Tech Tuesday: The New Business Card

In any profession, first impressions are everything and one of the biggest statements to be made is to hand over a business card. Crisp, official, and memorable, this gesture can go a LNG way to developing personal business and boosting networks. Now comes the swivelCard, a concept being funded currently that combines the ease of a business card with the capabilities of a flash drive. So instead of handing over a piece of cardboard with a name and a business, it'll have all that run of the mill information along with access to your portfolio, resume, and any other information deemed necessary. The best part is that each card can be altered even after being handed out using a back-end interface to cater to different clients or update a resume. Visit the swivelCard KickStarter and see what they're all about!

 

Check in tomorrow for a style piece that needs to be in your closet and next Tuesday for more exciting tech!

Monday Outlook: Going Horizontal

Take a look at any tie collection, and there's bound to be a repertoire ranging from solid to printed patterns, wool to linen, skinny to classic, and everything in between. When it comes to the striped ties, however, most tend to be diagonal, repp stripe ties, a menswear staple most assuredly. But as with all things, there must be variations to classics to change up the mood.

With pinstripe suits being back in the game after a long hiatus from the men's world, the greatest contrast that can be made is with horizontal stripes; this is where ties comes into play. Many in-tune designers have a variety of horizontal stripe ties to choose from and one the best options is the colorblock stripe tie. There's also room for horizontal stripe shirts as well, providing an even more unique aspect to an outfit, just not together with a horizontal stripe tie on top of it.

The only issue with a horizontal shirts is the where to find them with options being few and far between or having to be bespoke made. The best way to embrace this trend is through ties due to their price point, availability, and color options. As previously mentioned, colorblock ties are a great option, but there are many more to choose from for any personality or wardrobe. Another great characteristic to play with is the fabric and texture; a knit double stripe tie or wool multi stripe would add a great texture contrast.

Check in tomorrow for some exciting new tech and next Monday for further fashion trend insight for the coming months!

Week in Review

Here are the links from the past week if you didn't have a chance to see them earlier this week:

Monday: Oxblood

Tuesday: Sony QX-1

Wednesday: Chocolate Chelsea Boots

Thursday: Bright Briefcases

Friday: No-No on Novelties

Saturday: Steve McQueen

Check in tomorrow for some upcoming fashion trend insight and all next week for more tips and advice on style!

Celebrity Saturday: Steve McQueen

There are few people in this world who have had such a total impact on fashion, let alone men's fashion. Trends come and go and people fade in and out of the spotlight, but this one person in particular has remained an influence long after his years. Steve McQueen, also known as The King of Cool, is the main reason why biker jackets and bombers are so popular right now and why, to this day, the rebel style is so popular. He was a renowned actor from Indiana with a love of all things exhilarating and dangerous. McQueen is still remembered for all of these traits, but in the men's wear world, he is an inspiration for many designers around the world and a role model for anyone attempting to look like a rakish and rugged badass; he also drove around in some spectacular automobiles in his day, and that's what everyone likes!

Check in tomorrow for a recap of the week's topics and next Saturday for another stylish celebrity influence!

Friday Faux Pas: Novelties

Trends are great and all, but following them blindly leads to a path of wasteful spending and a closet full of items that will never be worn again; items so dated that even if they are a spring floral, it will be so significantly noticeable as last year's style that you can't wear it next season.

The epitome of novelty: tacky Hawaiian shirts.

Pieces like this as well as others that are designed specifically to stand out in a garish way are called novelties, a big no-no when it comes to timeless style. They are one hit wonders (if that) with very limited use afterwards due to the fact that they are so memorable that wearing them multiple times puts the wearer in the "begging for attention" bucket. Take for example Vineyard Vines ties, pretty well made ties that have interesting prints, but they are so overtly southern collegiate that they are only really acceptable at a frat tailgate or at a horse race in the south. Now look at an Hermes tie, a high quality tie but with similar aesthetics, yet their ties can be worn at the previously mentioned events and then again the next week for a big board meeting; they provide a playful edginess that still remains classic. There is a bit of grey area between novelty and classic and for the adventurous, they should play with that area, otherwise stay comfortably in the classics zone to avoid any tackiness (this applies to any and all wardrobe items, not just ties).

