Escape to Malibu Giveaway with johnnie-O

LA-based lifestyle brand johnnie-O is offering an exciting fall giveaway to escape to Malibu. For those of you not familiar with the brand, johnnie-O is known for its west coast take on classic east coast preppy styles. The brand has recently ramped up its offering and is expanding across the country, and too celebrate their recent success, the brand is offering an exciting giveaway for the chance to win a trip to Malibu for 2!

Details:  A giveaway in celebration of its newly-formed partnership with Malibu Beach Inn and the much anticipated launch of johnnie-O’s revamped website.

As the kick-off to a series of new and exciting promotions, “Escape to Malibu” will offer johnnie-O fans the chance to win round-trip airfare to Los Angeles for two, a 2-night stay at the luxury oceanfront hotel, a round of golf with John O’Donnell, and $500 shopping spree at the johnnie-O ‘Love Shack’.

This comes on the heels of johnnie-O debuting it’s newly designed website, offering shoppers improved functionality and speed, an enhanced look and feel, shop-able look books, integration with a now shop-able Instagram, and the newly featured “Blue Room” blog (think behind-the scenes “Green Room” in show biz - where the real action happens off-camera) - giving readers insight into all of founder, John O’Donnell’s hot topics, from the best brews and signature cocktails to interviews with key leaders such as Rio Olympic golf course designer, Gil Hanse.

How To Enter: simply input your email address from now until November 13^th on the johnnie-O website here - Escape to Malibu Giveaway - for a chance to win this incredible trip and giveaway. (Rules and restrictions apply)

The Malibu Beach Inn is the perfect destination as johnnie-o has recently formed a partnership to further establish itself as a west coast lifestyle brand. The brand's partnership with the inn includes Malibu Beach Inn employees outfitted in signature johnnie-O apparel including polo’s, outerwear, and belts; selling select product in their hotel boutique; offering the “johnnie-O Light and Sunny” cocktail at the Carbon Beach Club bar; as well as promoting the “Summer of johnnie-O” special in which guests will enjoy premium beachfront accommodations and receive a johnnie-O polo and ball cap upon check-in.

Spring Edge

The spring season has shaped up to be an interesting one thus far. A week of 80s and sun in the beginning of April, followed by cooler temps and May commencing with a week of rain and temperatures barely in the 60s. While spring fever has us all wanting to pull out our bright chinos and leave the jacket at home, sometimes you have to face the reality...or weather...outside!

I have found that if there is one thing that is worth investing in in your wardrobe, it is your collection of jackets. From blazers to traditional outerwear to more edgy pieces, I find that my jackets are what really completes an outfit aside from serving their functional purpose. With the "spring" chill still in the air, a jacket is certainly necessary when heading out for the day. It is the weather that calls for a great spring jacket, namely something that keeps you warm enough if you are wearing short sleeves underneath, but is not heavy like a wool or down piece.

I have been reaching for a piece that is certainly more edgy that some classic styles, however, I find that outerwear is easy to wear whether it fits into your "defined" style or not. This jacket is actually a linen/cotton blend so it is the perfect weight for cool mornings, and sunnier afternoons that transition into chilly cool nights at a happy hour. The leather patches bring a "cool" edge to the piece as well as the motorcycle styling. I paired it with a pair of jeans, a simple v-neck, and boots for an easy, chilly spring look.

Jacket: Ralph Lauren Black Label // T-Shirt: Gap // Jeans: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Shoes: John Varvatos

For Men: Bergdorf Goodman Hosting Spring Made-To-Measure Event

If you are in the city this weekend, checking out the dapper made-to-measure event at Goodman's men's store is a must...especially if you have been thinking about updating your sartorial looks this spring! The event will run through Sunday March 13th and also features renowned photographer, James Houston.


Offering a glimpse into the store’s vast array of Men’s fine tailoring and luxury pieces, Goodman’s Men’s Store 5th Avenue windows will showcase world-renowned photographer James Houston. The windows will feature four photographs of James Houston’s series titled HORSE. Each photograph has been enlarged to fill the back wall of each window; one image per window. The windows will be completed on Thursday, March 3.

