Across the last 60 days, I have beseeched, grovelled and implored for my male readers to speak their minds and share their desires…no, not in terms of the other species but in terms of clothing, accessories, and other bits and bots of interest!. The result — collectively nine responses from a base of readership that comprises almost 30% of my 500+ readers!!
Oh where, oh where for art thou beings of the ‘lesser’ species (LOL!)?
Across the next few days, I would love to hear from the gentlemen about what is top of mind. I read GQ, Details, and Cigar Aficionado; I speak with men from varying walks of life daily; I pound the pavement in New York City to create relationships with certain designers (…I easily logged a half marathon worth of mileage on my 4-inch Prada boots); I furiously ‘twitter’ to my ‘tweople’ to ensure I am up on what’s hot and what’s not……alas, to no avail.
I’m drawing the proverbial ‘line in the sand’ — respond with feedback or else! Or else, I’ll be forced to continue my current musings in an effort to please you and win your attention.
Well?
14 Responses
BfS, what’s happening? I have to admit, I am extremely impressed with your dedication to delivering a quality product. I would be remiss if I didn’t contribute and let you know what’s going on in my mind. When it comes to style, I think it varies with individual comfort-levels. My style varies depending on the circumstances of the day but to know that I can adapt my look and ultimately my attitude and confidence is a comfort. Ok, you say how do you do that? Well, depending on the circumstance, you have to have a deep wardrobe and you don’t get that without a few years of collecting timeless pieces. Over time you buy things that you feel comfortable with and at the end-of-the-day, you have an outfit or style that you can put together at a moment’s notice. Defining my style is rather complex, but I feel I can be confident in any circumstance because of my planning. I’m prepared for Formal, Professional and Casual. I do struggle however in the business-casual setting primarily because I don’t understand it and I’ve never tried to because I just don’t like that look. Maybe you can explain why that style exists and how I can build or adapt my current repertoire to include business-casual? Thanks for your reply in advance.
Not really focused on fashion these days. I hate to see summer exiting because I’m going to have to give up my shorts and t-shirts soon for jeans, boots and sweaters.
Good work on the website and the blog in general. I am interested in European fashion (Italian, French). I do not shop as often now but when I do, I put in a good coin so I like quality items. For example, I have a pair of jeans I bought (before the recession) on Bond Street in London for 700 Euros – upper limit of what I would spend though. I like unique clothing; stuff you can’t find everywhere.
In today’s world, to stay one step ahead, it’s important to look your best. That means developing your own sense of style and this does not simply mean following fashions and trends for the sake of it. There is a big difference between being stylish and just following the latest men’s fashion trends for the sake of them. A man fashion victim is someone who wants follow all the latest men’s fashion trends regardless of whether they suit their body shape looks or, age and is someone who can’t put his look together.
Looking your best does require a certain amount of effort, but ultimately, your clothes have to fit right, and suit your style, image and personality. As I mentioned before, it’s not about the clothes you wear — it’s about how you wear them. There are enough styles out there, so I am sure you are comfortable finding your own style.
I always say wear what you think looks good, not what you believe is trendy. You should always feel comfortable with what you’re wearing, so stick to items that suit your personality and style, while keeping the occasion and setting in mind. The key with men’s fashion is always to match it to your personality, age and personal features. Keep a good balance of basic and fashionable clothes in your wardrobe. As a rule of thumb, not more than half of your wardrobe should not consist of trendy clothes, or worse, clothes that are out of style. Finally, brand is always trendy and style but it sometimes doesn’t mean it will look good on you. So don’t follow blindly.
BfS, in my humble opinion, the most stylish individuals I have seen over time, know and admire personally, march to their own drum beat. What appeals to my fashion sense and looks good on me may or may not have the same effect on someone else. That being the case, my wardrobe reflects the many different facets of my life. Monday through Friday it’s business attire…dark suits, solid white and light blue shirts, power ties and square toe shoes (my one concession to the times). Daytime weekends, I like comfort so it is casual…sometimes jeans or comfortable slacks whose material depends on the season. I am a shoe man but tend to always keep a crisp pair of Stan Smiths on hand, there is a lot to be said about tradition. Lastly, like most people who work hard, when it is time to enjoy myself, I like to do it right…names have never been important and my most complimented pieces worn came from designers most have never heard of (even myself). That being said, wear what makes you feel good, and that my dear, truly defines style.
As I’ve grown over the years, I’ve become a fan of timepieces. Notice, I didn’t say watches. I scour the internet and other sources to locate fine timepieces that showcase how I’m feeling on any particular day. There are timepieces that speak fun, charming, serious, and a host of other adjectives that can be used to describe one’s personality. I’ve really taken a liking to not only timepieces that are wrist based, but I also like pocket timepieces. I believe they’re an unforgotten piece in a man’s wardrobe. I’d like to see more of how one could incorporate timepieces into their daily attire. One question to ponder, as the seasons change (summer, winter, spring, autumn) should your timepieces change also?
‘Tis sad to say, but since my marriage I don’t spend alot of time shopping (for myself). But as I have gotten older (I like to call it maturing), I have come to value clothes that fit me well and that are comfortable. I have also come to value well made clothes that are timeless – so I know that they will last and will never be out of style. I am particularly fond of a good pair of jeans that I can dress up with a blazer and nice pair of shoes…and be equally comfortable wearing a pair of sneakers and t-shirt.
Each season, as I prepare to alter and change my wardrobe according to the changing weather, I wonder am I still in style. I always mean to look at a GQ or details months ahead to make sure I stay ahead of the curve. I would love to see a simple to the point guide of what trends are new and fresh for men. I know classic style well. But a quick guide on the new trends would be great!
I’d love to hear about casual, yet dapper pieces for fall and winter. I’m a low key guy, but want to class it up a bit.
Monica – as you know I try to steer clear of the trends and focus on the classics. For me it’s either traditional classics and some contemporary classics. With the classics you can’t go wrong! I have some things in my wardrobe that I have had for 10-12 years. When the cooler seasons hit I really enjoy sweaters, jackets, coats and hats. On the flip, during the summer months I am a cut-off khaki short cut kinda guy with an occasional pair of linen shorts or seersucker shorts. I’ve been told it’s my summer uniform. That’s what I’m lounging in. If it’s business related I’ll don a range of seersucker suits or poplin suits.
I work in an enviornment wear really casual is acceptable. Though I appreciate the ability to wear flip flops and a T-Shirt at any given time, I don’t always feel comfortable doing so. That said, I’d be looking for tips on how to keep it casual, fashionalbe and cool…without standing out too far from the rest of my colleagues.
Late comment,
Awh!!! If only the intimate relationships with the opposite sex would give and/or pay this much attention to my wants as a man…. Blueprintfor style, you give me hope!
I have a challenging question? “The Baseball Cap or other styles of Brims and Toppers.” When, where and what is it appropriate to wear with?