Men Archives - Ideas & Inspiration

Wednesday

15

January 2014

The Way You Wear Your Hat: Famous Hats Through The Years

Written by H, Posted in Fashion, Gloves / Hats / Scarves, Men, Women

Happy Hat Day! If you follow me on Pinterest, you know I’m a huge fan of hats and the art of millinery (check out my Millinery Pin Board). In honour of Hat Day, I’ve compiled some of my favourite examples of fine millinery.

Vivien Sheriff fascinator as worn by Kate Middleton: In her first public appearance after her engagement, Kate Middleton styled a Vivien Sheriff fascinator adorned with various feathers and a cameo brooch. Although considered a classic statement in the UK, this was the fascinator that launched a trend across the pond. After Kate, girls everywhere in the US and Canada started wearing fascinators as accessories to summer weddings and formal ceremonies.

Kate Middleton wearing a Vivien Sheriff fascinator. AP Photo.

Philip Treacy hats as worn by the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton: Based out of London, Treacy is an incredible milliner, an artist in his own right. Each of his designs features intricate details and weaving, and quite often a fanciful bow. Although famous the world over, worn by everyone from Sarah Jessica Parker to Lady Gaga, it’s his designs worn by the Duchess that have really caught some serious attention.

Philip Treacy beret-style hat worn by the Duchess of Cambridge.

Black Philip Treacy hat worn by the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton.

Custom Givenchy jade green velvet hat worn by Audrey Hepburn: Worn for a shoot in Vogue magazine, Audrey’s Givenchy chapeau was a luxe domed jade-green velvet number with tassels. The photo, taken in 1964 by Cecil Beaton, made the Givenchy hat famous.

Givenchy velvet hat worn by Audrey Hepburn

Givenchy velvet hat with tassels worn by Audrey Hepburn in Vogue (1964). AP Photo

Halston Pillbox hat worn by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy: It was the pillbox hat he made for Jackie Kennedy that solidified Halston’s reputation as a designer. Made to wear for President Kennedy’s inauguration ceremony (along with a beautiful fur muff, hello), Halston’s pillbox hat was copied several times over for ladies across the nation wishing to embody just an ounce of Jackie Kennedy’s elegance.

Halston pillbox hat worn by Jackie Kennedy.

Eisenhower greeting President and Mrs. Kennedy

Eisenhower greeting Jackie Kennedy (wearing Halston pillbox hat) and President Kennedy at the inauguration.

Bailey Hat Company Fedora made famous by Humphrey Bogart: Before Sinatra was Sinatra, Humphrey Bogart was the king of cool. Not only is he considered the greatest male star in the history of the American cinema, Humphrey Bogart was a style icon before there were style icons. From the Maltese Falcon to Casablanca, his custom fedoras designed by George S. Bailey are often imitated.

Humphrey Bogart in a Warner Bros. publicity shot around 1941. Warner Brothers/AP Photo.

Lock and Co. Fedora worn by Frank Sinatra: Hands-down, Frank Sinatra was one of the most stylish men of his generation. The fedora was at its coolest when worn by Frank. It took me some research to find out who the designer was behind many of Frank’s hats; as it turns out, many of the designs Frank wore came from James Lock & Co. Ltd. (the same company that holds the royal warrants for the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Edinburgh).

Frank Sinatra was the epitome of cool in a Lock and Co. fedora.

Frank Sinatra was the epitome of style in a fedora.

Wednesday

26

January 2011

Valentine’s Day Gift Idea for Him: J.Crew Timex® Military Watch

Written by H, Posted in Men

He’s the man in your life who’s a borderline prepster; he’s the guy who’s always dress in straight-leg pants and a sharp shirt; he’s the archetypal bookworm who reads everything from Hawthorne to Hemingway.

In other words, he’s a classic (and perhaps a bit of a geek).

Gift the classic guy in your this Timex® military watch, available exclusively at J.Crew. Taken from the Timex® archives, this vintage-inspired watch has an easy-to-read face and nylon strap (which btw, is interchangeable). Modeled after the original 1940s style, this Timex® watch will be a gift your guy will treasure (and one he’ll actually use).

