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

J.McLaughlin Spring 2016 Collection

The first few days may have felt more like January thus far, but it is certainly time to start thinking about spring clothing. I always love to check out the spring collection from J.McLaughlin as the clean, simple, and classic pieces are refreshing and evoke thoughts of warmer days in the sun. 

J.McLaughlin was started by two brothers in 1977 with the goal of creating a new American sportswear brand based in New York. Their stores have a "good neighbor" feel with the clothing representing an effortless, classic fashion. Some of their busiest stores are in the locals we escape to in the warmer months; Southampton, Martha's Vineyard, and Kiawah Island. 

The spring 2016 collection evokes the effortlessness of these popular summer destinations. With classic silhouettes and bold prints, the pieces are as preppy as they are classic. The collection makes throwing together a great look as easy as passing a day on the sand. Navy blazers for men and sundresses for women, this is J.McLaughlin. Below are some of my favorite looks from the spring 2016 collection. 

Have you started to think about your spring wardrobe? Share some of your favorite collections in the comments below!

Photos: J.McLaughlin

Refresh your Spring Workout Routine

I admire those that have a consistent, dedicated workout routine year round. If you are like me, you become less active in the winter, and feel the need to shed some of those pounds as soon as spring comes around...cliché? Perhaps.

Along with getting back into the warm weather exercise routine comes the not so fun part of aches and pains of sore muscles. Sometimes even finding the energy to workout each day can be challenging with the craziness of life happening around us.

I have added some natural products to my workout routine that have been great for soothing sore muscles after a workout or strenuous activity as well as staying energized. Whether you are the workout veteran, or the spring chicken, like myself, I think adding essential oils to your workout routine is worth a try!

Instead of using all those products filled with chemicals, I have been using two essential oils from Young Living, namely PanAway and Peppermint. I highly recommend the Young Living brand when it comes to essential oils for their premium quality. How do these oils come in to play for working out you may wonder?

PanAway Essential Oil:

PanAway oil has become my best friend, especially while my body gets back into shape. It is great for soothing sore muscle aches. It can be used typical and is great for a massage, or you can utilize it in a nice, hot bath which is what I like to do. PanAway has a stimulating aroma and is a popular and original combination of Wintergreen, Helichrysum, Clove, and Peppermint essential oils formulated by D. Gary Young.

If you are feeling the workout blues, try mixing 1/2 cup of epsom salts with 4-5 drops of the PanAway essential oil blend. Let the oil soak into the salts, and then add to a hot bath, soak, and enjoy! I find myself keeping it right at the edge of the tub. If you more of a massage person, keep a bottle in your gym bag to help your fatigued muscles as it can be applied topically right to the area of soreness.

I have also been focusing a lot on hydration, which is certainly important when it comes to working out. It can be difficult to consume a lot of water throughout the day, especially if you are one who likes a little flavor in a beverage. Drinking the proper amount of water is also a great way to flush out toxins from the body. Peppermint oil has been a great tool for me to focus on water consumption while feeling a boost of energy*. Try adding Peppermint essential oil to your water pre or during workout to keep alert and focused. Of course, post workout, staying hydrated is equally as important. Peppermint is a nice touch to a post workout beverage as it keeps you feeling energized and helps to avoid a post workout slump.*

Peppermint is actually a key ingredient in PanAway and can be used topically as well for a soothing experience! Fresh, nostalgic, and instantly recognizable, Peppermint essential oil’s scent invigorates the mind and senses, while inspiring a sense of peace. Used topically, Peppermint oil creates a cool, tingling sensation on the skin, making it a favorite for sports massage. 

Common Uses for Peppermint:

-After a tough workout, dilute a few drops of Peppermint in V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex, and use it in a refreshing post-workout massage.
-Create your own home spa. Add Peppermint and Eucalyptus Radiata to hot bath water and enjoy the relaxing, invigorating scent and aromatic steam.
-Peppermint is in the same family as both Lavender and Rosemary. Diffuse the oils of these powerful botanicals together for a fresh aroma that uplifts the spirit.

What is part of your workout routine. Share in the comments below as it is always good to share practices!

If you love essential oils like me, and find yourself on a path to natural living, consider joining Young Living as a wholesale member to enjoy a 24% discount on all products. 

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website.

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

Men's Spring Hairstyles from American Crew Expert

Everyone is refreshing everything with the spring season. From fresh wardrobes to new decor in the home, it is the new of year for new. I asked Patti Davenport, an American Crew All-Star Educator, what the top spring hairstyles are for men. In addition to her role as an educator for the go-to for men's grooming, Patti serves as the director of shaving and skincare at Groom for Men in Milwaukee, WI. Below are her picks for the top looks for short, medium, and long hair this season as well as tips on how to achieve them.


