Looks of the Week – Menswear Edition
Most of the fashion that I feature on this site is geared towards women, but I have to confess that I do in fact love mens fashion and follow a number of male fashion bloggers. So today I thought we could celebrate some of the oh-so-stylish gentlemen out there. We all have men in our lives – whether it’s a significant other, brother, father, son – who we can use this as inspiration to shop for!
I’m not going to lie, I have a bit of a fashion crush on this blogger {he was featured in this Looks of the Week post & Let’s Hear It For The Boys}. Not only does he have a great sense of style, he’s pretty darn funny in the comments section of his Tumblr account – which is, by the way, named after his hair – Edward’s Hair.
What caught my eye here were all of the great neutral colored layers – Not only is that a killer shearling coat, he’s also wearing a button-down shirt and a sweater vest paired with a great printed scarf. If you’re interested in learning how to stylishly apply layers, My Mirror is a site that you should definitely check out.
This Italian blogger is a PhD-level accessorizer - This is such a fabulous combination of pieces, it almost looks like an advertisement for a luxury brand! Retro sunglasses, an orange cashmere tie, Belfiore shoes, Louis Vuitton briefcase, and a killer vintage coat – Utter perfection.
What I love about this is the combination of colors, textures, and prints. The blue & white Gingham button-down shirt paired with the army green suit jacket is great, but I love how he took it a step further and paired those pieces with the brown slacks.
Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean that your personal style needs to go out the window while you pile on layer after layer. Here’s a chic example of how to casually layer and add cold weather pieces to a look without sacrificing fashion.
Suits don’t have to be boring or traditional to get the job done. Try a flattering color or an interesting cut or fun patterns & prints. Or try all three!
Finally, I would be remiss if I failed to mention my favorite male fashion blogger in this post, even though he doesn’t regularly post photographs of his own personal style, UK-based Stu Bradley of Not So Lonely Londoners {you may know him from his sensational How To Pose Like A Fashion Blogger post that swept the internet last Spring}.
Which of these menswear looks above is your favorite? And what is it about that particular look that caught your attention?
Reader Request: Gangnam Style
I have to confess – I’m convinced that I have some of the best readers out there. When I get Reader Requests the questions are always great – topics and issues close to my heart. Definitely no questions about Uggs or tracksuits from this stylish crowd!
If I had to make a list of things that I love to see a man in, formal wear would be right up there at the top of the list so I was thrilled when a reader reached out with the following oh-so-chic request:
“I’m sure you have seen the Gangnam Style video by PSY. My question…WHERE DO I FIND HIS CLOTHES?! There is like 1 outfit in there I definitely won’t wear. The rest I’m pretty much in love with. Let’s make this happen!!”
Korean rapper PSY’s style in the Gangnam video is a striking combination of 20′s inspired Great Gatsby pieces and preppy, East Coast country club wear. It’s formal and put together, but filled with unique touches and fun colors.
A man who wants to get creative and expand his horizons sartorially? I figured I should write this post quickly before I wake up realize that it was all just a dream…
Tuxedo:
Nothing says formal wear quite like a perfectly fitted tuxedo or suit. The occasions for wearing a tux or suit may seem few and far between, but if you have one at the ready believe me when I say that you can find an excuse to wear it – Formal wedding, benefit or charity event, masquerade ball, attending the symphony, ballet or opera, New Years Eve party, even a Halloween costume a la Bond, James Bond.
In an ideal world all men could have a suit and tuxedo made for them – Pick out the fabric, cut, style, silhouette, and have it tailored perfectly for them. However back here in the real world off-the-rack is the most common, and easiest, way to go about finding a suit. Here are a few reasonably priced recommendations to get you started:
{Left to Right: Tailored black Italian Wool Two-Button Suit – $500 @ Banana Republic, Armani Collezioni ‘Giorgio’ Trim Fit Suit – $2,195 @ Nordstrom & Diagonal Weave Suit – $230 @ Zara}
- Banana Republic – For your classic, basic suit this is a good choice. You can also stock up on button-downs and ties while you’re there.