Timex® Military Watch, $150, J.Crew

Wednesday

12

January 2011

Men: 3 Easy Updates for Your New Year Wardrobe

Written by H, Posted in Men

The start of a new year marks the perfect time to update your wardrobe. Before you get upset about spending a lot, remember that to update your look, you don’t need to buy a new wardrobe. Every item in your closet doesn’t need to be replaced; in fact, quite the opposite. Take stock of your closet: What items of clothing do you wear the most? What pants and shirts do you have on heavy rotation? Use this as your base for buying a few new pieces that will completely update your look. I’ve selected three items of clothing that will instantly update your look for less than one hundred dollars each, and these pieces will also carry you straight from winter into spring.

End-on-end point collar dress shirt ($65, J.Crew): We’ve talked before about the importance of a crisp, white shirt, and today let’s consider the validity of a blue dress shirt. Generally speaking, this classic blue hue looks great on most complexions. Crisp and smooth (done in J.Crew’s extra-fine 120s cotton knit), this J.Crew point collar dress shirt is a shirt that you can wear day to night to weekend. Paired with anything from dress slacks to jeans, this shirt will update your wardrobe in a snap.
Vintage straight cotton chinos ($59.50, Banana Republic): Before you let the slim styling scare you off, consider the fact that these chinos are as comfortable as they are fashionable. The dark granite colour will wear well for the rest of the winter, and into the spring and summer months. You can wear these khakis casual or work smart, whether your pair them with a sweater or sport coat.
Cotton-cashmere v-neck sweater ($59.50, J.Crew): Nothing brightens up current clothing in your closet like a burst of colour. The vivid green of this J.Crew cotton-cashmere sweater will wear well with both items above, and also with other wardrobe essentials (wool pants, jeans, a white shirt, a basic t-shirt). Because of the cotton-cashmere blend, you’ll be safe styling this sweater into spring.

Tuesday

14

December 2010

Every Man Essentials: Shoes and Belt

Written by H, Posted in Men

Men, you’ve made it; we’ve officially reached the end of our Every Man Essentials list. You’ve got a checklist complete with everything from the classic white shirt to straight-leg jeans. And what finishes off any outfit better than a solid pair of shoes and two leather belts? I understand that not all men have the budget to buy multiple pairs of shoes, and that’s OK. If you’re on a tight budget, invest in black dress shoes and brown everyday shoes. When you’re styling a black or charcoal suit, black shoes work best. You can even use them to dress up jeans and sport jacket. For your more casual looks, — think jeans and a sweater, — opt for rich brown suede slip-on moccasins. They look stylish and wear like slippers.

1. Giorgio Brutini® Slip-On Plain Loafers ($59, Zappos): Looking great doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. For less than 100 dollars, you can snag these Giorgio Brutini® loafers. Featuring a polished leather upper and classic cut bicycle toe, these loafers have overlapping leather panels that add some sharp detail. They slip on and have a padded footbed for comfort.

2. Banana Blues Purfect Loafers (sale $67.50, Zappos): These super comfortable suede moccasins are ideal for everyday. Slip-on styling with a soft suede upper, these Banana Blues loafers feature a perforation detail at the vamp. They’re lined in leather and have a flexible rubber sole, so you know these shoes are easy to wear.

3. Banana Republic Reversible Plaque Belt ($65, Banana Republic): It’s like getting two Italian leather belts for the price of one! You can’t go wrong with Banana Republic’s reversible plaque belt. One side black, one side deepest brown, this belt has a modern brushed metal plaque buckle.

4. J.Crew Leather Roller-Buckle Belt ($39.50, J.Crew): A casual belt that will wear well with denim, khakis, and even flat-front pants, this J.Crew leather belt has a soft feel and a metal buckle. Available in darkwood brown and black, this belt will fast become one of your favourites.

Monday

13

December 2010

Every Man Essentials: Silk Tie

Written by H, Posted in Men

We talked about the importance of the classic white shirt, and the silk tie goes hand in hand with that. Sure, I’m a huge fan of classic plaid, but the Every Man also needs something sleek to amp up his armoire options.

