Men Style

Not long ago I wrote a post about how today's men's fashion is very similar to the fashion of the 1960's.



On that note, here is my prediction...




As the hipster movement becomes more and more popular and spreads outward from urban inner-city communities, it will be these young fashionistos, with their unique attitude toward self-expression, that will bring back tie-dye and mark a new era where men's fashion will become directly inspired by the 1970's (wide loose-leg pants, aggressively-peaked lapels, over-sized bow ties, soft shouldered jackets, the popularity of 3-piece suits, etc.). In fact, some designers have already begun the 70's revival. It's only a matter of time...the cycle shall continue.




Keep in mind, though, that I said inspired by the 1970's, we (hopefully) won't let the cycle swing so far that we recreate what is often considered the worst-dressed decade of all time.















You heard it here first,

Style Blogger

Reader:

What about popping your collar on a peacoat, a la James Dean? (see picture below)

Style Blogger:

Absolutely! James Dean is a tremendous style icon. He is regarded as the first to coin the "Effortless Cool" look...which is now known by many as "Disheveled Elegance" and is one of the top looks in men's style (a post on this is coming soon).

On top of being a great style influence, James Dean is also a great inspiration for a laissez-faire approach to life. Stick out from the crowd. Embrace youth. Live fast and hard. Sadly though, his story also reminds us that life is short. RIP JD.

Thanks for bringing up this point, I should have mentioned it in the earlier post on popped collars. I almost always wear my collar up when wearing a peacoat. This may or may not be due to unconsciousioulsy asking myself WWJDD :)

Thanks for reading! Style Blogger

...in the way he dresses, a man should carry the same level of quality and attention-to-detail in other aspects of his life. This includes having good table manners and treating others with respect.

With that said, a quick tip for today: when eating out at a restaurant, or even getting drinks at a bar, DO NOT put your cellphone on the table. It is rude and comes off as "I'm too important to only be involved in this conversation". You are not that important, so live in-the-moment and stop half-listening.

On a similar (and almost philosophical) note, sometimes I wonder if life would be better without all of the modern technologies that serve as distractions from direct human interaction. Just a thought...

Life is short! Live in the moment, Style Blogger.

The weather continues to heat up...which means less options for men...which means, ultimately, more polo shirts. The polo shirt has generally become the go-to option for men for the warmer months. It's almost like a uniform - a uniform that comes in colors like lilac and pumpernickel.

I have very few rules for wearing polo shirts (aside from the fit, which we covered in yesterday's Tip-of-the-Day) but if there was one official commandment that all men should follow, it would be: Do not, under any circumstances, wear your collar "popped".

As a general rule, popped collars look great on layered light-weight jackets - a rugged leather zip-up for example, or , my favorite, a vintage denim piece ala Kanye West (see pic below). BUT a popped collar does not work for shirts. You don't want to look like the preppy rebel from your freshman year of high school...you remember the guy who sat at the back of the class wearing his headphones and smoked cigarettes at lunch by himself.

Do not tuck in your polo shirt. Polo shirts are casual, and are not meant to be tucked in.

While we are on topic, the length of a polo is crucial. It should hit at your waistline and just hide your belt...not your thighs. Also, if your sleeves are touching with your elbow you need to size down. The sleeves should hit halfway between your shoulder and elbow, which gives you a chance to show off those biceps you've been working on all winter.

Enjoy the beautiful weather,

Yours in style,
Style Blogger

The weather in NYC this weekend was beautiful! A nice reminder that summer is on her way. It was also the perfect opportunity to break out one of my favorite accessories: sunglasses.

The right pair of sunglasses can bring an outfit to the next level and boost your level of cool. You just need the right pair. Here are some of my favorites:

The Ray Ban Aviator

Design: 9/10

Detail: 6/10

Cool Factor: 7/10

Notes: The ultimate classic pair of sunglasses, popularized by military men in WWII. They now come in countless sizes, shapes and colors. Stick with the most classic look: dark frames and gold or silver frames.

The Ray Ban Wayfarer

Design: 8/10

Detail: 7/10

Cool Factor: 8/10

Notes: The comeback kid. These classic shades, developed by Ray Ban in 1952, have developed a cult-like following and can be found on hipsters around the world. These also come in countless (and ridiculous) colorways. You could choose your own to be unique...but just know that hundreds of other fashionistos are also expressing their uniqueness with the same pair. With that said, stay classic, stay solid black or introduce yourself to the beauty that is tortoiseshell.

