Bloke

Men's Accessories - Take 1: Bags, and other appendages.

2012-02-06T07:56:00.001-05:00

I am going to try and do a series of posts relating to various areas of men’s accessories. Initially, I was going to write one fluid post, but came to realize that the world of men’s accessoriesh as grown significantly and that I can not condense it all into one.

I start with bags. Whether it be a messenger, a smaller satchel, an over the shoulder, a duffle, or basically a straight up purse - it is becoming more common for men to carry bags. Personally, I have for years. I never really fully understood how people travelled without them. I mean, I know women put their entire lives in their purses, which is absolutely not necessary, but men must need things as well? I know I do.

I do not want to see every single man walking around carrying a bag - it definitely does not suit everyone. They are usually outfit dependant - that is why I stick with something classic, and of course, black - my color of choice for mostly everything (other than plaid). A good introduction to owning and carrying a bag is the “messenger” type of bag. Generally big enough to fit , say, a laptop, some books, etc., they are the most discrete option to carry a bag, and not have it look like you are carrying a bag - if you know what I am saying. They hold a lot, look masculine, go over one shoulder, and easily come in leather and matte solid colors. They pass off easily and don’t get too much questioning. They look professional, yet still give you the joy of carrying around whatever you want.

Right on, I kind of have a “tote” style bag, that zippers closed. Essentially, it looks like a tall bowling ball bag, and works great. I can either carry it or put it on one shoulder, and it holds a ton - and I mean a ton. Not that I ever fill it though, because that is not necessary. It is black suede, and wears well. Just wipe it off when it is dirty, I feel comfortable throwing it around, and it is not too “purse” like. Just because I know all are dying to know, I will tell you what is in it.

Deodorant. Wallet. Business Card Holder. Mints. Pen. iPhone (when it isn’t in my hand). Magazine. Keys. Earbuds.

That is it. I do not have 100 things in it. What I wonder, though, as I said before - what the hell would I do with all of those things without a bag? I guess I have just grown accustomed to it. When I go to work, I also put my full lunch in there, and usually whatever else I need to bring. If I am just running into a store, I usually bring my wallet and leave the bag behind, but, the functionality of it exceeds itself. I was never concerned if I looked silly carrying a bag - I am all about functionality lately.

Now, do not start carrying around something that looks exactly like a purse. Don’t use something that is overly detailed, has anything dangling off it, and don’t flail it around. The purpose of a man carrying a bag is for function, not initially for fashion. You want it to be stylish, yes. You want it to reflect your personal style, yes. If you want to stick with that “easy and cool” kind of vibe, though, keep it simple.

I am sure I will be rocking a bag for a while. I have grown used to having all of my things with me. It doesn’t bother me, really. It just seems like another appendage.

The bag pictured above is a tote style bag made by Burberry. If anyone would like to purchase this for me, I won’t say no.

If you would like any more photos or info, feel free to contact me.

The Cuffing Debacle

2012-01-17T17:22:00.003-05:00

When asked to write a post about the cuffing of the pant, I guess it never occurred to me that some people questioned it, really. Lately I have been cuffing like my life depends on it, and for once, not over thinking it.

There are both fashionable and functional reasons to cuff, I will begin with the first.

Runways, celebrities, models - so much cuffing on the men’s wear front recently. Whether it be a full on suit, sockless, with cuffed pants - or a tshirt with chinos and flip flops, it is everywhere in fashion. Sometimes, what is “in style” is so easy to achieve.

Am I a huge fan of a full on tuxedo with cuffed pants? No. Actually not at all. Am I a fan, though, of going sockless with a suit and amazing shoes? Absolutely.

Not everything needs to be over thought or difficult. As I have said before, you should never look like you are trying. How embaressing. Be aware of this while cuffing.

I live in Atlantic Canada. Sometimes cuffing is out of necessity. Right now, I am personally mixing the two. I don’t want to wreck the bottom of a great pair of pants because of the salt and snow. There is NOTHING I hate more than the look of frayed, wet, disgusting pants. Give me a break.

