Night at the Roxbury

Oh no! You’ve been invited out for dinner after work, but you’re not quite sure what’s in, what’s hip or what’s appropriate for a night in the big city. It’s not a Friday night, so you know that you don’t have to look too trendy. But that doesn’t settle your growing unease.

Take a breath, clear your head and follow one of the ideas below. They’re geared toward any man, whether you think you’re Mr. Hip or just Joe the Plumber. Remember, it's all about the swagger (for the non-urban folks, that means intense confidence).



Evening Executive by dcStyleGuy




Casual Night Out by dcStyleGuy




Bend It Like Beckham by dcStyleGuy




business justin :) by Jasna2




Totally in love with him! by soficherry (busy w/ college)




Quitting Time by blondbeast




Untitled by Mrtoomuch




Menswear Makeover Contest by nat26(it's good to be back)




Top 8 for Fall 08 - Paul Smith (#2) by blondbeast

Those examples should get you started. You can mix and match different colors and fabrics. The bottom line is that you've got to feel what you're wearing. If you don't, you'll never be able to pull it off.

Good luck!

Ideas for Keeping Your Neck Warm

Like I said last week, it’s cold outside and time to bundle up. One of the classic items for the winter, that actually serves a purpose, is the scarf. Scarves can be as complicated and flashy as you like them. Or you can opt for more traditional neckware. Patterns, stripes, blocks, checks, bold colors, subdued colors… all varieties are in play here. And you don’t need to limit yourself to one. I prefer to own at least three scarves, all of which are pictured below (I’d love to hear your comments about which ones you think I own).

If you’re going to the office, you’ll probably select your basic Burberry’s scarf or a traditional black, navy, grey or red scarf. If you’re headed to the club, perhaps the Ed Hardy scarf is right up your alley. Anything in between is okay too. Whatever your decision, wear it with pride and you can pull off just about anything.

Classic Burberry’s Scarf - $265.00

Black Cashmere Scarf - $59.99


Ed Hardy Poly Chiffon - $53.10


Fred Perry Black Cable Knit Scarf - $76.00

Gap Vertical Striped Scarf - $24.50

Hugo Boss scarf - $72.95




White Silk Scarf - $29.95

White & Black Traditional Shemagh - $19.90

Ditch Your Puffy Shirt, Opt for the Slim Fit

I mentioned sleeping bag-sized clothing in my blog on wool trench coats. The same rule applies for men’s dress shirts. For some strange reason, designers seem to think all men have size 42” chests and 42” waists, creating a very broad fit from top to bottom. That size shirt is called “full cut” and is only reserved for Jerry Seinfeld, a la “the Puffy Shirt” episode. There is a segment of the population who, although we might not be super fit, still has a need for a more tailored shirt, and jacket/coat for that matter.

Even men who are not quite my size (I’ve always had broader shoulders and a narrow waist, whether I work out or not… and it’s not all its cracked up to be… it makes shopping for clothes that fit properly, VERY hard) can benefit from slim fit clothing. Whether you are simply a slim guy with narrow shoulders and waist, or a guy with an “athletic” build (waist 5 or more inches narrower than your shoulders), the slim fit shirt is for you.

Brooks Brothers defines slim fit on their web site as the following:

• Our most tapered fit, it favors men with broader shoulders and/or slimmer waits.
• 5” trimmer in chest, 5” slimmer in waist than our Traditional Fit.
• Yoke is 1-3/4” deep at center back
• Yoke extends to natural shoulder line
• Trim armhole

The first thing you need to do, as always, is have yourself measured. Since you’re a follower of my blog, you’ve already done that, right! Getting measured is the only way to ensure you’re getting a proper fit. You need to measure your arm length and neck circumference since; those are the two measurements you need for buying a “fitted” shirt, one which isn’t simply S, M, L or XL. These shirts show measurements like 16” – 34/35, which is my size. Here is where the slim fit comes in. If I were to buy a traditional/full cut shirt with those measurements, I would be wearing a really baggy shirt since the chest and waist area of the shirt billow out around my narrow waist. By purchasing a slim fit or “modern” fit shirt as some are called, the body and waist are cut slimmer, resulting in a shirt that hugs my body more and gives a cleaner appearance.

