And letÂ’s just say IÂ’m more than glad that guys donÂ’t flood the streets looking like that. There will be no technical analysis or trend reporting on menÂ’s fashions from me. The following is strictly subjective, because I have, of course, formed my own ideas about guy style.

HereÂ’s what I think guys should do, at the very least: care, just a little. Baggy and sloppy are two very different things, wrinkles donÂ’t look good on anyone and I like tailored suits. A lot.

Here are my major loves and hates about male style.

LOVE: Suits… or even just a blazer. A great tailored suit is the best ensemble a guy could ever rock. There is just something so masculine and crisp about it — I love it. I even like when a guy just throws a blazer over a T-shirt and jeans. It’s what real, effortlessly cool looks like.

HATE: The “I just rolled out of bed” look. I don’t care who you are; this will never look good. I’ve just known more guys who try to pull this off than women who do. It’s not too hard to avoid this. Just wear clean clothes that aren’t wrinkled. It doesn’t even have to match, just somewhat cohesive. Not too hard at all.

LOVE: Basics. Put together so well. I love basics on a guy. A great white Tee. Blue jeans. Ray-Ban sunglasses. A button-down. These are what great looks are made of! Oh, and I am not opposed to a leather motorcycle jacket on a man, either. That piece is totally timeless in the realm of male style.

HATE: Overly baggy clothing. If I can see boxer-shorts, we have a problem. Pants should be loose, not baggy. There is a huge difference. And if a guy’s swimming in his sweatshirt/T-shirt/jacket — the same is true with women — then there is no shape, and it’s not flattering. Fit is key.

LOVE: Stuff the girls can steal. OK, OK. This doesnÂ’t matter too much. But I do love items like white button-downs, blazers and aviator glasses, because we girls can wear them too. Major plus, right?

Guys, I donÂ’t care if you care about fashion. I just care that you care about looking decent for the rest of the world. Style isnÂ’t fashion. ItÂ’s looking pulled-together and putting a little thought into your look. So please, donÂ’t worry about understanding the short-shorts and loafers look. That will remain a mystery for long, long time.

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/tonyshek/234322074

No related posts.

There are some universal fashion faux pas that men make, and women chastise us for, on a regular basis. Here are five of the most common that even I have committed.

1. The Stain: Men like to eat things that are dripping with grease, mayo, ranch dressing and anything else that can clog an artery. Occasionally; oh, who am I kidding, almost every time; some type of toxic sludge will fall on our shirt or pants, creating a stain that even Superman couldnÂ’t get out. Women would throw out that shirt or pair of pants and hit the stores for that perfect replacement. Men like to spend their money on more important things like video games, power tools and gadgets with flashing lights. If the stain is on a dress shirt and can be hidden by a tie, weÂ’re golden. If not, then weÂ’ll actually spend time analyzing the color differences between the stain and the fabric to see if itÂ’s really that noticeable. If the stain is on pants, as long as it doesnÂ’t look like we wet ourselves, itÂ’s getting worn again.

2. The Shirt of Many Colors: Occasionally, even a forward-thinking man about town, such as myself, may get caught up in how cool a shirt looks on the rack, and forget about how good it looks on his body. Do you want to know a little secret? Men HATE trying things on. WeÂ’ll eyeball everything from shirts to pants so we donÂ’t have to try it on. Do you know why many men wear ill fitting clothes? We misjudged and are too embarrassed to take it back. Just like wild animals, men are attracted to shiny colors, and while in birds it may be a sign of virility and a quality worthy in a mate, most women think Hawaiian shirts areÂ…lame. Also, if itÂ’s comfortable and inexpensive, then odds are, weÂ’ll wear it, even if it looks like a rainbow got drunk and threw up on it.

3. Wrinkles schminkles: Between when I left home and when I moved in with my wife, I never folded anything. Most of the time, the clothes never made it out of the clothes hamper and sometimes they never even made it back to the clothes hamper. These practices cause wrinkles and you can see men in wrinkled shirts and pants walking everywhere in the office, department store and grocer completely oblivious. Why donÂ’t men care about wrinkles? They donÂ’t smell bad, discolor the fabric or cause cancer. If everyone wore their clothes wrinkled, then it would the norm. Think about that. Besides, after a couple days of wearing, the wrinkles just go away anyway.

