I talk a lot about what all you fashionable ladies should wear, but what about the style saavy gentlemen in your life.  This fall reverting back to the old classics is the way to go.  Perhaps the male muse of the season is prepped up Brad from The Rachel Zoe Project on Bravo TV.  Like his stylish sidekick Taylor, Brad should be watched for the terrific way he puts ultra-conservative pieces together to create a fresh new look. 

What are the key pieces?  For those who know Brad, we must start with the bowtie.  While previously these neck adornments were nerdy and nutty professor-ish these days a bowtie looks fresh when paired with a leather bomber or a cotton twill sport coat with a hoodie worn beneath.  Which brings me to the next must have – a layered sport coat worn as outerwear.  I am seeing a lot of these jackets – designer and non – cropping up and they look terrific with jeans or more classic trousers.  If you’re truly a fashiond dare devil finish you look with this season’s other trend donning fake black rimmed eyeglasses – think classic Ray-Bans without the dark lenses.

Terrible

I have been distraught as of late at the sighting of several men donning burgundy button-down shirts.  The dark brick-toned color is unattractive and unflattering against most skin-tones and during the hot summer months an inappropriate choice on a warm evening or day.  The good news, it’s not hard to remedy this fashion faux pas… Step one: find burgundy shirt in closet.  Step 2:  Walk over to garbage can.  Step 3:  Throw away.  Now, to find a replacement – again, not hard.  The best choices for men are to stick with basic and classic colors that will work well with whatever suit or sport coat you choose to throw on.  To keep it simple simon, load up with white, light blue, and pale pink shirts.  If you MUST own a darker hued number, you may indulge in black, but please, PLEASE don’t don with a tie.  Your black button down is reserved SOLEY for a nice pair of slacks or jeans – again I repeat – NO TIES WITH BLACK SHIRTS!  When you have gotten more comfortable with mixing different ties with pattered shirts, you can begin seeking out subtly checked or plaid shirts.   For a sweet summer look try a dark blue and white gingham check shirt with a dark blue tie.  Pair your new shirt and tie with a navy blazer and white pants and finish off the look with dark brown mocs.

The Summer Solstice party at the Cleveland Museum of Art on June 20, was not only a celebration of the arts – featuring the unveiling of the Museum’s new East Wing, but also a chance for hundreds of people to attend a party.  Cocktails flowed as guests mingled and enjoyed the various entertainment throughout the evening that included a Jazz band and a DJ from New York City who spun Bhangra infused electronica to a revved-up crowd.  In the style department the majority of the attendees disappointed in uber-casual shorts, t’shirts, cropped pants, and breezy daytime sundresses – which is quite appalling actually for an event that took place after-five.  However, the stylish couple here impressed that Clevelanders certainly deserve a spot on the style map.  Casey Burry  and  her significant other Ike Karipides, Cleveland transplants from New York  City, injected a city chic vibe to the event donning summer cocktail attire that was altogether eye catching, enviable, and well-styled.

Casey, President of Tagua, a line of organic handcrafted jewelry and handbags from South America, sashayed through the fete in a champagne toned silk frock by Elia Abuchaibe for Tagua that was embellished with over-sized baubles and coppery disks.  Casey topped the whole look with a shrunken lightly quilted and shortsleeved black vintage jacket and punctuated her whole look with perforated black closed toe t-strap custom-made tango shoes that added a truly unique close to the entire look.  Accessories?  Beautiful antique-like chandelier earrings from Mexico and a vintage handbag.  Casey’s look is a melange of old and new, custom-made and store bought,  so, when she seeks a fabulous new find in Cleveland she can’t help but to dip into Saks Fifth Avenue at Beachwood Place to examine the potential wares.  Those interested in checking out Tagua’s stylish wares should log onto: www.tagualife.com. 

Ike looked fresh for summer in cherry red linen Ralph Lauren trousers topped with a modernized Etro seersucker jacket – that was cut slimmer than the classic counterpoint  creating  Euro-chic appeal. Ike’s white shirt was custom-made in Singapore and his shoes were cognac colored TOD’s driving mocs that kept the whole look in perspective.  Ike’s eclectic wardrobe and style,  has been cultivated as a result of travel abroad, however he has found some agreeable pieces at retailers like Kilgore Trout in Eaton Collection (Chagrin Blvd.) and at Cuffs in downtown Chagrin Falls.  Check these retailers out for some fashionable, yet classic essentials.

So Akron, Cleveland, Canton, WHOEVER, take a few hints from this stylish couple:

1. Don’t “Play it safe” – forgo your favorite denim and wear a pair of pants like Ike in a fun color – keep everything else relatively neutral.

