Tuesday, April 30, 2013

A Rainbow of Macaron

Photos: My Own

The Macaron is the perfect treat- not too big but full of flavor and able to satisfy that sweet tooth. Vendôme Macaron, based in New York, recently launched at the 5th floor cafe of Saks Fifth Avenue. Macarons have become quite trendy as a dessert option. The display of macarons available to guests for tasting created quite the rainbow of colors. 
The flavors ranged from Pistachio and Limoncello to Cassis de Provence and Strawberry. I must admit, the Vendôme Macarons were very good- a slightly firm outside and a soft inside, full of flavor. Of course my favorite color combination were the green & pink ones next to each other! You can read more about Vendôme by visiting in their website.

Monday, April 29, 2013

5 Random Monday Thoughts

Monday, we meet yet again. You seem to sneak up so quickly after Friday! The weather seems to be a recurring theme for me, but I can't help but note that it is now April 29th, and I'm looking out the window to grey skies, rain, and 50 degree temperatures. Where is spring?!

  • The end of semester pressure is about to be in full swing
  • Have you heard of Basel World? I've recently been following the luxury watch event in Switzerland and its quite amazing!
  • Who's excited for the Kentucky Derby coming up this weekend?!
  • I recently talked about Printed T-Shirt Trend- I got the Givenchy Madonna print shirt and love it!
  • Take the road less traveled:

Thursday, April 25, 2013

The Spirit of Travel

I have written numerous times about my love for travel and places I would like to visit. I love Paris, and adore the sun. Travel is something that I find myself thinking about often. 
Louis Vuitton recently published a chapter on India on their website and entitled it "Louis Vuitton: L'ame du voyage", or "the spirit of travel".




I love the phrasing of "spirit of travel." I made me start thinking just exactly what the spirit or essence of travel is for me. For me, the spirit of travel is about opening your eyes. Travel allows for the discovering of so many new things, not only at your location but also internally about one's self. The spirit of travel is about exploring, leaving one's comfort zone to gain new insight and new experiences from which to draw perspectives. 

The spirit of travel seems to be quite complex, varying from person to person; however, I believe it has a lot to offer. What is the spirit of travel for you?

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Details

For me, details are everything. I am a very detailed oriented person whether it be fashion, work, or organization, I like to have everything looking great right down to the details. 
Small things, the details, can really make a good outfit stand out and be a great outfit. For men, details are things such as socks, pockets squares, and the stitching or lining of a suit. 

I think adding a colorful, contrasting pair of socks to an outfit is an easy way to pay attention to the details and make a subtle statement with your outfit. The red socks below contrast the dark hue of the blazer while coordinating with the pocket square. It truly makes the look standout for the standard navy blazer paired with an oxford.



Pocket squares are another way to incorporate small details into an outfit. I believe they are a sign of a true gentleman, and in addition they come in an array of bright colors and prints- a perfect way to add some preppy flare to a dark blazer. 



How are you focusing on the details to add interest to your outfits and make them stand out?

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Styled: The Hermes Kelly Bracelet


The Hermes Kelly collection is one of the most iconic collection in fashion. From the renowned Kelly bag to the wallets and bracelets, it is instantly recognizable. Here, I have taken a classic double wrap Kelly bracelet and styled it 3 different ways. 

1. On its Own- This bracelet deserves attention. Wearing it on its own will make a statement, and is an easy, simple look. Pick a bright colored leather to really make it stand out. Mine is grey because I find myself wearing a lot of neutrals, so it is easy to throw on with anything.

2. With a Timepiece- One of my favorite accessories is timepieces. There is nothing quite like a big, bold watch in my opinion. Match the color of the metal on your Kelly bracelet to the metal of your timepiece, and you will make quite the statement. 

