Holiday Evening Wear from Suitsupply

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we are officially in the holiday season. This time of year usually means events, parties, and just wanting to look our best! It is also a popular time for many black tie dress codes at parties.

The black tie look for men, while classic, can be a little bit boring. The timeless black peak lapel tuxedo will always be a wardrobe staple for the true gentleman, however, this season, the Suitsupply evening wear collection introduces some new pieces which make that "dress: black tie" invitation a little more interesting.

Among the new cache are timeless options like their classic black tuxedo—which is cut from pure Vitale Barberis Canonico wool and detailed with silk on the button, peak lapel and trouser outseam—as well as all-new fashion options like a blue and navy Manhattan fit tuxedo. These well-defined suits are cut from pure cotton velvet by Pontoglio and Di Sondrio, respectively, and feature silk-trimmed jetted pockets, silk-covered single button and shawl collar, and a silk-lined outseam on the accompanying trousers.

For the more adventurous types, the line features a stand-out double-breasted fit. The blue Madison tuxedo features a widened, silk-covered peak lapel and 4-on-2 button placement. Cut with a well-defined fit, it carries a black watch pattern that’s bound to set you apart in the best possible way at any holiday or formal event.

Holiday events are also a great time to utilize fun accessories. Whether it is a great patent shoe or a whimsical tie or bow tie, now is the time! The evening wear collection has a  broad range of accessories like silk bow ties, separate silk-trimmed tuxedo trousers, white suspenders, cufflinks, and a dark grey shawl collar tuxedo jacket in pure cotton velvet—all to be topped off with our patent leather lace-ups or tassel loafers.

These pieces will be perfect for any holiday or end of year celebration! Below are some of my favorite looks:

Photos: Suitsupply

French Eyewear VUARNET Relaunched in US

I am definitely a sucker for a great pair of shades, explained by my drawer filled with at least 20 pairs of designer sunnies. I think they are a great addition to an outfit any time of the year, whether summer or winter. Additionally, all the different shapes and styles available today make for a vast amount of choices and an endless way to change up your look simply by adding a piece of eyewear.

When I was recently introduced to VUARNET, I knew I had to share. I was new to the brand and found the heritage to be quite interesting. VUARNET was founded in 1957 by French opticians, and since inception has been committed to the highest quality eye protection. The company owns its own lens production facility in France. As a result, VUARNET eyewear become the choice of the elite on Europes ritziest slopes in the 1960s.

With the 2014 relaunch in the US, the brand is still committed to this European design and quality which it was known for many years ago. CEO Sefano Fabris says, "We are beyond thrilled to be relaunching in the US where VUARNET is positioned to reemerge as the luxury leader in the eyewear industry."

The winter 2014 collection features a few different styles from clip-on to acetate lifestyle looks. I must say, I am loving the "jet set" look of all the pieces in this collection. Below are a few of my favorite glasses debuting in 2014:

Whether on the slopes of Courchevel or the streets of SoHo, these glasses are sure to make a fashionable statement. I know I am hoping to add a pair to my collection. VUARNET will be widely available in Los Angeles and New York as well as high-end optical boutiques in Boston, Miami, Palm Beach, Portland, Scottsdale, Salt Lake City, San Diego, and Aspen. 

Grooming with American Crew

Grooming for men is always a relevant topic, especially with the myriad of products on the market. I admit, that sometimes I may not care as much as I should regarding products and procedures for grooming, however, with the impending cold winter weather, it is an important time of the year to incorporate good skincare into your daily routine. 

I am excited to be incorporating new products from American Crew into my grooming regiment. American Crew is known for its commitment to men's grooming and is founded upon the desire to meet the needs of men who care about their appearance and style, especially in salons which have replaced the traditional men's barber shop. From shaving supplies to hair styling products, American Crew has a great selection of grooming products. 

I wanted to focus on improving my shaving regimen. This is where a selection of American Crew products came into play. Three products have elevated my routine for a better experience and are leaving my skin ready to head into the cold winter ahead:

Ultra Gliding Shave Oil- This non-greasy solution acts as a cushion for the skin for a close, effortless shave. This is perfect for those of us who find ourselves in a hurry more often than not as it acts as shield against nicks, cuts, and ingrown hairs. I use the product as prep under my moisturizing shave cream.