Alternative: simple Hawaiian florals

Check in tomorrow for a stylish celebrity influence and next Friday for another installment of my fashion faux pas!

Threads for Thought: Loud and Proud Brief

Long have been the days of the monotonous dross of lugging along these black and brown leather briefcases, the staple piece for any business men out there. Some have adopted messenger bags and totes as the exploration to express oneself expands to the men's accessories market, but as history shows, the classics always get a revisit.

Say goodbye to the uber structured (in color and in constuction) briefcase and say hello to the new age of men's everyday carry. Many accessory and luggage brands have introduced very minimalist styles featuring high quality leather, accented contract stitching, and most importantly eye-popping colors that are usually reserved for a Picasso painting. With it being fall, most of the colorways are richly dyed hues that really welcome in the changing of the seasons. For pockets deep enough, Hermes makes one of the best options, but there are plenty of other quality options for under $5,000.

Gucci: $3550

Salvatore Ferragamo: $2100

Prada: $1420

Check in tomorrow for this week's edition of Friday Faux Pas and next Thursday for another piece that deserves your consideration!

Wardrobe Essentials: Chocolate Chelsea Boots

There's a certain level of sophistication that comes with wearing a dark brown pair of shoes; seemingly black, he distinctly brown in a way that exudes elegance. Lets bring that shade to the fall and winter, and out comes a variety of boots and rugged brogues to choose from in this timeless colorway.

At the very top of that extensive list, blowing up the charts of intrigue and inherent funk shway, is the  Chelsea Boot. Classically simple, incredibly utilitarian, and not to mention very comfortable, this boot will follow fall footwear from while looking as sleek and sensible as any dress shoe. Noted by their ankle stretch panels, there is boned to lace up 20 different eyelets or to untie a heavy duty knot, just slip on, slip off; doesn't get much better than that.

Sure, a plain Jane dark brown full grain leather will do the trick, but these are simple by nature so there needs to be some level of detail to them. They come with brogue toes, cap toes, ornate stitching,  and even studs, but steer clear of these trinkets and extras. Let suede guide the way, adding texture across the pain toe of the boot to really distinguish them from any old pair of boots. They pair very well with any tailored pieces, especially a grey flannel suit. Experiment with them and be surprised at their usability; they are the fall version of a brown double monkstrap shoe.

John Lobb: $1295

Church's: $545

H&M: $99

Check in tomorrow for a fashion piece that deserves your consideration and next Wednesday for enough style staple for your closet!

Tech Tuesday: Sony QX-1

Note: It works with Apple and Android alike!

In a world where interactions have become highly visual and documented, where millions on millions of pictures are shared across the world at any given moment, a good camera is paramount in truly capturing a moment in time. A Leica or DSLR would be great to have at all times, but not everyone has the means or the capacity to use such devices, not to mention they take up space. Smart phone cameras get better and better and apps for photo editing have come a long way, but they still lack in the quality that comes with an actual camera. Enter the Sony QX-1, a new take on professional photography. This lens-based camera uses WiFi or NFC alongside the Sony PlayMemories app to turn your ordinary smart phone into a 20.1 megapixel camera, and the best part is that this lens works with all existing Sony lens attachments; a seamless transition for any photogs out there. At a price point of $400, its comparable to most low end cameras while having the power of a professional. Pre-order yours HERE!

Check in tomorrow for a style piece that needs to be in your wardrobe and next Tuesday for even more exciting tech!

Monday Outlook: Oxblood

Leather is an important part of fall/winter style, and chances are the average wardrobe has a black or brown version, whether its a rugged biker jacket or sleek bomber. That's a particular issue with cold weather wardrobes, mostly neutral pieces that mesh well together, but it's about time a wrench gets thrown into the gears.

