Stand Out in Camo

One thing that I was reading today is that a trend for this season is camouflage. Now, camouflage to me has always been a trend, but that all depends on how you wear it. If you're going to walk down the street in covered head to toe like a soldier, then it's as much of a trend as it is a faux pas. Camouflage adds a nice touch to any piece of men's clothing - it adds a sort of implied masculinity because of its militant use. There are two types of camouflage though: good and bad. You might be wondering what that means, but I'll show you. Pictured above are what I deem as "good" camouflage. The colors are very simple, muted, and not too offensive with all-over camouflage fabric or design. However, the image to your right is what I consider to be "bad" camouflage.
Notice how some of the use of bright greens is almost painful to look at. Not only this, but the materials used in the jacket are very displeasing as well. That doesn't mean that all clothes by this label (which will go unmentioned) are bad, though. It simply means that they did not use the pattern well. There is good and bad in every trend, and I feel like it applies more to camouflage almost more than any other. Just remember that simplicity can go a long way. You may want to try out camouflage, but as previously mentioned, make sure that the camouflage pattern itself uses earthy tons; some different shades of green, greys, and browns are what I feel look best. Maybe if you're lucky, you'll find a camouflage pattern which uses black and grey (my personal favorite variation of the style). Remember, stand out in camouflage this season, don't stick out.

The Secret is in the Scent (Part I)

For me, the most important thing to do before leaving my home is applying my cologne for the day. No matter what occasion, I also feel as if there is a scent which can accommodate the theme, weather, feel, or whatever mood it is that I am experiencing at the time. Pictured left is my very first cologne that I got my sophomore year of high school, Lacoste Essential. Now, what I loved most about this cologne is not that it was a strong, statement scent, but that I was a 15-year-old boy who had such a thing in his wardrobe collection... And I wanted more. So, I started collecting and overtime I just acquired more and more types of colognes by different labels and, although it might have been overkill, I just couldn't stop myself! So soon after the first Lacoste cologne was given to me, I ended up getting this beauty, Burberry Summer (right). First off, the bottle is beautiful. With the Burberry pattern imprinted on the glass, it already has that sort of class that you associate with the label. The scent is no different - it has a sweet and subtle citrus-like aroma that sort of lures you in to get a closer look. The only unfortunate thing that I find, both about the Lacoste and the Burberry, is that they are two very daytime-esque fragrances - meaning, I personally wouldn't wear them at night given their spring and summery resemblances. For that sexier, "I'm all yours" kind of aroma, I go straight to my favorite (and newest) cologne that I actually happen to be wearing right now, L'Homme by YSL. It's very alluring in its own way. It has a blend of fresh spice, mixed with a citrus and woody melange. There's that hint of citrus that makes it fine to wear during the day, but that oh-so amazing spice that makes it beyond perfect for an outing for dinner, a show, or an adventure with friends. You're bound to catch attention with this fragrance by YSL. As a matter of fact, you'll turn heads (in a positive way) with all three of these. Just don't be that guy who wears TOO much (Remember, less is more!).

Can We Go Thrift Shopping?

Sometimes your best friend isn't the department store. More often than not, when I go shopping with something in mind, I go to a store like American Apparel, H&M, or some other popular place to look for styles which I recently discovered are trending. BUT! There's one problem with all of these places: they're going to charge you higher amounts for clothes that are in season and in style. So, what's your alternative? Well, instead of paying the high prices at the mall, sometimes I find that going to your local thrift shops is the best alternative. Now, some people might not like the idea of wearing previously worn clothes, but if they're in great condition (some still with tags on them) and are nearly identical to what you almost bought at Store X, then why not buy it at the consignment or thrift stores around you?
On your right is an example of a shirt that I found at a thrift store, Goodwill to be exact. It still had all of its tags on it and was unworn, so I purchased it, cut it up a bit, and made it my own. As a matter of fact, the boots that I am wearing - I found those at a vintage shop, too! Sometimes you can find pure gold when you're really trying. Now, you won't always have luck, but it's always worth a shot. So, today I'm going to ask you to try something different and go out and try to find something that resembles one of the trends I've told you about these past weeks. Think about the trending colors of blues, pinks, and orange; or maybe the ethnic styles, such as aztec, tribal, Native American; or how about the yesterday's topic of the "Urban Safari" uprising with it's olive green, khakis, and clay-like colors? Give it a shot! You never know what you'll find. And while I ask you all to try it, I'm going to test me luck here in San Francisco and see what I find. I'll be sure to let you guys know if I have any luck. Until then, thanks for reading!