There is a pretty good trick when shopping for shirts in stores which don’t carry slim fit or modern cut garments. When looking at full cut shirts, you can buy a shirt with a neck size that is a half or full inch smaller than your actual neck size IF, and only if, you don’t plan on buttoning your shirt collar. The result, in most cases, is a shirt that mimics an actual slim cut shirt. Pretty slick, huh? Remember, your arm length needs to be correct; otherwise you’ll end up looking like an idiot who shrunk his shirt in the dryer.

Here are some examples you can look for when shopping by yourself:

Kenneth Cole - $89.98

Brook Brothers - 3 for $199

Claiborne - $16.97 at Amazon.com

Hugo Boss - $86.90

Some final notes:
Your arm size may vary from one designer to another. Sometimes you’ll need a 34 inch arm, sometimes you’ll need a 35 inch and sometimes you’ll need a 34/35 inch. It really depends on the manufacturer. As with all things related to fit, learn how each designer cuts and measures their clothing to fit your body.

Lastly, you don’t have to break the bank to purchase clothing in general, or slim fitting clothing in particular. As I always state, you can find great deals at the discount retailers if you exercise a little patience. I often find great bargains at stores like SYMS, TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, Off Saks Fifth Avenue, Loehmann’s and Filene’s Basement. Sometimes your favorite designers will also have their own factory stores which offer discounts for discontinued or last season’s items as well.

Baby It's Cold Outside

Man, it's cold outside and it's time to bundle up. Are you ready for old man winter? Regardless of whether you are or not... he's here and you need to prepare for him.

So what's a guy to do? How do you know what coat is best for you? What's in style this year? Most designers are slimming down their overcoats just as they slimmed down their suits, shirts and ties, creating a streamlined, modern look. Accordingly, you should ditch your sleeping bag of an overcoat and purchase an updated version of this classic garment.

Here are some of my favorites this year:

Brooks Brothers: Regent Saxxon™ Herringbone Coat
Sale: $898.50

Sanyo Wool Trench Coat - ¾ Length

Closeout Price: $399.95

Banana Republic: BR Monogram Collection
$500

Alexander McQueen Black Wool Overcoat
$1,133.00

Calvin Klein Plaza Wool/Cashmere Overcoat
Sale: $249.99

That's a pretty good representation of colors, styles, designers and prices. The important thing to remember is to purchase a coat that truly fits you. I recommend first getting measured in a reputable establishment. Then try on a lot of coats until you find the designer and fit that is best for you. Lastly, armed with your measurements and your preferred designer, you can shop online and find the best deal for your budget.

You Need It; You Want It!

Velvet Blazer by Ben Sherman

A few materials make a man feel like a king - super 150s wool, cashmere - and... drum roll please... Velvet. Reintroduced to men only a few short years ago, velvet continues to be a luxurious fabric that isn't just reserved for smoking jackets donned by the Hefster. Velvet, in colors like black, blue, brown and burgundy, offers men a variety of options for adding splash to their wardrobe. And velvet blazers aren't relegated to holiday parties or formal events. Regular nights on the town are fine too. Dress it up or dress it down, the velvet blazer is here to stay (at least for one more season).

The 10 Most Stylish Men In the Public Eye

For some, dressing fashionably is an arduous task. For others, fashion is just an easy thing to do like putting on a pair of socks. If you're at all skittish about what to wear, following what most of these style icons wear should set you on the right path. In no particular order, here they are:

1. Diddy
For most, Diddy, or Puff Daddy as most older folks know him, burst on the scene around 1992. Since then, his trailblazing style has been followed by everyone. Over the years, Diddy's style has evolved and he has shown that men and women can have styles that reach both the urban, modern youth as well as the executive crowd, as pictured above. Confident in his own sense of style, Diddy created the Sean John clothing line to punctuate his sartorial savviness. Whether walking the streets of Harlem, styling on the red carpet or in the boardroom, Diddy's look is always impeccable.