I bought some practical and stylish boots - when I cuff, it shows off the boots and the pants look great also. Win win. I also have been cuffing and just wearing a slip on or a loafer for a more casual look, sometimes with a colored sock to spice it up. It is all in what you are comfortable with, and how much you cuff. I do not recommend, however, (if you live in a cold climate), to go without socks. You will look foolish. For all you warmer climate habitants, go for it. You would probably look foolish with socks on.

On to the most important part, as I am sure you were wondering - how much to cuff!? Well, to start with, make sure the pants you are going to roll are the correct length for you initially, so that when rolled up, will look correct. Choose a slim fit or a skinny fit. Obviously you can not cuff a boot cut.

Sidenote: Please do not wear bootcut anything.

Personally, I usually rock the double roll. I find that one roll sometimes seems to flip down. I enjoy the look of either. For jeans, I would say one roll. It looks a little more undone, and more on season. Clearly this goes for pants as well. When the seasons change and you are seeing more chinos and khakis, I personally enjoy a double roll. All in a matter of taste, really.

Sidenote #2 : It is so amazing when you have worn the pants cuffed enough times that it is nice and flat and worked in, like it was meant to be.

If you are wondering what you might pair with a cuffed pant, I understand. Sometimes it feels weird with certain articles. If you feel strange, don’t do it. Chances are if you are feeling out of place in your outfit, it is because you are.

A cardigan and t-shirt looks nice and casual. Throw on a hat or accessory of some sort if you are that kind of guy. Plaid or flannel, my personal choice, is easy and is fairly on trend with the look. I am sure no trend will ever get me fully out of plaid. If you want to dress it up a tad, a dress shirt totally works as well. Throw a tie and a cardigan over it, and you have a whole other look once again. It depends on your style, personally.

If you are new to it, and want to do it strictly because it “looks cool”, just go ahead and do it. Chances are once it is “out”, you will roll them back down like nothing ever happened. It really doesn’t look over done if you keep it casual and fresh.

If you are doing it for function, and doing it often, just make sure the pants fit really well, and that you don’t cuff them half way up your leg. That is definitely not needed. Always make sure you are wearing clean, stylish footwear and you are set!

As I said before, I am a fan. It is all in what you like, and how you want your image to be portrayed. Change it up, and have fun. It is only a cuff, you can always undo it!

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact me!

Note: Credit to the random guy in the photo I found on the web. Lookin’ sharp!

Post also on www.tmelong.tumblr.com

Effortless Wears

2012-01-02T15:15:00.002-05:00

Every man, young and old alike, look to the music industry for fashion tips.

Death Cab for Cutie - aside from being a fantastic band, musically, they pull off "effortless" very well. Or at least their stylist does for them.

The look of a sweater over a button up. A cardigan over a button up. It seems almost too easy to look great, Yes?

No.

Sometimes it really is that easy. Looking effortless, not overdone, muted - all of these things are actually fantastic for men who want to look stylish, but not stand out overly.

I really enjoy the button up on top of button up, as seen in Photo #1. Interesting.

On a grooming level, which is very important, their neat hair and well cropped facial hair also looks great. Comb your hair (wash it first). Trim your beard. This is also not a large hurdle to master. Hair is my thing, it is what I do. They look like themselves, and it works with what they are wearing.

Fashion does not need to be a largely complicated situation, at all. A great look doesn't need to take several layers, have flashy accessories, or take 10 minutes to put on. Luckily, when you are a man, it is as easy as putting on a crisp shirt and a great sweater. Get a great fit in a great color - build the basics on your wardrobe.

No excuses. You now know how easy it is.

Wasteful Outfitting

2011-12-24T20:50:00.003-05:00

It is Christmas Eve, and I am in the woods. It happens to the best of us.

While packing for my overnight parental stay, I thought to myself, "Is there even a point?"