Let's go on a SAFARI!

Now, you've heard of big cities being called "Urban Jungles" but how about throwing an "Urban Safari" into the mix? That's right. Safari-like styles are beginning to make an appearance this Spring/Summer '13. However, don't think that safari styles mean you have to wear bold animal prints or crazy African-like patterns - it means just the opposite. This trend is aimed more toward men who aren't comfortable wearing those bold prints and flashy patterns. Having more of an earthy feel to it, this "urban safari" uprising is more focused on use of olive greens, khaki, or ochre (light yellow/brown/red) for it's clothing; natural fabrics, such as cotton or silk are also found heavily incorporated as well. Now I think that the earthy feel is what I enjoy most about this style. It kind of has a subtlety that is needed every now and then. Sure it's nice to stand out and maybe bring attention to what you're wearing, but sometimes it's best to stay under the radar and simply enjoy wearing an outfit for yourself and not for others.
Now, here's my attempt at this trend. In the photo you can see me wearing a khaki sleeveless coat with multi-pocket detail and a belted front. Some people are a little turned off by this style, but I personally loved it. Instead of the belt that the coat came with, I decided to kind of make it my own and use a vintage Christian Dior tie that I had lying around my room. I paired the coat with some navy blue chino shorts and a navy blue v-neck that I got from American Apparel. Overall it was a pretty simple look to throw together, and I wouldn't mind wearing a similar style again at some point. Now, if you're interested in trying it out or reading more about it, HERE is an article from Fashionbeans which contains the full story, plus some additional outfit inspirations. Thanks for dropping by!

Denim Delight!

What was Mario's favorite fabric? ... Denim, denim, denim!

One thing that I never really expected was for all denim outfits to come back. Making its appearance on the runway this season from the likes of Valentino and Versace was a little unexpected to be honest, but I took the chance to go along with it. I mean, who knows better than these high end designers, right? So, with that I decided to try out an (almost) all denim outft myself. Using some simple things that I had in my closet like a denim jacket and jeans with matching wash, I was able to scrape together this number (right). Now, I personally think that this is the only outfit that I can pull off in all denim, but that doesn't mean I can't piece together different ones wearing this denim jacket that I got from Forever 21. It's such a light wash that it can go with just about any shade, color, or pattern (like polka dots!). It's nice to be able to have those options, too! Now, a lot of guys don't have jean jackets, so if you're one of them that doesn't mean you can't take part in this spring and summer trend. Mess around with what you already have! Try different outfits with the denim jeans you already own, and if you're feeling super adventurous, look into buying a denim shirt or backpack like the ones pictured above. Your only style limitation is yourself, so if you feel like trying something new, then why not? Also, if you're like me, you can't always afford to go out and buy trending items right away but if you have that urge, don't be afraid to thrift! Check your local thrift or consignment stores for lightly worn clothes similar to what you're looking for! It's well worth the hunt if you find just the right thing you're looking for. So again, denim is the word for this season! Try it out and see how it works for you :)