4. We donÂ’t have time to match: When I wake up in the morning, I go to the shirt drawer or closet and grab. Then, I hit the pants drawer and grab. Odds are, I never even bothered looking at the color of the shirt, because my thoughts are occupied by the day ahead and what work is done or needs to be done. When I come downstairs, there is at least a 30 percent chance I look like a circus clown. HONK! HONK! My wife just shakes her head and points me back upstairs. It may take two or three tries, but eventually I come down in something resembling a matching outfit. On the days that I leave before my wife is up or vice versa, well, letÂ’s just say the circus comes to town.

5. Comfort is king: If it was socially acceptable, men would leave the house and go about their day in their underwear and t-shirt. IÂ’m not talking the good underwear we wear when we go to the in-laws either. I mean the holey ones where the elastic is shot and barely holding on. Why? ItÂ’s comfortable. Many women will torture themselves for the sake of looking good, whether that means wearing something uncomfortable or cutting off circulation to the extremities, because of a tight dress. Men wear things that are painted on as wellÂ…literally. WeÂ’d wear paint covered sweat pants to a five star restaurant if we could. Comfort will always win out over fashion for men. When we can find something that is comfortable and looks good, then everybody wins.

These fashion faux pas have been made by men for generations, and will be made for generations more. No matter how the clothes and styles change, men will always be men. My father would leave the house and walk to the mailbox in a pair of ratty tighty whiteys and as the years roll on, I feel my underwear radius slowly increasing as well. Give us a break ladies, we know we have a problem, but feel free to help us out. Your input is graciously appreciated.

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/icrontic/4062037566

No related posts.

Although IÂ’m not suggesting you actually steal this clothing from your boyfriend, you can borrow his clothes and look fabulous. Even if you donÂ’t have a very stylish boyfriend (a mythic creature that I have never personally witnessed let alone had the chance to date!), every man has clothes that you can rock. Here is my list of the three best things to steal from your man:

1. His T-Shirt. A manÂ’s worn-in and oversized tee is the most comfortable and comforting piece of clothing on the planet. Few things are as nice as a t-shirt thatÂ’s been washed so many times that it has that super soft feel. And even better, itÂ’s a perfect addition to your wardrobe! You can dress up the oversized tee by adding leggings, boots, and some glamorous accessories like chunky jewelry or an equally large colored scarf. Or you can keep the look totally casual and summer appropriate by wearing it with simple jean cut-off shorts. My personal favorite way to style a menÂ’s tee is to tuck it into a slim cut high-waisted skirt. I think this look mixes the boyfriend style with classic femininity.

2. His Button Down Shirt. ThereÂ’s something so fun about turning your boyfriendÂ’s serious work shirt into your own casual look. The classic way to wear his button down is as a shirt dress. So throw on his shirt, add a belt at your waist, and some girly sandals or heels. Adding the belt is key to defining your body beneath all that fabric. If your boyfriend is on the smaller side and his button down wonÂ’t cover you all up as a dress, try rolling the sleeves and wearing it as an oversized shirt with skinny jeans. Add a necklace on top and youÂ’ll look totally chic.

3. His watch and his other accessories. I love a manÂ’s watch on a woman and what better way to try out the trend than by just borrowing his watch for few days? You might also want to try borrowing his sunglasses, as many styles are now unisex, and different frames can help mix up your look. Also, if your boyfriend is one the rare few who wears hats, definitely borrow them! You will look cool in this summerÂ’s menÂ’s style hats, like the fedora, and you can feel even cooler knowing you got yours from your guy.

What do you “borrow” from your boyfriend?

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/24328644@N08/2509528362

No related posts.

1. A classic polo shirt. No man can ever have too many polos. Polos are very comfortable while still looking sharp – perfect for your dad to wear during the summer. They come in tons of different colors, cuts, and fabrics, so you can find the perfect shirt for every man. I think that for father’s day specifically, it’d be nice to get your father a brighter colored polo shirt. If that doesn’t seem his style, I think even a nice color like light blue or light green would look amazing and be weather appropriate. Just stay away from dark winter colors like black, dark blue, or dark grey. Your dad probably has enough of these serious colored polos and you should gift him with something slightly more fun.

2. A summer sweater or a sweater vest. A summer sweater is thin and usually made out of cotton. They can be great for layering when it gets slightly chilly at night or even when the office gets too cool during the day. Both sweaters and sweater vests can be won over other shirts and still can look totally summer casual. These sweaters also come in tons of relaxed, light summer patterns and colors. Try something in a light color with a cool pattern like argyle, stripes, or cubes.