1. Burberry Silk Small-Check Tie ($140, Neiman Marcus): Made in Italy, this tie features Burberry’s classic check done in a subtle, silk twill with a tonal small check. Available in red, silver, or black, my recommendation is the red. This rich hue will pop against against your classic white shirt, and it will wear well with a black or grey suit.

2. J.Crew Old-School Stripe Cambridge Tie ($49.50, J.Crew): The look of this J.Crew silk tie is entirely collegiate. The old-school stripe Camb ridge tie is made the U.S. from English woven silk. It’s a hand-finished accessory that any guy under 30 can style with sophistication.

3. Gucci Black Solid Silk Elijan Tie ($144, Bluefly): This tie is anything but basic. Made in Italy from the smoothest, lightweight silk, this Gucci tie is completely classy. Perfect for any dressy occasion, I love the look of a black suit, crisp white shirt, and black tie. It makes for a show-off look without any loud or obnoxious colours.

Not prepared to spend more than 50 dollars on a tie? Check your local Winners, TJ Maxx, or Marshalls for fantastic ties priced almost preposterously! I know of no where else (except maybe a New York City street corner) where you can get a bargain on a Gucci tie. Really.

Monday

13

December 2010

Every Man Essentials: Outerwear

Written by H, Posted in Men

We’ve covered the basics of what to wear, but what about what to wear outside in colder weather? Number eight on my Every Man Essentials list is proper outerwear. Gone are the days of being twelve years old and wearing a track jacket or zip-up windbreaker, and if you’re still doing this and think it’s acceptable, think again. Real men wear real coats. From the peacoat to the classic topcoat, gentlemen, take note of these overcoat options.

1. J.Crew Authentic Wool Peacoat ($255, J.Crew): Everything about this J.Crew Authentic Peacoat screams ‘essential’! From the flip-up collar with a tab-fastening closure to the buttons with an anchor stamp, this coat is one you’ll wear every winter. Available in black, navy, and charcoal, this peacoat has a super-warm lining that adds extra warmth to super-soft wool.

2. DH3 Wool Peacoat ($199, Mark’s Work Wearhouse): The tab detailing on each sleeve make this basic stand out. A six button closure and angled welt pockets are peacoat staples that every man will appreciate. Available in black, this is a great buy from Mark’s, and one you’ll wear for multiple winter seasons.

3. *J.Crew Mayfair Wool-Cashmere Topcoat ($375, J.Crew): I love it when J.Crew takes a timeless design and adds a few modern touches. Their Mayfair topcoat has more of a trim fit, cleaner cut lapels, and an exterior ticket pocket. It’s available in four colours (check the camel — a classic hue!) and has an absolutely divine cashmere-wool blend. Warm and wearable, this impressive overcoat will complete your look.

4. Boulevard Club®/MD Melton Balmacaan Coat (about $150, Sears): What’s a balmacaan coat, you ask? A balmacaan coat is a loose-fitting overcoat with raglan sleeves. It’s more of an everyday, wear over your business attire coat. This version from Sears has a cozy wool melton outershell and satin polyester lining. An outerwear basic, this coat has two exterior and two interior pockets.

[*I’m often asked by men if they should buy a car coat or a topcoat, and my preference for the Every Man is a topcoat. For the record, I’m featuring a topcoat as a proper overcoat option because it’ s dressier by design and more versatile than a plain car coat. What’s the difference is between a topcoat and a car coat? A topcoat always has a hidden button front, button cuffs, and a centre back vent. A car coat has exposed front buttons, plain cuffs, and no back vent. And a car coat can’t really be dressed up.]

Friday

10

December 2010

Every Man Essentials: The Every Pant

Written by H, Posted in Men

There’s a right way and a wrong way to wear grey pants, but if you’re taking the information from my Every Man Essentials list seriously, then I’m confident you can wear grey pants correctly. And, with these fantastic options, it’d be pretty difficult to style grey trousers in an unappealing way. Pick up a pair of these pants, and you’ll put them on heavy wardrobe rotation. Grey pants are so versatile, — not too casual, not too dressy — and they combine well with virtually any colour. Wear them 9 to 5, and even after. Check my picks, priced high to low.

