a matching coat, hat and scarf combination can be just the ticket to completing your over all winter look!

Guest Post by Daria

5 Male Fashion Bloggers To Follow

The fashion blogging industry is obviously dominated by women. However, once in a while, there’s an exception to the rule. On the one hand, we have street style photographers like Monsieur Jerome or Scott Schuman a.k.a The Sartorialistor – men with a keen sense of fashion, who take pictures of colorful people on the streets and at events. On the other hand, we’ve got personal style bloggers, who made a name for themselves by posting outfits and lifestyle pictures on their blogs. Donning bow ties, mixed prints, designer handbags and above the knee shorts, these gentlemen have something to say in the field. From world-famous to those just starting out, here are our top male fashion bloggers that we think you should follow:

1. Bryan Boy – 31-year-old Bryan Grey Yambao is originally from Filipinos, and is one of the first bloggers in the industry. With a Marc Jacobs bag named after him and judge seat in America’s Next Top Model season 19, this fashion blogger is definitely somebody in the fashion world. Find him at bryanboy.com in fabulous designer outfits.

2. Buck - Tony Stone (Buck) shares a blog with his life partner Adeline Rapon (Wolf) at wolvesandbucks.com. The French couple both feature stylish outfits, in their typical boho chicstyle. More than that, you’ll find their everyday photos from the fascinating Paris.

3. Fashion Goggled – Landon lives in New York City and blogs at fashiongoggled.com. He calls himself “style obsessed” and he looks the part. Once in a while, he features DIY projects, and his outfits are always dapper and with pops of color.

4. Scout Sixteen – Justin is a curly redhead with a sharp fashion sense, writer, personal shopper and stylist. Based in New York, he always has the best statement accessories at hand. Moreover, he blogs style advice that any man could use.

5. Kate Loves Me – Pelayo Diaz Zapico comes from Spain and he’s a model (you’ve seen him in the summer 2011 H&M catalog) and fashion blogger at katelovesme.net. With several piercings on his face and edgy outfits, he’s the type that doesn’t go unnoticed. You might also note his unusual accessories, like Chanel bags and colorful clutches.

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About the author:

Daria, freelance writer and fashion blogger, social media enthusiast and passionate vintage shopper. Currently blogging at Glasses on Web about eyeglasses and sunglasses and at Celebrity Sunglasses Watcher about celebrities.

Guest Post By Leo Parker

Enjoy Ultimate Luxury with Breitling Transocean Watches

Breitling are widely recognised as one of the world’s best loved and most prestigious luxury Swiss watchmakers and they offer an unparalleled selection of timepieces to suit the tastes of even the most discerning of luxury aficionados.

The Breitling Transocean collection of watches is definitely one of the Swiss brands most striking and luxurious and they have recently released a new range of timepieces to this collection, which are turning heads in the luxury watch world. It is of little surprise that these breath-taking timepieces have set tongues wagging due to their immensely sophisticated style and painstakingly crafted mechanisms which truly set Breitling Transocean watches apart from the crowd.

Take a look at three of the best from the Breitling Transocean collection below:

Breitling Transocean Chronograph Unitime:

Price – £9,000 ($15,000) Approx 

This stunning timepiece clearly exemplifies everything that is great about the Breitling Transocean collection of watches. It offers a whole host of features that showcases the Swiss brands dedication to excellence and just some of these features include a glare-proof, scratch resistant sapphire crystal glass casing, 70 hour power reserve and an impressive   chronograph accurate to 1/4th of a second.

Breitling Transocean Silver Dial Mens Watch:

Price – £4,000 ($6,500) Approx

A much more understated offering from the Breitling Transocean collection and one that is proving popular amongst fans of classical style luxury timepieces. This spectacular watch exhibits just how diverse the timepieces from Breitling can be – from the considerable intricacy of the first watch pictured to the complete understated elegance of the silver dial Breitling above. If you’re after a classic luxury watch from Breitling, then this one definitely ticks all of the right boxes and has many great features that are sure to impress, which include:

  • Movement which beats at 28,800 V pH
  • Mercury silver dial with baton type hands
  • 100m water resistance
  • Tan leather strap with pin and buckle fastening
  • 42 hour power reserve
  • 43mm stainless steel case
  • Convex glare-proof sapphire crystal glass

Breitling Transocean Chronograph Black Dial

You can buy Breitling watches online from luxury retailer The Watch Gallery

Guest Post By Stylepilot

10 Items That Every Man Should Have in His Closet  

Most men think they know style from A to Z, but what are the ten things in a man’s closet that would confirm whether he is a real-life style expert or a fashion dud? We took a look at the definitive top 10 of things that every man should own.

