Day 5: Polyester. Polyester is making a comeback with interesting textures like crushed silk and knits which are now imitating silk jersey and its draping ability. Wash often because it attracts greasy soiling. Most are machine washable in warm water but, don’t add fabric softener until the final rinse to prevent static and excess creasing. Tumble dry on low. Iron with a cool iron only. .
Day 4: Viscose. Viscose is easily blended with other fibers such as satin but, it is very difficult to get 100% viscose. Its fibers are natural even though chemicals are used to make it. Viscose becomes weaker when wet. Best fabric care is to hand-wash frequently in warm water; avoid wringing or twisting; and blot dry before handing. Iron while damp. Avoid pressing over the seams .
Day 3: Cotton. Cotton is king if you live in a warm climate–it breathes as opposed to generating extra heat for the body. Whether in its crisp form, poplin, or its softer form, sateen, its multi-faceted and versatile. Cotton comes in several gauges from lightweight summer fabrics to heavy duty denim. Although cooler temperatures are better, cotton can be washed at all temperatures. For whites, the hottest temperature possible is best to boost whiteness. Don’t wash drip-dry cottons at high
Day 2: Linen. Linen has a life of its own and can drape wonderfully if it is of high quality. It is one of the coolest fibers to wear for the summer climate…and we need that in DC! Linen can be treated as a hardwearing fiber, but it can stretch or lose shape if not cared for properly. The fiber washes and wears well as long as it’s ironed at high temperatures. Avoid overloading the machine because it has a tendency
Since the buzz started about six months ago, fashion folks have been waiting to get their ‘fix’ with the new collection by Cole Haan called Cole, Rood & Haan — after the three gentleman who started the company back in the 1920s. Part of the line features men’s shoes that have a vintage and gently worn feel but, come from high quality Italian leather and suede. Here’s a peek at a few that I love: Glad Rags, $375 Dapper $295
Mystery: I have 3 weddings to do across two days so, I need a nice, classy pump or heel that I can wear at an afternoon outdoor wedding, evening wedding, and indoor and slightly dressier wedding; plus one pair is better than three. I can’t spend a ton…as a matter of fact, my budget is $200 and that’s pushing it! Can you help? Solved: Dear “?” the right answer is an open-toe, flesh/neutral-colored or subdued metallic heel (preferably 3-inch minimum). The height is
Day 1: Cashmere, Lamb’s Wool & Mohair. Woolens are natural, soft fibers which can quickly felt with careless washing so, when washing, check the label! If the garment indicates ‘machine washable’ always use the gentlest cycle. For hand washables, take extra care because they can felt as well! Woolens should be left to dry flat and inside out but avoid direct sunlight and heat. Gently pull it into shape. You can iron wool: press on the wrong side with a warm
The colors of the season are purple, grey and forest green and although Blueprint will be sharing several ideas about how to integrate these colors into your closet, I wanted to start us out right! To get your splash of color without going too crazy and maintaining your ‘macho’ persona, try these forest green Clae Khan sneakers ($148). You can scoop them online at Tobi and they are haute!! What makes them so cool besides the color is the toe
In reality, it’s a houndstooth waistcoat and dress — and it’s divine! You can wear this into the office, head to dinner with your colleagues afterwards, and then meet your other-half for a late (light) dinner….in one dress! Outnet has this Thread Social houndstooth waistcoat and dress for $198! This is chic-onomics at its best especially for the travelista: wear the entire ensemble on Day 1; wear the waistcoat with a black pencil skirt on Day 2; and wear the dress
Does this ooze with class and sophistication…or what?! If anyone is interested in purchasing, please contact Smith & Company in Houston, TX (713-599-0007) but, for the rest, let’s just note the specs or head to 1stdibs to get a closer look: 2008 large man’s Cartier Roadster watch with all links; also has a brown crocodile strap with deployment clasp (with original box, papers, C.D.) 18k gold Swiss movement Near-perfect condition Price: $24,000 Having a timepiece like this almost makes watching the clock a
Question: Name at least 6 of 8 items a ‘stylish man on the go’ needs Answer: leather duffel, a pair of khakis, white shirts, lightweight jeans, classic sneakers, brown loafer or simple lace-up shoes, sweater, blazer Winner: Jafi Prize: Free Blueprint for Style Initial Style Consultation with the purchase of any service (redeemable thru 10/31) .
During our time in Cape Town, Johnica and I were given the opportunity to luxuriate at The Spa at Cape Grace– and that we did! While we stayed at The Table Bay Hotel, it was Cape Grace’s recently renovated and upgraded hotel and services that left our mouth agasp and let the hectic pace melt away.