3. A summer watch. Most men have a go-to watch already, which is probably big, clunky, made with a heavy metal, and dark colored. Get your dad an easy summer watch that he can wear while he barbecues or hangs out outside. Look for a watch with a nice solid watch face, but with a thinner band typically made out of fabric. I love the menÂ’s watches that have silver faces and then are surrounded by a single color or striped ribbon wristband. I think using ribbon captures the relaxed feel of summer while still staying stylish and up to date.

What are you getting your dad for Father’s Day?

No related posts.

V-neck shirt: Forget about the plain casual T-shirts! Try a v-neckline that will flatter a man’s chest area and make the neck look longer. The neckline is a less casual look and gives a stylish appearance for him.

Plaid shorts: Show off the calves! Baring legs are not just for the ladies and should be done tastefully. Opt for plaid prints that exude spring fever and are easy to match and top with a solid colored tee.

Men’s white shoes: Not your tennis shoes… I am talking about a gentleman look. Choose loafer styles or boat shoes (even try boat style shoes in other colors, but leave the socks in the drawer!). A pair of shoes in a crisp white shows you are not afraid to get stylish.

A ladies’ man is not afraid to accessorize. Don’t forget a watch and top it off with a straw fedora hat when he is ready (Men can get very sensitive when it comes to their own personal fashions). Keep up with the ladies of spring and get in the know.

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/24258698@N04/3197101435

No related posts.

The Look:

Alfonso’s style is an example of stellar winter style for men. The fitted pea coat, fitted jeans, plaid scarf, and leather boots create his effortless style. He looks crisp, classic, and sophisticated: serious and strong, calm and cool. The outfit is functional and aesthetically pleasing, giving him a masculine and polished edge.

From a woman’s perspective, let me tell you: Alfonso’s look sure beats the sloppy jeans and a sweatshirt look. At my West Coast college, (I kid you not) guys wore pajamas to class… Alfonso puts them to shame! He doesn’t even need to try to look good, but he looks like he did. Effortless, masculine, and put together. What man (or woman) could want more?

Make It Yours:

From what I’ve been told, men believe in a stigma for looking too trendy and fashionable. My boyfriend, for example, laughs at me when I mention my favorite Citizens of Humanity denim washes. The best part about Alfonso’s look is that his style is versatile enough to suit the tastes of a variety of different men. You don’t have to worry about looking “metro” if you don’t want to look metro, but at the same time, you can look as metro as you want. Men: that’s the great thing about basics – you have complete control over how the world sees what you’re wearing. Chances are, nobody’s criticizing. It’s not what you wear – it’s how you wear it, and if you look good, you look good.

The look is relaxed enough that a man can literally, pick up whatever he has out of the depths of his (or his dad’s) closet. Wear your $10 jeans and hand-me-down boots. At the same time, the more fashion-oriented and trendy men can add a designer flair to this look. Stick to the basics, or experiment to make it your own. Any man can pull this off with whatever – literally!

Image Source: Street Spotted

No related posts.

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him:

1. Watch: consider quality time you have spent with this man.

Nixon Watches The Rocker Brown for $89.95

2. Cologne: make him smell good for you!

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Cologne for $48.70

3. T-shirt: choose a funny screen print that will make him smile.

Outer Rebel “Boy Bands Suck” Funny T-shirt for $14.00

4. Hoodie: snuggle up with him in a zip up hoodie

Matix Men’s Asher Flannel Hoodie for $67.95

5. Wallet; let him know he is priceless…or maybe you!?!?

Zeyner Bifold Wallet (Men’s) – Black Italian Vachetta Leather for $99.95

No related posts.

Budget: First things first, you must know how much we are willing to spend on this special guy. There are a range of watch styles to choose from, but knowing the amount you’re willing to spend will determine the watch brand and quality. Do not be afraid to shop around for the best deals. If you know a particular brand he would like, look around for specials and watch deals to help you save more. Make sure that you do not go over your budget, and keep your purchase practical. There is no need to buy your love. Your time is already valuable!   

