Important Mens Shoes
December 6th, 2012This is a guide to some of the most important mens shoes in history. As my Mum always says “you can tell alot about a man by his shoes”:
Oxford:
A sturdy dress shoe with laces done over the instep, the oxford will always have a toe cap which can be with one or two lines of stitching. They became popular at Oxford university in the 18th century hence the name.
Derby:
Is a less formal shoe that has the shoelace eyelet tabs on top rather than underneath like the Oxford. The derby became popular in the 1850’s as a hunting shoe but turned into a town shoe by the 20th century.
Brogue:
Are a distinctive shoe characterised by the perforations throughout. The brogue originated in Ireland as a country shoe with the perforations designed to let water drain from the shoe. They are available in a few styles but the wing tip is the most popular where the toe cap style is like a “W”.
Monk:
Is a popular shoe trend this year it’s a buckle strap shoe. History is that it was a common shoe worn by monks as it gave them more protection than the sandal. Also available in double straps expect to see more of these in 2013.
Loafer:
Is a casual slip on shoe. First made by a Norwegian shoe maker in the 1930’s they became popular in the US in the 1950’s and got the nickname penny loafers due to the students putting a penny into the diamond cut strap. They took on a more elegant style in the mid sixties after Italian designer Gucci varied the style.
Chelsea Boots:
Ankle high boot with a notable elastic side. They originated in Victorian England and were often used for horse riding as they were easy to get on and off. Then favoured by the 1960’s mods they are a timeless boot whether in leather or suede.
Top 5 Summer Blazers
July 11th, 2012The Blazer as my fellow English gents would call it or the Sport Coat as my American cousins would refer is an essential part of any gents wardrobe.
With the summer upon us it’s a great time to wear a summer blazer and embrace the sunshine and dress for the weather.
You want something that will enable you stand out from the crowd. It’s a great opportunity to play with brighter colours and express your individualism.
Top 5 Summer Blazers
Ted Baker - MARLCHE – Checked Pashion jacket
Ted Baker – MAYZ – Single breast Sterling jacket
Ted Baker – HADAD – Checked Global jacket
Reiss Villain Single Breasted Notch lapel formal Jacket
Reiss Monaco SINGLE BREASTED BLAZER
Prince Charles Stlye Icon
June 20th, 2012Prince Charles celebrates the best of British Men’s fashion
The Prince of Wales helped get Men’s London fashion week under way by supporting the skills and craftsmanship that is synonymous with British tailors.
The Prince hosted the launch During June at St James’ Palace. The fashion event is set up to underline the best of British designers combining both established names as well as emerging designers enabling them to reach a global audience through showcasing British style.
Prince Charles said “in my own small way I try to wear the best of British…. The quality, the innovation, the creativity that we have in this country is actually drawing so many people to realise just how special the offer is in this country.”
Prince Charles has always championed home grown traditional tailoring and his own personal style has stayed consistent over the years. Opting for Savile Row tailors as opposed to foreign designer suits.
When it was put to the prince that he in fact is a style icon he responded gracefully “I have gone on, like a stopped clock, and my time comes around every 25 years.”
Well fashion comes and goes but style is permanent, we salute you as and ambassador of men’s style !
The event included collections by Paul Smith, Richard James and a mix of new designers.
The Right Scarf
December 16th, 2011The scarf is a must have winter accessary in any gentleman’s wardrobe. It’s an undervalued piece of clothing that provides both function and fashion.
When the temperatures drop you need to keep warm but your style doesn’t have to suffer. Finding the right one takes a little foresight, is it to wear to the office? or a windy night out? which material is best wool, cashmere, cotton.
Wool Scarf
A wool scarf in merino or cashmere is something every man ought to have in his wardrobe.This is great scarf for everyday use, no matter where the day may lead you. It’s best used in combination with a winter coat. It’s all about adding bulk to the look. Use understated colours and patterns to accentuate a look rather than distract from it.
Cotton Scarf
Is a light weight scarf and not as heavy as wool, it’s great to use in the autumn combining with a suit or blazer. A subtle cotton scarf done in a French knot is a good autumn look. The cotton scarf can really liven up an outfit.
Knit Scarf
Refers to scarfs usually made of cotton or wool, but it is super chunky. It gives good warmth in the early winter. It’s works best with a fitted look so jeans a shirt and then the contrast to the chunky scarf is a great contradiction.
Silk Scarf
It’s not warm enough for the cold weather, but it’s a great piece to add a touch of class to an suit. It’s a formal scarf and therefore works best with a formal look. Great for nights out when looking good is important.
