The Stylist's Manifesto

With spring right around the corner (and sprint temps surprisingly already upon us for the past few days here in chicago), it’s time for us to jump head first back into the brighter hues! Yay! This time, we’re going to make the transition with one of the most essential pieces of either sex’s wardrobe: The bag. Notice how we maintain the winter connection with darker colors yet shock the senses awake with super-bright tones with our bag choices. Ready? Set. Go!

Us:

A classic men’s staple, the light jacket in a peacoat sillhouette  is perfect for nearly any season (except summer obviously). Keep in mind though, that this jacket is not of winter weight and should be rocked when the temps spike upward (like our 40+ degree stretch we’re currently enjoying). $51.95 @ karmaloop.com PLUS 20% off with my rep code ‘fashionforward’.

Even though I’ve been into varsity jackets for years, it seems everyone is just now discovering them lol. This example has the traditional varsity color blocking, yet combines subtle motoring inspiration for a truly unique look. Either this or the preceding jacket works flawlessly with our ensemble and neither detracts from our accent bags. $128 @ karmaloop.com and don’t forget to use rep code ‘fashionforward’ for an extra 20% off!

What can I say? The check pattern, from plaid to gingham, is just wonderful. This dress shirt is actually done in houndstooth which gives it a nice connection to our current season, while the lighter hue sets it firmly in the realm of spring. $230 @ barney’s new york.

Usually I’m not into bow ties, but this one rocks! Geometric pattern, pops of color, slim modern profile, it has it all. Perfect on so many levels and only $130 @ barney’s new york.

Oh, you forgot that I’m the original adult skater? With our college senior/undergraduate theme, why not throw in a little distress? Something has to take your mind off  that pop quiz. Very subtle hand-done destruction makes these tailored jeans an excellent choice for our outfit. $49.50 @ hollister company.

I’m speechless. Supra has given us the gift of their impeccable thunder low in navy canvas with pink striping and outsole. If you’re having trouble seeing how this brings our entire look home, you’re reading the wrong blog. And the best part? They’re only $25.20 @ 6pm.com!

Incase seems to really shine when it comes to protecting your gear, no? As an owner of a number of incase products, I can say from experience that they are absolutely worth the extra couple of bucks. And this emergency red example is just the 911 sense-therapy we need to get us into spring! $80 @ karmaloop.com plus 20% off with rep code ‘fashionforward’.

Another example of fine incase ingenuity, instead of the backpack, we’re going for the traditional messenger bag. With the classic profile and plenty of room and protection for your  tech, it’s a great segue into the warmer temps. $69.99 @ 6pm.com

Them:

You know, I know it, they know it. Burberry trenches are gorgeous. This one is no exception. With leather piping it’s a bit more aggressively styled than some of the other offerings. $1,595 @ Nordstrom.

Believe me, you ladies are going to want to live in stripes this spring. Brightly colored ones mind you, but stripes nonetheless . Why not ease into the spring stripes with this subtly hued example? Perfectly complementing our trench, it won’t take any attention away from the bright bags to follow. $375 @ barney’s. Oh, and there’s a similar, lower priced version @ yesstyle.com for only $16.20

The classic khaki in navy blue with an updated rolled cuff. Lovely. Darker color for our current season and lighter weight for our next one, these scream ‘trendy transition’. A fresh alternative to the all the denim. Oh, and they’re on sale now @ hollister for just $23.70

Red bottom or not, Mr. Louboutin never disappoints! This one goes very well with our ensemble, is neutral in tone, and beautifully accents our trench. $695 @ Barney’s new york.

Totes and shoppers are just spectacular for you ladies! Big and sexy baby, yeah! Fendi gives you this one in coral pink or bright cobalt. Both are  $1,650 @ barney’s new york.

Of course I couldn’t leave you guys without patent leather! Kate spade’s got you covered with this cute, shiny example at a more modestly priced $295 @ nordstrom.com

PS: There’s an even sexier, albeit pricer patent tote @ nieman marcus for $925!

Since we are moving quickly into spring, why not go out with a pastel bang? Barney’s has this lovely offering just in time for the warmer season for $1,595 that highlights our ensemble without detracting from it.