From left to right: Brioni, Giorgio Armani

“For the Spring 2016 Made-To-Measure Event, I thought the minimal, yet strong image of a horse would work well with proportion, scale and strength being hallmarks of both fine, tailored clothing and champion horses,” says Shane Ruth, Visual Director, Men’s Store & Decorative Home. This initiative was inspired by James Houston Design’s, Co-Founder and Head of Sales Michael Dimopoulos, which continues to help raise funds and awareness for the various causes Houston supports such as Global Green USA.

During the event, Made-to-Measure fees will be waived and participating designers will be offering a range of exclusive fabrics, custom details with experts on site to provide personalized assistance.

Tom Ford

On the Main Floor, Bontoni will be hosting a Trunkshow from Friday, March 4 – Sunday March 6. For the first time, Bontoni will also be offering a selection of belts for Made-to-Measure. Tod’s will be offering a “Gommini” customization event from Friday, March 11 – Sunday, March 13.

Made-to-Measure Designers:
Cesare Attolini
Brioni
Belfast
Ermenegildo Zegna
Tom Ford
Isaiah
Kitten
Castangia
Gieves & Hawkes
Ralph Lauren
Giorgio Armani
Brunello Cucinelli
Goodman's Shirting Collection (Private Label)


Photos: Bergdorf Goodman

Suitsupply Launches Spring Summer '16 Toyboy Campaign

For me, Suitsupply ad campaigns are quite recognizable. They usually feature vibrant color combinations, and, of course, the dapper men in their awesome suits and sartorial looks. This season, Suitsupply has launched its SS '16 campaign which turns up the dial evermore for the attention grabbing aspect. 

Female models dressed in swimsuits with men all over them? I think the suits are already sold! The concept of this season's campaign is "Tomboys." It is based on the premise that, from a man's perspective, we live a in a world of beautiful, powerful, women that know what they want and are extremely powerful...so what are we to do? Sit back and have some fun!

In the words of the brand, they say: 

"So what's a guy to do? You're a modern gentleman, but the tables have turned. You have a certain way with the ladies...that is, until they have their way with you. You're a playboy, but what happens when the playboy becomes the plaything? 

Well, the water's warm, the women are beautiful, and the sky is drenched by the sun. And most importantly of all, you've got your best suit of armor on your back. Suddenly, it's obvious. There's nothing else to do. Simply sit back, and enjoy the ride."

I think the campaign is making a very strong, bold statement. It will be interesting to see the feedback and responses to the ads is they begin to circulate around the internet and social media world. I personally find it to be quite artistic, and thought the behind the scenes video gave some interesting insight into how the photos were developed.

Tropical beaches, bright colors, and beautiful suits....I think I like it! Here are some of the images from the new campaign.

What do you think?

Images, Video: Suitsupply

Spring Fever

Spring Fever is officially beginning to set in. With longer days, the clock change around the corner, and this week of warmer weather, I cannot help but daydream of sun, green trees, and summer a few months away.

It has certainly been a mild winter, so while I cannot complain in that regards, I am ready to ditch the wool sweaters and heavy coats in exchange for light jackets and cotton sweaters....and certainly brighter colors!

Depending on where you are located, spring is definitely about layering- a jacket is necessary in the morning but by the time the afternoon sun rolls around you are rolling up your sleeves...especially as we get into the later months of the season. I used the warmer weather here as an excuse to break out some brighter colors and lighten the mood around town.

It is certainly not time for linen or thin cotton fabrics, yet. With that in mind, I pulled a sport shirt that is crafted from a cotton/cashmere blend so it soft to the skin yet slightly heavier than traditional cotton. I paired it with go-to chinos. Note the use of cream instead of stark white...are you an avid believer in the no white before memorial day rule?

The center of this outfit was my Stubbs &  Wootton slippers. They make quite the statement and are such a classic style from the Palm Beach brand. I finished the look with a bracelet to tie back into the red of the shoes, a preppy belt, and simple aviators.

Shirt: Ralph Lauren Purple Label // Chinos: Jack Wills // Belt: Jack Spade // Bracelet: Miansai // Shoes: Stubbs & Wootton

An Unusually Warm Winter

The headlines have been saying it all...the weather this winter has been quite crazy across the entire country to say the least. If you live on the east coast, you are familiar with this very warm December that is quickly coming to an end. I believe in my area, there was one day in the entire month that came in average/below average. Christmas Eve day was 30 degrees above normal...shorts anyone?