"Right now the classics are king, regardless of length. We are seeing men from all walks of life parting, combing and taking the utmost care in grooming today. The shapes and styles of our grandfathers’ era are definitely trending right now." 

For your shorter lengths think 'high and tight with a Don Draper twist,' meaning we are seeing fully exposed sides with either comparable length on top or extremely long pomps on top. Style with our medium to high shine puck products to achieve a variety of sheen options. My personal favorite on blondes and dark hair colors is American Crew Grooming Cream. This product will ensure the look lasts all day, reflects tons of light and holds regardless of humidity! For the guys with that longer disconnected pomp, a favorite is American Crew Alternator. It can be used as a finisher to hold it all together while keeping hair touchable.

Medium lengths are definitely still 'Don Draper-esqe.' This shape is the classic contour, a taper hugging the lower neckline and then “comb-able” lengths throughout. The key with this style is showing the comb lines, so keeping it very clean and academic and styled just right with the use of a pocket comb and NEW American Crew Liquid Wax. The best part about Liquid Wax is the ability to style with your comb right out of the shower, then let it air dry and it is complete! Holds all day, and if your client wants to take it from classic to more casual, he just needs to run his fingers through his hair to get a more lived-in texture.

For longer lengths.... shall I dare say man buns?! This is a definite phenomenon we are seeing especially when the 'undercuts' are growing into longer lengths on the top of the head. If this is your style, American Crew Alternator is king here! It holds all the hairs in place but also gives some texture to the surface of the hair so it is not so slippery when putting into a top knot. If your client is going for the Jared Leto look, spray in American Crew Alternator when damp, rake fingers through and let air dry.”

Tips for Naturally Relieving Seasonal Discomforts

After the long winter most all of us experienced no matter what part of the country you live in, I think it is safe to say that we are excited for the spring season. However, for many, the arrival of the spring seasonal also comes with seasonal discomforts that can last well into the early summer...I am talking the seasonal sniffles and stuffiness that comes with the season.

Traditionally, I have used various Western medicine routines to combat this annual event. This year, I am trying something new after having introduced essential oils into my life. Since incorporating them into my daily routine, I have been researching and study various uses, and found that a few key oils can help support the respiratory system.

The go-to combination for relieving seasonal discomforts is the lemon, lavender, peppermint trio or as many call it "LLP"

Tips for Using Lemon, Lavender, & Peppermint this Season:

I have been using Lavender for a variety of things as it truly is a "go-to" oil that is so versatile and can be used for a myriad of occasions. The scent of lemon is so fresh and inviting with the oil being useful for cleansing, circulatory support and energizing.* Finally, peppermint has become one of my favorite oils with its energizing, uplifting scent.

Diffuse

Place 4 drops each of lemon, lavender, and peppermint into a home diffuser. Let the aroma fill your room or home. This is especially useful if you are doing some cleaning or an activity that might stir up quite a bit of dust into the air. I also enjoy placing my diffuser right by my desk as I work to provide relief throughout the day.

Topically

Using an empty bottle, create your own LLP mix so it is ready to go. Fill a bottle with about 40 drops each of lemon, lavender, and peppermint. Apply this mixture to key points on the body such as the bottom of the feet and back of the neck.

Internally

Young Living Essential Oils can be ingested. An easy way to naturally provide relief to seasonal discomforts throughout the day is to make ready-to-take LLP capsules. Utilizing vegetable gel capsules, fill them with 2-3 drops lemon, lavender, and peppermint. Add a few drops of carrier oils such as grapeseed oil and take with a glass of water.

Notice: I only recommend using Young Living essential oils. Not all essential oils that you can find in the stores are suitable for ingestion.


Do you get seasonal discomforts in your area? With warmer weather finally, the buds on the trees are just starting to pop open so I am excited to use this natural remedy throughout the season!

If you are interested in learning more about Young Living Essential Oils, read about how to get started here. All the oils I mentioned are available in the Premium Starter Kit.










*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website.

Springtime St Germain Cocktails

One of my favorite things about the warmer weather, longer days, and spring season is enjoying refreshing cocktails on the patio in the sun or next to the fire bowl during warm evenings. St. Germain, the artisanal French liqueur, is a great way to elevate cocktails for the spring season. I love the refreshing flavor it brings to any recipe to which it is added.