So, with winter occasionally giving in to warmer temperatures, these outfits that we’ve crafted for either sex are perfect for not only the season we’re in, but for the one we’re looking forward to as well!

Yay! My favorite fashion season has arrived! Fall is dear to me because of the layering potential that’s so much better than other seasons. This year, we’re going to take it back to swinging’ london and go bright! Don’t get me wrong, the understated tones of autumn are still hot, but why not garnish them with some more intense shades? The next few posts will illustrate my Fall ‘11 philosophy. Ready? Class is officially in session.

Tweed Blazer

The tweed blazer appears each fall for good reason. It’s a timeless style icon that’s quintesentially autumn. Warm and fashionable, we’re going to begin with this piece as a base upon which to build a few ensembles (This one happens to be $875 @ Barney’s New York). Let’s call them Office, Cafe, and Evening.

Office:

With our Tweed blazer as a base, we’re going to freshen things up with this clean blue cardigan from 10DEEP ($124 @ karma loop.com plus 20% off with rep code ‘fashionforward’). It’s not super loud so it eases you into the bright accessories we’ll be soon introducing…

Why not complement our sweater choice with a nice burgundy? Mature, stylish and cool as the current temps, banana republic doesn’t disappoint with this one (only $79.50 @ bananarepublic.com). Think the gingham is perfect? Wait ’til you see what comes next!

This is a great example of how textures can play off each other to create something wonderful. Even though this bow tie is plaid, it’s actually silk. This adds a soft and elegant touch to our top half. $59.50 @ bananarepublic.com

With watches we have two color schemes, both of a bright pop. Above, Timex scores big with retro style in a hot blue that goes perfectly with the rest of our ensemble ($35 @ karma loop.com PLUS 20% off with rep code ‘fashionforward’) . Below, we have Nixon’s rubber re-run in coral, playing wonderfully off of our bowtie ($90 @ karma loop.com). Both choices are vintage pops of color that John Steed or Austin Powers would rock any day!

Chinos are year ’round. Forget what others may say. Not super dressy (we’re not going to an awards gala here), yet a step up from denim, these navy examples tie into each piece we’ve exhibited thus far. $77 @ 80spurple.com

Ah 80’s Purple, you are a sexy beast! Gray suede coupled with RED laces? Not to mention the contrast natural soles! Surely by now the connection to the rest of the outfit is clear. $200 @ 80spurple.com

With our choices for the workplace, you’ll definitely show up your mates. The bright color accents with the uniquely fall staple pieces come together for a perfect autumn look. And remember, this is just the first course this semester. We still have Cafe and Evening coming soon!

Surely you didn’t think I’d leave you ladies out, did you? As I wrote in the companion piece (Midnight Run (M)), in this bright, sunny season we’re in, there seems to be an overload of super loud shades. The darker hues however, are a refreshing change to all of the bright pinks, pastels, etc. that we see every season. Don’t get me wrong though, the lite-brites are still super hot. This time though, let’s explore them as an accent, a garnish if you will, instead of the main course.

The two button blazer is a wardrobe staple for both sexes. This wool/spandex hybrid is perfect for the season as it lends itself to the rolled sleeve aesthetic. An excellent start to the outfit we’ll craft today! $375 @ bloomingdales.com

And there’s the first pop of color. This beautifully sexy, edgy tee by simdog is the perfect segue into our colorful choices to follow without being overly flashy.  Only $24.99 @ bluefly.com

Black yet fun, these cropped pants by Tokyo Fashion are a nice, whimsical addition to our ensemble. Mad summer while maintaining the elegance of the darker hues, these just work. Just $31.50 @ yesstyle.com

Keeping this ensemble fun and summery is easy when you have these cute wedge pumps from Lane172! The pink pops and is a great nod to our earlier splash of color in our summer tee. From the straps to the peep toe, the classic pump is reinterpreted in summer form. And being a wedge means comfort for your little feet. See, I’m looking out for you too! Just $25.60 @ yesstyle.com

Instead of a cuff or bracelet, I decided to throw you ladies in this new piece by nooka. It doesn’t get much bolder than the ZUB ZAYU MG with it’s unique way to tell time and super bright pink. Now there’s a splash of color. And, it’s a bit oversized so it screams ‘boyfriend’, just like the blazer. See how everything comes together? $150 @ nooka.com

Ok, now that we’ve shown what the dark side has to offer, especially when coupled with the season’s colorful boldness, there should be no problem for you ladies showing up the rest of the overly bright peers in stylishly restrained elegance. PS: to dress your fella, check out my companion piece for us guys over @ thenorthshorestyle.com/stylistmanifesto!

