Thursday, October 28, 2010

Sock It To Me

Earlier we had a discussion about the knee high sock and its integral part in the female wardrobe this fall. Now I'd like to change things up, but stay on the same theme, and delve into male socks. If you are most men I know, you probably have 2-3 different types. Primarily, your drawer will be full of some sort of white or grey athletic socks that are your staple, and if you had your choice you'd wear them all the time. Variations 2 and 3 are just your brown and black dress socks that were most likely purchased out of necessity and were on sale in a 3-pack. Sure, you may think that's all you need, but I'd like to broaden your horizon a bit.

The Italians have been rocking the sock flair for decades, but then again a wise man once said "If you speak fashion, you speak Italian." I'd have to agree with him... the Italians have a knack for adding flair in the smallest of ways yet making a big statement. We can even take a trip to England where Paul Smith is a champion for the statement sock. Why then, has this trend not seen widespread acceptance in the United States? Honestly, I have no explanation, but allow me to enlighten you to the ways of our European role models.

There are a few rules you'll want to think about when picking socks for your outfit. First off, you want the socks to match your outfit or at least compliment what you have on. Avoid looking like the Joker from Batman or an escaped clown from the circus--in either case people would be right to put you out of your fashion misery. Secondly, if you are wearing mostly muted colors you can use your socks as your "pop" of color. If you choose this option, please refrain from adding other color splashes. You don't want your viewers to feel like they are in an Old Spice commercial--look at my socks, now look at my tie, now look at my socks, now back to my tie. Finally, this trend really only seems to work while wearing slim cut pants, and heightened by cuffing your pants just a bit so they graze the top of your shoe when standing still.

Final verdict: Go out and pick up a few bright socks to give your outfit a bit of a face-lift. If you are feeling really fancy, try somewhere that sells them 1 pair at a time instead of by bulk. My favorite spots are Urban Outfitters and Thomas Pink.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Blinded by the Light

As the autumnal air rolls in and the leaves turn to brown you may be tempted to pack away an important accessory until the thaw of spring. What accessory is that, you may ask? The sandal? Ummm no. The cutoff jean mini-skirt? Wrong again. How about I just tell you? The correct answer is none other than sunglasses.

An often overlooked fall/winter accessory is the perfect pair of sunglasses. The important thing to remember when selecting your cold-weather shades is that the frames should be plastic. Your standard metal aviators need to take a back seat because you don't want them freezing to your face. Have you ever put your tongue on a cold piece of metal? Same idea, but picture that metal stuck to your face. The plastic frames will maintain a pleasant temperature while still shielding your eyes from the sun... bright daylight on fresh snow can be quite blinding.

Final verdict: if you don't own a pair of plastic-framed sun-shields, look into getting them. Designer sunglasses are great, but if you're like me and lose/break sunglasses, just look for a cheaper pair. One of my favorite pairs is from American Eagle.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Spectral Shift

Every season there are whole color programs to choose from, yet there are always those few hues that stand out as being the "it" colors. This fall it has been camel, and really the whole brown palette. The leathers of the season seem to be beautiful tans and rich browns instead of the bright pops that we've seen before. As we progress into the second half of the season you will begin to notice a switch in these hues. The autumnal earth tones will give way to rich purples and greys. Take a peek at a few gorgeous examples below.


Final Verdict: I'm sure grey isn't a big stretch for most people, but you should consider looking into the purple... yes that includes the male readers. Sure you might not rock a pair of violet gloves, but a purple scarf could easily do the trick.

The Mane Event

Walking past the window displays on 5th Avenue, one can easily see that the trend of fur has arrived. I still have not figured out where I fall on the "yay versus nay" scale. There is something fun and rugged about breaking up the clean lines of your outfit with the furry warmth of an expired woodland creature. Although, if that sounds a little too harsh for your taste, there are many faux fur options out there which, pleasantly enough, can end up being the more affordable option.

However, as sometimes happens with a trend, an uneducated shopper can get carried away. The Chanel 2010 fall/winter ad campaign is a prime example of where a naive shopper could be led astray. Sometimes designers go overboard with a theme in an attempt to be artistic, but how a glorified wookie suit became high fashion, I will never know. What is even more shocking, is to see the the price ticket that budding fashionistas (with too much money) will pay for this haute Lucasarts set piece.