One of my favorite, and easy, springtime cocktails to make is the classic "Signature St Germain." This drink is super easy and is great for serving to a crowd as it is simple enough to serve in a carafe or pitcher. Not to mention I simply love the flavor of St Germain and their slogan says it all "La Vie Parisienne en Bouteille"....who could want more?

St-Germain Cocktail

1 1⁄2 parts St-Germain
2 parts Champagne or dry white wine
2 parts club soda or sparkling water

Stir ingredients in a tall, ice-filled Collins glass, mixing completely. Garnish with a lemon twist. If necessary, substitute sparkling wine, Prosecco or Cava for Champagne. For the dry white wine, Sauvingon Blanc works best.

*I like to add my own personal touch and add a few fresh seasonal berries. This particular time, strawberries fit the bill!

Looking for  more great ways to incorporate St Germain into your springtime sips? Try these additional recipes below!

Springtime Punch
14oz Bombay Sapphire gin
7 oz St-Germain artisanal French elderflower liqueur
1 spring of sage
6 oz Fresh guava juice
6 oz Lemon juice
Black peppercorn

Sangria Flora 
3 Cups Sauvignon Blanc or Dry white wine
¾ Cups St-Germain artisanal French elderflower liqueur
5 Fresh Strawberries (halved)
5 Fresh Raspberries
5 Fresh Blackberries
10 Fresh Grapes

Stir ingredients in a carafe. Let the mixture soak for 15 minutes (or longer if desired), then pour into ice-filled glasses. *The fruits listed are merely suggestions. Many combinations of local, seasonal fruit will work nicely with St-Germain. Be creative! Serves 4-6 people.

Boost Immunity with Wellness Tea for Spring

The calendar indicates that it is spring, however, the weather outside has been telling a different story...especially in the northeast. For me, the coming of spring is also ushered in with the changing of the weather which tends to cause seasonal health concerns.

I have been incorporating essential oils into my daily routine for a few weeks now, finding a new way to use an existing oil or mixing in a new oil to my routine. With the impending change of seasons, I have been incorporating a wellness tea into my morning routine which utilizes the Thieves Essential Oil. This tea is a good way to boost and support a healthy immune system, and I also find it to be soothing for the throat.*

Thieves® essential oil is named for four thieves in France who covered themselves in cloves, rosemary, and other aromatics while robbing plague victims. This blend is used for its cleansing abilities to support the immune system and maintain good health.

Thieves Wellness Tea

1 Cup of Hot Water (I use a green tea blend to add my oils to)
2 drops Thieves Essential Oil
2 drops Lemon Essential Oil
Honey (I like to use raw, organic honey)

Boil your water, add tea bag, add essential oils, sweeten to taste, and enjoy!

The essential oils are highly concentrated so you get the benefits with only 2 drops! I recommend making your tea in your glass mugs as it is not recommended to use essential oils in plastics cups or containers.

If you are interested in essential oils, you can learn my why becoming a wholesale distributor makes sense 

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website.

J.McLaughlin Spring 2015 Collection

If you love classic styles with a modern, preppy appeal, then J.McLaughlin is most certainly already present in your wardrobe. The brand, started in 1977 by a pair of East Coast brothers, produces great sportswear with its unique and iconic use of color and print season after season. In J.McLaughlin's words, their brand is "rooted in the tradition of sport, work, and play with a signature element of surprise.

I really enjoyed browsing through the spring 2015 lookbook. All the great color and patter/print really have me in the mood for spring wardrobing...bring on the warmer weather! For spring 2015, the team shot the campaign in California and really captured the essence of the spirit of J.McLaughlin, namely sport, work, and play. 

The collection includes very signature, preppy pieces such as lace embroidered tunics and structured cigarette pants for her. For the guys, there is an array of versatile pieces such as gingham shirts, chinos, and on-trend, modern sweatpants for those more casual moments. Staying true to the whimsical side of the brand, each piece has an element of surprise, whether it be a grosgrain lining to spice up a tailored shirt or an unexpected thread to tie on a button. 

There is definitely a lot that caught my eye in this year's spring collection. One can never have to many spring colored oxfords! You can browse the full spring 2015 collection online. What are you most excited about for spring?

Images: J.McLaughlin Spring 2015 Lookbook

Very First Signs of Spring

After one of the most grueling winters I can recall, it seems like we are finally beginning to see some of the very first signs of spring. From longer days, chirping birds in the morning to warmer temperatures, I love the fresh start that spring brings.

