Scott Sternberg Rules of Style

I really enjoyed this top ten rules of style by head designer of Band Of Outsiders, Scott Sternberg. I don't agree with all of it, but it is entertaining. Enjoy!

1) Opening a conversation with "What do you do?" makes you sound like a shifty, social-climbing dickwad. Small talk is for sissies, but if you're stuck with it, you can certainly come up with something better than that.

2) Talking about what brand you're wearing is gay in the bad way. Just keep quiet and play dumb if someone asks. Talking about what a great deal you got on the aforementioned item is worse. If you must, tell your mom, because she has sale empathy and will take your victory as her own. It's sick.

3) I don't think a tie is a relic, not yet. It's purely masculine—that one garment that allows you to go a little outside the box. A tie with a well-cut suit makes you look put-together and confident. It's an auto-chic, easy uniform.

4) Cigarettes are a vile, dirty habit. Joints, on the other hand, are perfectly acceptable.

5) Whenever you start a new project or a new job, don't tell anyone what you're working on, because it can change direction a million times and once you start telling the world about it, you get constrained by your own mouth.

6) That skin-toned paste your girlfriend gave you to treat your pimple is makeup. Don't kid yourself. You're a girl if you use it. Figure something else out.

7) Rabid atheism does not lead to attractive or acceptable cocktail-party conversation. You know who you are and you need to chill. We get it, okay? God is for dummies. Now shut your hole.

8) It's just not cool to fart on a plane, even if everyone's ears are plugged from the altitude and they can't hear where it came from. Heed my warning: Airplane-fart karma is a bitch, and you will find yourself at the receiving end on a sleepless transcontinental red-eye soon enough.

9) Style fills the gap between how you see yourself and how you want other people to see you. It is not a mysterious quality reserved for Cary Grant or Liberace. You have a sense of it in there somewhere. It's just a matter of finding a way to express it without seeming like you're trying.

10) Rules, as they say, are meant to be broken. Don't get too caught up with what I—or anyone else—tell you about your personal style, except for No. 8.

The Perfect Bag

If your looking for a good quality, fashionable bag or luggage, I highly recommend Filson. High quality, and pairs well with all but the most formal clothing. They even had a recent collaboration with Apolis Activism, which looks like this:
If your looking for something more affordable, I definitely recommend checking out your local Army surplus stores. Simple, canvas messengers can very often be had for a very good price.

The Most Stylish Cellphones in Canada

After a careful review of the major players in the Canadian wireless industry, a few phones clearly differentiate themselves from the sea of Blackberry clunkers at the office. These phones all meet the aesthetic requirements of a stylish gentlemen. To qualify phones had to be readily available through Bell, Telus, Rogers and Fido. Based purely on visual standards, The Style Advisor has compiled this list of stylish conversation starters. Pun intended.

1) Apple Iphone - Available at Fido for 199.99, 8 gig, 3 year 299.99 for 16gb on a 3 year plan. Everyone has it, its battery life kind of sucks, but you can't deny its look. Even on this short list it has sparked numerous copycats. Available in white or black.2) LG Vantage 830 - The Vantage from Bell is available for 299.95 or 49.99 on 3 year contract. It has touch screen phone and a 2 megapixel. It is a sleek slider, no frills phone. What else do you need?3) HTC Diamond - Available at Rogers for 599.99 or 199.99 on 3 year. Available from Telus, it features a 3.2 megapixel and works on windows mobile. It features a slick minimalist design, reminiscent of the Iphone. At this time only available in black.4) LG Shine - Available at Telus for 399.99 or 29.99 on 3 year, it is a basic phone with a 2 megapixel camera. It is also available in a slider version from Rogers. Can be bought in silver or gold, it has a steel exterior that does indeed shine. Stick with the silver version for a refined look.
5) LG TU915 VU - The VU can be had at Rogers for 419.99 no term or 79.99 on a 3 year. It features touch screen, html web browsing, and 2.0 megapixel camera, and is another Iphone inspired device.6) Samsung Instinct 49.99 3 year bell 399.95 Large touch screen phone, 2.0 megapixel camera. Another Iphone inspired device,
7) LG Venus - Available at Telus for 399.99, no contract or 29.99 on 3 year, it has 2.0 megapixel camera, and a touch screen. A basic, but solid choice.It seems like Canadian cell phone companies have much to catch up on. Our selection is embarrassingly limited compared to European and especially Asian markets. So much so that many people have been importing their phones from foreign countries and unlocking them. For those not so inclined, these devices will have to do, for now.