1. Etro Flat-Front Trousers ($350, Bergdorfs): Arguably my favourite Italian fashion house, Etro is famous for creating classic pieces that look tailor-made. Case in point? Their grey/blue flat-front trousers. Perfectly fitted, these slim pants are done in a four-season cotton. They wear best with a lighter coloured shirt, but that’s not to say you can’t layer a dark sweater over top.

2. Bowery Wool Pants in Regular Fit ($118, J.Crew): J.Crew’s Bowery pants in regular fit will look flattering on every man. These wool pants are three-season friendly (a little too heavy for the heat of summer), and they’re partially lined so they won’t itch.

3. Kenneth Cole Reaction® Dress Pants (sale $39.99, Sears): Some would say these Kenneth Cole Reaction® dress pants from Sears are more contemporary than classic, and I won’t argue (although let’s admit, they do have a timeless appeal). With a made-for-you fit, these dress pants have a slightly lower rise and fitted styling. The poly-blend (don’t cringe) means these pants are machine-washable, which is great for those of you who are low maintenance.

Friday

10

December 2010

Every Man Essentials: Straight-Leg Denim

Written by H, Posted in Men

There’s a reason Every Man Essential number six is specific to straight-leg denim. It’s due to the fact that there are so many variations of denim out there. From super skinny to extra wide, it’s easy to see why so many men lack proper judgement when it comes to wearing well-fitting jeans. I mean, how’s a guy to choose?

1. Diesel Safado Straight-Leg Jeans (sale $177.65, Bluefly): Done in a medium blue (which looks more yellowed in the photo than in real life), these Diesel jeans are good quality. And for the price tag they certainly should be. Made in Italy, the mid-weight crosshatched denim has purposeful fading along the thigh and seat. The thighs are creased for a worn-in appearance. These straight-leg jeans are far from skinny; they’ve got a 16-inch opening.

2. Levi’s® 501® Jean in Worn True Wash (select colours $69.50, J.Crew): History lesson time! This jean first debuted more than 100 years ago, made from iconic Cone Denim®. Because of the quality and timeless appeal of the jeans, they’re still available today. They’re hand-sanded for an authentic worn-in look. And while they are straight-leg, these classic jeans still have a relaxed fit.

3. GAP 1969 Premium Straight Fit Jeans ($54.50, GAP): From their Gap 1969 Premium Jeans line, check out these straight-leg jeans. Redesigned for a better fit, Gap’s new and improved straight-leg denim features adjustments to the back rise. What does this mean for you? Less pull when you sit down, no gaping, and an easier fit around your hips.

Thursday

9

December 2010

Every Man Essentials: The Basic T-Shirt

Written by H, Posted in Men

First things first, let’s get down to business. Go through your wardrobe and dispose of any shirt — and I mean any shirt — that has discolouring at the neck or under the arms (or anywhere else, for that matter). You know the tweeting bird from that Speedstick Stainguard commercial? Totally real. And men, don’t give the excuse that no one’s going to see the stains because you only wear it as an undershirt. That’s disgusting and you should be ashamed. And, PS, your gf or wife or partner — somebody sees you get dressed in the morning and undressed at night. Got it?

Every Man essential number five is the basic t-shirt. You’ll want to invest in several of these, both long and short-sleeved. I’d also advise you to pick them up in black, grey, and white. The good news with the basic t-shirt is that there’s really no high-low comparison.

Long-Sleeved Crewneck, $16.50 each when you buy 2 or more, GAP: I’m not usually a huge fan of the GAP, but admittedly, they make a mean t-shirt. And for the price, you really can’t beat it. Long-sleeved creweneck shirts work well for layering in colder months. Buy in black, grey, and white. The neck of GAP’s long-sleeved crewneck holds its shape, and the great part about cotton is you can wash and dry them at home.