It is not like I live in the mecca of fashion or culture where I live normally, but I take pride in putting myself together well. When putting my bag together to come spend a night with my family in the country, it was honestly harder to do than packing for a trip to the city, a show, or an event. I felt like I didn't want to "waste" a good outfit on being in the back woods with my family, but then I came to my senses and realized that you need to dress for yourself as well as others. I refuse to let myself go just because I am chillin' with people in holiday sweaters and winterized Crocs. Clearly I can't sway everyone. Also - I just went shopping, and I need to break everything in.

In my new Ben Sherman overnight bag (which I thought to myself, I might as well use a Sobeys bag...Hahaha) I put in some slim fit dark wash jeans, 2 flannels, a square cut silk tie, a cardigan, and leather slip ons. I came to the realization that even my family kind of expects some sort of fashion extravaganza from me, so I better pull it out. I feel confident in my holiday wear. Good for photos, comfortable. No, it isn't D&G 2012, but it is better than a sweater with a polar bear on it, like my Dad is currently wearing, God love him.

I guess what this made me realize, is that you really do, always, need to do things that make you happy. Do it for yourself. I think too many people dress for others, wear labels for status, and don't care enough just because no one "important" will see them. If I am going to be in the woods, you are damn straight that I am going to look fantastic.

Rock out your Holiday wear tomorrow, boys.

Happy Holidays!

Bowtie Mandatory

2011-12-20T20:14:00.005-05:00

I feel such a warm welcome, being a new contributor to Bloke. I am a young and opinionated business owner, fueled by fashion, hair, and music. I would call my taste " classic alternative", if I had to give it a genre. I hope my posts are found interesting, useful, and a positively different point of view for Bloke.

I draw inspiration for this first post from a related post I did in my own personal fashion/lifestyle blog : www.tmelong.tumblr.com

Let's face it - any man of style or of a fashionable mind either has, needs, or wants (maybe even secretly) a bowtie. Personally, I rock a bowtie both formally and in-formally. I feel like how I do this may need it's own special post ;)

I am really into the look lately - I like mixing a classic, well groomed look with my alternative demeanour. I like the contrast - I feel kind of cheeky being covered in tattoos and wearing a bowtie. I won't lie.

While searching for various sources on the article, I stumbled upon what could be my next addiction: http://wickhamhousebrand.com/

Wickham House is a husband and wife team based in Florida, that make CUSTOM, yes, CUSTOM, bowties, and various other men's accessories. They make most of their products by hand, which is cool, and the prices are alarmingly reasonable. A custom made bowtie for $35 US? Yes, please. You can also order pre-designed ties. They have various categories based on material, size, etc, and even have a "Bowtie Of The Month Club", which I clearly need to join.

Fine craftsmanship impresses me, and I am so pleased that they take what they do seriously enough to do it by hand, do custom orders, and keep their pricing at such a reasonable point. I will definitely be looking into more items from Wickham, and I suggest all you fellows check it out.

Whether you get a custom made piece, or pick one up for $15.00 at H&M, I say go for it. Get a solid. Get a print. Wear it with a nice shirt and blazer, or casual it up with a button down and cardigan. Either way, they are huge right now. Don't miss out.

Don't be afraid of something a little different. Try it out.

Questions? Get at me!

Local Lookies part 1

2011-12-12T11:55:00.003-05:00

For those not in the know, I live in a "little" city on the East coast of Canada called Halifax (or Hashifax, if you're a fan of Kevin Smith/light narcotics). One of the older cities in North America, it has a rich heritage and history to draw upon, and an excellent position halfway between the hub of Canadian fashion, arguably Toronto/Montreal, New York City, and London England. Now, that isn't to say we're totally up to date in our goldie-locks orbit around western style. As a co-worker from Manchester was quick to point out, our humble city is and can be way behind the times compared to the UK or Europe, sometimes by years.

But that isn't to say we haven't developed a patchwork vogue of our own, as the local fashionistas can attest to. One of the best is undeniably Fashion East, a tumblr very much in the same vein as the Sartorialist, feature the smart set of our coastal city.

This (extended) week I will be exploring the shops and designers of this heritage hub, the local media, and how Halifax has fashioned its own style out of necessity.