Most Stylish Men in America, Really?

Click here to check out GQ's list of the Most Stylish Men in America.

It sounds more like a list of celebrities with stylists that GQ likes. TI, really?! Come on, there has got to be better dressed people in America. I hope. Please. Anyone?

Band of Outsiders at Fashion Week

As promised, here are some pictures from Band of Outsiders at Fashion Week. BoO continues its tradition of American classic preppy. They also showed off their women's line, ironically called Boy.

Some fantastic suits coming out of the collection. The bow ties, rep ties and especially the madras suit exemplify Ivy inspired. Perhaps Scott Sternberg has been reading Ivy Take. Did I mention boat shoes?

Band of Outsiders

Band of Outsiders has received a ton of well deserved press in the past year. Kanye West is a big fan, and despite Mr. West's stylistic shortcomings, they are winning me over as well.

Like APC, it is another great company offering classic styles with slim profiles. They are best known for their dress shirts, which are extremely well cut (think short, and skinny), but come with a hefty price tag of 200+ retail. Many people swear by the shirts while others grumble about the price, but rarely about the cut.

The company is doing some great marketing on their website, and offering us an image that is well constructed. The retro use of Polaroid photographs really conjures up an eclectic nostalgia of stylish, modern clothing worn in a classic way. As you surely know by now, the prevalence of wayfarers is something I approve of as well.

This year they are offering a BoO x Sperry collaboration, which really does look fantastic and I encourage you to check out. It looks like boat shoes are making a big comeback this spring with BoO, Sperry and APC leading the pack. However, the boots are definitely the stand out of this collaboration.

Band of Outsiders is a great American prep inspired collection, I look forward to their future offerings.

BoO will be presenting at Fashion Week today, check back soon to see some pics, until then their site is here.

APC Spring/Summer 2009

Long known for their beautifully cut raw jeans, APC has been the focus of some criticism with its most recent collection of Spring/Summer 2009. The argument basically follows that APC is not doing anything new or creative, it is just the same designs as previous seasons.

I understand the argument and in reality it is a fair criticism. There is simply not much innovation going on with the brand. They are safe, focused, and deliberate in their collections.

Everytime.

That is what I like about them. They are a French, minimalist brand who season after season produces high quality, stylish clothes, for both men and women. The materials are quality, the cuts are slim, and the designs are classic.

If it ain't broken don't fix it.

That being said, I am not a big fan of the Nike collaboration. The boat shoes on the other hand are fantastic. I am also liking the slim cut navy suit, a must in any wardrobe.

I will continue supporting the brand, I just wish they would bring a retail outlet to Canada.

Disheveled Elegance

I have been obsessed with a look that can be only described as disheveled elegance. Let me explain:

First there is a majority of people who just don't care about their looks at all. Easily recognizable by their Crocs, sports jersey's and sweatpants.

Then there is the small minority who care a bit too much. Although clearly far superior to the majority who don't care at all, they to seem to lack something. Maybe everything is just a bit too coordinated. A little too matchy matchy. Everything falls into place just so, and any imperfections that may arise are quickly adjusted.

Then there are those who conjure up the term disheveled elegance. These people often appear as though they after a hard night of drinking, or are even taking the walk of shame. They do not seem consciously aware of their style, no matter how planned it may really be. It might be a shirt untucked, a button missing, or untended facial hair. They look like they have lived interesting lives. You wonder what kind of stories they have to tell.

Their clothes are chic but lived in, and that is the essence of disheveled elegance.

Painting: Willem de Kooning, Gotham News

Ivy League Style

It is difficult to find much information on Ivy League style despite its formidable influence on the fashion world.

However, I was able to find an interesting post on a continuous lean. It shows some great illustrations from a book titled Take Ivy photographed in the 1960's. The book can still occasionally be bought on Ebay, but expect to pay 500+ dollars for the pleasure.

Regrettably, Ivy League style seems to have almost descended into oblivion in recent decades, but that does not mean we can not draw inspiration from it. To me the style embraces bold fabrics such as tweed, flannels and madras. Penny loafers, duck boots, plaid ties and rep sweaters layered with dress shirts encompass the core look.

However, there is something more to it then just the clothes. I believe it is the aura of a time forgotten. The style takes me to a time. An era when you knew most of your graduating class by name. When your classmates became your life time friends, co-workers and spouses. When you walked to class, you were met with smiles from other students, instead of people listening to their Ipods with their heads down, scared to make eye contact.