Fur is a trend that one should never just embrace just for the sake of fashion. It requires a more knowledgeable spin to craft together the ideal ensemble without looking like a 19th century trapper. The most common piece that I have seen this fall is the fur vest. It is available in different fur types, lengths, and color options. Something I have noticed is that every wanna-be model, and most of the actual models, seem to own one. The problem presented is that only a handful of these owners actually know how to pull the look off. I find that it often looks best on someone with a more "rocker bohemian" style (i.e., Erin Wasson), although the grey furs look great on someone with a bit more minimalist approach.

Final Verdict: Whatever your style, I would suggest that you stay away from the yeti-fur boots. I don't know why these have come back, but I thought we had killed off that "Aspen snow bunny" fashion disaster. Instead, you should look for pieces that have the animal trim, often around the collar, or use the fur detailing on scarves, capes, and capelets to sate your appetite.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Fall Back, Spring Ahead

I know that for most of you, spring 2011 is the furthest thing from your mind, but in the fashion world, they are already past it. Personally, I am all about clothing my stunning wife in flannels and earth tones, but I digress. Let's chat about the spring season and for what you should be keeping your well-trained eyes peeled. This upcoming "season of new life" is all pops of color in bright refreshing tones. Everything from neon lipsticks to magenta suede heels stormed the catwalk in New York, Paris, and Milan. What does this really mean for me, you may ask?

As forward thinking as fashion tends to be, it is at the same time very cyclical. Many of the themes shown each year are not necessarily new ideas, but instead a take on how to put them all together. With this in mind, if you are privy to fashion movements early enough, it is possible to buy hot, new season pieces at off-season prices. While you may not get the new 150mm peep-toe pumps by YSL, you may be able to find a gorgeous pair from last season. I often am shopping off-season for my clothing and even managed to pick up my distressed denim jacket for this fall for the low low price of $20 from a Zara end-of-season clearance sale in July. July tends to be when many retailers are liquidating spring inventory to lower their carrying costs, thus giving them more open-to-buy for the next year.

Now that you know one of the secrets to the industry, how can we apply this to things for the next season? I want to focus on only one aspect and that would be the heel. Gleaning from above, we can surmise that your fabulous footwear should make a statement. Personally, I am always a fan of the peep-toe pump, but there are many fabulous sandals to bring some pizazz to your ensemble. Below are a few picks of mine from the Steve Madden line. His heels are amazingly stylish and due to the line being more of a mass market retailer, they are likely to have frequent sales and markdowns. Don't let this fool you though, his heels are great quality and my wife, working in the fashion magazine industry, gets as many compliments on her Steve Madden heels as she would a pair of her Louboutins. In fact, her co-workers are often surprised to find out where she makes her finds.

Final Verdict: By shopping early you can make your co-workers jealous with envy. While they are bemoaning the high prices of the pieces they want, you can chuckle at the fact that you got them for 50% off.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Improve Your Look in 2 Seconds or Less

Grant, what's an easy way to instantly improve my look without breaking the bank? Well, avid reader, I have an answer for you. Interestingly enough, your question has stumbled us into one of my top pet peeves: people that dress their body type incorrectly. Wait, that wasn't what I wanted to talk about. Now what did I... OH, Right! What I wanted to talk about was another one of my top irritations: poor posture.

Walking the streets of NYC, I've found that a person with good posture instantly catches my eye. In a society where women slouch their shoulders and men hunch in their chairs, it's no wonder that everyday poise is deteriorating. When I was younger, I used to hunch all the time. Every time I went to my grandparents' house, my grandfather would correct this youthful folly. He constantly told me that the way to instantly impress a lady was to carry yourself in a self-assured manner. This was best conveyed by keeping a straight back and owning a stride that was as graceful as it was commanding. If the idea of proper posture is foreign to you, I suggest watching fashion runway videos. While the models' steps are often overly emphasized, they have the basic concept down. After some practice you may find that the muscles in the middle of your back are sore. This pain is probably earned by the simple act of keeping your shoulders back. Think of this as your body slapping you in the head for letting it get to this point.