- Nordstrom - The benefit of a department store is that you’ll have a variety of brands to look through – From Ralph Lauren to Hugo Boss to John Varvatos. They’ll also usually throw in a fitting with the on-site tailor.
- Zara – For a slim suit with fun flares and an overall European vibe. This is going to be best for shorter, smaller boned men who want a slim fitting suit, those of you built like linebackers should stay away. Far, far away.
Which brings me to the most important part about securing yourself a suit or tuxedo that makes all eyes turn to you when you walk into a room – Get. It. Tailored. Hem the pants. Hem the sleeves. Get the pants and jacket fitted. That’s the KEY to making a suit look expensive and made for you even if it isn’t.
Spats:
If you think that all you have to pick from when it comes to formal mens shoes is matte black or patent leather you’re sorely mistaken. Luckily for us PSY has brought another old school style back in the form of spats and Oxford inspired dress shoes.
Spats are actually an accessory that slips over a shoe – Some Like It Hot, Anyone? – but these black & white wingtips are similar in style and silhouette. Another option that fits the bill are lace-up Oxfords, which come in an array of colors, styles, and materials and which fulfill the desire for an interesting and eye-catching shoe.
So where are some places that you can check out for a fun new dress shoe?
{Top Left to Right: ASOS Brogues With Leather Sole – $65 @ ASOS.com & Salvatore Ferragamo Beltramo 2 Loafers – $400 @ Bloomingdale’s, Bottom Left to Right: Florsheim ‘No String’ Wingtip Oxford- $100 @ Nordstrom & Stacy Adams Dayton Wing Tip Lace Up Shoes – $95 @ Macys}
ASOS - Ordering shoes online can be risky but once you’re determined your size and the brands that you like this is a great website with lots of variety and great searching capabilities.
Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom & Macys - All of these department stores will have a wide selection which means if you find a style they’re likely to have it in different colors, fabrics, and sizes which is very convenient.
Colorful slacks:
The pants worn by PSY in the Gangnam Style music video come in a wide variety of colors – From basic black and cream to bright pink and deep purple velvet.
If you’re interested in trying out a pair of brightly colored slacks you should approach choosing them the same way you would with a button-down shirt, you need to work with your coloring. If pastels don’t work with your skin tone, try either a brighter color or a darker jewel tone. After you find a color that works be sure to pick a pair of slacks that suits your frame and – you guessed it – be sure to have them hemmed.
{Left to Right: Levi 511 TWILL Slim Pants – $60 @ Piperlime, Straight Fit Five-Pocket Cord – $70 @ Banana Republic & Jack Spade Classic Dolan Pants – $175 @ Bloomingdale’s}
Piperlime & Banana Republic – These are similar brands (owned by the same parent company) and most of their styles come in multiple colors, fabrics, or textures. They frequently also offer slim and/or athletic cuts.
Bloomingdale’s - They have an excellent selection of chic menswear brands and GREAT sales. I highly recommend signing up to receive emails when there are menswear sales, you’ll be glad that you did.
{Click the Gangnam Style pictures above to be taken to the original source}
In your opinion what’s the best fashion part of PSY’s Gangnam Style video? Is this modern-Gatsby look something that you’d be willing to try?
Looks of the Week
This week has gotten off to a unusual start – And since I was so excited to share the Styling 101 – American Girl post, I suppose I’ll just have to make it Looks of the Week Wednesday instead of Monday. But regardless of the which day of the week it is, this is always the perfect way to inspire a week of creativity, fun, and great fashion.
Enjoy!
While this sweet vintage dress is a great find, I have to say that I especially love how this look was styled – Those studded booties, shopper tote, and hat are great choices to make this look one-of-a-kind.
Could this possibly be a great combination of pieces? The retro-silhouetted floral Summer dress is fabulous, those gingham heels are KILLER, and I love the trench and handbag. Well well done!
