Posts with tag 'Men\'s Accessories'

September 7, 2011
- Use Belts to Enhance Your Look

Because men have few accessory options, belts become an important factor in creating your unique style. We know guys are all about function, but a belt should not literally be holding your pants up. In fact, join us at the Blues Jean Bar for Denim Wednesdays if you face the problem of ill-fitting, saggy bottom pants.

Why. Think of your belt as an accessory, a way to make your look one-of-a-kind and memorable. Play with color, texture and width to give yourself a variety of options for different occasions.

How. Insert the belt through the left-side loops first, so that when buckled, the spare end is on your left as well. Ideally your belt should be buckled in the middle hole if possible. You'll want to wear a heftier belt with jeans in a casual texture such as suede, leather or nubuck. For the office, go for a sleek, dark belt with a buckle in the same color family as your watch (i.e. stainless steel, platinum, gunmetal).

When. If your belt loops are showing, wear a belt. If your belt loops are not showing, however, skip the belt as it will add bulk where you don't want it.

Blair

blair@milenaconsulting.com

January 19, 2011
- Serket Watches: Local. Unique. Sophisticated.

The Serket Telson watch pictured above is rich in features and lacking in stuffiness. With only 200 made, watch enthusiasts and amateurs alike will feel like a baller, but they will be surprised at the reasonable tag on this unique and sophisticated watch. At only $1250 you get a high quality, limited edition watch that you can easily take from day to night.

The back of the watch is almost as stylish as the front with an exhibition back so you can see first hand the inner working of its lux Swiss movement. It's water proof to 10ATM and comes with a stainless steel bracelet and black leather strap.

They've already sold out of two colors, so check them out now.

www.serketwatchcompany.com

Take 10% off your watch with promo code: Milenadic

November 8, 2010
- Skinny Tie Guide

The skinny tie was first made popular through pop icons like the Beatles during the late 1950's. Since then narrow ties have gone in and out of style. Right now we are seeing them everywhere from the runway to hit shows like Mad Men and Glee. But like many trends, pulling off the skinny tie is not fool-proof. Without supervision it can easily go from looking smart to sloppy and dare I say pathetic. So, here are my tips for wearing the skinny tie with confidence.

Width. Your body build will determine what widths of skinny tie will look most flattering: Narrow, Skinny, or Super-Skinny. This should go without saying, but if you resemble Arnold Schwarzenegger circa 1980 or Kevin James from King of Queens, do not attempt any version of the skinny tie trend. Your tie will look more like a leash. If you have a medium build choose the narrow tie (2 1/2" to 3 1/2") . It will balance the width of your shoulders. Smaller built guys, you can wear the skinny tie (2") and even the super-skinny tie (1 1/2"). Just keep the super-skinny and super-trendy ties out of the office. They will look unprofessional.

Style. When determining what to wear with your skinny tie, think streamlined. A narrow tie calls for a narrow collar and narrow lapels. Likewise, make sure your shirt and jacket are fitted without being too tight. You don’t want to look like cased sausage but a billowy shirt or ill-fitting jacket will ruin this look. A standard Windsor knot will also look too wide, so opt for the four-in-hand knot. The length is also very important as it should hit somewhere between your belt to 3” above.

Outfits. Take your cue from GQ’s most fashionable man, Justin Timberlake, who wears skinny ties unapologetically. We love a solid black skinny tie paired with a tux or charcoal 3-piece suit for evening. For a casual look layer a sweater vest over your patterned skinny tie and colored shirt. It's cool with a touch of nerd. Want to ease into this trend? Try pairing your skinny tie with jeans and a trench or blazer. It will be modern without looking too trendy.

October 28, 2010
- The Modern Man Bag

The days of carrying a stiff briefcase are over. Trade yours in for a more modern and sophisticated option. Messenger bags are becoming the must-have item for successful men on the go. Whether you’re going to the office, the gym, or on a weekend getaway these stylish options will keep you looking cool and confident. We are loving military inspired bags right now because they are versatile and never seem to go out of style. Another cool-guy option is a distressed leather bag. To get the most out of your investment, find a bag that walks the line of professional and casual. You will be able to take it anywhere and look the part.