2. Save up a little for a on-of-a-kind custom-made piece like Casey’s fabulous Tango shoes – you’re sure to get compliments

3. Dress up!  Even if you’re just going out to dinner it’s nice to throw on some extra-special – You’ll feel better if you look better and you may even earn a compliment or two.

4. Head to a vintage shop or website (check out my examiner page for a list of good sites) and purchase a unique piece that will help you stand out. 

If any of you out there feel that your style deserves to be featured on my Ohio.com or Examiner.com page please send me a picture and you just might end up another Akron/Cleveland Style Setter!

I cringe when I see people wearing certain things.  For men, I hate dark-hued shirts, with the exception of black.  When a dude dons a burgundy, navy, hunter green, mustard, or other densely colored button down I feel a tad sick to my stomach and wish they would have made an alternate choice – like say a classic white, light blue, or even pink .  Take this gentleman for instance who has chosen to go the mono-chromatic route.  I absolutely abhor this look – however it can be made entirely more attractive and stylish with a simple swap of the shirt from dark blue to crisp white.  To really update the look, try tying a regular tie with a slightly larger knot – keep the jacket closed though so as to not show off your midget length neck-wear.  To truly turn this gent’s outfit into its full potential he can keep the suit but get a little creative with the shirt or tie.  I like mixing like patterns to create interest.  Here, pictured as the “best” option the subtle pink plaid pattern in the shirt is nicely offset by the Greek key pattern in the slightly more saturated light pink hue. 

And so we must now discuss the women!  There are several looks that I wish most women would avoid, however today we will be discussing the improper usage of accessories. Exhibit A is featured to the left.  As is extremely evident, this patterned, smocked tunic style top is busy to say the least.  I am personally not partial to this pseudo-tie dye look, however let’s just say for argument’s sake that you choose to don this doozy… Instead of adding MORE color to this color wheel, I would accessorize with metallic;  in this instance I think shiny gold would be a terrific option.  As an alternate, more casual  look, accessorizing with wooden beaded necklaces and round disk earrings could also be eye appealing.  When choosing your gold or wooden necklace make sure that it is long – it should hit below the bust-line and above the waist line – NO shorter or it will look awkward as is shown above.  Simple disk style earrings or uber-round, uber-over-sized hoops would be great too.

This lassie was on the right path with the bag she elected to sling over her shoulder but unfortunately she missed the mark.  A less slouchy style bag would be a better option so as to not compete with the flowing top – try a structured tote-style in rich cognac or espresso carried in the crook of the elbow to make your style come alive! 

When selecting your accessories think about the overall look.  Do you want your pretty tunic to be more girly than hippie?  Then don pearls mixed with strings of sparkly rhinestones instead of wooden beads and a forehead headband.  Want to appear more punky than prim in your pencil skirt and blouse?  Try a studded belt at the waist, some shoulder sweeping fringe-y earrings, and a spiky pyramid wide cuff bracelet.  Your accessories dress you up or down, and take you from day to evening, so choose wisely!

It’s tough for me to blog about trendy clothes for men.  I am typically partial to the standard French cuff dress shirt, dark wash jeans, fine wool trousers, sleek, classic loafers, sport coats, fine gauge cashmere sweaters, lovely silk ties, and a polished black and brown belt.  I am not into the newer styles that are available in the typical young men’s department.  Many times I find myself excited when I examine the front of a plain potential shirt or blazer then to only replace the excitement with horror as I run my fingers over the silhouette of a soaring eagle pictured on the back.  I am also finding it difficult to understand many of the looks pictured above  Is it just me, or are these looks borderline androgynous?  Many times I can’t tell whether or not these emaciated fashion fad followers are men or women – but then again women typically have wider hips than these dudes.   There are some redeeming elements to each of the outfits in this post that perhaps you may like to incorporate into your next day/night out… Let’s explore, shall we?

1. I actually really enjoy the styling of this particular look.  The basic white shirt is made more of an eye opener with it’s subtle pleating, and French cuffs (worn undone), I also love the fitted and classic navy sport coat with gold buttons, and the way he made many classic pieces look more modern day with skinny denim.

2. This look is for those of you out there who are bored with the regular tie, scoff at the bow tie, and just want to look plain different.  Should you be in the mood to don a pretty ribbon, tie one on with a striped shirt, your favorite blazer, and a preppy boat shoe.

3. Vests and scarves on guys are cool as long as they are simple.  As stated above avoid the vests with avian embellishments and skip  over picnic-checkered scarves.  This guy looks artsy cool with a simple white tee, creamy-white scarf (tied in a simple knot – guys please don’t wow me with your origami skills and artfully swathe yourself in fabric), regular fitted denim, and a simple brown vest.