With the warmer than normal weather, the heavy sweaters and jackets have stayed in the closet. Forget the big parka or ankle length coat, the weather calls for, perhaps, unconventional winter jackets. I am loving this quilted front, sweater back piece from Ralph Lauren Black Label. The piece is heavy enough for the 50-60 degree days we have been having, and the mixed media styling makes the piece fresh and modern.

While it may not be the normal coat that you will show up to a December meeting in, it certainly does fit the bill. I paired it with cotton pants (rather than wool) and classic suede chelsea boots. The modern Balenciaga bracelet adds of touch of interest while remaining subtle.

How are you adapting to the weather in your area?

Jacket: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Pants: Ralph Lauren Black Label // Bracelet: Balenciaga // Boots: John Varvatos

5 Sweaters for the Holiday Season

Whether it is a yearly tradition, or you are just getting into the "holiday sweater" trend, do not be afraid as not all holiday sweaters are created equally. With that being said, your holiday sweater does not have to be "ugly" and end up in a social media post with hashtag #uglysweater.

The seasonal sweater has evolved over the years, with many iconic brands offering refined intarsia and winter jacquard prints that are perfect for the office work part or a seasonal open house party. Below are five sweaters that are sure to carry you through all your holiday season functions in style while still remaining festive at the same time. 

Happy Shopping....and being festive!

Beam Plus Suede Elbow Patch Intarsia Sweater - $180 Mr Porter

Polo Patterned Sweater - $245 Ralph Lauren

Gant Rugger Cotton Jacquard Knit Sweater - $165 Mr Porter

Vineyard Vines 1/4-Zip All Over Fair Isle- $185 Vineyard Vines

Club Monaco Fair Isle Jacquard Crew -$149.50 Club Monaco

Bespoke Menswear from Knot Standard

Bespoke or custom menswear from online retailers is nothing new in the world of men's fashion. In fact, I have tried some of these companies and additionally have seen presentations from companies in this area of the menswear market. 

In a time of men's fashion trends where silhouettes are becoming ever more tailored and refined, I think the need for affordable custom or bespoke products that are easily accessible is ever increasing. I know that I have a challenge finding shirts that do not balloon or pants that fit at both the waist and legs appropriately. While high-end designers tend to have superb fits, sometimes we are not always looking to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on a new piece for our wardrobe. 

I was introduced to one of the fastest growing custom menswear brands, Knot Standard, and thanks to them, was able to experience their product and experience firsthand. Let me start by simply saying, if you are in the market for affordable, quality menswear, whether for work or play, and a great fit, Knot Standard meets all of these needs!

 The company was founded in 2010, and I love the entrepreneurial spirit behind it. It has evolved to one of the fastest growing companies as ranked by Inc. Magazine, with showrooms in New York, Washington D.C.,  Dallas, Houston, Austin, and Dubai. Additionally, spaces are slated to open in Chicago and Los Angeles in the coming months. 

Personal designers are on-hand in the showrooms to assist with fittings and selections, but the product is also available online. With that being said, what is the online experience like? In one word, I would sum up my experience as effortless. 

There are two major aspects of the online experience, namely selecting your garment and inputting your measurements to ensure the perfect fit. I, of course, find the first part to  be the hardest as I want everything! In the end, I opted for a classic blazer in an iconic herringbone pattern. 

After selecting your piece, there are two choices for getting your measurements into the Knot Standard system- building a 3D body scan using the computer's camera, or following a guided process of taking key measurements of your body so the computer can generate an image of your body, and as a result your pieces will be made to fit your exact measurements. I opted for the latter, and must say that the measurement process was very simple!

I really enjoyed the customization options Knot Standard gives you. For $375 you would not expect to be given the option to select the lining color, have a monogram, or working buttonholes; however, these are all options during the online customization process!

I received my blazer a few weeks after placing my order. It arrived in a nice garment bag, and when I opened the package to try on the piece, I was shocked. I have to be in honest in saying that I was a little skeptical of inputting various measurements and ending up with a blazer at this price point that would fit appropriately. Needless to say, when I slipped on the blazer, it fit like a glove! The fit truly rivals some of my $1,495 sport coats. 

With that being said, I encourage to move at a fast pace to check out Knot Standard!