2. David Beckham
Viewed as a metrosexual by many, David Beckham knows exactly who he is and what his style is. The term "comfortable in one's skin" is often thrown around loosely, but it really is applicable to Beckham. He knows what clothes and styles show him in the best light. What's more, this guy truly knows how to wear ink. His body is adorned with tattoos that are of real significance, rather than of the latest fad. His best accessory, however, may be that hot wife of his, Posh Spice. She'd make any man look dashing.

3. Brad Pitt
Mr. Pitt is another man with a great piece of arm candy, but that's not the only thing that sets him apart. Brad looks great dressed down, as pictured above, or dressed up on the red carpet with his hair slicked back, a la 1950s style. He knows which accessories to use and isn't at all afraid to make statements and take risks with his hair. To put it simply, he makes looking great look effortless.

4. George Clooney
As far as a style icon, George Clooney is one great example of one. He has been said to own one Giorgio Armani tuxedo and worn it exclusively on the red carpet, so much so that the designer sent him a new one. The lesson here is to adopt a signature style and stick to it. Mr. Clooney is always very classic and basic in his fashion choices, but when you exude debonair presence, you don't need much else.

5. Usher Raymond
Usher has gone from hip-hop to haute couture. High fashion isn't just for women and Usher has proven it. He's a style chameleon in that he can go from jeans and sneakers to a nice fitting Dsquared2 suit. He teaches us that it's important to have versatility in our style. While maintaining a signature style, it should encompass many different facets. Usher also dresses age appropriate, there is nothing worse than an older man dressing too young or a young man dressing like his grandfather.

6. Will Smith
While once a goofy teenager in the late 1980s, Will Smith has evolved into a really stylish adult and shows that style doesn't stop when you cross the 40 year old threshhold. Taking control of his body, hair and wardrobe, Will personifies a comfort level and inner strength that most men can only dream to achieve. This Philadelphia native selects age-appropriate clothing no matter the situation.

7. Tom Ford
Tom Ford, the man who breathed life back into Gucci brings us to our next lesson, sex appeal. Mr. Ford is often seen in an immaculately tailored suit and a white crisp shirt unbuttoned to reveal a bit of chest. While this look isn't for everyone, it's important to feel good in what you wear and also feel attractive. Proper fit and color choice are key in this.

8. Justin Timberlake
Justin Timberlake has evolved quite a bit from his days with N'Sync. He's dropped his curly fro' for a sleeker cut and the boy band uniform of baggy and pseudo-urban in favor of jeans that fit and blazers from his William Rast line. This lesson is the most important, evolution in what you wear. Over time you should be like Justin and adapt your clothing and accessories (ties, shoes, cufflinks, etc…) to fit your lifestyle and attitude.

9. Tom Brady
While many professional atheletes shun dressing debonair, Tom Brady embraces it wholeheartedly. Brady, who dresses in classic style, drapes himself in Ermenegildo Zegna suits while gracing the covers of publications like GQ, Sports Illustrated, Esquire and Boston, to name a few. When he's not busy winning superbowls and conducting interviews, Brady takes care of the son he had with actress and ex-girlfriend Bridget Moynahan and rolls around town with current girlfriend and super model Gisele Bundchen. It's good to be the king!

10. Terrence Howard
Terrence Howard is a personal style icon of mine. A while back on the red-carpet, he wore two brooches on his lapel and was the talk of the red carpet. I had a formal event to attend and found a brooch to adorn my velvet blazer lapel, it killed! The lesson with Terrence is to take trends and make them work for you. While my brooch wasn't Tiffany's or Chopard, it worked great with the outfit I wore. Don't be afraid to take risks because they may work for you.

Honorable Mentions

It is sad, but you have to draw the line somewhere. Here are three more men that really know how fashion, fit and form can speak volumes when done properly:

Jamie Foxx
Back in the late 80s/early 90s, Jamie was like most men during that time, pretty unfashionable. Since then, a few multi-platinum albums and Oscars later, Jamie is one of the best dressed men in Hollywood. Jamie is a risk taker, often wearing bold blazers and adorning his outfits with flashy pocket squares.

