Transition to Fall: A Style Guide

While items for Fall have been trickling into stores for a while now, it can be hard to visualize why you need that great new sweater when even the thought of going outside makes you sweat. 

But I felt it was time for a story on transitional dressing into the new season and how to create versatile looks. The key word is: versatility. With a few key pieces you can easily be comfortable in and out of work, and even continue wearing some of it once winter approaches. 

To that end I relied heavily on two retailers that have been focusing on growing their men's business: Club Monaco and J. Crew. Each are accessible and provide a mix of basics and more seasonal trend driven items.

Look #1: 

In colder months I love using texture to create a standout look. Here the heft of the tweed jacket contrasts against the formality of the slacks. Using a small-checked shirt provides  pattern-on-pattern with the striped wool tie. While the burgundy brogue may not be for everyone it is a rich color and stands out.

Jacket: Aubin & Wills (similar), Shirt: Club Monaco, Pants: J. Crew, Tie: Fahlgren, Shoes: Florsheim by Duckie Brown

For a more casual day I swapped out the blazer for a shawl collar sweater. I'm a big fan of a shawl collar as it provides a nice smooth visual line around the neck. In a cream color this one lightens up the whole look, and while the sweater keeps the whole outfit business ready it is also a comfortable alternative.

Shawl collar sweater: Club Monaco (similar)

Look #2:

Again using texture was important, as seen with the quilted vest and corduroy tie. I used a white oxford and ginger khaki as the base so there would be more neutral colors to contrast with the shock of yellow. I have always been drawn to a bright hue like this, and think it is perfect for the transition into Fall. It also serves as the fashion piece that helps pull together your basics. We kept the brogues as again that rich color provided a nice blend with the rest.

Quilted Vest: Club Monaco, Oxford Shirt: Uniqlo, Pants: Club Monaco, Tie: Unis (similar), Shoes: As above, Bag: Model's own

For the variation here I replaced the vest with a cotton shirt jacket. The navy darkens the whole look -- and while I personally haven't worn any camo, everyone else seems to be, and the collar is a nice surprise. To take him from the office to canvassing design showrooms, we switched out the footwear to a bold red sneaker. Still holds its own with the rest of the look!

Shirt Jacket: Unis, Shoes: Nike

Look #3:

Now I don't subscribe to "no white after Labor Day" and received some looks when wearing white jeans during fashion week. But I think when changing seasons it is perfectly acceptable. Paired with a gray heathered shirt for a soft and nubby feel, and with a military inspired khaki tie. I kept the shirt jacket which can stand in for a casual blazer, and those red sneakers just wouldn't quit.

Shirt Jacket: As above, Shirt: Club Monaco, Jeans: Uniqlo, Tie: Todd Snyder, Shoes: As Above, Bag: As Above

As seen here it didn't require a whole new closet to create a lot of different looks -- you can even pull from what you already have. Everything shown can be worn in any number of ways -- encouraging layering, mixing up colors, and making it your own! 

Photo Credit: Mikey Kay

Model: Jon Call

Summer 2012: Swimsuit Review

It's that time of year... the annual swimsuit hunt. I had started looking a few weeks ago, compiling in my mind the list of suits I liked, and thought I'd do a little share. 


I normally have a few guidelines -- has to be a box cut, no Speedos, and nothing too long (my Osklen board shorts being the lone exception). So here are a few I've seen that I am considering for the season...


First up is this pair from Saturdays Surf, their Ennis boardshort. I popped into their store recently and really liked this two-toned look. Not too long, subtle colors, and easy to wear in and out of the pool.

Another option I am looking at is the J. Crew Portofino Trunk. This one is in their "tidal stripe" and the 5" length is perfect for me. Also appreciate the side pocket for phone, keys or other accessories... as long as I don't forget the phone is in there, which happened last summer!

Who is not talking about Orlebar Brown these days. They are everywhere, and in a good way! Bringing great shorts that can be worn on the beach or on a hike, in a variety of lengths and colors. They also did a great collab with Nick Wooster! 

I'm a big fan of their Setter, which is another 5", and how could I not jump at the bright yellow ones. So good!

As you know, I can't stay away from prints no matter how hard I try. From Peruvian produced  brand Olasul comes the Geo Blue 5" short that I am totally drawn to! Nice length, quick drying, and some eye-catching goodness. 

I couldn't resist a look at these seersucker shorts from Thom Browne for Black Fleece. I tried these on yesterday and not only did they fit really well, they have the Thom Browne details like mother of pearl buttons, black silk buttons on the waist, and an overall elegance about them. But it's a swimsuit... that I could wear with a bowtie!

I've been drooling over Burberry Prorsum's Spring collection and when I saw these vinyl shorts at Bloomingdales I was smitten. Another print heavy option, and something that will standout. I liked the subtle black and white patterned background with the yellow and blues popping out over it.

Stay tuned for me to share which of these suits I end up with (or perhaps mutiple!) for some summer fun!