  • A Tailored Suit

Even if you have a job where you can go to work in jeans and a t-shirt, you should own a suit. You never know when you might need to wear one, so ensure you have a quality piece of tailoring to hand.

  • Shirts & Ties

If you work in an office environment this will be a given. If you are in the category above and only wear a suit sporadically, keep a supply of crisp white shirts and a selection of three or four ties of various colours and patterns.

  •  Enough Underwear

Enough, gentlemen, means around 14 pairs. Having one for each day is not acceptable, and if you own anything less than 10 pairs you certainly have a problem. Fresh and stylish is the way forward, here!

  • Quality Fragrance

There is no need to follow your girlfriend’s lead and have a whole collection to hand, as a guy usually three will do. Something fresh and light for the day, a spicier, stronger option for the evening, and something with citrus for the summer. Easy!

  • Matching Shoes and Accessories

Yes, I am afraid that accessories matter when it comes to male fashion, too. Your shoes should always match your belt color, and your belt buckle should always match any jewelry or cufflinks you use.

  • Hangers

Save yourself the stress of ironing and re-ironing by having a spacious wardrobe with enough room to hang everything, from trousers, to dress shirts, to casual polo shirts.

  • A Leather Jacket

Leather is set to be huge through 2013, so the sooner you get on board with this style tip the quicker your jacket will be broken in and looking brilliant.

  • A Pair of Chinos

If you are more of a denim man then long may that continue, however you are missing a trick if you do not own a pair of coloured chinos. Go for a deep red for a garment that will match almost anything.

  • Light Knitwear

It doesn’t matter whether you go for a cardigan or jumper here, as long as you have this summer and winter essential that is great both formally or for a more casual outfit.

  •  A Casual Blazer

The blazer is the ultimate in men’s jackets, even after years of being so popular. Buy yourself a standalone casual number independent from your tailoring, to add a sophisticated slant to a chinos and t-shirt look.

Get these ten items in your closet now, and ensure you are never left behind in the style stakes.

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Style Pilot is the leading UK fashion aggregator specialising in men’s clothing. Ultimately, the website is exclusively a mens fashion outlet designed to help men navigate fashion online.

Guest Post By Cindy Prosser

Beyond the 6-Pack: 7 Refreshing Drinks to Impress Your Guests

Beach season is upon us and what better time to relax with friends and indulge in a delicious drink. No matter your location – be it city, country or beach – or attire –be it business, casual, or board shorts and a tee – there are many drinks from across the world that have become popular for dinner parties, after-work cocktails, or relaxing on the beach. Below, i’ve put together our favorite summertime drinks that will leave you feeling refreshed – all while impressing your guests. Let’s dive right in:

#1: Daiquiri – This popular drink originated in Cuba and is a staple at any beachside bar. The story goes that the drink was invented by Americans, working in Cuba because they had an ample supply of rum, lime, and sugar. Today, it’s most popular in frozen form and, can be found in nearly any tropical fruit flavor. Here’s how to make it:

  • 3 oz. light rum
  • 1 ½ T. lime juice
  • 2 T. white sugar
  • 2 cups of crushed ice

Pour all ingredients into a blender and blend together until smooth.

#2: Mai Tai – This Polynesian drink caught on after being featured in Elvis’s hit movie, “Blue Hawaii” and is found in tropical destinations around the world. Here’s how to create a passion fruit version of the drink:

  • 4 oz. light rum
  • 2 oz. dark rum
  • 2 oz. of Triple Sec
  • 8 oz. of passion fruit juice
  • Lime wedge

Mix the light rum, Triple Sec, and passion fruit in a shaker and pour into glasses. Pour 1 tablespoon of dark rum over each glass and finish it off with a lime wedge.