Wow. Just – WOW. I love that red & white polka dot blouse paired with the fabulous gold accessories and basic cuffed jeans. That spiked necklace is killer!
I love a good black & white look and this one is anything but boring. The skirt is fabulous and one-of-a-kind, and I adore those pointed toed ankle strap pumps. Too cute.
As you’ve probably picked up, I have a great many opinions about a great many things. Many of them things I have no right to have an opinion about whatsoever. Like mens pants. But as far as I’m concerned, these rolled khakis are the perfect pant for Summer. Khakis in lieu of slacks make my eye twitch, but this whole look is fabulous – Love the woven shoes, love the bag, love the simple, clean jewelry choices.
If you said ‘animal print shorts’ I might cringe but these shots are great. It’s a fun, retro look with great detailing and a relaxed overall vibe. Well done!
I love the basics that make up this look, and I love the details. The gold-tipped collar, subtle print on the pants & top, and the color scheme are all great and suit her to a T.
We all know how much I love skulls, so you can imagine that this look immediately caught my attention. But I also love the warm tones mixed with the black, studded, rock n’ roll pieces. Parfait!
I adore a good layering look, especially since we’re heading into Fall and I live in a city known for its temperamental weather. This look has the added bonus of having a killer combination of colors and prints. The flowy white knee-length skirt is the perfect background for the green striped t, leopard print blazer, and adore pink heels.
Love this look as much as I do? Well now you can shop these pieces and put together a similar look for yourself as Summer transitions into Fall and you need to start layering your looks.
{DKNY Pull On Pleated Skirt, Loila Clothing Stripe Zone Top, Lucky Brand Jeans Sweater, Kendra Scott Jacey Pendant Necklace & DV by Dolce Vita Notty Heels}
{Click on images above to visit the original source}
What’s your favorite look of those above? Are you ready to give up your Summer duds for some layering and fabulous outerwear for Fall 2012 and Winter 2013? I have to admit, I’m really starting to get into the mood for cooler weather!
Looks of the Week
Welcome back to another Looks of the Week Monday! I hope that everyone had a great weekend and is wringing every drop of Summer fun out of these August days as they can. Let’s start our week out right with some fabulous fashionistas showing off everything from statement jewelry to mixing prints to bright colors.
Enjoy!
Nothing says Summer as effortlessly or stylishly as a white dress. And while this drapping, asymmetrical white dress is stunning it’s Kristina’s accessories that make this look stand out so well. The studded red Zara shoulder bag and killer gold spiked collar from H&M are both incredibly striking & eye-catching, they really bring this look to a whole other level.
This is a low-key but striking and sassy combination that should really motivate you to spice things up before walking out the door. Colorblocking is a great way to make a look really POP.
A sweater can be tough for men to make work for them, but this is a great example of how to put together a clean-cut, stylish look using one. Navy pants + white button down + a sweater with a flattering pattern and cut. Bonus for the killer accessories – Retro shades, white watch strap, and fabulous bag.
Love love love! This is a fabulous look from head to toe. The Versace for H&M studded top pairs beautifully with this nude, pleated leather skirt. And to top it all off, I couldn’t have picked a better clutch or more fabulous booties to add to this outfit.
This is an interesting and really eye-catching look despite the fact that there’s not a lot of color. The sequined stripes are great and I love that she chose a looser, more relaxed top to mix with the dramatic midi-length skirt. Well done!
The art of wearing lady pants is something every woman really should master. Finding the right cut and silhouette to suit your figure can take years of trial and error. If you’ve ever felt like giving up, you’ll enjoy this shot of the perfect pink pants. And those are definitely three words I never thought I’d write. 
High-Low hemlines aren’t always my favorite style but I couldn’t take my eyes off of this look. The colors, the prints, and the textures are so eye-catching and deliciously Summery that I couldn’t tear myself away from the screen. Nothing short of fabulous!
Neutrals don’t have to be boring as this look proves. Stunning Victoria’s Secret Angel Candice Swanepoel shows us how to put together a relaxed, but fashionable Summertime look with this nude pleated mini, a basic white t-shirt, and cute braided sandals.