You'll Love These,... iPromise

For those of you who own a tablet, you know how difficult it can be to choose something as simple as what to put it in. When I first went to purchase my iPad case, I ended up leaving the store with the typical snap-on Apple cover that you can find at your neighborhood Walmart or Target. However, I continued to search because I felt like I needed something better. I mean if I'm going to be carrying around an iPad, I want it to be dressed up just as much as I usually am! Then one day I walked into an +American Apparel and stumbled across their carry-all leather clutches (pictured left) and snatched one up right away. It's simple, sleek, and stylish all at the same time! But before I found this zip-up leather bag, I was scouring +Etsy for an all leather envelope bag with a string closure. Now, you may asking yourself: what the hell is he talking about? Well, let me show you! To your right you'll see exactly what I just described. The envelope case has an almost vintage look that you might have found a mailman carrying around back in the day. From the store Baytowne Leather USA, the case is made entirely of hand-cut, hand-stitched natural colored leather (alternative color and style below). Each of the cases are made one-by-one with the same amount of precision and detail as the first. And if you're thinking, "I don't have an iPad or tablet, so what good does it do me?" Think again! I love to use my carry-all as a folio! Just go ahead and stuff your planner, papers, pencil, pen, etc. and it's fully functional for a day at school or at the office. I personally think these are a fantastic thing to own and can come be used just about every day - I know mine has gotten quite a bit of use! If you want to check out more specs, just go ahead and click the picture and it'll lead you to the Baytowne store over on Etsy. And if you do consider one, I can promise you won't regret it. They're so multifunctional that you'd silly not to. Thanks for reading and stay trending! :)

Lions and Tigers and Burgers, OH MY!

Now here's something that you don't see every day, FULL GRAPHIC sweaters. The dynamism of these sweaters is something that would definitely catch anyone's eye walking down the street. The lion itself  is the king of the jungle, but why not own this statement piece and be the kind of the urban jungle?! What I love is how the sweater just catches the fierce expression of the lion and the mane is dramatically sprawled across the fabric of the jumper. But, this sweater isn't the only sweater of this type available from the trendy UK label, Purple Pop. To your right you'll find yet another KILLER graphic top featuring a female lion (tiger? cat? I'm not quite sure!) with flames coming out of its mouth. Inappropriately, yet hilariously, called the "Hot Pussy" sweater, like the first lion sweater, it has a sort of edge that calls attention to you. Now, some people aren't those who like to call attention to themselves, but who's to say that you can't at least invest in something like this just for the hell of it?  And for those of you not interested in these animal motifs, try this one on for (super) size. The burger jumper looks delicious and completely feeds my love for outlandish fashion . Alongside the lion and "Hot Pussy" sweater, I'm in love not just because the sweater is a giant hamburger, but because it has a sort of humor that you won't get from many other brands. You can find each of these sweaters at around £45 with an additional £12 for international shipping, so if you can like one then I say buy it! They're definitely worthy investments and they're going out of stock faster than you think. Also, keep in mind that elaborate printings like this aren't cheap, so they're a bargain for the detail! Lastly, don't forget to check the other products available HERE on the Purple Pop site. Thanks for reading! :)

Tribal Trends Part Deux!

Following this week's previous post about ethnically inspired clothing for Spring & Summer, today's post focuses on more Native American & tribal styles. What I love most about Native American-inspired clothing is the patterning and how bold all of the colors look together. One online store that I know I can go to for many tribal styles is +ASOS which seems to always carry these types of clothing. 
However, what I was surprised to find is that +Dr. Martens has their Pendleton boots which are tailored specifically to match this Native American theme. I'd LOVE to have a pair for myself, but at over $100 for a pair, it just isn't practical on a college budget. But! That doesn't mean I can't find different clothing and accessories with similar style elsewhere. As mentioned, ASOS has tribal

clothes and accessories, like the bracelets pictured above, so if you're interested I would check them out. The button-down shirt in the collage is nice, but again, I'm on a college budget so I went ahead and improvised. I happened to have a plain brown +American Apparel t-shirt and I that I cut into a tribal-like design myself. I did this by slicing the sleeves and cutting out a triangle pattern around the collar (the shirt cost about $7 and took 20 minutes to cut). I think it looks great and I would definitely love to try it again in a different color! The Justin boots add a little flare with the kilties and give it a sort of edge that I'm always looking to have. What do you guys think? I'd love to know!