August 20, 2010
- One Shoe You Need To Try This Fall

Shoes John Varvatos Every man should have a great pair of brown dress shoes and an equally fine pair of black dress shoes. That's easy. If you want to try something a bit different this fall, try a sleek grey. Shoes are one accessory that all men must own and they can really differentiate your style. Let's face it, there isn't a whole lot of clothing options for men...you are pretty much wearing a button-up, t-shirt, sweater or jacket. With shoes, you can definitely add your distinct style and flair to any ordinary shirt and give it that unexpected twist. Look for shoes with either unique details in the style and traditional color or go with a classic style in a unique color. Venture out and try a grey shoes in any style from a dress shoe to a tennis shoe like the Grey Converse by John Varvatos one shown here!

August 18, 2010
- Top 3 Men's Fall Fashion Trends

Men's trends move at a much slower pace than women's styles. This fall, you'll see some similarities in the trends, but mostly you'll find that men's fashions are quite subtle and is really moving toward refinement.

Military You'll see military style shirts, jackets and pant details. Think army and air force, not so much nautical. Which means it is time to put away the Sperry’s. My favorite military pieces a watch with a canvas strap. Make sure it looks sophisticated not cheesy.

Suits Ask almost any woman and she'll tell you that nothing beats a man in a suit. Young, trendy men are sporting the 3-piece suit their grandfather wore. Shoulders are getting a bit broader, waists are staying slim and pants going a bit narrower. The styles seen in Mad Men are strikingly similar. If you wear your suit without a tie, be sure to wear a shirt that has a stiffer collar so it stands on its own.

Broaches Men are much more limited on accessories options than women, so when an accessory comes into trend, it's a great opportunity to change up your look. A broach is a very classic piece. I especially like the vintage and antiques looking style. Wear a broach on the lapel of your suit or a jacket.

June 25, 2010
- Three Hot Hats to Top Off Your Summer Look

Whether you want to keep your luscious locks from getting faded or your scalp from flaking off, some of this seasons must have hats are sure to turn a female head or two your way. Wearing a hat takes confidence so make sure that you feel just as great as you look in your hat. Try on several styles until you find the one that looks perfect for you. Here are three great hats for you to try.

Fedora This classic staple is easy for almost any man to wear. Fedoras made of straw are light weight and appropriate for the summer months. Leave your felt and wool ones for the fall and winter. Wear it slightly cocked to the side for a little added attitude.

Driving Cap A driving cap is great for hitting the greens or chilling with a pair of shorts and kicks. Chose one in a print like plaid or a solid is traditional and easy to match. Wear it facing forward or backward, depending on your style.

The Porkpie One the trendiest of the season but also probably the hardest for most men to pull off well. A porkpie resembles a fedora, but has a thinner brim and a short, flat-topped, round crown with an indentation all around. A straw one is best for summer but a felt one is the most traditional.

June 25, 2010
- Wrap Up Your Summer In a Scarf

One of summer’s hottest accessories makes a great transition into fall for both men and women! Literally, tie your look together with a scarf! Men can add a scarf to a simple t-shirt and jeans and they’re ready for a night out with the boys of Entourage!

There are countless ways to wear your scarf and several different types of scarves. The most important thing to remember is that the current trend is a bit loose and effortless, so don’t get too caught up on perfecting the style.

Choose a style that you feel comfortable in.

Notice that each one used a long rectangular scarf, varying the looseness of the scarf to create different looks. They all paired their scarves with very basic, not flashy pieces. A scarf dresses up a simple outfit! Pairing printed scarves with solid pieces is an easy way to be sure you don’t have too much going on in your outfit. You don’t want your scarf competing for attention!

Another way to wear your scarf is the slip not. Fold your long rectangular scarf in half. Hold the looped end on one side of your neck while pulling both ends around to the other side. Slip both of the loose ends of the one side through the loop of the other. Pull and adjust the scarf for the desired fit. This style can keep you really warm in the cool months and works with both thin and thick fabrics! Beckham and Jackman have it right!

November 18, 2009
- The Holiday Look: Affordable and Effortlessly Fabulous!