Why not make your shopping trip or errand run a bit more fun with some bold color or printed separates? This basic shorts & tank look is fun and stylish with the addition of a killer handbag, flattering green shorts, and animal print flats.
This makes me miss Fall SO MUCH. I love a great coat and this corset belted olive-green military coat is killer. Her accessorizing - bowler hat & high boots – make it even more eye-catching and cold weather-appropriate.
Chic! I love a great Summer dress and this is a phenomenal color on her. And after finding a great color & style, she personalized it and made it more “her” with the tooled leather Rebecca Minkoff bag and fabulous 3.1 Phillip Lim gladiator sandals.
And just in case you missed the fabulousness that was the Team Supermodel walk during last night’s Closing Ceremonies in London, here are some pictures and great commentary to console you – Team Supermodel Strikes Gold In London!
{Click on images above to visit the original source}
Which picture is your favorite of the shots above? Does seeing fun new looks put together by stylish people motivate and inspire you to mix things up when you’re planning your own outfits?
The Man Behind The Camera
Other than my dear friend Liz, the remainder of the MCLV Personal Style photographs are taken by the current boyfriend Sean. He has written a guest post for us in the past and trained me in the ways of CrossFit, but has never been featured on the blog for his fashion prowess before.
That is, until today.
True, he spends the majority of his waking hours in workout clothes, but when he does deign to put on street clothes, he has a great personal style.
When we initially met in our senior year of high school he was extremely preppy – Polo shirts, button downs, and wool or cashmere collared coats. But over the years his style relaxed, becoming more and more low-key, and when we got back together two years ago he wore very little other than t-shirts, jeans, and flip-flops.
But miracle of miracles, over the last two years his sense of style has begun evolving again. And more than that, he has actually started to enjoy clothes and fashion more, like he did when he was younger. Now he shops online, asks for advice on putting together pieces in his wardrobe & picking things out, and genuinely has an interest in shopping and expanding his wardrobe.
These days he prefers to keep his daily look low-key and minimal, and primarily wears black, white, and navy. Jeans are usually his preference and he traditionally pairs them with a Lacoste Pima V-Neck, a button down, or a Polo shirt. As for brands, we’ve found that the shirts that fit him best are Express for Men and Lacoste, they both have slim fit versions that work well for his frame.
When it comes to shoes he’s tried virtually everything, from boots to slip-ons to boat shoes to loafers. He loves slip ons and its all I can do to make sure he doesn’t wear his rubber soled slippers out of the house. The most worn pair of shoes he has are his tan, lace-up Banana Republic loafers, but he did just get a new pair of slip-on boat shoes that are very versatile.
They can even be worn with pink!
And a style post wouldn’t be complete without mentioned his creativity, he picked a kick-ass Halloween costume last year that suited him quite well despite being an incredibly last-minute choice – The Travelocity Gnome!
In the mood for more? Check out my Let’s Hear It For The Boys post filled with tips, ideas, and inspiration for putting together a complete and stylish wardrobe.
What do you like most on the men in your life? Are there certain styles that appeal to you more than others? When it comes to mens accessories, do you think less is more?
Looks of the Week
Raise your hand if you hate the Monday after a short week… Me! Me! {Picture me jumping up & down} Well, there’s nothing like some fabulous Summer fashion to help you cope with a rough day. So here’s a little something to help you take the edge off.
Yes, this is a sundress, but it’s so much more. The darker, moodier florals and the blue platforms take it from basic to fabulous. Well done.
Such a sweet, retro-inspired Summer look. Love the lacy white top & shorts, but the white sunglasses & bow-topped headband stole the show in my opinion.
Can you picture a cuter travel outfit? Chic and put together, but not overly fussy. Love the black & white, killer bag & accessories, and that hat is adorable!
Killer!
So cute! Chic and perfect for summer. Wouldn’t change a thing!
This dress reminds me of the Kate Moss for Mango tuxedo dress that I bought earlier this year.