Final verdict: with a little practice, you can start turning heads with little more than your gait.

Wrap it, Stuff it, Wear it

As most of you have probably started to notice (except maybe you southerners), the air is getting colder and colder. The t-shirt evolved into the sweater which then, in turn, brought along his friend, the coat. I'm sure everyone wishes that they could purchase a new coat each season (or several coats for that matter) but, if you are like me, you can't afford to indulge that urge. "How can I spice up my fall/winter outerwear get-up without going broke?" you may ask. Well, my loyal reader, let me tell you: with a well-picked scarf.

As noted by comedic writer, Christian Lander, the scarf is an important part of any wardrobe. There are many options and fabrics and styles for this neck accoutrement. Generally, the scarf is an easy way to add a splash of color to your wardrobe, and you shouldn't be afraid to go with bright reds or bold rugby stripes. Even if you are a seasoned adult, you can return to your prime by picking one up with embroidered collegiate styling. Why not build upon my earlier theme of "chunky" and go for a cable style?

In order to get a fantastic scarf, you don't need to spend a lot of money. I have several fashionable styles that were purchased for under $20. Recently, my wife purchased me a collegiate cable-knit angora and wool scarf from Forever 21 that is just fabulous. Angora, as you may know, is a soft hair that comes from the Angora rabbit or goat. One thing to keep in mind when purchasing angora is that it has a tendency to shed. Because of this, I would recommend staying away from 100% angora unless it is from a well-respected brand (higher quality does reduce shedding). Another fabric that you want to watch (as far as quality goes) is wool. Since scarves are worn around the neck and against soft skin, you don't want this wrap to consist of coarse or itchy fibers. Giving your loved one a wool scarf is like giving them a carnation to say “I love you”. If you really want to mean it, you should splurge for the red rose of the scarf world: cashmere. Cashmere is just like the perfect girlfriend: beautiful, elegant, makes all your friends envious, looks great dressed up or down, and not too clingy.

Final verdict: try some new styles this season and look for new ways to tie it around your neck. Come holiday season look for tartan fabrics.

Fashion Faux Pas 101

On my way to the office today, I found my writing inspiration staring me in the face on more than one occasion. Normally I wouldn't waste my time on such a basic fashion commandment, but my social encounters have forced the issue. What, you might ask, could have such a cool, calm, and collected gentleman like yourself up in a tizzy? Jacket buttons; jacket buttons, I tell you.

The first, and arguably the most important, point to this topic is that you NEVER button that bottom front button on a standard 2 or 3 button jacket. There are many reasons as to why, originally dating back to a fat king, but the reason I'll give you is that it just looks bad. Do you really need more of a reason than that? One easy way to remember the order on a 3 button jacket is the acronym S.A.W. Starting from the top it is Sometimes, Always, What in the heck are you doing, who told you it was okay to touch this button? Just kidding, the rule is sometimes, always, never... as in the top button is optional, but the middle is not... but seriously, if you touch that bottom button I'm going to box your ears. If you can't figure out the rule for the 2-button after all of this, you should just stop reading.

Now, when we get into 4 or more button jackets, it just begs the question as to why on earth you are wearing that many. The only acceptable reason to wear a 4 button jacket would be if you happened to play in the NBA or are constantly being asked if you do. If this is the case, traditionally all of the buttons are fastened. The extreme height of the wearer helps to make the jacket look normal. What about the double-breasted jacket? Much like the 4+ button, you want to button all (although this is up for debate depending with whom you speak). A key thing to remember about the DB jacket is that the inside button, which is done before the outside buttons, must be secured in order to give the jacket shape (this one is not up for debate). Also, the double-breasted jacket is to be done-up anytime you are standing.