The Persol 0649

Design: 9/10

Detail: 8/10

Cool Factor: 9/10

Notes: My personal favorite. Steve McQueen, one of the most stylish men of all time, went everywhere with his tortoiseshell Persols, and for good reason.

Lastly, please note that the same pair of glasses can look completely different from one person to the next. It is important, therefore, to properly suit your face. There are plenty of guides on how to suit your face-shape on the internet, like this one. Also note, all sunglasses come in different sizes, shapes and slants. When shopping for sunglasses don't be afraid to try on several pairs, even in the same style.

Yours in style, Style Blogger.

Reader:

Style Blogger, what is the most popular kind of mens underwear? With all the different kinds what is the best to wear and why?

Style Blogger:

Hey! Thanks for reading. Underwear is really one of those things that is totally a personal preference. Personally, I like the popular boxer-brief-hybrid style (extended legs but tight stretchy fabric) because they are comfortable and don't "bunch up" which can sometimes cause bumps that can be seen when wearing slim trousers. To be honest, just go with what is most comfortable for you, just make sure they are not to tight - which I've been told can reduce your sperm count.

Also, you might want to take into consideration that fact that you (hopefully) might not be alone when you take your pants off after a night out, so plan accordingly...chances are the hot girl from the bar won't be turned on when she sees your Family Guy novelty boxers.

Hope this helps. Yours in style, Style Blogger

The other night I wore a collar pin (I'm trying to bring it back!) and was shocked by how many people asked "what is that thingy?" or "why is that there?" or "what does that safety pin do"? It took a surprisingly long time before one of the older gents at the event came over and reasured me that such pins were once in style - "when I was a youngster", he said.

I'm a huge fan of wearing things that are unique and unexpected. To me it is an fundamental aspect of having a sense of "personal style" - not wearing the same old outfit that everybody else has on. On that note, the collar pin is exactly the type of accessory that brings character and personality to an outfit and makes it unique.

The good news is that they are coming back in style, so you can find them now at a number of men's stores. The bad news is that they are coming back in style, so soon they will no longer have the appeal of being cool and unique...much like graphic t-shirt brands like Ed Hardy or the "hipster" movement in general.

I picked up a couple new pins from WANT, they are the traditional over-sized "safety pin" style that punch a hole threw each side of your collar. It is not great for your shirt, but if you are going to have the hutspa to wear a collar pin, you might as well go all the way. For those who do not want to sacrifice their good dress shirts, however, there are clip-ons, screw-ons and other styles available at "old money stores" like Brooks Brothers and Paul Stuart. Also, as a recession-friendly alternative, you could go to your local supply store and pick up a pack of 2-inch safety pins. The metals wouldn't be as nice but the effect the same.

Some general guidelines to pulling it off:

1) Wear a silver pin with silver accesorries (watch, cufflinks...) and gold with gold

2) It doesn't work with your wide spread or cuttaway collars, and it looks best on club (round) collars - which are also coming back!

3. It looks better on a thicker oxford cloth, the type of cloth that is so thick and heavy that it needs to be tied down.

4. It works best, and makes the most sense, on cooler weather occasion...not in the sticky heat of summer when all you want to do is undo a button or two

Go now, express yourself, and be unique. Yours in style, Style Blogger.

The positive feedback continues to pour in, thanks for all the support!

The question of anonymity came up again in a conversation last night...apparently when people read a blog they really want to know who is writing it.

When I started this blog I wanted it to remain anonymous for a number of reasons, including taking the attention away from me and focusing on the subject and the content. I didn't want it to be a "look at me" thing.

...Have you ever read a novel and had a particular view of the protagonist in your imagination, but then that novel was made into a movie and the visual portrayal ruined the emotion and nostalgia you once had for its characters? I always hate when that happens. On that note, I think I will remain anonymous, at least for now, and remain the glorified hero in your minds. haha kidding of course.

Till next time, Style Blogger.

Sorry VM

I've received alot of positive feedback about the recent post on "shoe rubbers", and it rained again today in NYC, so let the good times roll... Today's tip is again about footwear for rainy days, but for casual wardrobe.