Having gone to University in the 2000's, I sometimes long for a simpler time similar to that conjured up by Ivy League Style. Although we often think about how we could have lived without our cell phones or internet, sometimes I wonder how we can live with them.

But, I digress, Ivy League style still has it's place in todays world. Loafers, flannels, and chambray's are essentials in every man's wardrobe. Maybe, when we wear them we can be taken back to a simpler time. Even if it is just for a second.

The Pocket Square

When is a pocket square appropriate? What color should I wear? What kind of fold should I use?

There has been some debate about whether a pocket square is appropriate for all occasions. Although there is no easy answer, I believe the pocket square can be adapted to any situation.

A commonly cited concern is that a pocket square at the workplace will give unwanted attention and label you as an eccentric. I agree that if you are wearing a rainbow colored square that is bursting from you breast pocket, you may attract some odd glances. the solution is simple: a reserved white linen square, in a TV fold will never draw a negative response. It is a neat fold that will only be noticed by those looking for such detail. The key is judging your audience, and understanding norms.

When in social situations I am in the school of thought that the pocket square can be as pronounced as you wish. It is your opportunity to experiment with color and design. Try different folds, and find what you suits your style.

A word of caution: I would avoid matching tie and pocket square. The result is often amateur and a bit cheesy. Try complimentary colors that don't clash, but accentuate each other. For example, pink and green and gray and yellow are two of my staples.

For ideas on how to fold your square click here.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Today I had the opportunity to watch The Curious Case of Benjamin Button starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. Despite receiving mainly positive reviews, many people complained about its length and resemblance to Forrest Gump when it first debuted.

Although the Forrest Gump motif is accurate, I enjoyed the movie. It is a classic love story, with a twist. Although not a revelation by any means, it's simplicity takes you through the journey of love lost. The movie has a heart, despite it's lack of thematic novelty and Hollywood budget.

The length of the film did not bother me. I actually felt that the duration of the movie allowed me to better relate to the characters. It is also refreshing to see a film breaking the Hollywood mold of 1 hour and 3o minute films.

In addition, Brad Pitt was seen displaying some classic style. From the Belstaff motorcycle jacket, Clarks desert boots, to the pale yellow v-neck sweater, the film does a good job of styling its characters. It is a great example of effortless style that many of us can adopt, no matter how old we are.

Chuck Bass Style

Chuck Bass, the fictional character on Gossip Girl, offers more style inspiration then just his signature scarf. Indeed, from his often wild and flamboyant ways we can take away a few pointers on how to improve our daily dress.

1) Cut of of the suit - Modern, slim, and always on the short side, the cut of a Chuck Bass suit offers a refreshing change to the sea of over sized, too long suits we see on a daily basis. Great sleeve length is also displayed on a regular basis. If you are a slim guy your silhouette should be progressively moving toward this cut.

2) Shoes - Brown leather Italian shoes, boat shoes, and never seen in sneakers. Nothing more needs to be said here.

3) Pocket Square - Chuck bass is often seen displaying a prominent pocket square. This accessory has been making a comeback in recent years. I am all for it, in all environments. Just remember not to match it to your tie.

4) Don't be scared of color - lots of yellows, greens, pinks, and reds. Not only for pocket squares but for socks, sweaters, scarves and even pants. Most of us are far too reserved in our use of color. Experiment, and you too will stand out in the sea of black, blue, and grey men's clothing.

5) Confidence - Finally and most importantly having confidence and feeling comfortable in your clothes is key to looking good. Your posture, presence, speech and most importantly your mind all play a key role in pulling off a Chuck Bass inspired look.

Just remember, when in doubt keep it on the subdued side.

Common Men's Wear Mistakes Part 2

This is a continuation of the first post, common men's wear mistakes. As I stated before avoid these at all costs. I know I am not the only one who hates these so much. So lets take a look at a few more common menswear mistakes.

6) Sweatpants - Again, at the gym might be appropriate, even at home on occasion. However, outside, to a public function? Never.

7) Long sleeve lengths - Applies especially to suits, but this is clearly visible in all outerwear. The sleeve of casual jacket should never get to the base of your thumb. And for suits and blazers please stop at the wrist. Make sure to show 1/4 to 1/2".

8) Large graphics, branding - You don't want to be a walking advertisement. You shouldn't have to rely on a brand to achieve your image. When i see it I think one word: tacky.

9) Tucking T-shirts in - I have never seen this look good, ever, prove me wrong.

10) Almost all sandals - They just do not look good. Keep them at the beach.

11) Crew Neck T-shirt visible under dress shirt - wear a v-neck its not that hard.