Final Verdict: I hope that this quick refresher has helped you with any lapses in fashion judgment, and that we can avoid having this conversation in the future.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Arm Candy

A man's bag is something that should reflect his appearance, even when it's not hanging loyally by his side, or casually slung over one shoulder. How many times have you gone to the gym and seen some business man, all done up in his suit and overcoat, flop down a nylon give-away backpack? An even more puzzling scenario is when that same man is carrying a nice attaché or briefcase in the other hand. The juxtaposition between the two bags is jarring, to say the least. A carry-all bag or even your gym bag is an extension of yourself and should reflect that accordingly. Here are a few bags that may help you stand out from the worker drones.

Mulberry, a luxury leather house from England, is a name with which you should certainly familiarize yourself. While not a venerable house like Hermès (est. 1837), Mulberry has garnered sufficient footing for itself in the luxury market in the 40 years since its founding. They blend the modern feels of the city with the timeless echoes of the countryside. This focus on history has led the designers to zero in on 6 styles that have been perfected, and crafted in a range of colors instead of a myriad of silhouettes. The resulting pieces are well worth owning, and if properly cared for, will last decades.

The next retailer is a little bit more price-attainable, but no less an equal in quality. Filson has been around since 1897 and got their start outfitting the prospectors for the Klondike Gold Rush. As such, the goods needed to be able to brave the elements along with their owners. The label still caters to the outdoorsy community, but has found a foothold in the high fashion realm, with even stores like Bergdorf Goodman carrying a selection. If you happen to have seen the movie The Proposal, Ryan Reynolds' character uses one of these iconic duffles for his trip home to Alaska... and who doesn't want to be like that guy?

Final Verdict: Switch out your carry-all for something a little more stylish, and don't be surprised if you get a few more head-turns from the ladies.

The Ivy

Imagine the afternoon sun peeking out from behind the embrace of a downy white cloud crawling across the sky. The air is crisp and the occasional breeze dances across your exposed skin as you idly stroll down a back country road. The sound of your thoughts mix with the crunching of fallen leaves underneath your feet, creating an organic poetic melody.

Sounds wonderful, right? Of course it does; but not all of us can escape out into the spacious countryside. And when you can't escape, how can you pretend? Well, by wearing an ivy. Now some of you may be wondering what an ivy is, or why you would be wearing an English climbing plant. The ivy also goes by the common name of the "newsie cap." Ringing any bells?

This flat cap originated as the head-warmer for the working class, but over the years has gained more of an upper class image. The wonderful thing about this versatile cap is that it creates a casual image while maintaining that sophisticated oneness. The ivy comes in many different fabrics and makes a great addition to any autumnal ensemble. Thrown with jeans, a vest, and an oxford it says, "I'm into relaxing, so let's meet at the pub for merriment and unique music." Combined with an overcoat and silk scarf it speaks volumes in a different direction.

Final verdict: this English isle accessory should be a "must" for your closet....and like the Swiss Army knife, the possibilities are endless.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Chunky Not Always A Bad Thing

Well duh, Grant. What about soup? Ok, you make a valid point. But either you're new, or just really dense. This is a fashion blog: key word being "fashion." Man, some peoples' kids I tell ya. Now where was I?

The chunky sweater has returned from the brink of fashion oblivion and, like the Prodigal Son, has been welcomed back with open arms. Contrary to other areas, the only stipulation for something to be lumped into this category is that it has to be,... well... chunky. Usually done in a wider gauge knit, these sweaters/cardigans/vests harken of a lost era brimming with a rustic charm. Unlike their vintage relatives, these variants opt for a variety of choices instead of the previously favored crewneck. The shawl, cowl, and turtleneck collars have become the "belles of the ball" this time around, and the new necklines allow for a plethora of layering options. With this in mind, you should add some life to your wardrobe. Break free from your normal routine. What about a long sleeve polo under a shawl neck cardigan, or a graphic long sleeved tee under a v-neck cable sweater vest? A key style fact to remember when incorporating this item, though, is that your other pieces should be fitted. A bulky sweater with baggy pants just makes you look like a hobo.

Not only do these bulky relatives come in a surfeit of neck options, but they also are swimming in old-world color palates. For some reason a lot of these colors are female in gender, and love to go by the name "Heather." No wait! As it turns out, heather is a yarn or fabric color that is subtly flecked or mottled. Heathered grey seems to be one of the more popular colors this year with every designer from Alice & Olivia to Zegna using it.