As mentioned before, finding the right footwear for rainy days can be difficult. Most guys opt for sneakers, Timberland-like boots, or boat shoes...none of which are both practical and stylish. I recommend the new "boat boots" that some designers have been coming out with recently. They are essentially high-top boat shoes that are waterproof, and perfect for casual outfits.

Pictured below are versions by Band of Outsiders x Sperry and Rogues Gallery.

Yours in style, Style Blogger.

Reader:

Hey so this might seam a little weird but I know who you are "Style Blogger" lol. Let's just say I found out through the grapevine =) when my friends and I see you around campus we always check out what you are wearing and its always so different and cool! We go to class early sometimes just so we can check out the outfit on your way in. lol weird I know Anyway,congrats on the blog. see you around

Style Blogger:

Haha! Thanks for the love! I appreciate the message, and I hope I don't let you down next time we cross paths. All the best.

Yours in style, Style Blogger :)

While we are on the subject of rainwear...I am often asked about what footwear I wear in the rain. For men, finding suitable waterproof footwear is no easy task. In fact, it seems as if women have it much easier than men in this area; throw on a pair of colorful rubber ducky boots and you are instantly cute.

Luckily, there is a manly and stylish male counterpart to the ducky boot. I've heard them called "rubber shoe covers" or "rubber shoe protectors" but I like to call them "shoe condoms". They are essentially hollow rubber outsoles that slip over your nice (and expensive) dress shoes so that they don't get ruined in the rain, or snow for that matter.

I usually only see them on older men - who understand the importance of protecting ones good leather shoes. Every time I see them though, I say to myself, "there's a guy who knows what he's doing". I've seen them at Paul Stuart, LL Bean and Jack Spade but you can probably get them at almost any men's furnishings store. Keep in mind that you don't need designer condoms, here's one area where you can skimp...on SHOE condoms that is.

I'm a perfectionist, so leave it to me to find rules for everything, including wearing shoe rubbers. The only tip I have, if you really want to go the extra mile, is to wear dark brown rubbers with brown shoes, and black with black.

So until next time, remember, don't be a fool...wrap your tool.

Yours in style, Style Blogger.

I love all things innovative, creative and different, whether fashion related or not (but especially those that are fashion related). I would probably never carry it, but how cool is this bag?!

...Check out this "How to Buy a Raincoat" guide on GQ...it should point you in the right direction.

I was out-and-about yesterday (I was born in Canada, so that should be read "oot-'n-aboot") and I walked by a young man in a great black leather motorcycle-style jacket, brand spanking new. Under he had a rumpled dress shirt, a skinny tie, and a nice slim cardigan for layering. It was great. There was only one problem: it was raining. It had been raining all morning and all day, so there was not much of an excuse to be caught out in one's fine hide.

This brings me to today's tip: dress for the weather. My fellow pedestrian would have looked great if the sun was out - and even better if the sun had already gone down. But instead, he looked like he was trying too hard; like he had this outfit planned out for days and couldn't wait to wear it, no matter what. He should have left the leather at home and threw on a slim trench or Mac.

Part of being stylish is making sensible choices for the weather and/or occasion, and within those sensible choices, adding elements of personal style. As I always say, rules are meant to be broken...but leather and rain are just a bad mix.

Take after the gentleman pictured below; ready to battle whatever Mother Nature throws at him in his tailored rainwear.

Yours in style, Style Blogger.

Reader:

I was wondering if you could recommend a decent NYC tailor? I purchased the APC New Standard's but, I need to get them hemmed.
Also, should jeans be hemmed like slacks in terms of whether they should break towards the bottom? Somewhat cropped? Or exact? Which would be more stylish in your opinion? I will wear these with sneakers most of the time. Thanks!

Style Blogger:

Hello, and thanks for reading! This is a great question, and one that I've been asked several times. It is a tricky one to answer, however. Jeans, since everybody owns at least one pair, are worn with a certain personal element; everybody has their own way to wear their jeans. A (very cute) young woman once told me "you can tell alot about a man by looking at how he wears his jeans". I thought it was by looking at his shoes..? Nevertheless, the issue of the hemline really comes down to personal preference.