The summer always brings out the brightest colors. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE bright colors. However, for a change, I like to break up the bright with a stroll down the dark path. Let’s go down that road together as we explore the darker colors as our base while utilizing the summer’s bright hues as the accents. Ready vader? Good…good…

Us:

Instead of force lightning, let’s shock everyone with this bangin’ peacoat by Burberry. British and industrial, let the other blokes know how fashionable you are. $995 @ neimanmarcus.com

What a perfect compliment to our peacoat! The contrast white and blue stripes at the pockets and opening is just the right amount of pop without detracting from the neckwear that will follow shortly. On sale for $319 @ barneys.com

Surprised? I know it’s not dark but trust me, this along with either of our two neckwear choices works like nothing else to complete our ensemble. $139 @ barneys.com

Usually I hate bowties but this one is slim and modern. The plaid complements the check pattern of the shirt and breaks up the darkness of the outfit. Win. Win. $39 @ barneys also! Yeah I know, their sale right now is incredible!

If bowties aren’t your thing, this traditional one is sure to please. The colors are gorgeous and the subdued color scheme goes great with the rest of our look. On sale for $59 @, you guessed it, barneys baby!

Dark, Angry and full of fashionable angst, these rebel8 pants are a stunning example of simple deconstructed style. $96 @ 80spurple.com

Does converse ever disappoint with their collaborations?  Obviously not. Comme des Garçons Play + Converse = absolute perfection. $100 @ barneys.com

Black metal. No further explanation needed. $290 @ watchismo.com

Did you notice the shirt choice was a french cuff? Surely you didn’t think we’d leave it to the generic fabric cufflinks everyone else is rocking. Black sheep is so punk! $450 @ barneys.com

Dolce & Gabbana has really given us the perfect cherry on top for this ensemble. Metal and leather works beautifully especially for this industrial chic look. $280 @ bluefly.com

BONUS (but highly recommended)!

Make no mistake, those incase bags hold your macbook pros and airs really well, but c’mon, they’re as common as those white earbuds. Why not carry your tech in this incredible briefcase finely crafted of creamy white leather. $3,480 @ barneys.com

Ok, it’s obvious that the dark side isn’t that bad at all. This color palette is a refreshing change to the super bright hues that dominate the season. Standing apart from the rest of the gents has never been easier!

Yeah I know, it’s been a bit. After the drought, why not jump into summer fashion with a little bohemian chic? I know what you’re thinking, and yes, I’m not usually down with boho. However, there are elements of the style that I absolutely love! And since this is just for my partner in crime jazzy Jas, I figured I’d do it big. Like a symphony, this version of boho is passionate yet refined.

Modern black jacket. Boho inspired floral accent. No need for an explanation here ladies. This beautiful wardrobe staple is perfectly accented with a bold flower pin that doesn’t overwhelm the senses. $654 @ Nordstrom.com

To compliment the floral theme of the jacket, I’ve selected this super breathable top with a subtly fresh print. And since it’s not super ignorant, it won’t detract from our gorgeous jacket. $58.90 @ Nordstrom.com! Isn’t the half-yearly sale great?

It is summer isn’t it? Then ditch the pants for these cute shorts in white! The distressing screams boho and is a perfect match for our ensemble. $63 @ 80spurple.com

Puma never disappoints! Their african inspired ‘tekkies’ series is perfect for that laid-back, effortless look. They’re rough around the edges and crafted of that oh-so-summery canvas. Casual and cute, these unisex kicks bring together our whole look as they compliment not only the rough shorts, but the black and white combo of the jacket as well. Game. Set. Match. Only $40 @ Zappos.com!

What can I say about nixon that you don’t already know? I almost shed a tear when I saw this gorgeous interpretation of the time teller in…White Granite?! I don’t know about you, but my wife has NO competition for style when rocking this one. The soft white really pops under the black boyfriend jacket I picked out for you ladies, and the chunkier design perfectly accentuates the bohemian/boyfriend look. $150 is a great deal for a timepiece chiseled out of such a beautiful material. Hit up nixonnow.com for yours!