Passion for Pink!

Most men might be shied away from the mere thought of wearing pink, but as they say, only real men wear pink. This color trend is actually something that I am very excited for this spring and summer. As you can see (pictured above) I love color blocking and mixing different shades together to make one collective outfit. It's what you might call, "Fifty Shades of Pink." My most preferred articles of clothing to wear as pink are in the collage above - button-down shirts (from Ralph Lauren), loafers (from +ASOS & +Sperry Top-Sider), and shorts. All three forms of those are worn in the picture of my outfit below. Although the collage items are a bit more costly, there are some alternatives to the price.  

In my picture I am wearing a pink shirt found at +H&M for around $15. Can you believe it?! So cheap! The darker pink corduroy shorts I found at Target for around $20 and I paired them with a pair of dark pink (almost purple) loafers I found at Crossroads Trading Company for about $13. You don't always have to spend tons of money to look great! If you're not afraid of a little pink, I suggest you go out and try to find some for your wardrobe. If you're not into statement pieces, maybe try something subtle like a pair of wayfarer sunglasses of a watch like the one by ICE pictured above (available at +Macy's). Don't be afraid to be adventurous! Define your style, don't let your style define you.

Trend Alert!

For this Spring & Summer, a large trend that's been seen on the runway is clothes with an ethnically inspired design. Pictured here are some examples of certain pieces that follow this style. What I love most about these styles are the geometric patterns, as well as the bold colors that they utilize. In my opinion, they are statement pieces that can be used in so many different ways. Personally, I would use very understated clothing (maybe a pair of dark denim jeans and a white button-down shirt) and then make the ethnic patterns contrast the simplicity and make it pop. Of the items pictured above, I really love the bowtie and patterned shorts most. They're very eye-catching without being too much. How do you feel about these ethnic / Aztec patterns? Are they are DO or a DON'T? 

Clean Cut with Some Edge

The one thing that I loved most about my spontaneous trip to Chico state was the weather. With unexpected rain, I was able to get away with wearing darker colors, as well as my favorite tobacco blazer from +H&M. I've always loved more classic, refined styles but I personally like to add a bit of an edge to them. I feel the blazer keeps the look crisp, but wearing all black and bringing it all together with some eclectic boots is what I like most about this outfit. These boots are also another thing that I seemingly love more than anything else in my closet. Having had the luck to find them at a thrift shop, I scooped them up before anyone else could notice them and I essentially ran out of the store throwing my money at the cashier on my way out. The lighting here really allows you to notice just how well the colors complement each other. The cherry color of the boots is great with the pop of color from the blazer. Oh, and did I mention the blazer has a navy lining on the inside? It's fantastic! One thing I'm most looking forward to adding into my wardrobe in the fall is more blazers. But for now, I need to worry about adding a spring / summer statement blazer to my closet. What do you think of this outfit? Any suggestions for future use? Feel free to share! :)

Take Me Back... Please?

Late post! Well, as things are starting to wind down during finals week, I can't help but think about that little taste of summer I got when I was at +Coachella . Here you can see me relaxed and soaking up the sun in one of my favorite festival outfits from the fun-filled weekend. I paired my favorite corduroy shorts with a self-made tribal top using a plain t-shirt from +American Apparel. I loved the color combination of the chocolate brown and bright turquoise. I paired the shorts and shirt with my +Steve Madden troopa boots and folder them over for a more "I just threw these on" look. And lastly, no Coachella outfit would ever be complete without a fedora and equally trendy clubmaster sunglasses. I wish I could go back now! One more final to go before my summer dreams become a reality! Thanks for following :)