Fabulous. Head to toe fabulous. Love the colors and the cut & silhouettes of the separates.
These boots are fabulous but I especially love them paired with this patterned sweated and scarf. Great layering.
While I’m definitely a sucker for a Peter Pan collar, I have to admit that the overall sweet retro feel to this look is what really got my attention. Those shorts are too cute!
Check out some fabulous Do It Yourself projects here for a too cute Leather Peter Pan Collar Necklace DIY that you can easily do if you’re feeling crafty this weekend.
This look has a little edge, and after all of the maxi dresses, sundresses, and pleated skirts I’ve been seeing all Summer, this type of look is really appealing. Killer accessories!
This is just the type of look that I like to throw together during the day on weekends, casual but a chic combination of great pieces – love the coat – and accessories. J’adore those shoes!
How was everyone’s weekend? Did you relax after a hectic 4th of July week or continue the celebrating and make it a long holiday weekend?
Fashion Crushes
When I think about fashionable and memorable looks that I’ve enjoyed recently two individuals immediately come to mind – Red carpet darling Zoe Saldana and Michael Fassbender. Does the latter not sound familiar? Perhaps you know him as Magneto from the recent X-Men First Class – I saw the movie in theaters months ago and am still thinking about his wardrobe!
Zoe Saldana:
What I adore about Zoe’s style is her ability to mix pieces and she’s a master of the high-low, which make her looks much more accessible to those of us not making millions per picture. Thanks Zoe! Another thing she’s fabulous at? Accessorizing! She always has gorgeous jewelry, enviable shoes, and to die for bags, whether she’s on the red carpet or running errands on her days off.
{Not only is the color phenomenal on her, the lace back and sweet accessories pull the look together perfectly! The floral earrings might seem over-the-top on some, but she makes them look stylish.}
{A little black dress is anything but boring when Zoe gets her hands on it. This Barbara Bui mini is sleek, sexy & fun and those Balenciaga heels are to DIE FOR.}
{This Express dress was all the rage last summer but I loved the way Zoe made this dress totally her own by belting it and adding a chic cross-body bag.}
{Only Zoe could make this Balenciaga shorts suit looks so chic – I love that she paired the printed, embellished suit with a basic white tee. The red carpet never looked better!}
Michael Fassbender:
Boys - The costume designer for this latest installment in the X-Men franchise, Sammy Sheldon, is an utter genius! Not only are these clothes gorgeous and tailored to perfection, they’re right on trend for this fall. In case you’ve been sleeping all summer, Mad Men is all the rage – See Banana Republic’s Mad Men-inspired collection here and I promise you wont be disappointed.
Please proceed for some much deserved eye candy and menswear fashion porn.
{This linen suit is the perfect Summer look paired with a white collared shirt – It couldn’t be further from the stiff formality of the white suit made infamous by Mark Twain or Colonel Sanders – And evokes hot Summer nights is Havana!}
{Turtle necks can be a great layering tool during the Fall & Winter, as can a chic leather jacket. Invest is both!}
{Retro sunglasses are always going to be in style – Find the shape that suits you best and stick to it!}
I can’t be the only one who saw X-Men and immediately wanted to take my boyfriend shopping, right? I mean, the actor is cute enough, but those turtle necks and three pieces suits – Swoon!
Who are your fashion crushes? Is there someone who you always looked to for fashion inspiration over the years or who helped your personal style evolve?
Let’s Hear it for the Boys!
In my opinion men’s fashion can be more classic and long-standing than its female counterpart, the cuts are more enduring and the underlying style more deeply rooted. This means putting your money into well made, classic pieces is the best way to approach your closet, since you’ll be able to wear them for years to come.
So what, do you ask, should today’s modern man have in his closet?
- Once you’re out of school, a good suit is a must. Interviews, weddings, funerals, work/charity events, and perhaps even the occasional date (think Valentine’s Day/Anniversary) can all call for a suit. Black, navy or charcoal are all a good choices, though I must admit that I’m a sucker for a great pinstripe suit. I’m also a fan of a classic three-piece suit, I love how they still manage to look clean and put together even with the jacket off and the sleeves rolled up.