4. For any of you out there who are sick of wearing your jeans the same way day in and day out try rolling up the bottoms and donning tie up boots. Don a sweater, tee, or whatever you like but spare everyone with the funnel neck cervical collar.

5. Again, skinny jeans are in – but really do look best on the anorexic set… What else is in, in, in?!  The slouchy cardigan sweater of course.  I like the strategic way this trend seeker is buttoned all the way up and how he finished with a classic black canvas tennis shoe.  Hey kids, Keds are back in style – can’t get more cheap chic than that.

6. Ah, the trench!  Simply a staple for any man’s wardrobe and here done the modern, but not in your face way.  What do I like about this look?  The cropped above the knee length of the jacket works here as do the second skin denim (seems to be a common denominator here), and of course the old man-ish plaid shirt worn beneath is sweetly stylish as well.  Don’t forget to button up and tie yourself in.

How could I leave the guys out when it comes to selecting sweet and stylish sunglasses for the upcoming season?!  There are lots of trendy punky-80’s styles out right now that are better suited for laddies in their early 20’s than a post-grad who is looking to become a professional.  For a more sophisticated look the classic aviator is a great option and pretty much looks good on everyone.  Other nice options for guys are medium sized ultra-black shades in softly rounded rectangular shapes.  This more dramatic style though is best suited for a dude who is a little experimental with their wardrobes as well while the classic and subdued aviator is a good choice for a preppier more conservative gent.  So, let’s get shopping…

AVIATORS

1. $5.80 -

2. $211.00

3. $15.00

4. $117.00

5. $85.00

SQUARISH SHAPE

1. $162.00

2.$131.00

3.$128.00

4.$5.80 – Ray-Ban Copy

5.$179.00 – Real Ray-Ban

I was inspired today!  While flipping through the pages of a widely read men’s magazine I noticed a re-emerged trend for men that I think is “spot on” without looking overly trendy and utterly ridiculous!  Perhaps some of you out there already own this classic piece in your closets, but if you don’t, the golf jacket can be yours with minimal wallet damage  – Just head to your local thrift store for someone’s discarded goodness or log onto Americanapparel.com for the most reasonably priced piece.  So what is a “golf jacket”?  It’s a tad preppy and best worn in classic colors like khaki, red, grass green, white, or navy.  The style is characterized by a stretchy banded bottom, zip-up front, and stand up collar… How to do it up to make it ultra-current?  I LOVE it left open, paired with a classic blue button-down, ultra-conservative skinny knit striped tie, dark wash denim, and a nice brown belt!

Jeans are a staple in most men’s wardrobes, and the number one go-item guys seem to always want to throw on.  I am partial to simple denim styles – nothing too baggy or tight, but rather a classic style and color with a slight bootcut bottom to give an elongated effect.  What’s cool with denim?  Just about anything really.  Since spring-time weather can be a bit unpredictable I selected three different jacket options with accessories to make some classic stand-bys look a little more current.

Look #1: Every man should own a nice sport coat.  I love the slim fit of the one featured above found at J.Crew.  Instead of the same old white, blue, or striped shirt though, try a more fitted plaid shirt (TUCKED IN), a studded belt, and a cool loafer in either suede or distressed leather.

Look #2: Another must-have for men is the trench or raincoat.  I love the ease and casual-ness of the khaki mac above.  Add a little life to bland neutrals and denim by injecting a shocking pink sweater worn beneath, a subtly striped shirt (shown), and finish with a cool shoe like the oxford style above (That would also look fabulous with look #1).

Look #3: Not everyday is “dress-up” day.  Since most men prefer to be comfy-casual on the weekends try keeping the elements away in a nylon fitted bomber jacket.  Layer up with your favorite graphic tee or just a brightly hued number as shown above.  Skip the everyday boring black or brown belt and instead try a perforated white one instead – Shoes?  Trainers of course!  Bring your whole look together with some non-athletic tennies that have a bit of style.  I like the dash on green on the pair shown – perfect for spring!

Valentine’s Day isn’t an excuse for only us girls to get all gussied up – all you men out there should also use a night such as V-Day to really show off your stylish side.  So, whether you are cooking a romantic dinner at home a deux or heading out on the town to your favorite little boite exercise a little fashion know-how and wow your significant other looking dashing!  Please, though I beg all of you, DO NOT, and I repeat, do NOT wear a crimson, maroon, burgundy or any other dark red-ish color button down shirt.  You’ll look more like a cheap salesman than a dapper metro.

