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

So, let’s start with the handbag. Sometimes I dress myself up for a weekend out and grab the handbag all of my “stuff” is in and realize I just lost 10 points on the “hot scale.” You can’t spend hours in front of the mirror trying to obtain a sexy look and then pick up your ratty, everyday bag.

Go for something smaller and cuter, like the Swarovski Buckle Leather Barrel Bag. It’s sleek, sexy, and is adorned with it’s own Swarovski crystal. The bag comes in red or black, though I really think black is a bit more universal.

For a lighter spring look, check out the Coach Striped Handbag in beige. It’s a great evening bag for the spring and summer and can easily be used everyday if you’re a woman who doesn’t need to carry a lot of extra stuff with her.

Of course, the accessories you wear can make a huge difference as well.  I was once told that the difference between a woman who could walk into a room with “presence” and one who did not was in the accessories she was wearing. Both women could have on the exact same outfit, but the necklaces, rings, bracelets, or lack thereof would make a huge difference when it came to being noticed and remembered.

I’m really into bracelets these days, especially since my arms will show more in my spring attire. One of my spring favorites is the Juicy Couture replica Bracelet. It’s sleek, sophisticated, and can complement any look.

Those who like gold better than silver might like the Juicy Couture Heart Padlock Leather Bangle Bracelet instead. It’s a stunning blend of leather and gold that will certainly add an air of mystery to your wardrobe.

Last, but not least, is your makeup. I know this blog is all about fashion, but it’s important that you are able to combine your wardrobe choices with the proper cosmetic colors. Otherwise, you’ll end up looking like a clown.

My absolute favorite cosmetics come from Smashbox. They have an incredible variety of natural color options and usually run some really great sales.

Every woman should have the Smashbox Eye Liner Cream Palate. It’s easier to carry than a handful of different color tubs and gives you options and variety, no matter where you go.

The double ended lip glosses and lip pencils are a hit as well. You can change your color as needed with a dark and light option. These items are convenient enough to carry with you, even in your smaller evening bag!

Remember, being fashionable is about more than your dress, pants, and blouse. Combine your outfit with your accessories and makeup and you’ll make a much more memorable appearance!

Check out some other great barrel purses, bracelets, and Smashbox cosmetics here.

Okay well I am a fan of tuxedo t-shirts!

It’s the optimal mix of wit, hilarity and style. I always think of that one scene in Talladega Nights when he says, “Oh I imagine my Jesus in a tuxedo T-shirt, because I like my Jesus to be serious BUT I also like my Jesus to party..”  Ha!

If you share a similiar sense of humor check out these great deals on discount tuxedo t-shirts!

Price $17.50-$19.50

Han Cholo Turntable Ring (Sterling Silver) Ring: $98.91 (Was: $137)

Han Cholo Turntable Pendant (Vermeil) Necklace: $132.76

The TableTurns Gold Watch: $64 (Was: $80)

Exact Science XRAY Deck T-Shirt: $19.99 (Was: $26)

Women’s Turntable Subject T-Shirt: $19.99

Exact Science - The Dream Machine Tee: $26

DJ Turntable Cufflinks: $57 (Was: $79.80)

Turntables Silver Premium Iced Out Pendant & 36 Inch Hip Hop Chain: $21.95 (Was: $49.95)

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more Han Cholo jewelry.
Discounts on Exact Science t-shirts.

Dejan kindly agreed to an interview, where I was able to ask him about his modeling career and other interests. Now I know ladies, you probably aren’t going to read any of this, so I’ve added a few pictures too.

Lisa : ” How old are you Dejan and where are you from?”

Dejan: ” I’m 21 years old and I live in Zagreb,Croatia”

L: “  How did you start modeling?”

D: ” I was out shopping and a girl noticed me. She said I should be a model and drove me straight to a fashion designer! He said I was great and here I am! That was just a year ago!”

L: Who are your favourite female models?