Face Dial: The size of the face dial is crucial. Men’s watches are generally larger in size in comparison to women’s watches. The size of the face dial should be proportioned to the size of your man’s wrist or arm. If he is a big guy, look into larger sized faces to complement his style. If he is skinny or has a small wrist, do not purchase an oversize dial: he will look even smaller! A big sized watch on a small man is not too flattering, so be privy to a balanced look with the right sized accessory.

Straps: Watch straps vary in design. Most watch straps range from metal links, plastic looks, to leather bands. Depending on your man’s lifestyle, the straps of a watch greatly determine the overall look. Besides his image status in life, a man’s watch is a reflection of his personality. For example, if he is a professional or would like to be taken seriously, consider metal links as straps. Leather bands are good for a more polished look, and can also be worn as a fashionable piece. For the younger or casual guy, try looking for plastic variations for a more relaxed look.

Do not be disappointed if he does not wear your watch everyday. Usually, men match their watches like women match their shoes. Depending on the occasion, a specific watch style is complementary to his attire. Pick a watch style that is versatile and easily matches his personality. Make it a gift of love that is surely timeless!

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/jonboy_mitchell/3185818026

No related posts.

Neff Men’s Silly Hoodie for $64.95: The Urban Hipster will like this hoody with complex fabric design and chill color arrangement. The turquoise and gray color combination and asymmetrical zipper features makes this hoodie a creative expression.

Thirtytwo Men’s Base Hoodie for $69.95: The Boy Next Door will like this hoody with a classic all over plaid print. This cotton blend fleece zip-up has a modern traditional look. With removable fur lining and front pocket features, this hoody reflects a gentleman at his finest.

686 Lift Off Hoody  for $39.99: The High Tech Guy will certainly want to upload this hoody no matter the file size.  This style displays a modern matrix screen print and technological influence. A dedicated ipod pocket is also available for his latest gadgets. Make him plug into fashion with this hoody style!

Quiksilver Men’s Nightmares Hoodie  for $31.29: The Bad Boy will have to tolerate this traditional hoody with innovative skull screen print design (the eyes are palm trees). No need to tone down his image!  With a front pouch pocket and ribbed cuffs/hem, this hooded sweater is tough enough for the both of you.

Fox Rockstar Men’s Hoodie  for $58.99: The Rockstar can party like one in this style. With a Fox zipper pull and Rockstar applique and logo screen prints, this garment radiates plenty of energy.

Nowadays, it is not the man that wears a hoody, it is the hoody that wears the man!

Image Source: smarter.com, altrec.com, peterglenn.com, tilly’s.com

No related posts.

When I try to think back about the influences Michael Jackson had on fashion and culture from the inception of the Jackson Five to Thriller to the present tragedy of his death, I find it is easier to start with what the King of Pop did not influence, as opposed to what he did.  Gangster hoodies, emo rap, and grunge were certainly not any of his styles.  Nor were baggy pants, grinding in the club, or heavy death metal.  Michael Jackson was an icon for the ages with multiple looks that were fanciful, sharp and totally rockstar quality.  We can start with the Jackson Five look, the tight paisley button downs and bell-bottoms (who didn’t wear bell bottoms?  Now we know who started it!).  Rock the look with a cute suede vest and platform shoes, and you really are living the pint-size MJ dream.

But Michael Jackson really became a cultural icon with the breakthrough music video Thriller in 1983.  His dance moves were to die for and became iconic in the swivel and swish of that red leather jacket with zipper details, tight-fitting parachute pants, and the single, white leather glove that started to illuminate the quirky taste of Mr. Jackson.  Parachute pants are making it back to the runway, but I don’t know if it’s the best way to appreciate MJ’s glory.  The white glove is all his, but try bringing back colored leather jackets and zipper details.  The 80’s are back, where have you been?

And finally, my favorite, there is the style I like to call Michael Jackson Classic.  MJC would be the tailored white button down, sequined black jacket, tight black pants and the fedora.  This is the Billie Jean Moonwalk look, the beloved dance moves that have been honed from manic zombiehood down to classic perfection.  The original Sexy Back.

How to emulate this?

Start a dance studio focusing specific in Michael Jackson impersonations, make a buckload of money, invest in the best fedora you can find and rock out for the rest of your life.  But for us proletariats, some snazzy sequins get-ups, socks, and tile floors will do just fine for the weekend’s Michael Jackon Memorial Dance Party.  My house.  8 pm.  Be there.

Image Source: GroupieBlog, Huntermuttall.com, MJDavid007.com

No related posts.