Before we get a-going this week...

2011-12-12T09:14:00.002-05:00

I'd like to shout-out to the lovely ladies at Fashion Me Fabulous for who continue to have the grace and patience to put up with my life long marathon race away from deadlines. Today's FMF is sweet and simple, but of absolute necessity to be said as Paris, my most capable editor, put it;

I tried to slough off most of high school the moment I graduated,

but some styles you just love. They enchanted you when you

were developing your style and you still gravitate to them now.

For me, it's the trainers/jeans/suit jacket look that I fell head over heels in love with while a very impressionable teenager wandering another Paris, taking in as much culture as he could before being thrown back into rural Ontario hum-drum and clothing-by-necessity. Some call ti lazy. I call ti a terrific place for a starting line.

The other side of the coin

2011-12-09T12:39:00.009-05:00

Here at Bloke, we examine quite a few instances of the bleeding in fashion between men and women, typically with the reoccurring theme being how designers attempt to expand the masculine market into the feminine, what with skirts, skorts, one legged pants, meggings, man up, etc etc, and how, more often than not, they fail to reach any kind of happy middle ground between design, history, and how uncomfortable guys can be in clothing they don't/others don't understand, let alone change the deeply cemented norms of the male wardrobe. Today however, we're going to look at one success, that while existing in almost a total vacuum of information, allows us to consider a few angles for the Blokeish look.

Because sometimes the best dressed man, is a lady.

The amazing and always enjoyable Sartorialist, never without his camera, snapped this shot in Istanbul and posted it on his blog a few days ago.

Contrary to popular belief, Istanbul and many other parts of the Western Middle East are far less intolerant and oppressive when ti comes to gender and sex, a point that should be self evident by the above. Here's a girl who knows how to pull of a man-fit better than most guys. Hair-bands and bracelets aside, the combination-suit jacket, cappuccino shirt, matching plaid tie and sports jacket, with simple unmarred jeans, should be a basic look available and achievable to and by most dudes. The rolled up arms, rolled up shirt over the arms, loose hanging tie-knot and brilliant gold/silver mens' watch add the perfect touch fo flare and accessory, that once again could easily be copied by any guy, without the 'danger' of feminizing into the discomfort zone.

Fellas, take note!

Off the top of my head

2011-12-02T12:07:00.006-05:00

(Feeling slightly better, not yet recovered, forgive any lapses in sense or style)

While the cold winter's air will drive many a fella to the warm embrace of a toque (or knitted beanie, for my non-Canuckleheaded audience), I've never been partial to them unless the temperature's dipped well below the fashionable limit, and a question of survival arises over style. A head condom, for lack of a better term, is called so for a good reason, and in my most humble of opinions the less we speak of it, the better.

(In fact, the toque is one of the few staples of dude-dom that is better served by a feminine touch; for every guy-gourd shoved unceremoniously in a knit skull-cap, making him look somewhat tick-like in appearance, the falling locks of a lady, blooming out from under or cascading down the shoulders, allows for the kind of visual contrast such a simple hat requires to really succeed as a fashionable item.)

The classic newsboy does have a retro-work-a-day charm, but be careful what outfits you match it with. A suit and tie must be colour checked to fit the generally earthy tones associated with the cap, the obvious exception being the black cap, which while going well with more looks, can be easily confused for the "classic" look of the private driver, and you may find yourself holding a great many doors.

For the man interested in a challenge this winter though, I suggest a pork pie (that is, if you haven't already settled on the always-charming fedora). A look that's suffered its fair share of ridicule over the years due to being characterized as somewhere between frumpy and ill-mannered, the pork pie, and its many variances, is a topper that demands confidence to be worn, but rewards its wearer many times over in individual look and charm. I for one have never seen two such hats worn in the same place, just as I've never seen someone wearing such a cap without a date on their arm.