Personally, I have two (very different looking) pairs of APC New Standards. The first are crisp and unwashed and the hemline is short (like trousers). I wear them with no break, no socks, loafers and a bit of ankle exposure. In my opinion that would be the most stylish way to wear them. On the other hand, my other, older, more broken-in pair of APC's are reserved for sneakers and casual shoes (mostly Chuck Taylors, maybe a boat shoe from time to time). This pair is also hemmed (because APCs come with an extended inseam), but they are longer and I wear them with a small roll at the bottom (maybe 1 inch or so deep). I think a rolled bottom looks best with sneakers.

If you are really adventurous (and the weather is warm)...beat the crap out of your APC's and wear them rolled up twice with a pair of broken in chucks...that is the most non-nonchalant but also chic way.

For a simple hem I bring my pants to the Korean woman at the dry cleaners around the corner. For more complex alterations I got to the experts at Michael Andrews Bespoke on the Lower East Side - they really do outstanding work and, as the name implies, they can make custom clothes that you can design and style yourself.

Thanks again for reading! Yours in style, Style Blogger.

Came across an awesome streetstyle site based out of Stockholm. The people in this fashionable and avant-garde city are definitely not afraid to express themselves with their wardrobe. Very inspiring and refreshing. Check it out HERE.

Yours in style, Style Blogger.

I was a child once. I wore yellow and pink Nike Air Force Ones, I ran to Foot Locker the morning the new Jordans were released. Then I grew up and wanted to dress more like a man, so I learned the difference between sneakers and gym shoes.

Gym Shoes are high-top and have thick rubber soles with optional air pockets. They are bright in color and have a bold symbol along the side. Most importantly, they are meant to be worn on the bball court (or the squash court, depending on your level of swagger...just kidding).

Sneakers are classic, low-top, not best "fresh-out-da-box", and neutral in color. Think neutral Converse Chuck Taylors or Jack Purcells, or Adidas Sambas, or (my favorites) low-top Common Projects. These shoes work just as well with jeans as they do with khakis, and they can even be worn with a (slim) suit...again, depending on your level of swagger.

As a small side-note...as a former college basketball player I have a special place in my heart for a pair of retro Jordans...so if you are Kanye West, or have a similar level of personal style, and you can rock them with designer fashion, by all means, do your thang.

Yours in style, Style Blogger.

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome -back- to the sixties.

The other day I was flipping through the channels and got caught up in a great movie that I haven't seen in a while; "Catch me if you Can" (2002, Leo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks). Aside from being a well-made piece of cinematography, I was blown away by the wardrobe in this movie.

Not only is just about every man in the movie very well dressed, but it reminded me that the style of the clothing that was popular in the late 50s-early 60's is now back in full swing - think well managed side parted hair, slim suit with high armholes and slim lapels, skinny ties, tie bars, breakless pant lengths, etc... The wardrobe is so well done that an actor could have walked off the set of this movie and easily been the most stylish, fashion-forward, and slightly ahead of his time (considering it was shot in 2002), person walking the street.

Here's an idea...rather than spending $3K on a slim designer suit by the likes of Neil Barrett, Michael Bastian, or the extremist Thom Browne, you could hit up the local Salavtion Army or similar store and find a vintage suit made 3-4 decades ago and it would be earily similar (and $2.9K cheaper)! Also, the vintage piece would probably have more character to it and thus look less "over-the-top-designer" and more "dainty gentleman".

Thinking back, last time I went to the Salvation Army with my mother, who is one of the best and most creative shoppers of all time, I passed on an incredible vintage 3 piece tweed suit. It was $30...I'm still kicking myself for not picking it up.

That's all for now...I'm going to search for more 60s-era movies for inspiration. If you have any suggestions, feel free to respond in the comments.

Check out the pics below. The first is from the movie, the other three are actual pics from 1961 (found on Ivy-Style). Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads!

Yours in style, Style Blogger.

In my opinion, it is always better to be over-dressed than under-dressed. The "I'm too cool" attitude toward getting "dressed up" that dominated most of the 90's (I'm sure we all know a guy or two who consistently wears jeans to a formal event to show that he doesn't 'play by the rules') is fading, and we are seeing the resurgence of the modern gentleman.

Also, since more and more workplaces over the years have adopted a lenient (to very lenient) "business casual" dress code, the suit is becoming cool again. More and more men want to wear suits, and more and more designers are coming up with modern takes on the classic two (and three) piece.