There is a reddish tint of leather that goes by a couple names; burgundy, cognac, maroon, mahogany, etc. All these names refer to what is known as Oxblood and that is admittedly a much more masculine name that associates itself with a hint of badassery. This color wouldn't necessarily be a neutral, but it plays with hues much more easily than most reds, giving it the wearability of a neutral without the blandness. Jackets? Bags? Shoes? Wrist wear? If it has leather, there is a chance it comes in Oxblood.

Just because it is a popular leather hue doesn't mean it has to be limited to just leather goods. There are any number of pieces in the fall/winter fabric array that will feature this color and will work just as easily as any of the previously mentioned leathers, and will be much more affordable. Once again, with layering, keep the pieces simple but with loads of texture to give they'd a little friction as it looks through the outfit; throw in a piece or two of Oxblood in with some neutral pieces, and watch the red pop!

Check in tomorrow for some exciting new tech and next Monday for further fashion insight for the coming months!

Week in Review

Here are the links from the past week if you didn't have a chance to see them earlier this week:

Monday: Toggled Accents

Tuesday: MemoBottle

Wednesday: The Cardigan

Thursday: Duck Boots

Friday: Over Accessorized 

Saturday: Jeff Goldblum

Check in tomorrow for some upcoming fashion trend insight and all next week for more tips and advice on style!

Celebrity Saturday: Jeff Goldblum

The past month's issue of GQ had a nice cover story about the up and coming actor, Adam Driver, but look past that story to find the good stuff. There was a little piece about an actor you may have heard of, he's been in many blockbuster favorites such as Jurassic Park and Independence Day, Jeff Goldblum. The article really highlighted the character of Goldblum, his eccentric nature exuding through his actions, motions, and quips, and also talked about his intense passion for style. Even though he has fallen from the limelight, judging from the story, Goldblum is having the time of his life; living the dream, as it were. Take from him one overlying motif, that style is only one part of the overall equation and that character is the main contributor to self-image, and therefore style. Be conscious of your character!

Check in tomorrow for a recap of the week's topics and next Saturday for another stylish celebrity influence!

Friday Faux Pas: Over Accessorizing

Now credit should be given where it is due, and most men are on the more reserved side of the spectrum when it comes to accessories. With that said, due to the resurgence of tie clips, collar, lapel pins, watches, bracelets, rings,pocket squares, etc, a breed of human peacock has come about and it may need to be put on a leash.

Tie, tie bar, and a pocket square? That's perfectly stylish, and according to some publications a necessary combination. It's only when on top of that, a lapel flower is added in and you have 8 pounds of wrist wear on, and you look goes from classy to begging for attention; the attention you do get will more than likely be negative. Thankfully, this "trend" has only recently developed and has time to be stopped before it ferments and becomes the usual drink of men's wear. The rule you should go by is 3-2-1, as in 3 chest pieces (ties, squares, bars, etc.), 2 wrist pieces (watch and wristband), and 1 ring with the hope that it is an wedding ring or class ring. Anything outside of the 3-2-1 Rule is risking becoming part of that human peacock group.

Check in tomorrow for a stylish celebrity influence and next Friday for another installment of my fashion faux pas!

Threads for Thought: Duck Boots

This coming season isn't exactly what you would peg down as dry or bearable. Many times, you'll find yourself having to trek through sleet, snow, wind, rain, and frigid cold, and that calls for a boot that can handle the elements for however long winter is supposed to last this year.

Duck boots were designed with this exact climate dilemma in mind, providing the wearer warmth and comfort within a water-tight construction. Easily distinguished by their rubber bottoms, gum heel, and treated leather, duck boots will keep all the elements at bay this season. Not to say that their is only one company out there making this variety of boot, but L.L. Bean is the connoisseur, and most times their version and others similar will be referred to as Bean Boots.

They will come in low-cut, ankle, and calf lengths and with linings for more or less insulation depending on how rugged and warm you need them to be. Buy for your climate and buy for your needs; Florida is wet and hot, get the low cut variety with minimal lining, and Chicago is freezing with a "dash" of snow and wind, at the very least you should have the ankle cut with Thinsulate lining. Regardless of the situation, duck boots will come in handy at some point and you'll be happy you decided to get a pair.