Is it just me or does anyone remember when we used to get the nylon/PVC Members Only jackets for like….$30?! Well, they are not as cheap anymore ($369) but, ideeli has them on sale because, YES, they are back and have been for about two years!! The sale starts today ( 11am for FRONT ROW members and 12 pm for everyone else); sizes go from 0 to 12! we had them 20 years ago and they’re back so, you know it’s
The owner, Nicole Temple, rattles off her history and background about how she got where she is today and somewhere in the midst, you realize she was made for this! Having grown up in a house where snakeskin, ostrich, and crocodile were everyday means you, at least, have some understanding and appreciation for its rarity. Johnica Reed and I were introduced to the store by designer Nabeela Abrahams and fell in love instantly…not just because the quality of the skins
The final day featured only one designer, Kluk CGDT likely because Malcolm Kluk and Christiaan Gabriel Du Toit, who are the creatives forces behind Kluk, used the runway to show Pret-a-Porter, bridal, and couture. They produce six collections a year and currently outfit most of South Africa’s celebrities and politicians. Kluk has participated in Fashion Weeks around the globe including Singapore, New York and India. The dresses were everything that is feminine, flowing, strong, bold, and elegant. Self-described, their brand
The shows Saturday evening started around 6pm and the house was packed- everyone came out to see Gavin Rajah at the BMW Showroom and along with Fabiani, ran away with creations that could appeal to even the most discriminating eye! Day 3 shows included: Carducci Women: Francois Rall is currently responsible for the collection at Carducci and his focus has been on embodying hte heritage of modern South Africa. Carducci showed quite a bit of black, denim and lighter
[singlepic id=172 w=320 h=240 float=center] It was Friday so, needless to say, the crowds were out and the designers did not disappoint! Day 2 shows included: Suzann Heyns and David Tlale for Luella: Suzann is a LISOF-trained and Elle Magazine bred fashionista. Her collection emphasized tailored garments and slightly avant garde designs made from quality fabrics. David Tlale launched his brand over five years ago and since has shown at Paris Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week! His past
[singlepic id=80 w=320 h=240 float=center] I loved it! The Cape Town Fashion Week is unlike many others in that it’s open to the public who can purchase tickets! Day 1 started off about 3 hours behind schedule due to some set issues however, once started, it was full of surprises and stellar shows by relative newcomers to the fashion industry with Michelle Ludek being the highlight for me! Day 1 consisted of shows from the following: The Graduate Show: Featuring
I’m not sure about you but, I have fond memories of Hello Kitty pens, pencils, wallets, notepads, necklaces, charms, etc. I was even on a visit to LA last year and indulged in a Hello Kitty keychain charm just so I could look down when I turn the key to my car and get a quick rush of laughter!! Enough about my fond memories….I’m sure that if you were born anytime after 1968, you have one or two memories as
Today kicks off a new feature on the Blueprint for Style blog titled, “Dear Blueprint…Need Help!“. The goal is to field a question posed by you all and provide a quick (and hopefully useful) answer….think Pauline Phillips aka Abigail Van Buren less the coiffed hair and newspaper ink! So, here we go…. Question Posed: I read a lot of style and fashion magazines and read several of the online publications as well. Every publication has a ‘must have’ list for
Nabeela aka Lady Noble hit the runways at the Cape Town Fashion Week as part of The Graduate Show! There were over 25 students showing their creations and while we saw quite a bit of sequins and glitter, and a few outfits that could have used a few more finishing touches, Nabeela Abrahams‘ outfits were nicely done in her gold/purple color theme. ARISE Cape Town Fashion Week : The Graduate Show – Nabeela Abrahams from Johnica Reed on Vimeo. Also
Today while in Cape Town, Johnica and I had the pleasure of partaking in a bit of ‘exhale’ at the Camelot Spa located inside The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa. A large part of being stylish and sophisticated is our ability to feel stylish and sophisticated–what better way (besides a massage and a great workout) than with a facial! The staff was very professional and courteous, and the facial hit the spot. After having spent several hours and
The Cape Town Fashion Week was scheduled to start at 1 pm local time with The Graduate Show however, due to a few technical difficulties, the show start time is now 3 pm local! Stay tuned….
The Samsonite Black Label by Viktor & Rolf…for a mere $925 at Browns Fashion! So perhaps I won’t have it today but, I can dream!! Let me share the beauty of the suitcase and what are some completely functional features: It’s on wheels! Has outside pouch pockets to carry your travel documents and must-access-quickly bits and bots Can be placed in the overhead bin Coded padlock Way to stay stylish with this fashionably haute rolling suitcase!.
Every time I am in Cape Town, I am reminded of how much I love this city…I fall in love more each time! Today, Johnica and I have been graced with the opportunity to hang with native Capetonians Mastura and her daughter, designer Nabeela Abrahams who will be in tomorrow’s show, The Graduate Show. For Nabeela’s show, her color palette is purple and gold using chiffon, chenille and silk satins. Her pieces are ready-to-wear with an evening dress, a jumpsuit
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