The above combo is courtesy of Banana Republic.  The blazer featured to the left is lightly pinstriped in a very subtle gray and closes with a single button.  Under your blazer throw on the striped shirt featured right… What I really like about this shirt is the cuff detail – you’ll notice when you roll up the sleeve the cuff is solid which adds a nice little surprise.  I love layering, and think this baby pink light wool sweater would really sweeten up this look immensely.  NOTE:  Make sure to tuck in your shirt before putting on the sweater as you’ll want to show off your belt (shown below).  To finish off your date time look keep it simple with some bootcut jeans (no shadow whiskers, excessive bleaching, holes, ragged edges, oversize pockets, etc…), the gray suede moccasins below, and a nice belt.

Maybe you want to go a little less traditional than the typical blazer/ jeans combo. I was inspired yesterday when I ran into a gaggle of perfectly styled gents who were done up in pinstriped fitted vests, pastel dress shirts, slacks, and fabulous shoes. 

Above you see a gray fitted vest, again from Banana Republic.  I prefer this green windowpane French cuff shirt versus donning the traditional blue and would finish off the look with a green tie or one with green accents.  The tie pictured above wouldn’t be my first choice, however the one that got me going was too small to feature on the page.  If you click on the green tie above you’ll be whisked off to the link featuring a better option.  I love the whimsy of the print and the light green accents that would perfectly complete the look.  Below are the trousers that perfectly match the vest – I love the fitted updated shape – and some sweet tasseled shoes that will make you a stand out!  AND, don’t forget, you’ll need some cuff links for your French cuffs and I like these Mother-of-Pearl disks – simple, understated and will last a lifetime.

The other day, I delved into the world of holiday fiesta wear for women, and felt that it was only fair to include all of you savvy gentlemen out there as well who aspire to be the “Cat’s Meow” at whatever event you are attending during this busy party season.  As a holiday party veteran myself I have grown accustomed  to walking into a party and seeing many men swishing around in their favorite red or green sweater, white turtleneck, and khaki or black pants and quite frankly I am over it.  There are many very flattering and sophisticated items that should be a part of any fashionable male’s wardrobe that will make him very noticeable and stylish.

We’ll begin with adding texture to the wardrobe.  Velvet is a fabulous fabric that can be made both masculine and feminine.  In this particular case I would recommend that any man invest in a lovely black or deeply hued plush velvet sport coat.  This item paired with denim is dynamite and with black trousers is a little bit more dressed up.  Don a French cuff tuxedo style shirt beneath and you will look simply smashing!  Where to find one of these beauties?  My favorite store Express has a wonderful one right now, as does H&M at a lesser price.  Just a hint for all you lovely gents out there…. The Express jacket is on sale as I type… $168 – Cha-Ching!

Perhaps you aren’t into velvet.  For another wonderful winter texture, give tweed/herringbone a try.  I love a nice supple and conservative brown-ish neutral tweed this time of year especially one with extra special details, like suede accents at the elbows or front pocket.  You can pair this doozie with some denim also (or some lovely toffee wool silk blend pants) and a cream based brown plaid shirt beneath.  Skip the tie for this look, and finish with a cognac wing-tip to really channel the prep look.

Maybe the thought of wearing a jacket outside of work functions isn’t your idea of a good time.  How ’bout donning your favorite denim or black tux style pants with a cutting edge pair of loafers, a stand out tie, and white dress shirt?  (Please note “stand-out” tie does not include anything with blinking lights, Santa, reindeer, candy canes, or whatever else… Just means something cool, like this one to the right).  I love this tie for both it’s simplicity and modern-day take on enlarged gingham, and I LOVE these shoes for their European simplistic charm and lack of a too-pointy and curled up toe.

I must put a disclaimer on this particular post.  All of you may have noticed that the particulars with which I feature today are particularly conservative and not so much cutting edge… While I LOVE the latest and greatest crazy fashion stuff for women, I feel that the “TRENDY” men’s clothes these days featureing wings, dragons, and script resembling a tattoo nightmare not stylish nor are they flattering on men.  In fact, I would have to go as far as to say that men look utterly silly donning shirts/jackets with mythological beasts embroidered upon them.  Furthermore, the skin-tight jeans/pants/whatever that are “IN” right now are best reserved for the “rock star” sect who are “blessed” with drug worn emaciated bodies.  So boys, when in doubt go classic.  As long as you possess  some nicely pressed button downs,  a lovely leather belt (think fine leather – Ferragamo is LOVELY!),  non-molester shoes (refer back to my blog on men’s shoes if you are confused), decent denim, and a flattering sport coat you are on your way to style super stardom.