But what of the more adventurous male? The kind of Trapper John who wears what he catches? The fur hat has typically been a staple of the Northern countries, hovering between real world practicality and PETA-rage inducing fur-lined flare (for the fun of it). While I wouldn't suggest going as far as the coon skin hat, the beaver pelt top, or overly-ridiculous coyote-fur (at a fetching $299), the classic Russian-inspired looks carry a cold determination to persists through the winter months, while looking ready to take in the Bolshoi with a Balkan beauty.

As per my post-sickness malaise, all looks mentioned in this and the previous article can be found at Hats.com, or your local 'chapaud'. Other great sites at a quickie are Mens' Hats, Fur Hat World and the always quality Biltmore Hats of Canada.

Pour Le Tet, not offensive

2011-11-28T11:02:00.004-05:00

I should be very straight forward about this before we begin.

I hate hats.

I love hats.

As a dude of at least mentionable style (and notable ego) my hair is of great worth and concern to me. Not in the mad sense that if one were to dare touch it or shave it, I would wreak my vengeance upon them. Rather, should I suddenly go bald by the age of 30, like a good friend of mine, there's a good chance that 60 years from now, should we not have to fight the rise of the machines or some equal struggle, I would still consider it my life's great tragedy.

As such, a hat is typically a thing that gets in the way of my be-product'd hair, crushing my coif against my scalp, only to reveal the mess it left behind, rather than a properly protected do. The Ball cap (or the Baller, as one associate once called them) is as prevalent in modern mens' fashion as the blue jean, but has, in my opinion, never risen above its sartorial station, despite some rising to prices rivaling some rather nice jackets. Flat rimmed, off-side, beat-to-shit, it really doesn't matter. These hats were never meant to go with a smart suit, lest that suit were ticked out with otherwise obnoxious glitz.

But, as a resident of the Great White North (albeit the more tropical-at-times portion), I do understand the importance, and sometimes absolute necessity, to pop on a top. What's more, prior to it being made the play-thing of an ornery feline, I preferred to be seen wearing a simple black wool fedora, cock'd at a classic Bogie angle.

So, what's workable to wear for the well-made man? Of course the above noted fedora is a go-to must for any guy with an interest in how they look. Despite a reputation ruined by the decades between now and their heyday, memories of that one awkward geek in high school who always wore one, and the (ever) encroaching world of women's fashion conquering yet another aspect of mens' style, this hairdo-defending high-headed hat persists, available at any respectable mens' store for a very pretty penny, or for the brave and the bold (and cheap) the plethora of women's styles offer a price-conscious cheat, usually offering a flat-black or pinstripe without much of a distracting (or defaming) feminine touch. Sadly, the days of the professionally fitted hat are long gone, unless you've more money than I.

(I'm inclined to stop here for today, as I'm feeling sickly and scattered. Will return with part 2: The Hairy Side of Headwear)

Garish but gold

2011-11-25T09:22:00.003-05:00

Today we hop on over to Sneaker Freaker to drool over the kind of ridiculous shoes-for-dudes that you'd sooner frame above a mantle than wear out-and-about.

Behold, Pierre Hardy's POWERAMA, a fantastic homage to to work of famed and acclaimed artist Roy Lichtenstein.

I'm a massive fan of Lichtenstein's work throughout the 60's, and while I am impressed and interested in this shoe-I'd-never-wear (fair comment, most of the site is a bit on the gaudier side then what we usually deal with here, but fine art bre

aks down all walls) I'd gladly pay double (eep!) if they read WHAM! rather than POW!

But at 500 pairs worldwide, and none available in Canada, that's just the semantics of artistic taste.

Better red than dead

2011-11-24T08:50:00.005-05:00

Yes, you know what I'm talking about. You may never have owned a pair, much less have found any that fit (my category, right there), but you've certainly seen the twiggier fellas strolling around with crimson legs if you live in, around or near a city with any kind of indie, trendy or hipster scene.

The bright red trousers.

Or rather, Fucking Red Trousers.

Yes, thanks to the hard work of a fellow blogster, the world can now know the full extent and power of these so-vibrant-they-loop-around-the-masculine-line-and-back-over-again. Look... features offers up dozens of candid and other-such shots of the rouge inspired pants, and their shaded cousins, for the perusing and pondering.