Brooks Brothers: $198

L.L. Bean: $139

Sorel: $125

Check in tomorrow this week's installment of Friday Faux Pas and next Thursday for another piece that deserves your consideration!

Wardrobe Essentials: Your Grandpa's Sweater

Remember that little trend that went around recently? It had to deal with the emergence of shows like Boardwalk Empire and Mad Men, and had men all over developing a look in memoriam to a once glorious time in men's wear. With the cold about to set in, there is one part of this look in particular that will keep you warm and add touches of detail and texture for your wardrobe.

Adam Gallagher knows how it goes.

The question could be addressed for why the Cardigan sweater ever faded to the background, but that is a debate for another time. The important thing is that they have a made a come back and will be a staple layering piece for you this winter and a great transition piece for spring (whenever that comes around). If this item isn't familiar, it is a sweater with an open chest that buttons up the front and there won't be any shortage of the style no matter what your favorite designer may be.

Perfect fall get up!

Since there will be a good selection available, find something that is unique, that really catches the eye in a good way. One of the better varieties out there will have contrast detailing either on the button line or on the pockets if they are present, but seeing as it will be layered in with simpler pieces, the floor is open for creativity and boldness. Bright Colors? Interesting patterns? Deep weaves? Do it all, this is an opportunity to express some real character! Just make sure to leave the top and bottom buttons undone.

Ralph Lauren: $165

J. Crew: $118

Uniqlo: $30

Check in tomorrow for fashion piece that deserves your consideration and next Wednesday for another piece that needs to be in your closet!

Tech Tuesday: MemoBottle

When it comes to having drinkables on the go, the first thought that comes to mind is the Camelback Aquapack. Clearly not a stylish decision when roaming the city or on your work or even your next interview, and obviously not something you would want to lug around one for any of these activities. Now enter the MemoBottle, a unique twist on the same idea that has been around since the canteen and waterskin, just designed to fit perfectly inside your favorite carry-all. Coming in three sizes based on common paper stock sizes, the MemoBottle can hold up to 1.25 liters, is made of responsibly sourced plastic, and is machine washable for use for years to come. Get a hold of yours through the company's KickStarter campaign here!

Check in tomorrow for a style piece that needs to be in your closet and next Tuesday for some more exciting tech!

Monday Outlook: Toggles

Most of your fall/winter apparel has buttons, zippers, clips, ties, etc. They all serve a purpose, but they rarely add to the aesthetic of the piece they are on. Yeah, you may have a quarter-zip pullover, but the zipper characterizes the piece without distinguishing it (there is a difference).

One of the greatest details you'll have to look forward to is the toggle closures of a number of different garments. Most notably used on the traditional duffle coat, toggles are undoubtedly nautical in nature, but seem to add a rustic feel to any outfit. With any luck, there'll be a few shoulder button sweaters out there that replace the old-school buttons with some nifty little wooden pegs. Really, a toggle can come in any size or design, with each providing their own character to elevate any piece they're on.

The previously mentioned duffle coat will be the most readily available toggle piece as most designers make their own iterations, but don't be limited in the search for something unique. Look to some nautical brands to most creatively use toggles and rough wear companies to display the most diverse array of toggle styles. Another thought for revamping an existing coat or sweater would be to get some of the critical buttons replaced with toggles; you'll save money and revive an old favorite.

Check in tomorrow for some exciting new technology and next Monday for further fashion trend insight into the coming months!

Tech Tuesday: Apple's Big Play

As per usual, Apple goes ahead and announces the release of the new iPhone 6 line, the first ever iWatch, and a piece of software that happens to work with both, Apple Pay. Their isn't much different about the new iPhone from its predecessors, a little faster and a little bigger, but the major improvement has to be with the screen; originally glass and now scratch and crack resistant crystal that can be found on the iPhone 5's home button due to its finger print clarity and durability. The iWatch was somewhat underwhelming, with expectations of a great looking piece that would set itself apart from other smart watches, after all the company did make a concerted effort to head hunt some big wigs in the fashion and watch community. Future iterations should be more enticing with the addition of more elegant designs as there may be some reluctance to buy in to just another smart watch and not "the" smart watch. Apple Pay may be the most controversial of the releases, as the company's security was brought into question with the leak of certain celebrity photos. Depending on the overall success or failure of all these new things, we might be hanging on yet another year for a truly groundbreaking technology or witnessing the start of the rotten Apple.