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Button-downs are extremely versatile and have a place in any well-rounded wardrobe. Pair with slacks or a suit for (semi) formal affaires, with jeans and dress shoes for Friday night cocktails or untucked over well-worn shorts with loafers (sans socks) for summertime. Like I said, versatile.
So invest! Stripes, solids, pastels, black, white, slim fit, logo, patterned, linen, cotton… Whatever suits your build, coloring, and lifestyle, it’s time to put your money where your shirt is!
- T-Shirts are somewhat of a touchy subject for me. While basic shirts can be a great staple for a man’s closet, they should not all be graphic or novelty shirts, nor should they be riddled with holes and look like they belong in a rag pile. I don’t care how many memories they hold! (Does that sound like a line I’ve used before? Cuz is it is…)
Depending on your build and lifestyle, different styles will suit you best. For his downtime my brother loves vintage rock shirts, like the one above, and with his build (tall & muscular but lean) they suit him perfectly. My dad favors the Robert Barakett shirts that Nordstrom carries because they’re soft with a relaxed fit and can keep up with him whether he’s walking around downtown or gardening (oh, the joys of retirement). And while he may respectfully disagree, I have to say that in my humble opinion my boyfriend looks the best in the Lacoste V-Neck Jersey Tees.
So take your significant other, sister, mom or friend shopping with you and try on some different styles. To each their own!
- Polo shirts are a great middle ground between a t-shirt and a button down. They can add a bit of structure to a look while retaining an overall low-key air. Throw one over jeans with loafers or pair with shorts and flip-flips. You can even pop that collar if you’re in the mood.
Like t-shirts and button downs, these come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Once you’ve found a brand that fits you perfectly, you can order online to your heart’s desire, but you should definitely put in the in-store research before getting mouse happy.
- A complete closet should contain a few types of bottoms, namely slacks, jeans and shorts, if applicable to your climate. At least one pair of black slacks are a requirement, however depending on how often you dress up you should consider investing in multiple pairs. Charcoal, navy and a neutral color like khaki or tan are right behind black in importance. Wool, cashmere and linen for dressing up and seersucker, cotton and linen blends for play.
When you hit the store for any pants shopping be sure to take the shoes you’ll most frequently wear with them. A good pair of slacks or jeans can be expensive, so you don’t want to buy them too long and ruin them in a matter of weeks by walking all over the hems. Also, keep in mind the tailoring is a great option, it’s fairly inexpensive and can make your pant last much longer.
- I adore accessories for men, you gentlemen prefer to buy one or two great ones and leave it at that (none of the female shoe insanity!) A black and a brown belt, same for shoes, a pair of sunglasses, a wallet and a large silver, gold or leather band watch and you’re done. Easy peasy! (Obviously, this is not applicable to rappers)
The key for mens accessories is finding quality, classic pieces that can be worn season after season. Unfortunately this may require trips to multiple stores. I know - I’m sorry! Take the time though, as much as it takes, and you wont regret it.
Now before I leave you to your shopping adventures, I’d like to make an introduction.
If you’ve never heard of The Sartorialist, let me introduce you. Boys, meet Scott Schuman, the brilliant and fashionable photographer behind the wildly popular street style website The Sartorialist. These days Mr. Schuman focuses his energies shooting photos of the unique and fashionable men & women he sees on the streets. New York, Milan, Paris, Sydney, Buenos Aires, London, Rome, Beijing… If you have any questions about pocket squares, popped collars, sleeve length, outerwear, hats, color combinations or men’s jewelry, he is your man!
One of my favorite men that Scott sometimes features after his trips to Milan is this oh-so-stylish Italian man
Love the aviator sunglasses. Love the v-neck shirts. Love the gold watch. Take notes kids, this is how it’s done!
{Click on images above to visit the original source}