Go check out their near-comprehensive list and see

for yourself the looks highs and (many, many) lows.

...Andy?

American Dream

2011-11-23T08:25:00.002-05:00

This, ladies and gentlemen, is how you wear a suit.

Jay Gatsby, Gilded God

That of course is Leo from the upcoming Great Gatsby adaptation, directed by the always costume and style aware Baz Luhrman. His second to last film, Moulin Rouge, still affects my sartorial choices almost daily, and had of course a massive impact on women's fashion.

I'm excited for the reaction the world of common style could have to this as well. Victorian and Edwardian styles had power and potential, but had by the end of the Great war era been reduced to drabs and dregs for the war effort. The Jeeves and Wooster era costumes, bright, playful, stylish and smart, were a breath of fresh air in the attitudes of Europe and the Americas after a disastrous 4 years and Imperial morality. These clothing were as much an attitude themselves, a rebellion against stuffy Victorianism, just as powerful for men as the flapper dress and bob would prove to be for women. The style typified in the Great Gatsby were the first that could be honestly called 20th century, modern, and have stayed contemporary to one degree or another ever since.

Monday morning "whaaa?"

2011-11-21T08:41:00.002-05:00

There's something to be said about how subjective this work is. Of course, fashion is just another word for trending (or rather, the other way around) and what's trending is typically up to a few clouty (or should I say Klout-y?) individuals who use their expertise in media and marketing to make us pay more attention to this over that.

It's all very elementary, I know.

But sometimes, you need to be reminded that in the end, this is all subjective, and when "the best" comes along, it's 'best' to remember what Penn and Teller had to say; the best, is bullshit.

This week, the magazine that I work for (whose articles are behind a pay wall, so sorry, no linkies) ran a counter-comment to the Boston Globes Best Dressed Bostonians list. Why would we do this, living a few hundred miles away and in another country? Because of a man named Brad Marchand, who would otherwise never be seen in the style pages if not for the Globe's choice of flare.

Brad is a local boy, from a part of the city just down the road called Hammond's Plains. He grew up, made good on the Canadian dream, and now plays hockey for the Bruins down south. Here we call him the Whizzer, due much in part to his habit of getting drunk in public and looking ridiculous in the resulting photos (many of which show him NOT wearing various articles of clothes, far from the best dressed at the party).

Brad, fashion icon

Regardless, someone at the Globe took a good look, and said "yes, that makes sense, put him down for an award, I like his look". Then they filled it out with a few photos in which he's wearing a shirt and seemingly stable.

Just a nice little reminder to never take fashion, or the fashionistas, at face value. Take a look behind the curtain at what's sitting around the floor of the change closet before assuming that we (collectively) know what we're talking about.

It's a lazy Friday

2011-11-18T12:15:00.005-05:00

So here's a lazy Friday post!

Yes, care of Nerd Boyfriend is this truly epic photo of the legendary mock-rockers Spinal Tap, resplendent in their then-70's chic, now retro charm.

I'll take two please, and a sewing kit

2011-11-17T14:42:00.004-05:00

"You maniacs! You blew it up!"

*ahem*

Once in a great while, something truly incredible, something stupendous...something utter beyond the previous scope arrives on the fashion scene, and makes you do one of three things: spend every cent in your possession, stare in utter disbelief, or wretch.

The good (questionable) people at Hot Topic have pushed the bar down the street, around the corner, and off a pier into the harbour, with the release (at some point previously) of the One Legged Pant.

Just let that name sink into the squishier parts of your brain before click through to the link. Let your mind try and develop it's own idea of what that could mean Normal pants, missing one leg? Maybe it's not literal, but a comment on how the pants are made, or can sometimes appear? Maybe it's a comment on how much fabric was used, only half that of a normal pair of pants!

No.

They are none of those.

The One Legged Pants, which you will notice actually SOLD OUT at some point, are in fact a clever ruse, a cunning disguise meant to trick the male mind into, *gasp*, crossdressing!