Howie Mandel
I know what you're thinking, "Howie Mandel?" Yes, friends, Howie Mandel. I'm not sure exactly when his transformation occured, but since he has been on the hit game show, Deal or No Deal, Howie has been "puttin' it down!" This man is impeccably dressed with finely tailored suits in every episode, often matching the hot ladies carrying the steel briefcases. Howie often wears slim-fitting, modern cut suits and shirts from designers such as Joseph Abboud, Prada, Gucci, Dolce and Gabbana, Paul Smith and Ted Baker.

Andre 3000
Don't try this at home! Andre Benjamin, a member of the rap group Outkast, has honed his style over the past 15 or so years. Sometimes wearing outlandish outfits, sometimes wearing more mainstream ensembles like the one pictured above, Andre 3000 is definitely a big risk taker. Not many men would be caught dead in lime green feather boas, but he's not at all deterred. He's comfortable with his style. I'm not sure if he tries to shock or if he genuinely loves everything he wears, but one thing is certain: He is bold, he has his finger on the latest trends and he understands fashion as it relates to the modern man.

The Next Items to Round Out Your Wardrobe - Part 2

Still rounding out that wardrobe, are you? Now that you've got a solid arsenal shirts, ties and a few good suits from Part 1, let's take a look at the other items you'll need to add some pop to that closet?



6. Khaki suit
The khaki suit is versatile, but not as widely worn as the navy, grey or black suits. If you already have those three, however, it's a great addition to any man's wardrobe. You'll have to decide what fabric you want; do you want it to wear like a traditional gabardine or worsted wool suit or wear like twill khaki? Both are nice but will greatly dictate when and where it can be worn. Twill is a very casual fabric and won't be appropriate for more formal settings. It is, however, a great warm weather suit that shines in relaxed situations.






7. Man bag
Purse, Man Purse, Man Bag, Murse... all names which really cast a bad light on a simple thing. Sometimes you just have stuff to carry. Your wallet, a comb, Blackberry, digital camera, memory sticks, keys, loose change and lap tops. So what's a guys supposed to do? Man up and get yourself a bag. Don't be dissuaded by the wimpy names. It's a bag, no different than a backpack, just more practical. Are you really going to wrinkle your nice suit by carrying straps across both shoulders as you walk down the street looking like a 6th grader on his way to school? I say no. Stand up for your rights. You can spend $15 to $1,500 on this purchase and the bags come in every size, shape, fabric and color imaginable. I prefer one the size of an 8-1/2 x 11" ream of paper. Its big enough to carry a tablet and small enough to not be too obtrusive.



8. French cuffs
Okay, so you really want to spice things up? Adding French cuffs will take you over the top. Most shirt manufacturers produce shirts with French cuffs so finding a good one won't be hard. Be careful with your color, though, and start with a white or light blue shirt. Again, your goal is to buy things that match the widest array of things you already own and may buy in the future.





9. Pocket square
Also known as a hanky, this single item will shoot you clear over the moon. You can purchase a simple cotton white pocket square or opt for various colors to match your tie and/or shirt. Or, if you're really daring you can wear one that is in the right color family, but isn't the same color as anything you're wearing. Now that takes real, uh, boldness. I wear a pocket square in every blazer or suit I wear, with or without a tie. I find that it's a nice finishing touch that really sets me apart from most men. There are lots of different ways to wear your pocket square, from puff to 4-point, and all of them are great. Please don't buy those pre-made pocket squares. They may be perfect in every way and that is their problem. What's great about pocket squares is the uniqueness of their execution. Don't mess it up by being a phony with a pre-made hanky.



10. Pinstripe Suit

What can I say about the pinstripe suit that hasn't already been said? It is simply the most elegant type of suit you'll buy, short of the tuxedo. The pinstripe suit is made in every color and stripe combination imaginable. Additionally, the width of the stripe, the width between the stripes, the color of the stripe, the type of fabric, the cut of the lapels and trousers are all variations you'll find. Prefer a sharp, vivid stripe? Got it? Prefer a chalk stripe? Got it. Remember, one of the most formal suits, whether single or double breasted, so remember you'll need to pair it with equally formal ties and shirts. Wear it with pride!


