Where have you been?

The summer's over and we haven't stopped to breathe since leaving NYC. Time is a rare commodity with two busy schedules. But alas, we're back in action. 

Fall is in full force all over the country, even in Dallas, Texas. That being said, we're coming at you with what we're wearing this fall. It's still in the works, so bear with us while we continue compiling noteworthy items and check back in the next couple of days for rad fall gear. 

See you soon. 

Jorts...making a comeback?

We never thought we would see the day that jean shorts made a comeback. Enter Summer in New York City. Every time we turn around we are seeing jorts...being worn by men. And we actually like them...

Now before you go writing this post off, there are many stipulations to acceptable jorts. The cool factor this summer comes from the cutoffs. Sure you could probably pick up a pair of pre-made jorts at your local J.C. Penny, but whoa is me if you look cool wearing them. This summer, the look is taking an old pair of (preferably) fitted denim and cutting them off right above the knee. To complete the look, run them through the washer and dryer a couple of times to get a good fray going and bam, you're suddenly fashionable in the city.

Some precautions: if they have any form of cargo pockets, carpenter hooks, sparkly embroidery or anything of the like, steer clear. Keep is simple. But if you feel the need to jazz them up, we have seen some pretty cool renditions with a couple of paint splatters, tears, rips, stains and so on. Avoid the baggy jinco look, keep them tailored and respectable looking and you're well on your way.

Oh yeah, make sure they're somewhere in the blue color family...wouldn't want to stray away from our navy roots...

The picture is taken from the Sartorialist...a good look, but too long for my taste. We are on the hunt to find the perfect look, when we do, we'll update the post. There should be plenty of opportunities at the office on Monday...

Hidden In Plain Sight

Although it is not quite navy (nor classically preppy), camouflage is going be a popular color for the fall and winter. It is beginning to make itself visible in all levels of fashion. Louis Vuitton has introduced a new pattern, which resembles the classic monogram with camouflage background as opposed to the traditional brown. There are stilettos from Christian Louboutin (although not helpful to us men). Canvas totes with camouflage prints are beginning to creep out in departments and specialty stores.

Not only will camouflage (the print itself) be present but so will many military inspired pieces. Military jackets and fatigue pants will be available in many colors, including camouflage, and fabrics. Outerwear will be decked in camouflage as well.

We are not saying that camouflage has never had a presents in fashion but we do feel that this year it will be more pronounced and available then in past years. We think that camouflage may not be for everyone but if you do choose wear it please stick to basic camouflage and not the sand or snow camouflage military forces may be wearing. The fashion styles are much more wearable than actual military prints.

Bandanas...not just for pirates

Bandanas are not just for pirates anymore. Bandanas are a multipurpose staple to every wardrobe and a great multitasking tool for the modern man. Bandanas can be found in multiple colors, patterns, and sizes. Paul Smith New York has a wide selection of unique bandanas that are full of life and color. We stopped in to browse around and found some authentic bandanas made in Mexico in crazy colors and patterns. We recommend bandanas as headwear, neckwear, an alternative pocket square, and even wristwear. Remember that the key to any great outfit are the details.

Ahead of the curve, we have been sporting bandanas around the neck as a cool touch to get a little edge, and after looking through the copious amounts of pictures from Spring 09 in Europe, Hermès stole our look! Check it out...and get on the bandana-wagon.

Ralph in Paris

[A bit delayed, but nonetheless...]

It was an exciting day at the Ralph Lauren offices when the announcement was finally made public that Ralph Lauren will show his Men's Spring 2009 Purple and Black Label Collections next week in Paris.

DNR broke the news on June 12 and confirmed that Ralph has secured a spot on the last (and most anticipated) day of Paris Men's Fashion Week. This is a big move for the RL clan, showing the collections abroad earlier than in years past, usually during late summer in New York. Other big players showing the same week include Lanvin, Dior Homme, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Paul Smith, among others. Let the games begin....

The major move won't disappoint. Perhaps someone typing this post has seen a sneak peak of the looks for Spring and they are looking very promising. Can't give anything away until the pictures surface next week, but Ralph is coming on strong with the best of the best from Purple Label and is reinventing the modern young man with Black Label.

It's crazy to be thinking about next Spring already as Fall has yet to hit stores. But, not to worry, Fall is on the way (despite scorching temperatures across the country) and will be delivering classic Fall pieces per usual. An entry is in the works as to how to build the perfect Fall wardrobe, complete with pictures and cool tips, etc. Be on the lookout for that one coming closer to the cool weather.

Bespoke: Lost in Translation?

Bespoke has lost its meaning.

"Bespoke" roots its meaning from the 17th century when men would walk in to tailors and pick a roll of cloth to be cut into a suit. The roll had then "been spoken for." Today the premise is still the same. Go to a tailor, pick out a fabric and have well over 20 measurements taken, multiple fittings, and a voice in every aspect of the handmade work of wearable art. The suit is constructed to specifications to flatter every line and measurement of your body. The average price for a Savile Row bespoke suit can quickly get above $7,000. There truly is no compromise for a bespoke suit.

However, in today's increasing quest for luxury within fashion, "bespoke" and "made-to-measure" are used interchangeably. This is unacceptable. "Made-to-measure" is simple having a pre-made template cut to your measurements and can be done by machine or by hand. Sadly, the British Advertising Standards Agency does not agree with the tradition of bespoke. On June 18, 2008, the British Advertising Standards Agency did not support the complaints Savile Row Bespoke (the group that represent Savile Row tailors) made against London retailer Sartoriani. Sartoriani recently ran ads for a "bespoke" suits for under $1000. These suits were actually machine cut in a German factory.

The British Advertising Standards Agency seems to have ignored all tradition and talent that goes along with the word "bespoke." Regardless of what the standards agency thinks, bespoke is a handmade suit with multiple fittings, well over 20 measurements, and custom in every aspect. True bespoke is really the ultimate in men's suiting and will always remain this way.

TOMS Shoes

TOMS shoes are a version of the Argentinean shoes called alpargatas, similar to an espadrille.  They are made of many different materials, including canvas, burlap, and suede fitted to a rubber sole.  We have been wearing TOMS since Spring 2007 and we are infatuated.  They are comfortable and a great alternative to a sandal or flip flop.  Paired with cropped chinos, a pair of shorts, or a swimsuit TOMS look great for any occasion.

TOMS come in a variety of colors and are great year round.  The plaid ones above are great for summer.  There is a pair in navy canvas with white soles for the ultimate nautical look.  Best of all they are for a good cause.  For every pair purchased, a pair is given to a child in need.  Since their start TOMS (Shoes for Tomorrow) has donated over 60,000 pairs of shoes to children in Argentina and South Africa.  In 2008 their goal is to give over 200,000 pairs to children all over the world.

TOMS shoes: fashionable, affordable, philanthropic, and just plain cool.

photo courtesy of www.tomsshoes.com