#3: Piña Colada – This refreshing drink has been around for more than 100 years, but was made popular in the 50s when a bartender added cream of coconut to it. Here’s how to make it for your guests:

  • ½ cup rum
  • ½ cup coconut cream
  • ¼ coconut milk
  • ¼ cup pineapple chunks

Fill your blender half full with ice cubes, then pour in the above four ingredients. Puree and pour into glasses. For added flair, you can garnish it with a pineapple ring or cherry.

#4: Sex on the Beach – If you have ladies craving a fruity beach cocktail, look no further than a Sex on the Beach. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 ½ oz. vodka
  • 2 oz. orange juice
  • 2 oz. cranberry juice
  • ½ oz. peach schnapps

Pour all four ingredients into a shaker and blend well. Pour into a highball glass and garnish with a cherry.

#5: Mojito – Everyone knows you can’t have a proper summertime party without a mojito. Here’s how to give your guests what they want:

  • 1 ½ oz. rum
  • 1 T. mint leaves
  • 1 T. sugar
  • ½ oz. lime juice
  • 2-4 lime wedges
  • Soda, to taste

Before mixing this drink, grab a few tall glasses and cover the bottom of the glass with mint leaves. Then, add sugar, rum, lime juice and crushed ice. Muddle together. Finally, top it off with soda water and mint leaves.

#6: Cape Codder – As its name implies, the Cape Codder was created in Massachusetts and is an easy mix of spirits and fruit juice. If you’re looking for a quick and easy cocktail for your dinner party, this is definitely it:

  • 3 oz. cranberry juice
  • 2 oz. vodka
  • Lime wedge

Pour the cranberry juice and vodka into a highball glass filled with ice. Stir it well, then squeeze lime juice over the top.

#7: Bahama Mama – Our final refreshing drink for your guests is a Bahama Mama, usually served in a highball glass with a garnish of pineapple on the side.

  • 1 oz. coconut rum
  • 1 oz. rum
  • 1 oz. grenadine
  • 2 oz. orange juice
  • 2 oz. pineapple juice

Combine all liquids with ice and puree in a blender until the contents are slushy. Pour into a glass and garnish with fruit as desired.

Next time you’re planning a cocktail party, look no further than the tasty treats on this list. They’ll have your guests raving for weeks!

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Cindy Prosser modeled swimwear in a past life… but now that she’s a part-time freelance writer and full-time mom.

Guest Post By Jacamo

Big Does Not Need to Equal Bland

Our motto is ‘taking men’s style to the next level’ and it’s great to come across both men and designers who are doing just that. Men with larger frames can sometimes experience style struggles when trying to find smarter outfits, so it was great to see Brit comedian James Corden coming up trumps at a recent awards ceremony.

James, 33, has a big bubbly personality and a stature to match, but he pulled off a classic tailored look while presenting at music awards the Brits last month, showing larger men can dress for the occasion. He also took some style inspiration from one of our favorite Brit style icons – his mate David Beckham - and styled his hair into a softly waxed quiff.

If you’ve got a commanding stature and have been struggling to nail a smarter look, you’ll find some specialist retailers online like Jacamo Menswear who cater for all shapes and sizes. But, before you buy, you’re best off taking stock of what is likely to suit you. You may want to take some style inspiration from Mr Corden, who looked rather dapper in a black tailored suit and waistcoat, which he wore with a crisp white shirt and patterned tie.

Larger gentleman are often warned against wearing monochrome outfits like this, as contrasting shades have a tendency to draw the eye to areas they may prefer not to highlight, like the stomach. James tackled this by wearing a coordinating waistcoat in black underneath his jacket, slimming his frame and preventing the eye from falling on his slightly generous stomach. In warmer months it’s possible to achieve a similar effect by wearing a lightweight jacket teamed with a shirt of a similar shade.

Below are pictures of former England cricket captain and Jacamo’s ambassador, Freddie Flintoff, wearing a suit from his own Freddie Flintoff collection.

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.