The Stylist's Manifesto

The 60’s are a definite example of the best and worst of fashion. On the one hand, you have the awful hippie look, but on the other, you have the wonderfully chic british spy. This is the style we’ll be reinterpreting today. The great thing about fashion is that the hybridization of decades of style yields nothing less than spectacular results! Check out the examples below and take on the modern Goldfinger, Dr. No, and yes, even Dr. Evil! Grooovy baby, yeah! PS: Since all of the gear below is from karmaloop.com, make sure you use my rep code (SS37193) for 20% off!

The houndstooth jacket is a timeless staple and should be a part of every man of mystery’s wardrobe. This interpretation ($92.95 @ karmaloop.com) takes the college professor to the extreme with the lettered back. Although belligerent, it works perfectly for those days in starbucks spent writing on your laptop.

Since this is a modern re-imagining, we’re going to go ahead and replace the slacks usually seen with a sharp blazer with simple raw indigo denim choice from LRG (on sale for $65 @karmaloop.com). The fit isn’t overly baggy yet remains out of the nut-hugger category. Perfect for concealing the derringer strapped to your ankle to, 007…

The button-down (like this one for $25 @karmaloop.com) is, of course, a nice complement to the jacket above and the kicks coming next.

These are amazing on SO many levels. Burgundy, Suede, Hi-top?! The suede lends a classic vibe while the silhouette and construction of the shoe puts an entirely modern spin on it. With these joints (a STEAL at only $68 @karmaloop.com), sean connery’s bond steps into 2010 with impeccable style.

By now, if you’re occupying one of the regions experiencing temp drops, you are certainly rocking heavier jackets. Here we come back to one of my favorites, just in a different way: the motorcylce jacket. This time, we dress it up a bit with the next level combo:

1. Moto jacket.

(This one is a beautiful lambskin version available at nordstrom.com for $1,595)

(This one is pure brando. Timelessly chic.)

(Gotta love the partial-zip sleeves on this joint. Gives it a nice, technical appeal.)

 

2. Button down.

(This BOSS black is available at nordstrom.com as well for $125.00)

3. Scarf (ESSENTIAL).

 

(80’s purple has some PHENOMENAL examples like this one for $27 by Obey)

4. Leather or suede kicks (if you have to go sneaker, make it nice i.e. Puma fashion, etc). Boots are great or at least a chunkier bottom variant of your favorite style (oxford, etc).

(This suede oxford from nordstrom.com at $99.99 is a nice, supple brown and is a great companion to the moto jacket from above as it breaks from the traditional black on black. Pair this with a suede belt to really show off your fashion sense.)

(The chukka is on fire right now and is a wonderful companion to the ensembles we’re envisioning in this post).

(These are actually doc marten’s simply re-imagined in an oxford. Still the brit-rocker vibe but in a more contemporary package.)   

5. Premium, fitted denim or slacks (wool perhaps?).

(These 80’s purple jeans by postage are $125 and are a straight-fit,which is essential so as to not detract from the overall outfit. Too baggy looks juvenile and nuthuggers just aren’t fair to anyone.)

5. Optional but HIGHLY recommended: modern fit sweater (there should be no bunching up anywhere). I usually go wool, cashmere, or a blend of either.

Alternate: swap #2 for a turtleneck, also modern fit.

 

(Perhaps you’d like to rock this one or the one below with the oxfords above? The 60’s euro-chic vibe is a sophisticated way to make ya mark!)

When you’re considering scarf choices, lean away from conservative when possible. Even if you choose a relatively neutral color, go for an ignorant width or knot it in a way that stands out. And yes, regardless of the temperature, the Arab scarf is always welcome. To switch it up, just tie it as you would a traditional one. When you look at your closet and think ‘which button-down?’ try a darker choice from time to time. A dark, tightly patterend flannel perhaps? Or a muted stripe? The same boldness regarding darkness should by no means stop at the shirt. Denim, slacks, even footwear can all benefit from a little romp on the darkside (not all at once mind you). The beauty of this look is the limitless possibility for creativity! This update to the first variant of the moto aesthetic removes the casual elements and replaces it with a wonderfully dressier group of pieces that are a refreshing change appropriate for showing off your impeccable style.