12) Clipping your cell phone to your belt - This reminds me of a fanny pack. Put it in your pocket, in a bag but whatever you do don't have it dangling off your midsection.

I think I will stop there for now as I just threw up in my mouth a little bit.

Common Men's Wear Mistakes

There are a few things that I see on a regular basis, that are not only plainly sub par, but outright hideous. These need to be addressed, if for no other reason but to reduce how often they are appearing on the streets. These style faux pas never work. Don't try them, and if you are doing them, please stop.

1) Blue tooth ear pieces - Nothing more annoying and just plain ugly. Not only is it extremely awkward when someone is walking down the street and appears to be talking to himself, but occasionally bystanders believe you are speaking to them. Aesthetically, they have no redeeming values. Unless your going for the robocop look.

2) Square toed dress shoes - Atrocious is the best way to describe these "dress shoes" which are ubiquitously found across all segments of the population. From teenagers to middle aged business men, this shoe should be avoided at all costs.

3) Wearing elaborate sneakers outside of the gym - We have all seen those sneakers which look like they're from the future. With air cushions, shock absorbing springs, and multiple colorways appropriate on a basketball court, but not to a night out at a restaurant.

4) Ill fitting clothes - Measure your waist size 1-2 inches below your belly button, buy corresponding size pants. Do not sag them to the point that we can see your underwear. No one is interested. Shirts sleeves shoulder hems should rest at the end of the shoulder, not go halfway down your bicep. Avoid excess fabric, but we don't need to see where your nipples are either.

5) Crocs - No further elaboration necessary.

Stay tuned for part 2 coming soon.

Sunglasses

One of my favorite accessories, and I think one of the most important is a great pair of classic sunglasses.

Many people state that they refuse to spend over 100 dollars for sunglasses as they tend to sit on them or otherwise break them. However, I have several pairs which I have used for a few years. The simple solution is using a hard case when you are not wearing them. This alone will alone prevent most accidents.

With that in mind we can look at some do's and don'ts for your next pair of sunnies. Avoid large logos, emblazoned on the side. Also odd colors such as white and red just scream fashion victim, and are quickly dated. Stick to the classics, black or tortoise shell, only. Make sure to inspect the glasses carefully and avoid buying one which say they are made in China, you want to be paying for quality after all. The most important thing is that they fit your face. So make sure to go into a store and try some on.

Keep in mind plastic frames are not adjustable on the bridge, so if the fit is off on plastic frames, its best to move on to another pair, or another size in the same style.

Once you know what you want, you can typically find them on the internet for about 40% off retail. Just be careful not to fall prey to cheap knock-offs.

Here are a few quick ideas, feel free to experiment with stylized versions, or find your own favorites.

Ray ban Aviator:

Available in multiple sizes, and colorways. Simple, classic, effective. Feel free to experiment with other companies offerings with slightly different shaped lenses. Find whats right for you.

Ray ban Wayfarer:

A classic from blues brothers to Bob Dylan. Now available in multiple sizes. 50, 52, 54, and 55 mm. Stick with the smaller sizes for an updated look.

Persol:

Another timeless looking pair, sported by the new James Bond himself, Daniel Craig. Lots of high quality designs available.

Chuck Bass Scarf

In recent memory very few men's fashion figures have generated as much buzz as Chuck Bass, played by Ed Westwick on the popular TV Sitcom Gossip girl.

The outrageous suits, peacoats, scarves, ascots, and boat shoes have inspired gossip everywhere. Many of us have seen the much revered signature scarf, available at JPress. Many have even taken to adopting it as their own. But, there is something just a tad bit tacky about just following an actors style consultant. Most of us don't want to be walking down the street and immediately be recognized as a Gossip Girl follower.

That is not to say we can not draw stylistic cues from the influence of the show. The scarf, for example is an excellent accessory that for many years has been underestimated, especially in the men's fashion realm. It is an excellent and easy way to add flair to an otherwise boring or uninspired outfit.

One thing we can learn from the show is that the use of the scarf as a pop of color can give an instant update to anybody's look. A purple cashmere gives a rich tone and is paired well with the otherwise dark and dreary outfits of winter. Patterned striped scarves such as those available at American Apparel can also be striking, although a bit ubiquitous.

The key is to make it make it stand out from the rest of the outfit, but at the same time compliment it. So, add some excitement and go out of your comfort range. Its an easy way to experiment with color without buying a whole garment.

But, if you take my advice on anything let it be this: do not go with the burberry check. This has been reproduced by almost every scarf producer, and has become the trademark of the uninspired.