This holiday season you may have an assortment of different holiday parties to attend including office parties, get togethers with friends, charity events and the list goes on. In the past, many of us would go out and buy a whole new outfit from shoes to jewelry. However in today's economy, even those of us who can afford it, are cutting back. Money or not, I believe the best looks are the ones that look fabulous, yet effortless. Here's some tips for you to start putting together those holiday outfits without spending a whole lot or looking like you just spent your entire bonus in an effort to impress.

Keep It Classic This is a universal rule, no matter what the occasion. You can never go wrong with classic pieces. They are appealing to most people and you never risk being a fashion victim. No matter if you are headed to a conservative office party or a funky art gallery charity event, you'll fit in and be approachable. Men should wear dark ties in rich colors with a suit jacket for more formal events. A nice sport jacket in a solid color, subtle pattern or texture. Women should wear a tailored skirt and jacket or pretty blouse. Use jewelry like diamonds and pearls to add a little sparkle.

Rework What You Have Save your green for gifts and after holiday sales. It never makes sense to spend money on clothes that you are only going to wear a few times a year. Instead, shop in your closet. Men can do this pretty easily. Just use the same sport jacket and change the shirt and tie up. Contrary to our social belief, it's ok to wear the same dress twice. Take the dress you wore to the office party last week and wear it to the benefit party this week. Change up the accessories to make it feel new and different. I love black stone jewelry; it's different from your typical diamonds and still conveys a sleek elegance. It can also look edgy if done in the right way. Put the necklace from White House Black Market (above), with a simple black sheath dress (which you probably have in your closet) and you're instantly styled!

Keep It Simple Skip the Swarovski drenched dress and accessories. Use warm rich colors but keep it simple with the bling. I'm always a fan of a fun cocktail ring. It makes a good conversation piece and stands out without being obvious. Go for one standout piece. It could be a cool detail in your dress, bold earrings or a statement necklace. Limit yourself to one, otherwise you look like your trying too hard and your pieces start to compete for attention.

All men look more "manly" with a nice metal band watch. Skip the leather bands. A simple chain necklace works for men who naturally accessorize. If you do not normally wear a necklace, this is not the time to try it. You'll look uncomfortable.

Prioritize: Clothes, Shoes, Accessories If you feel like you have nothing in your closet that will work, then head to the stores. Based on your budget, spend the bulk of your money on the clothing, then the shoes, then the accessories. The clothing is going to be the largest, most noticeable piece on you. You not only want to have a quality piece that you can wear again and again, but you don't want to waste money on something that you don't love. Hopefully you can find shoes at home, but if not, then get a pair of shoes that will work for several special occasion outfits. Do not be matchy-matchy and get unique shoes that will only work with that particular outfit. You'll be wasting money.

Lastly, if you still have money left over in your budget, buy some accessories. If not, these are easy to borrow from a friend. You can pair inexpensive jewelry with a nice outfit. Some of the best jewelry I have is $10 from the B.P. department in Nordstrom. Target is a great source for some modern and fun pieces too!

Most importantly have fun and know that it isn't a fashion contest. It's about feeling good about the way you look and enjoying yourself at the party!

August 13, 2009
- Wrap Up Your Summer in a Scarf! 2

One of summer’s hottest accessories makes a great transition into fall for both men and women! Literally, tie your look together with a scarf! A scarf can keep you warm as the temperatures drop and also double as a wrap for those cool summer nights. Men can add a scarf to a simple t-shirt and jeans and they’re ready for a night out with the boys of Entourage!

Choose a style that you feel comfortable in. A simple wrap around the neck is easy and chic. Check out how Kardashian, Diaz, Hudson, Pitt, Bartha and Timberlake do this look (below).

Another type of scarf is the square scarf. Rihanna does this perfectly! Simply fold your scarf in half. Wrap the scarf around your neck with the point of the triangle pointing down the front. Wrap the ends around your neck and slightly pull them back towards the front. Let your ends drape loosely. This style requires a bit of an edge for men and women to pull off, so don't be shy when wearing this scene stealer!

Lastly, try wearing your scarf more like a wrap or turtle neck. This can be done in a lot of variations too! For the basic wrap, start in the middle of the scarf and wrap one end around your neck. Then wrap the other end, securing the ends underneath the scarf so it doesn't come undone. See all the unique ways that Alba wears this look!