Moisturizing Shave Cream- A good shave cream is essential. American Crew's cream features powerful antioxidants that protect and moisturize the skin. I found the cream to be pleasant against my skin and allowed the razor to slide smoothly over the skin.

Post-Shave Cooling Lotion- This is the step that I have always highly neglected, however, I have come to realize the importance of post-shave treatment. This step is crucial in reducing any irritation that may have been caused by soothing the skin and replacing moisture. The post-shave cooling lotion is refreshing on the skin from the mixture of key ingredients such as tea tree oil, pumpkin seed extract, and elder flower extracts. 

What is your normal shaving routine? Do you have any tips? If you are looking to elevate your shaving routine I highly recommend the line offered by American Crew. 

All opinions expressed are my own

Postcards from Paris

It was great to be back in the City of Lights and spend a few days immersing in everything Paris has to offer. It was a relatively short trip filled with shopping, sightseeing, and even more eating. I believe that Paris is one of those cities that speaks for itself, so here are a few of my favorite shots captured during my recent trip.

We had great weather for Paris standards thanks to the "Indian Summer" that everyone is talking about. It truly is one of the prettiest cities that I have traveled to....5 days just was not enough to see everything on my list. With a busy work schedule, I sure am missing afternoons people watching while sipping champagne!

Celebrity Hairstylist Chaz Dean Releases WEN MEN

Chaz Dean has become renowned in the hairstyling world not only for his celebrity clients but also for his innovative WEN hair cleansing line. Until now, there was not a specific line created with men in mind. Chaz Dean has recently introduced WEN MEN to the WEN line which is an exciting addition.

What makes WEN special? This product will replace your shampoo, conditioner, and body wash as it is all-in-one product. It was nice having this as the only bottle in my shower, eliminating a lot of clutter! The secret to WEN is its ability to cleanse without any harsh chemicals that strip hair. The product does this without creating any suds. 

I have been using the product for a little over a week now, and while it was initially hard to get used to no suds, I am loving the product now. The scent is absolutely amazing with hints of tahitian vanilla and amber. WEN MEN has been leaving both my hair and skin very soft. I highly recommend giving this product a try if you are in the market for a new hair and body cleanser.

All Opinions Expressed are My Own

Fall Flannels

If there is one thing that comes to mind when I think of fall besides cool weather and pumpkins, it is flannel shirts. They seem to go hand-in-hand with the season serving as a mascot for fall. The flannel shirt is perfect for a relaxed weekend outfit or during the week if you are on campus. Comfy and warm, the flannel layers well under vests or seasonal quilted jackets.

When I need an easy fall outfit, a flannel paired with chinos and loafers is a go-to. Easy and simple. Whether you wear them traditional as I do or more modernly tied around your waist, these shirts are seasonal staples. Below are some of my favorites that will help make "flannel Friday" a little easier this fall.

1. POLO Twill Plaid Workshirt $98

2. Brooks Brothers Plaid Flannel Sport Shirt $79.50

3. Michael Bastian Check Flannel Shirt $595

4. Burberry Brit Flannel Check Shirt $295

How are you wearing flannels this season?

Maison Kitsuné Opens Second Parisian Boutique

French label Maison Kitsuné opened their trendy café earlier this year, and now has their second Paris address on the renowned Rue Madame on the Rive Gauche. The new boutique is airy and light with a gentle ambiance generated by the use of beige and powder pink tones on both the walls and the floors.

The concept of the space is half living room and half boutique. These home-inspired elements make the boutique and welcoming space with a friendly atmosphere. As do all Maison Kitsuné spaces, the new boutique unites the worlds of music and fashion. 

With the opening of the new store came the debut of the Madame Capsule Collection which was specifically designed for the label's second boutique in Paris. The Capsule collection was created by Gildas Loaec and Masaya Kuroki, co-founders and creative directors. The collection includes an assortment of t-shirts, sweatshirts, and tote bags. The collection uses tones of powder pink and mid-grey which echo the pastel tones of the boutique. The collection is available exclusively at the 38 Rue Madame Store.

Images: Maison Kitsuné