Men’s Premium Comfort Crew T-Shirt, $15.47 for a 3-pack, Hanes: This is the t-shirt of all t-shirts. This t-shirt is made with Hanes’s ultra soft cotton. It’s tagless, so when you layer there won’t be any bunching or chaffing. Hands down — any male member of my family will tell you — the collar is the best. Ever. Really. The secret? It’s seamless. The length is right so you can tuck it in or out. And, bonus! These perfect t-shirts come in a 3-pair pack. You can order online, or pick up at your favourite store (Costco, the Bay, Walmart, Zellers).

Monday

6

December 2010

Hope Hearts: Christmas Gifts for Him

Written by H, Posted in Men

Father, son, brother, uncle, boyfriend, husband, —

You’re surrounded by a lot of testosterone, —

So why not gift the guys on your Christmas list with a gift as unique as each of them? Christmas shopping for men is one of my favourite yearly traditions. Maybe because men are traditionally less picky than women, or maybe because men are not all expert shoppers in real life — there’s just something about Christmas shopping for a guy that is less stressful than Christmas shopping for a girl.

Check these fun and unique gift ideas. There’s something here that will appeal to every man on your list.

1. Cashmere-lined Leather Button Gloves ($88, J.Crew): Like your guy, these J.Crew cashmere-lined leather gloves are tough on the outside and soft on the inside. All rich subtle leather, finished off with a button snap, these winter gloves offer warmth and functionality.

2. Kensington 720p HD Camcorder in Black Plaid ($149.99, DXG): Shopping for the geek on your gift list, but not sure what to buy him? Check DXG’s Kensington 720p HD camcorder. One part style, one part HD technology, this hand-held has a fashionable black plaid pattern that stands out almost as much as its real 720p HD video and 8MP image resolution. Top it off with a 3-inch rotating LCD screen, and you’ve got a unique and luxe gift he’ll love. And did I mention the fab quilted carry case it comes with?

3. MacLachlan Tartan Tie ($69.50, J.Crew): Whether or not his last name’s MacLachlan, and whether or not he’s Scottish, every guy needs a classic plaid tie in his closet. This bright highland tartan wool tie measures 2 inches at its widest point, and would wear well with any of your guy’s Every Man essentials.

4. Kiehl’s Ultimate Man Collection ($50, Bergdorf Goodman): Movember might be over, but that doesn’t necessarily mean your man’s moustache has gone anywhere. For the guy who likes to be clean shaven, and for the guy who likes a little scruff — whatever his facial fancy, every man needs to do a little manscaping to keep his face in order. Kiehl’s Ultimate Man Collection includes all the essentials, like facial fuel energizing face wash, the ultimate brushless shave cream, deluxe scrub soap, ultimate strength hand salve, and lip balm.

5. Timex® Military Watch ($150, J.Crew): Forget Rolex, real men wear Timex®. [Not to say I don’t appreciate a man with fine taste in watches.] Available exclusively at J.Crew, Timex’s 1940s-style military watch is out of the archives and ready for your guy’s wrist.

6. Original Penguin Grey Wool Rutherford Hat ($30, Bluefly): Another vintage-inspired design, gift your guy an Original Penguin convertible hat. The wool blend will keep his head warm, and the cool pattern will keep his look stylish. Win-win, if you ask me.

7. Superfreakonomics, by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner (about $24, Amazon.ca): From the men behind the NY Times best-seller Freakonomics comes Superfreakonomics. This is a fantastic gift even for guys on your list who don’t enjoy reading. The culture-challenging insights and observations of this follow-up will appeal to even the most anti-bookworm. Totally provocative, and sometimes questionable, get ready for another book that will challenge society and the way you look at the world.

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Hope Reflected

Men Archive

15

The Way You Wear Your Hat: Famous Hats Through The Years

26

Valentine’s Day Gift Idea for Him: J.Crew Timex® Military Watch

12

Men: 3 Easy Updates for Your New Year Wardrobe

14

Every Man Essentials: Shoes and Belt

13

Every Man Essentials: Silk Tie

13

Every Man Essentials: Outerwear

10

Every Man Essentials: The Every Pant

10

Every Man Essentials: Straight-Leg Denim

9

Every Man Essentials: The Basic T-Shirt

6

Hope Hearts: Christmas Gifts for Him

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