Want to make an even bolder statement on that cute little wrist of yours? Look no further than the 42-20 in high polish and acetate white. Big. Bold. Beautiful. This screams ‘boyfriend’ baby! $349 @ watchismo.com

See? I can get down with the boho too! Even though I don’t advocate the mary-kate and ashley nightmarish style of boho, when done properly, the bohemian element can be a fun addition to any lady’s wardrobe. Feel free to swap items too. For example, maybe dress it up a bit by swapping the tekkies for some sexy wedges or pumps? Maybe adding a super bright print instead of the more neutral one? The options are endless! Just make sure the aesthetic is maintained. Remember, it’s beautiful and refined, like an elegantly composed piece of music.

The stereotypical image of a skater is a heavily tatooed, pierced kid with a cap at a jaunty angle and sagging pants. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Let me illustrate what it means to be an adult skater this summer.

Chino blazer. A summer staple, there’s an absolute necessity for this in every man’s wardrobe, regardless of hobby. And since it’s extremely light and fashionably flexible, it’s able to fit into nearly any taste pallet. $250 @ bananarepublic.com

What happened to the crispy white button-down from the first adult skater blog post? It’s been refreshingly swapped for a spring pink! Ben sherman delivers for $79.50 @ nordstrom.com

Vintage and rough around the edges, these shorts are straight from a verse outta Lupe’s ‘Kick, Push’! The darker wash is a nice contrast against the khaki blazer. 80spurple.com hooks you up for only $44. Oh yeah, and KR3W is a skate company bro!

And why not go ahead and hit kr3w again? This time let’s sample their footwear arm, supra. The spring colorway of navy/pink goes perfectly not only with our denim choice, but our button-down as well! $100 @ karmaloop.com

Rocked by a variety of artists, athletes, and of course skaters, the dw6900 is always appropriate for those of an active lifestyle. Tough enough to go straight from the skate park to the cafe without missing a beat. This example, although discontinued, is still available at amazon.com for $99. Oh, and of course this one was selected because it so perfectly goes with our footwear/apparel choices.

With this outfit, it’s obvious that with the right selections, you can combine almost any fashion worlds to create a ridiculously stylish statement! Kick, push and coast right into spring!

Sometimes fashion seems to be born out of taking a utilitarian product and modifying it to be something beyond the original intent. I can think of few better examples than Casio’s G-shock line. The foundation? A need for a super tough watch. The eventual result? A timepiece of such variety and style that its appeal is currently universal. One of my favorite G-shocks is the Frogman. Is it because it’s as elusive as an amazon poison dart frog? With as many beautiful strains? Undoubtedly. For some reason Casio decides to release and discontinue this model randomly, ensuring it’s demand and desirability. The current interpretation is as tough as ever, being able to withstand an obscene amount of pressure, while keeping that despicably sick aesthetic. Available now in red, black, and yellow, I can’t recommend a finer example of function coming full circle to meet form. $750 @ gshock.com

As far as headwear goes, we fellas have nearly unlimited choices. Especially now, when the temps are still cooler. One of my favorites is the classic new era fitted. Current colors can be subdued or vibrant, as we men navigate from the winter season to spring with a timeless, refined cool.

The hundreds ‘chop’ hat in blue: $45 @ moda3.com

Every winter is usually pretty similar, lots of gray. If you caught my last post you noticed that I tend to shy away from conformity. This time will be no different as we’re going to dive head first into the deep blue sea, of color that is. Blue, specifically the darker shades, should feature prominently in the wardrobes of either sex when the temps are inhumanly cold. It’s a nice change from the usual monochrome color scheme seen annually yet isn’t as loud as the spring and summer’s pastels. Got your scuba gear? Alright, let’s dive!