Check in tomorrow for an essential style piece for your closet and next Tuesday for more exciting technology!

Threads for Thought: Beanies, Baby!

The hipster breed has been responsible for the eruption and disruption of a number of trends in the past decade; without them, I think we'd all still be lost in the baggy jeans era. One of these such things happens to be their staple accessory and something I'm sure you receive at hipster gatherings as a right of passage and then are mandated to have with you at all times.

Have no fear though, during the colder months, beanies are a perfectly acceptable and highly fashionable piece of headwear, which means you won't look like a hipster if you wear one. Staying true to the whole Avant Bland movement, designers are making these knit caps out of some high-quality fabrics that you thought we're reserved for much more refined items. Alongside these simplistic forms, you're also going to find a wide array of bright patterns amidst a dark background, as per fall tradition.

If you think you're going to be wearing a beanie everyday, you're wrong. That move may well group you in with the hipster crop, not something that any of us want for you. If you want to go super luxe and very minimalist, get something (if you can find it) with a mohair/cashmere blend and get it in a deep forest green or vibrant orange. The other route is getting the near grandma-ish knitted cotton beanie with a preppy pattern. Either way, you're going to make a statement the one of two times a week you wear it.

Ralph Lauren: $295

Jack Spade: $128

Neff Headwear: $26

Check in tomorrow for this week's edition of Friday Faux Pas and next Thursday for another piece that deserves your consideration!

Wardrobe Essentials: Chukka Boots

For the transition between the sweltering heat and the bone chilling cold, you need to have some tricks up your sleeve in the footwear department. Heavy duty boots will be to warm and dense for a breezy day in October and your driving mocs will lack the much needed insulation in any weather that reaches into the near freezing department.

Exhibit A: Casual.

You need something that bridges the gap between shoe and boot, that can work in any type of weather that this upcoming season decides to throw at you. With that in mind, look for chukka boots, an ankle high boot that is going to be your savior this fall/winter. They come in many shapes and sizes, but the overlying theme is their pseudo-hybrid combination of a boot and a shoe that you can wear in just about any weather and for almost any occasion. Granted they are a casual shoe, in the current men's wear environment, it's not a bad idea to try and pair them with a suit and see how it looks.

Exhibit B: Dressy.

Keep the constructions simple with your choices; you don't want a crazy amount of extras making them less versatile. Instead, you should be looking for chukkas with rich leather and deep color that will get better every time you wear them. A nice mid calf leather in a rich brown, a rich suede in a mahogany tone, or a silky nubuck in a sandy shade. Now pair them with jeans or some cords and let the rest of the outfit come together around them, because a good outfit starts from the ground up.

Allen Edmonds: $295

Cole Haan: $178

Clarks: $130

Check in tomorrow for a fashion piece that deserves your consideration and next Wednesday for another closet necessity!

Tech Tuesday: The Q Bracelet

Available for Apple and Android products.

Most of the wearable technology "breakthroughs" have been made with accessories and used as a measure to interact with your phone or tabletop any other smart device, but there haven't been very many waves elsewhere. Last week I detailed the Polo Tech Line from Ralph Lauren, which is quite revolutionary in its approach to the Internet of things, but yet again, something that requires a direct link to your phone for effective use. The Q Bracelet, by Q Designs, is a new concept that merges fashion and portable charging. The simple design features a metal casing in a variety of popular finishes, which keeps it looking fashionable and timeless, all while concealing a powerful lithium ion battery that can charge your phone up to 60%; you can't tell me that won't come in the clutch at some point in your hectic life. The better news? This is only the first of Q Designs innovations, so be on the lookout for this company and all their exciting new products.

Check in tomorrow for a style piece that needs to be in your wardrobe and next Tuesday for more exciting tech!