A sneak peak at MMM Spring/Summer 09. I am getting a bit of 70's Disco Vibe. Could it have anything to do with disco ball mirrored leggings, perhaps?
Click here to check out GQ's list of the Most Stylish Men in America.
Today I took a long walk to pick up some paint for my current project.
Pictures of the New Maybach Zeppelin have been released. Set to be available later this year, it offers a 640 horsepower, 6.0 Litre, v12 engine. Impressive numbers to say the least.
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.
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.
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.
Painting: Willem de Kooning, Gotham News
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.
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.
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.
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.
We have all seen the ubiquitous shirts designed by Ed Hardy, and his ensemble being sported by many men in the last 2 years. They are easily recognizable by their over abundant graphics, multiple skulls, liberal use of the bedazzler and $ 100+ price tags. These shirts have been spotted on the backs of Shaquille O'Neal, Madonna, Miley Cyrus and your local teenage "rebel".
For those that are unfamiliar with the brand (lucky you!), let me offer an example:
Clearly lacking in any kind of semblance of design, and unfamiliar with the term minimalism, this is something you an overambitious 8 year old boy might design at a t-shirt design store.
Ed Hardy and Christian Audigier were first based on tattoo designs, now these shirts have become a trophy of the tasteless. Devoid of any artistic merit that their original designs were based, they now expel excess as being the name of the game. Unfortunately, these companies and cheaper copy cats have spread like Britney Spears exiting a motor vehicle.
Closely related to Ed Hardy, we have Affliction and Tapout which are more linked to Mixed Martial Arts then tattoo culture. I just wanted to remind everyone that pulling the t-shirt will not make you fight like George St. Pierre. Apparently that fact is lost on many fans of the brands as bar owners have been banning the shirts from their establishments. My hat goes off to them.
When I think of this trend I am reminded of a similar beast appearing in the mid 90's. No Fear t-shirts and Von Dutch also come to mind. Let's hope that this trend will disappear just as quickly.
If you come away with anything from this blog let it be this: money does not buy taste.
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