D: I love Claudia Schiffer, Gisele Bundchen, Heide Klum…I would love to marry someone as beautiful as them!

L: Who are your favourite designers?

D: D&G, Prada, Lanvin, Karl Lagerfield, Dior,Tom Ford…

L: This is an amazing shot. Weren’t you afraid of the snake?

D: I was scared at first! However after a taking a few photos I was fine. The snake was a great model and now we’re good friends!

L: What is fashion like in Croatia, how do you like to dress?

D: I love the fashion in Croatia. I love to dress casually, but if  I’m going out, I wear suits.

L: Apart from modeling, what are your other interests?

D: I love playing soccer, studying and hanging out with my friends

L: What would you like achieve in your modeling career?

D: I would like to do a big campaign for a famous brand…

Something tells me that big campaign is just around the corner.

If you would like to drool over more photos of Dejan or would like find out booking details (professional bookings only) visit Dejan’s Profile Page on The Style Mansion.

Thanks Dejan! You’re a star!

Brought to you by e-mancipate, you can now purchase an entire pantyhose range for your man. Apparantly they help improve your sporting performance.

This guy looks really pleased with his floral navy designed pantyhose.

E-mancipate has lots of helpful tips on how men should wear pantyhose. You can even purchase a book on the entire subject.

These two guys are willing to take on anyone who suggests that it’s not ok for men to wear tights.

At least if you’re man starts wearing pantyhose, you can always borrow a pair from him in an emergency.

Image courtesy of Triple M

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for women’s pantyhose.

Obama’s charisma certainly helped him win the Democratic nomination for the 2008 presidential election, but apparently his fashion sense is also being recognized.  I read on ABCNews.com that Donatella Versace dedicated her Spring 2008 men’s collection to Obama:

‘Versace described the Obama-dedicated style as one designed for “a relaxed man who doesn’t need to flex muscles to show he has power.”‘

He doesn’t care much about fashion at all, but I’m sure he’s flattered that he’s “natural” fashion sense is pleasing to high end fashion designers. 

Check out the article here. 

Watch a clip of the Versace Spring Summer 2008 Men’s Fashion Show right here. 

YouTube - Watch Link

Here are some of my faves from the men’s line:

Genmen-Cotton Lawn Shirting: $150                                 Prj-Classic Old School Jacket: $150

       Tailgate - Sip N Eat Tee: $45                                            7 diam-Keepers of the Peace: $80

Click here to visit Lisa Kline Men. 

And for the kiddies….

           Spltl-Scatter Flower Print Dress: $51                            Pumak-Roma Pf Fe Inf: $48

                    Amp-Ramones S/s Tee: $41                                      Child-Onsie W/Bolt: $38

Click here to visit Lisa Kline Kids.

Now until May 31st get FREE GROUND SHIPPING on all order over $50 at all Lisa Kline stores.

An old uniform is worn by the lady on the far right.  What do you think about the new uniforms?  I love that the guys will have to wear a suit & tie. :)  Nothing like a man with an accent in a suit.  Should good ol’ Bruce come over to do a makeover for the U.S. uniforms?  I also love that Bruce is wearing “Chucks” (Taylors) with his suit.

Click here to read the full article from Telegraph.co.uk.

This year men can also vote for their favorite brand!  So, send this to your boyfriend, father, brothers, pals, etc.  I don’t want to influence your vote or anything, but I had to put this old picture of the Calvin Klein ad with Mark Wahlberg for your viewing pleasure.  After all, he is in his undies isn’t he? 

After you’ve completed your vote you will be able to get a 10% off coupon code from HerRoom!  Sounds good to me!  (I’m thinking the men who vote will get the same offer from HisRoom.com….?)  One reason I think this voting is awesome in general is that fact that it creates more competition within the “underwear” industry so they will strive harder to produce the best and most comfortable underwear for us all!

Shop for women’s lingerie & underwear here.

Shop for men’s underwear here.