Yes, it's a skirt. A maxi skirt, to be precise, like the kind girls used to wear in the 90's, except with some zippers and belts, to dude it up (apparently). In my humble opinion, that's like spitting in the desert; a skirt is a skirt, no matter how you attempt to masculinize it, because that's the history and culture we're stuck with. If a guy wants to wear one, there's nothing wrong with that, but I have issue with Hot Topic's apparent sly attempt at re-branding the garment in such a ridiculous fashion to sell more product.

It's almost as if the designers at HT are TRYING to get awkward high school kids beaten up and laughed at, if not for wearing a skirt (with buckles!), then for trying to explain to their bully/teachers/parents/other general public that it is in fact JUST a pair of one legged pants, and that you should stop picking on them.

What's you game, Hot Topic?

Shill for the big boys

2011-11-16T08:34:00.003-05:00

As a dude in the fashion world, it is a general rule that anything that makes my job, that is helping other fellas look stylish (a Herculean task in these trying times of Jersey Shore), any easier is my friend, comrade and quite possibly lover.

The Collection by the New York Times is the first two. TC is the newest fashion and style app released by the Times to showcase the latest in vogue trends and wearable whatsits.

Yes, it suffers from the same male-deficiency as most such guides, focusing almost entirely on the ladies, but what's new there? The men-centric content they do deliver is well worth wading through the womanesq, and I for one have high hopes for the future of this portable potent.

(be ware, the link opens to Apple's iTunes store)

Fukashima Do'

2011-11-14T10:52:00.002-05:00

My hair reached critical mass some point last night while I was sleeping. That is to say, not that my brain had a melt down, or my scalp became radio active. Rather, the length and volume of my hair reached that magical point where rather than looking robust and clean, or long and healthy, the two have combined to create a powerful force for chaos and mismanagement. Even with the aid of heavy products, creams and pastes thicker than any peanut butter devised by George Washington Carver in his wildest nightmare, my do' has become a wild hive of asymmetry, jutting out in random directions, as if drawn by a drunk Japanese animator.

So the question I must now ask myself; cut back this uncontrollable mess and bring us right back to square one, closely cropped and finely tuned, near-aerodynamic coif? Or power through, damn the consequences, and dare to look a little ramshackle a few weeks until the weight of the locks overpowers the sheer density, and we settle into the era of long, luxurious hippie hair (except cleaner, and not a drop of tie-dye in sight).

Decisions, decisions.

H&M Update: Lazy, lazy journalists

2011-11-10T12:45:00.004-05:00

The local "respectable" print journal ran an article today announcing the new line from H&M I talked about yesterday. The piece, plucked from the AP wire, extols the virtues of Madame Versace's designs, and hints at how this couture would help us typically dull Canadians spruce up our look and lives (okay, so a bit of reading into it). Not mentioned, either in the article, the paper's website, or as a editor's note anywhere, is that our local H&M (as in, where those reading this paper would assume they could purchase these products) would not be carrying the line, set to be released November 19th.

Since yesterday, I've attempted to contact the H&M regional office for comment, but haven't been able to get anywhere. But at least, unlike the CH, I tried.

Further updates soon.

H&M trods on the East Coast

2011-11-09T12:02:00.002-05:00

I'll be the first to admit that, on occasion, living on the (nearly) very Eastern coast of Canada can be problematic. Most of the best contemporary bands and musicians, aside form the home grown, avoid the place like the plaque, and any performers who do wander along tend not to mention their upcoming Halifax stops, for fear possibly that it will contaminate the rest of their tour (I'm looking at you Kevin Smith).

Essentially, if something doesn't arrive here either late or damaged, then it's not going to show up at all.

When pseudo-haute store H&M opened their doors in Halifax a few years ago, the fashion savvy in the city went a wee bit gaga. I know I did. "Holy shit, now I can look like people from Toronto! Finally, my feelings of inadequacy, vanishing thanks to this cheap pair of slave-laboured jeans!"