Ladies:

Neiman Marcus sure stocks some hot gear for you chicas! This pink satin suit is a perfect example. The complementing sweater is beautiful and the stripes accent the hue of the suit without taking attention away from it. $1,735 for the suit and sweater @ neimanmarcus.com

In the event that you want to rock a skirt instead of the pants, yet want to maintain the suit aesthetic, the above combination of jacket, skirt and tank is an excellent choice. $2,300 for skirt, jacket and tank @ neimanmarcus.com

And now for the blue! This double banded offering from Mr. Jimmy Choo is perfect for both options above. And, c’mon jimmy choo? Of course it’s the perfect choice! $950 @ neimanmarcus.com

This shiny patent leather goodie by burberry just screams modern! The embossed trademark check pattern completes it perfectly. And since it’s blue , pues…aun mejor! $895 @ nordstrom.com

Even though I love seeing pearls on you ladies, there’s just something extra special about gemstones. These bracelets, specifically the aquamarine option, are as beautiful as the senorita whose wrist they adorn. And yay! Blue! $2,800 @ neimanmarcus.com

Blue sapphire hoops complete either outfit whether going skirt or pants. $4,490 @ neimanmarcus.com

Ok ladies, you’re all set! Now for us…

Gents:

The double-breasted coat is a timeless staple of any man’s wardrobe and this example in navy blue is absolutely magnificent. What a wonderful beginning to our style journey. $222 @ yesstyle.com

What better way to complement the outerwear than with prada?! The cardigan has navy front and back contrast detailing while the trousers would surely make sean connery’s bond smile! $865 for trousers and cardigan courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

Since the suggested white prada tee seemed a bit plain to me, I decided to spice things up a bit with help from the land of the rising sun. Evisu is one of my all time fav’s since they scream nihon-jin! This osaka tee is on sale now for $45 @ evisu.com and the blue waves tie in amazingly to our blue shaded wardrobe choices.

Rose gold + Han Cholo = HEAT! This brass knuckles pendant by legendary streetwear designer han cholo is perfect for our outfit! And like most han cholo stuff, this is totally unisex. And you thought the pink/blue color combo was reserved for the fairer sex? $45 @ karmaloop.com (of course rep coade ‘fashionforward’ gives you that oh so wonderful 20% off).

Nixon seems determined to take all my money! The diver’s 42-20 has been reinterpreted in rose gold which, coincidentally goes wonderfully with our brass knuckle pendant AND the rest of our ensemble! $448.99 @ watchismo.com

Ok, that’ll complete the look for us! Hit your closet for the kicks but make sure they mesh well with everything presented here. With the examples set forth for both sexes, there should remain no doubt at all as to how essential blue is to the winter wardrobe.

Spring’s still not here? Shoot! Well, as there’s no getting around the sub-zero temps in regions like mine, you ladies might as well stay warm. However, this doesn’t mean throwing on sweatpants and your fella’s hoodie. Staying fashionable and staying warm can be done simultaneously. Let me show you what I mean…

One shoulder is SO hot right now! This studded top in pink is the perfect start to our outfit for you ladies…$18 @ yesstyle.com

Lace + wool = warm and lovely. This wool blend pleated skirt is a wonderfully soft and feminine compliment to the edgier top above. $25 @ yesstyle.com The wool will keep you warm while the pleated aesthetic and lace detail will keep you gorgeous. Make sure you rock some tights to keep those bangin’ legs from getting frost bite

The timeless oxford re-imagined in a nude wedge! Perfect for the unique lady that you are. $140 @ karmaloop.com These wedges are an excellent way to tie in the skirt and the top all in one shot. And since it’s a wedge, it shouldn’t hurt your feet as much as a traditional heel (if you’re like my wife and complain of the pain the traditional heels cause).

If you’re feeling more cyber-punk and want to play harder off the edgier nature of the studded top, then these platforms are perfect! Plenty of harder details  that still go perfectly with the the skirt. $100 @ karmaloop.com (and yeah, ‘fashionforward’ still gets you 20% off since these 2 wedges are from karmaloop).

To keep you ladies nice and toasty, this plaid double-breasted coat works nicely. You definitely don’t want to spoil your beautiful outfit with a wack outer garment. $325 @ yesstyle.com

As a final touch, we’re going to go with this angora wool hat with super-cute bow detail! And in coffee, it’s the cherry on top for our look, no? Only $29 @ yesstyle.com

With plenty of wool to keep you from freezing during this bitter cold we’re suffering with, you now have no excuse to rock your hubby’s college sweats when braving the outdoors. Don’t forget those tights either ’cause baby, it’s cold outside!