3. Arm Party- "arm parties" are quite trendy now. What is an arm party? It's when you wear many bracelets on the same arm. The most trendy is the Cartier love bracelet paired with a Juste Un Clou, Hermes Clic Clac, and a David Yurman. Here, I have paired my Kelly bracelet with a matching Clic Clac for a tone-on-tone look, and added a bit of black with a braided leather bracelet. 

Monday, April 22, 2013

An Insider's Guide To Paris


Paris 
Written by Les Garçons aux Foulards

Who is Les Garcons aux Foulards?- A Young Parisian, I’m living in the French capital for more than 20 years. Free lance in a lot of different activities around the Fashion Industry, i decided two years ago to launch a personal and slightly different blog – Les Garçons aux Foulards - about this subject who is in the center of my life and about different topics like Art, Exhibitions, Designers Interviews… The blog is different because, it’s one of the rare blog that proposes an unconventional vision of the Fashion World, daring to criticize sometimes the Fashion Shows, the advertising campaigns, and the designers that unfortunately not always creates stunning collections. So for this reason we decides to hide our identity behind the Character of the « Boys with Scarfs ».


How would be possible to not love Paris ? Art, Architecture, Romantic walks, so many clichés symbolizing this city through the movies, the literature, and the personal experiences of the travellers who discovers the city every day, and which are true in one way. The feelings that you have are passed in a kind of magic filter changing your perception of reality. Simple coffee time to the « Zinc » of a bar, or looking at the Seine flowing under one of the bridges, even the rain can be romantic in Paris!
Unfortunately, all these positive things also have their opposite, and what can be more difficult is succeeding in developing a real Relationship with the Parisians – everybody is always running and we are not known to be the most smiling people in the world…  
3 things that you have to see in Paris
For sure, the two first are quiet clichés, but impossible to pass them for a first time. First of all, head to the center of Paris, to see the Louvre museum and the amazing glass pyramid of the architect Yeo Ming Pei, the contrast between the Past and the Present is particularly interesting and you have a great view of the Eiffel Tower, the Tuileries garden and far away the business quarter of La Défense who draws a line between the Ancient city and the Modern city. If you are Lucky, the sun will be reflected in the glass of the pyramid and the fountains running – a timeless feeling !

When the sun went down head towards Trocadero. Between the Ethnographic muséum and the Architecture museum, it’s a terrace with the most incredible view of the Eiffel Tower. During the day it’s charming, but in the evening it’s a real show. All the hours ( 8P.M, 9P.M, 10P.M,…) the Eiffel Tower is sparkling with thousands of electric lights during 10 minutes, everybody clapping their hands - stunning ! 
Finally, a little bit less known by tourists, the second Island in the center of Paris called Saint Louis offers a charming view of Paris. Walking around on the Quais or in the small streets of the Island, you will feel a typical feeling of Paris with the small shops, the cozy restaurants and of course its impossible not to eat a Berthillon Ice Cream which is a real institution in Paris, looking at the back of Notre Dame or listening to some people playing music in the streets around – charming.
Would you like to come with me to take a lunch? 
Paris is for sure one the world capitals of food - refined dishes, more simple and traditional, or fusion, you can find something for all tastes. For my part, except the japanese salmon maki who could easily become the base of my nutrition, I’m fond about meat and delicatessen. I know, not really healthy, but God, so tasty !  So generally, when i’m going out with some friends, I alternate between a double bacon cheese burger (the real home made!) with some crunchy french fries, or something typically French – the cheese plate or a mix with some delicatessen, and when you know that in France you have more varieties of cheese than days in one year, the choice is quiet endless! To pair with all these flavors, what else than a bottle of red wine – Saint Emilion – the best. Finally impossible to overlook the Foie Gras ! A few peppercorns, some fig jam, fresh bread, a glass of red wine and i can be the happiest man in the world!
Paris proposes some of the nicest restaurants in the world, and all of them with their own specificities, and is not necessary to go in the restaurants with One, Two or Three Stars in the Michelin guide, you can find a nice place to eat on all the corners.
For a Young and Trendy atmosphere, the Marais (3th and 4th district), in the center of Paris is the place to be of the people working in the Fashion industry. One of the nevralgic point is the Café Charlot in the Rue de Bretagne, french « neo-brasserie » with vintage furniture - essential. Very close, in the Rue du Petit-Thouars, two lovely places – the Café Crème for the cool and relaxed atmosphere and the Café Soprano for his italian food and the wonderful terrace during the summer. A few blocks away, on the wonderful Place des Vosges built in the 17th century, just under the columns - the Café Hugo (a tribute to the writer Victor Hugo who lived on the place) subdued lighting, very good traditional food and affordable prices!