I may be a little eager to break into my spring wardrobe and turn to lighter pieces, however, after this winter I think every one is! I know one thing is for certain- I am ditching the big winter parka. I put together a look that is perfect for the moderate temperature we have been having this week while still retaining some necessary elements for the slush on the ground.

The look is centered around the heavy canvas moto vest. I look the details on the vest and I think it brings a great, modern look to any outfit with which it might be paired. I layered the vest with a classic Burberry polo and wore moto jeans that tie back with the quilted details and zippers on the vest. Since there is still quite a bit of snow on the ground melting away, the slightly rugged work boots are a good medium for style and functionality for slushy streets.

I love fun accessories as a means to complete any look in a simple way, so for this particular outfit I added a few of my favorite bracelets and finished with a great fragrance. While this outfit is a departure from classic prep, it incorporates some great, modern elements to update a classic look.

Vest:  Ralph Lauren // Polo: Burberry // Denim: Ralph Lauren (similar) // Shoes: Ralph Lauren // Bracelets: Proenza Schouler & Miansai

For Men: Maison Kitsuné Spring Summer 2015 Collection

If you live anywhere above the Mason Dixon Line you probably understand that the thoughts of warmer weather, sun, and SPRING are a few things getting us by these days as we have had an exceptionally brutal winter in the northeast.

With the arrival of a new season comes the arrival of great new collections from some of my favorite brands. Maison Kitsuné has released their spring/summer '15 collection for men. I love the inspiration behind the collection with the idea of "effortlessly French" and what that means. The collection is characterized by bold prints, stripes, and pattern, but I will let this witty Skype "interview" explain the collection along with a curation of some of my favorite looks for the upcoming season.


It is night time in Paris. A French man talks with a New Yorker…

What is it about effortless French ?

I think the key to 'effortless French style' is that the French possess an innate ability to balance what is understated and easy. They highlight their best assets through well-made clothes that are thoughtfully chosen, and lend a personalized touch to each ensemble – however simple it may be.

Let's talk a little about the French man, specifically. How would you define his approach to fashion?

The idea of a French man is perhaps less elusive than a French woman when it comes to fashion, but that does not mean that their look is any less nuanced. French men appear to seek out a uniform that is comfortable and cool for every day. And then they stick to it, for a long time. It seems that the mark of a proper French man is when you see him two days in a row and can't tell if he changed his clothes or not.

Seems like the proper French man doesn't care at all! 

 I think that's the point, to act like he doesn't care even though everyone knows he cares too much. It's part of his charm – couching one's arrogance with a trace of vulnerability can be kind of cute. But there is a bit of intelligence to it all, as these looks can convey very subtle messages about one's interests or affiliations. Luckily the French man has a lot of options to choose from - more than he would elsewhere - to help him express himself.

What do you mean by this? In what ways can he express himself through fashion?

 The French man has more room to play with bolder fabrics like stripes, checks, and seersucker. When he deviates from his uniform he likes to take the idea of classic English or Italian tailoring and bring it into slightly awkward, yet endearing territory - with stylish results. For summer, this means injections of color or little flourishes like embroidery. He also seems to be unafraid of trying a fun print - even one full of tiny foxes, colorful palm trees or a cut paper print - and approaches these pieces as a fun, artistic challenge to mix-and-match for everyday.

Well then how does he balance these pieces in his wardrobe?

 Well there is something really great to the standby French color palette – navy, khaki, cream and a touch of red. When you get this bunch involved, fashion becomes kind of fool-proof - a concept that men of any nationality are a fan of. For him, there is a certain appeal in acquiring the perfect wool and mohair blazer, oxford shirt, teddy or windbreaker. In addition to curating his special, more outlandish pieces, a French man seems equally concerned with investing in well-tailored, quality basics. This lends an air of sophistication to the building blocks of his wardrobe. But I also think it's funny how French men are unabashed in their eagerness to embrace somewhat clichéd classics like striped shirts and nautical sweaters. For them, these pieces appear to carry a sense of national pride, which makes sense – since they were pioneered in France to begin with.

How do they make these French classics appear modern?

Well French men in general really enjoy asserting the fact that they're French. While their accents typically provide enough evidence of their nationality, some like to take it to the next level by spelling it out in their clothes. While a New Yorker would never be caught dead in one of those I <3 NY shirts, a French man finds no issue with wearing a hat emblazoned with 'Parisien' or even a T-shirt printed with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. There's a certain level of irony in this, lending an elevated streetwear-type vibe that's super chic. I think that's as effortless as it gets.

Images: Maison Kitsuné