Now that should be enough to get you started. It's really not hard to look great. It just takes a little time, patience, and yes, a little money. Remember, it won't happen overnight but it's well worth it. You'll be suprised at how great you feel inside when you look great outside.

Don't Leave Home Without It

Leather Duffle Bag by Coach

Whether running to the gym or jumping on the Acela to New York, every man needs a nice piece of luggage to complete his journey. I recommend the simple duffle bag. Duffles can store a lot of stuff, from your dop kit (you do know what a dop kit is, don't you?), to jeans, shoes and socks and other items needed for an overnight or two.

Many high-end leather manufacturers as well as department stores carry nice travel bags for all budgets. The bag featured above, called the Large Cabin Bag by Coach, retails for $648. If you're a thrifty shopper, you can find great deals on all sorts of bags, travel and otherwise, at Ebags.com. Once there, one of the classic leather duffles you'll find is made by Piel and sells for $276. If that is still too pricey, you can check out Luggage.com and find bags for as little as $29.99.

Whatever your budget, every man needs a quality bag for those quick jaunts. Whatever you do, don't use a canvas or nylon gym bag as your duffle... That's just inexcusable for anyone over the age of 18. Duffles are small, lightweight and very fashionable and are an easy way to add style to your game. Don't leave home without yours.

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The Next Items to Round Out Your Wardrobe - Part 1

Now that you have the staples of your wardrobe, it's time to augment your wardrobe and take it to the next level. As with the first step of getting the staples, the next step can be simple as well. Usually this will be a process that extends months or even a few years, depending on your budget. I didn't start augmenting my wardrobe for at least 2 years.

So let's look at how I augmented my wardrobe and what I recommend for most men:

1. The grey suit
The first item I recommend purchasing when rounding out your wardrobe is a grey suit. The beauty of buying a grey suit before buying a black suit is that it matches a lot of your navy and blue family of clothes as well as some of your earth tones like browns and greens. Michael Kors, a popular womens wear designer, also makes very high quality men's clothes. The grey suit to the right can be had for $199 at Overstock.com.

2. Pink dress shirt
Dead guys don't wear plaid and real men wear pink. Yes, pink! Most designers have added different shades of pink and various types of shirts with pink stripes to their collections. Personally, I have at least 5 different kinds of pink shirts in my closet. I've found that pink works with lots of different color suits including those in the brown, green, black, navy and grey families. Now that's versatile! I wear pink with almost everything that I would traditionally wear a light blue shirt with. Sean Jean makes a nice textured dress shirt which sells for around $40 at Overstock.com.

3. Black dress shirt
Black shirts are no longer only for those in the mafia. I must advise you that these should be paired with ties with extreme caution. Many of the older ties that you find at discount stores may not be appropriate for black shirts and you might look like you're going to do a hit on someone. If you look at some of the newer versions of black ties you'll find what you're looking for. Lots of variety without the mobster look. You can also wear your black shirt sans tie. I have at least 5 black shirts of different fits, collars, and cuff styles and usually wear them withoutt ties. It's a good look, especially out on the town. Depending on your profession and office dress code, you might not want to wear it in the office. The black dress shirt featured here is by Prada and retail for around $190.

4. More ties
It may be easy to buy 5 ties for $10 at the stand on the street, but you'll be disappointed in the end. Spend the extra money, not much mind you, and take a trip to Sym's, H&M or Target and stock up on some really nice duds. I like buying my shirts and ties at the same time. Even though you're matching items very specifically, you'll find that the new tie you just bought will match a lot of things that you've already purchased. The reason - because you've been buying classic items, not trendy ones. Don't worry, there's plenty of time for trendy items later.

5. The black suit
The black suit is not quite as versatile as the navy suit, but it's pretty close. Your black suit will look snazzy with white, pink, yellow, some tans and orange. If your budget permits, Hugo Boss makes a very nice, modern 3-button suit for around $695.

That's enough to really add a spark to your wardrobe. In our next session we'll wrap up the other items you'll need to round out your wardrobe. Stay tuned.