Always Rue de Bretagne, per haps one of the most surprising place in the city, the Marché des Enfants Rouge. Most ancient market of the city, its actual particularity is to have the possibility to eat in all kind of food – Italian, Lebanese, Moroccan, organic, Japanese… and all of them are fresh baked and delicious! True journey through time and space you don’t have the feeling to be in the center of Paris – a place to discover imperatively!
Slightly more glamorous and a little bit more expensive, two other places could be amazing experiences. On the roof of the Modern Art museum – Centre Georges Pompidou – Georges, the restaurant designed by Philippe Starck is one of the trendiest place in Paris. Amazing sight of the roofs of Paris lightened, modern design, live dj and fusion food, i suggest you the « Le tigre qui pleure », raw beef with an Asian sauce - explosion of flavors.

Come back to the Louvre to dinner or just to take a drink on the terrace of the Marly. Situated Under the columns of the Louvre, this very elegant place will offer you per haps one of the most beautiful view of Paris in the one of the most charming ambiance in town.

Finally for all the lovers of sweatness, the tearoom LaDuree for the Macarons and the fresh pastries.
A.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Fashion Friday: A Bold Pant

Preppy dressing is all about print, color, or pattern- or all three! I have quite a few statement pants in my wardrobe with wild paisleys from the likes of Lilly Pulitzer and Bills Khakis. A pant is an easy way to make a statement with your outfit, and can be toned down with the choice of top. 

Photo by Daryl Oh
Sweater: Tom Hamilton for Bergdorfs
Pants: Dries Van Noten
Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Above, I've paired a dark red, striped pair of Dries Van Noten pants with a neutral sweater. The pants make the statement, while the conservative choice of sweater helps keep the look relatively toned down. I opted to add bit more interest to the look with studded oxfords by Christian Louboutin. 

Whether you are a veteran at making a bold statement with your outfit or a novice, try a bold pant. It is easy and can often be repeated multiple seasons. 

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Featured on FRINGE

I am excited to share with you that I have been featured in the spring edition of FRINGE. FRINGE is a special bi-annual with a focus on fashion. This spring's issue selected a few individuals and profiled their style and from where they draw inspiration. 

A photo from my feature:

Photo by Daryl Oh via FRINGE

My profile discusses my preppy east coast style. You can read my profile here, and check out the entire spring edition here.

I would love to know what you think!

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Gaudi in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city filled with beautiful architecture everywhere you look- from gothic style doors to intricate balconies on residential apartments. Barcelona is most well known for its architecture across the city by Atoni Gaudi. Those familiar with Spanish history know that Barcelona is the Catalan region of Spain- an area that believes strongly in its own culture. Gaudi is credited with being the leader in Catalan Modernism. 

His buildings are very distinguishable as he has created his own unique look. They are characterized by stained glass, ceramics, and wrought iron forgings. His most celebrated works in Barcelona include the Casa Batllo, Casa Mila, Park Guell, and by far the most renowned: Sagrada Familia. The buildings are very interesting, and I found myself looking at them for quite a long time, noticing new details as time passed. My personal favorite was the Casa Batllo on the famous Passeig de Gracia. 

The lines to enter were very long for each of his famous works, so I did not get to enter. However, on my next trip back to Barcelona, I would definitely enter the Sagrada Familia. It is still under construction, so new progress is made by the day. 


Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Trend: Printed T-Shirts



Spring and summer fashions are all about color, print, and lightweight fabrics. I have been seeing printed t-shirts all over this spring. Many designers sent spring/summer collections down the runway containing brightly colored t-shirts with eye-catching graphics. 

I must say, while I am not always a fan of trends, I do like a lot of the printed t-shirts I am seeing from designers such as Balenciaga, Balmain, Dolce & Gabbana and my favorite, Givenchy. Givenchy has become an icon of the printed t-shirt. This season, Givenchy has incorporated Paisley into the designs- what's more to love? Paisleys are a preppy favorite. 



These all would make a great statement in the summer with their bright colors and fun prints. Paired with white denim, and pastel shorts, these shirts making creating a summer outfit quite easy. Are you loving the printed t-shirt trend?

Photos: Via Mr Porter.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Fashion Friday: Preppy Semi Formal

As I mentioned yesterday, I like to stand out from the crowd a little bit, contrast. When one thinks of semi formal attire they think of a boring black suit, a tie, and typical black dress shoes. I had to attend a semi formal event last evening, and I did not one to be dressed like every other man at the event. 

I infused my preppy style and love for print and color into a "semi formal" outfit that was not your typical black suit and a tie. 


Bow Tie: Lilly Pulitzer / Blazer: Thom Browne / Shoes: Billy Reid


The bow tie, paired with a white shirt adds a pop of color, and the navy tipped blazer is classic preppy style. Together with slim chinos and wingtip shoes, the outfit was perfect for spring event held by the water. Typical semi formal attire-no. However, I stayed true to my style and how I love to dress. A little Moet champagne goes perfect with the outfit as well!

 

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Contrasting




I like the image not only for the fact that it is a Lamborghini situated under the Eiffel Tower, but also because of the editing. The photographer has created a contrast which I think it notably in important. I like at the broader implications of contrasting. A contrast is notably something that sticks out from the surroundings, something that is different. 

Think of adding contrast to your life. Whether it be in fashion, travel, profession, do not be afraid to stand out. Be the yellow Lamborghini juxtaposed against an all grey Parisian background. Whether its something simple such as my wearing bright, preppy colors in the streets of New York which is dominated by greys and blacks or something larger, it all makes a difference. 

We tend to conform to norms and forget about our uniqueness. While that picture may depict something quite glamorous, look more deeply at it, and standout. 


Reminder: The $450 Men's Lifestyle Giveaway featuring Axe Shave is coming to an end quickly. Get your easy entries in while there is still a bit of time. Click here for more information regarding the giveaway and entry!

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

The City is Buzzing

Spring does not seem to want to make an appearance and stay here in the Northeast. We have had a few nice days here and there, but generally snow in late March is not spring to me! We have been fortunate to have 2 days of absolutely gorgeous weather here this week. 


It has been near 80 and sunny- perfect for moving that dreaded midterm studying outdoors and into the park. This weather can be a distraction in that its a taste of summer, but it is much needed here in what has been recently a quite grey New York. 

Spring, can you please stay this time?

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Simplicity: J.Crew Striped Tee

Spring is the perfect season to embody preppy dressing. It easy to wear casual, comfortable clothes while still looking smart and put together. Say hello to the J.Crew Striped Tee, available in an array of spring hues.


This tee is the perfect addition to your spring wardrobe. The stripe and pocket add a hint of sophistication. Wear with a pair of chinos and Sperry's for an easy spring outfit. I would pair the navy with nantucket red's in the summer for a quintessentially preppy look.  

What's your favorite spring piece this season?

Monday, April 8, 2013

At the Derby with Vineyard Vines

Each year Vineyard Vines releases its beloved Kentucky Derby Collection. The Derby is a preppy haven, and this year the Kentucky Derby will be taking place May 4th. I know if I were attending this year's event in Louisville, I would be sure to put on my Derby best with the Vineyard Vines collection. 