Final verdict: when looking for this garment, try to find one in a cable knit. It looks great, and adds a little more texture to the ensemble.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Undiscovered Beauty

In the fashion world, there are some names that serve as top-of-mind titans. If someone were to perhaps ask you to rattle off 3 women's designers, I could expect to see a powerhouse name like Chanel or Valentino. The same exercise in purses would produce Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, and Prada (as they are Chinatown's biggest knock-offs.) When you get to female shoes it seems that Christian Louboutin has king-of-the-hill status, what with his highly coveted crimson-soled beauties storming the red carpet at every turn. While these well-known names are certainly worth checking out, there are many other designers whose work is of equal beauty. Let's take a look at 3 designers that you may not know, who create amazing accessories that are sure to make women drool.

First up, we have Reed Krakoff, the creative director for Coach who has launched a luxury line bearing his name. His pieces are wonderfully modern, yet classic at the same time. And RK has a signature habit of mixing materials in such a way that make the end result seem almost old-world elegant. One of my favorite pieces this season is the alligator skin and grey flannel tote, seen below. Even though his pieces may not be in your price range, they might give you inspiration when shopping.

Number two on our list is the French label of Pierre Hardy. His label is known for razor sharp heels in pops of color, and tends to add a bit of funk to classic items. His pieces are more difficult to find in the United States, but one can occasionally find a few at Barneys (although you may have to travel to Paris to get the truly great finds).


Finally, we come to Emilio Pucci, the master of the geometric print. This Italian house's runway shows are often breathtaking, with beautiful models and flowing fabrics, but what some may overlook is the accessory goldmine. Take a look at a couple gorgeous pieces from fall, and then a shot of the boots that I can see NYC girls killing each other over from the Spring 2011 show.


Final Verdict: There is something to be said for the staple designers who can weave the fabric that dreams are made out of, but don't be afraid to broaden your horizons and look for something new to inspire you. Who knows, you could be on the ground floor of the next Christian Louboutin.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Get a Leg Up

As it gets cooler outside, does the dress have to become a proverbial 'sleeping beauty' until awakened by spring's rejuvenating kiss? If the answer were 'yes' then this would be a very short post, but I can assume that by now you have realized that the answer is indeed the opposite. One of the trends this season to keep the higher hemline fashionable is none other than the knee-high sock.

These gorgeous gam covers have seen a lot of press, but none more notable than the Prada Fall 2010 runway show. Just about every model strutted down the catwalk sporting some variation of this fashionable hosiery. While cashmere OTK (over the knee) Prada may be virtually unattainable, wearing this trend certainly is not. Many retailers are selling various weights for you to wear out and about, allowing you to channel your inner schoolgirl.

As always, retailers love to splatter the market with a plethora of options in hopes to catch every opportunity....much like the way that a redneck might fish for supper using dynamite. Sure, it's effective, but how is one to make sense of all that visual chaos? Allow me to guide you. Here are a few helpful pointers:
  • Stick with heavier fabrics....think wool or something that looks like wool. Not only are these more fashionable, but they will keep your sexy stems warmer.
  • It might be tempting to go with something more off-the-wall, but subtle is a safer bet. Some of the season's best offerings are in the darker tones (black/grey/navy) and will keep you looking more Oxford, and less Japanese anime.
  • Since the socks are darker, they usually will draw attention to your dress/skirt or your shoes. Pairing them with booties accomplishes two of the biggest below-the-waist trends with one "look."

Final Verdict: Whether you are are getting Urban Outfitters or Oscar de la Renta, I still recommend hand washing them in Woolite. It just isn't worth the wear and tear to save a few bucks by throwing them in with the rest of your laundry.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Once, Twice, Three Times a Lady

What do you get when you combine several of the previous things that we have discussed? A-line silhouettes, tweeds, and at least the appearance of charm... well it's the Fall 2010 Louis Vuitton ad campaign of course. Enjoy a couple of my favorite shots from it below:

Final Verdict: Has Christy Turlington (now Christy Turlington Burns) even aged? She was born in 1969 for goodness sake!