the look: faux-pas to faux-fad

This just in from James Long, fashion designer in London Fashion Week (spring/summer 2012): Short(er) shorts and, um, socks with sandals? Snake skin and paisley patterns meshed in an ensemble that yells of unabashed confidence...over and over again.

My question is: What do street-wearers have to say about these seeming faux-pas looks being turned into fads?

the trend: steppin' out for fall

It's never a bad idea to step out, especially on the right foot. Every wardrobe, no matter how minimal or crowded, needs the shoes that take care of the essentials. Here's what we're talkin: Getting the most out of your selection. Weather turning, let's id the boots you're gonna need to fend the cold.

 

Image from Men's Fall Trend Report

First: Look at the wear of your shoes. You may need an update if they look like they've...been...places. As in they've been everywhere and every one can tell. I'm not sayin' throw out your bff's that have traveled far and wide and in your back yard while you were having that awesome party and...you get the picture.

Second: What era are these sole-bearers from? Shoes are one of those rare items (like watches and ties) that don't need to be turned over every season. But if the last time you bought a pair of shoes was when you started that new job...seven years ago. Let's be realistic and slip on a new pair.

Third: Are they practical for your work/social/other hobbies of your lifestyle?

Fourth: Details. Are you a black-shoe-only man? Check out toe detailing, studding (tasteful), stitching, and etc. to get the most versatility.

Fifth: Wear and enjoy.

Sixth: Repeat when necessary.

Image of Michael Bastian Gant Fall 2011 preview

the style: dressing you for less

We probably have at least one of those friends that does not and can not suffer from "sticker shock." This means he will spend any amount of money, even on one item, in the name of loyalty.

In my survey, I asked the men which brands they were loyal to...or at least that are present in their wardrobe. First was Levi's, runner-up was Ralph Lauren, and in third place we had American Eagle. The most common answer for how much a total outfit costs was under $200.

Just for perspective, I went to Ralph Lauren (love him, by the way) and found a Linen/Silk Textured Crewneck sweater, Darby Striped Poplin Barrel shirt, and the Straight-Fit Repair Jean outfit. I then summed the retail cost of said outfit. Prepare yourself for the shock...

From Ralph Lauren Black Label

Dropping over $1200 is a bit more than 97% of the men I know would be willing to spend. Ok, make that 98% of the men that I know. Luckily for the mass marketers that we are, the other popular labels found in the closets of my survey takers have it covered.

AE Striped Shirt; GAP V-Neck Sweater; Levi's 501 Original Jeans

Rather reasonable for our stylish men, wouldn't you say? Alternative styles from Urban Outfitters, the GAP and Levi's are lead by the big kahunas like Ralph Lauren, so thank you Mr. Lauren. But at least we won't worry about washing hundreds of dollars of shirts and sweaters. American Eagle and the GAP make sure washing and styling is more carefree. Plus, the Levi's 501 Original Jeans are right on for fit and use less water in production than regular denim. Stamp of approval by secede. What classy labels do you wear?

the detail: gifting accessories

Style is about the details. From my survey, several men told me they enjoy unique but not flashy accessories. Father's Day is passed, but ladies and gents how many have a difficult time finding that "perfect gift" for the man you love and respect? I took a visit to uncommongoods to generate some ideas for future gift giving. Take a look at some of the great items I found.

• The Safe Paperweight (a) is handcrafted from lead-free pewter by Tamara Hensick. 
• That snazzi robe (b) is made from recycled woven dress shirts, so we have the environment and you covered. 
• For the efficiency-monger grab the tube wringer (c) and get that last bit of product while using 35% less energy. 
• Your dress shirt never looked so classy, or serious with the bullet casing cufflinks (d) handcrafted by Shannon Astali DeJong. This accessory is a sure conversation starter. 
• The imported silk music necktie (e) has Bach literally written all over, created by modern architect/artist Josh Bach.
• Handle her as much as needed, your mermaid barmaid (f) will gladly assist with those lids you need flipped.

If he is a sports fan, a music lover, a minimalist, or just plain hard to shop for (and etc) then your gift receiver would benefit from the uncommon goods community.

the guyde: denim from the bottom up

As we discuss denim, its fit, its interconnected role in our fashion society, and (basically) my obsession with the stuff let us keep in mind the important thing: Denim should fit from the bottom up. Teach them in their youth and they shall not depart from the correct path.

the look: 110 years of respect

The business suit is an irreplaceable icon of education, respect, and ultimately power. It has been established as the look required for any occasion that demands a display of impeccable taste. Besides...what else is there for you to wear?

• 1900s to the 1930s

• 1940s to the 1970s

• 1980s to 2010

At the end of the 110 years is a figure of equal distinction: Tom Ford. Ford has had significant weight on the modern menswear world; having dressed an extensive list of powerful figures as well as blazing trail as a diligent entrepreneur in the industry. You might hear me raving about him (often) in the future, fyi. The second most recent James Bond movie, Casino Royale, featured Tom Ford sunglasses. But the suits were still made by the internationally respected company, Brioni.

Who's your style icon? If it is yourself, that is very acceptable.

[images from the following: Bond; 1900; 1910; 1920; 1930; 1940; 1950; 1960; 1970; 1980; 1990; 2000; 2010]

the fit: the man with the image

"Men's is really about style." -Dolce
"Yes, but it is also fashion...based on more details." -Gabbana (DNR, 10 Dec 2007)

Not only am I a lady interested in style and fashion, I am a lady very interested in men's style and fashion. That is because over time it has been straightforward and focused on the details while keeping the image intact. From Dolce & Gabbana it can be suggested that menswear is not about how much can be changed, but rather how much can be controlled. This led me on a search to find and present what men might need or want in the style arena.


My search: What men think of style and how they dress
I sent out a couple of short surveys that asked how much outfits should cost; where one shops and how often; what is interesting in modern street wear; where inspiration is found; which magazines you read; and etc.


The find: Some answers as to what men want in the marketplace that reflects their individual taste
These men do not want to follow the short half-lives of the latest flashy trends. Dressing well is completely based on individual taste and reflecting the quality within. Many identified with the statement, "I am my own man" when it comes to their wardrobe.

Style is your possession. We are judged by details. I will hear what you have to say, see what you have to show, serve what you might need. This blog is a presentation of style.

Diana