The collection for men offers oxfords in classic patterns such as gingham and light spring hues, perfect for early May. Vineyard Vines has included its popular ties in derby appropriate prints, and also included classic navy blazers lined with the iconic whale. And of course, no preppy clothier collection would be complete without bow ties.

For women, the collection is filled with printed sundresses and the iconic tote done with derby appropriate ribbon. Vineyard Vines also knows that sun hats reign supreme at the derby and incorporated a few into this year's collection for women. 

Below are some of my favorites for the men from this year's collection:


You can shop the entire Derby Collection at Vineyard Vines

All photos via vineyardvines.com




Friday, April 5, 2013

Fashion Friday: Wearing a Double Windsor


There are SO many options out there for men when it comes to knotting a tie. Once we learn one, we usually tend to stick to it. For me, my go-to happens to be the double windsor. This knot is much larger than many other styles, and really makes your tie standout. 

I was prompted to share my love for the double windsor knot after my experience yesterday. I entered a luxury store in SoHo, dressed in business formal. I noticed the doorman looking at my knot as he opened the door for my entry. Upon leaving, he stopped and said, "I really like your knot. How do you do that?!" I explained to him that it was the double windsor knot, and attempted to demonstrate. 

Tie: Robert Talbot


For me, the double windsor is classic and sophisticated. Nothing makes one look more polished and put together than a prominent, well made tie knot. Want to try the double windsor yourself? Instructions are below:



Source: tie-knots.org via John on Pinterest

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Tapas in Barcelona



Tapas, small appetizers and snacks, is very popular and renowned in Spanish cuisine. Thus, my trip to Barcelona would not have been complete without authentic, Spanish tapas. As you can imagine, the array of tapas restaurants from which to choose is quite overwhelming. Without a guidebook, we just picked one that looked nice from the outside.

We settled upon Taller de Tapas in the Gothic District. Situated on a pretty quite, narrow street, the location was perfect for people watching and enjoying the nice weather. The menu had over 4 pages of just tapas....the choices were endless. It's perfect for sharing, so a friend and I order a variety and just split everything. A bottle of cava went perfect with the meal as well. 

What I loved most about the Spanish culture is their relaxed pace of life. We could have stayed for an hour to eat or 4 hours- the waiters do not care! Needless to say, we sat for a few hours enjoying the cava, setting, and great food. When in Spain, try tapas!


Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Seaside with Lacoste

Lacoste has been an iconic brand for many, many years. Founded with tennis roots, it has been a go-to for us preppy type. However, over the past few years I feel that Lacoste has changed their brand from its original feel to incorporate a more "edgy", modern preppy feel. 

I do not love the collections nearly as much as I used to, but they still produce pieces that are perfect for the classic preppy style we love. Lacoste just released their "Spin on Seaside Style" collection. Nautical inspired style has always been one of my favorites- navy, white, stripes, boat shoes. You cannot go wrong!

There are pieces mixed throughout the collection that seems to be dominated with graphic tees that would be perfect for cool nights in Nantucket or strolling Worth Avenue during the day. Here's my top picks from the newest Lacoste Collection. You can check out all the new arrivals here


All images via Lacoste.com 

Monday, April 1, 2013

5 Random Monday Thoughts

Hello, April! We're getting ever closer to summer and warm weather, I can feel it.

  • Every weekend is quick, but did any one else seem to think this past weekend was extremely quick?! Before I knew it, its Monday morning and I have unfinished work.
  • The weather needs to make up its mind here in the northeast.
  • I had a very French Easter with crepes and Veuve Clicquot. What did everyone else do?
  • My pinterest feed has been filled with so many amazing travel photos. I want to get back on a plane right now and escape for a while!
  • It's one of those Mondays that you just dont want to acknowledge. One of those Mondays where this is the thought going through my head:


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