That scarf I told you about last time? It's from H&M, as well as two of my three favorite jackets. But just what kind of quality are we really talking about here? Was that scarf overly-long because it was designed that way? Or is it a defect? Unsellable in other markets, tossed East in the knowledge that we're all a bit starved for the styles we see on the moving picture box, beamed from Central Canada nightly.

Today the store announced over twitter that their new line would be released in the coming weeks, arriving at stores across Canada on the 19th... unless you live in Halifax, that is.

Don't worry H&M, we're getting used to being ignored.

Falling down around my butt

2011-11-08T08:56:00.005-05:00

So it's a bit crisper outside today than the last time I posted, which if I recall was a gorgeous, warm spring day. Not that it's not wonderful out, but the nip of winter is feeling its way through the air, getting ready to settle in for the long dark months. And if you're anything like me, you're the foolish sort who will wait until the very last minute to bundle up for the weather, instead making excuses and taking short cuts to avoid the be-parka-ing.

My favorite short cut of course is the scarf. If, as we supposed above, you're anything like me, then the first thing that turns to ice will be your neck, and once it's gone the frosted way, the rest of the body will follow, regardless of how many layers I may or may not have on. A good scarf will always swoop in and save the day, and your internal temperature, a low cost and low maintenance accessory for man or woman.

There are however, as I discovered this year, potential hitches. What I thought was an elegantly simple pattern thin weave, the kind of something you could casually drape around your neck yet diligently provide comfort and warmth, turned out to be Whovian in length.

Just how do you wear a scarf long enough to simultaneously stumble over and hang yourself with? Simply wrapping it around your neck and shoulders until you've run out of scarf makes for a brilliant brace, but makes mobility above the shoulder blade almost impossible. Wrap it around only once, and it billows behind you like a cape, waving in the wind after you.

Not that I'm against capes, and it's a look that definitely has it's time and place.

I finally settled on a compromise, twice around the neck and shoulders, then draped down the front. Sure, it's a bit awkward even at this length, taking on the look of a prayer shawl hanging beneath you coat, but it carries the best of both worlds when the wind hits you, covering and protecting the neck, while flapping wildly in the wind.

All the same, next year I think I'll take a bit more time in picking out the perfect scarf.

Brandish

2011-03-02T23:52:00.005-05:00

As usual, I've left the gushing over gooey gowns to others for this Oscar season, as my inner, deeply entrenched film nerd takes over every late February, taking advantage of the weakened state of style in minus 20 degree weather, and everything covered in ice. Nevertheless, and possibly due to global warming, my fashion sense thawed at the appearance of a certain English funny man on the Red Carpet.

But Damn! That is a fine suit!

Comedian Russell Brand, accompanied by his mother, revolted against the Penguin Look for something a little cheekier. While other fashion critics may be calling it a step over the line, Brand's distinctly Brit sensibilities are a refreshing injection of modernity to a famously conservative-in-manner show.

Honorable mention to the always dapper Christopher Nolan's standard Fellini two piece and tie... but then again, he's always dressed that classy.

Source IronMuffin

Mugler's Ride

2011-02-16T13:30:00.013-05:00

Fashion is and likely will always be slightly schizophrenic. While the designers, press and viewing public clamor endlessly for the NEXT BIG THING, pushing outfit after outfit onto the catwalk season after season in an attempt to impress, wow and shock their way into the hearts of fashionistas the world over, they typically are also the first to reaffirm what worked before. Few seem able to strike the right balance, either tipping over the side and plummeting into the Westwoods, where refuse and table wear are acceptable accessories, or barely leaving their production couch while half heartily pumping out a line that would be more at home in the aisles of Eddie Bauer than the walks of Milan, London or Paris.

This Mugler Spring Line is of course one that many have been keeping an eye on. Released a month ago, it was the first presentation by new Mugler head honcho Nicola Formichetti, a man who could be said to have been the puppet master behind the last three years in fashion, working with Vogue, Dazed and Confused, and as a collaborator with the ever vivid Lady Gaga.

He did not disappoint.

Blending classic men's suits with a science-fiction-if-not-video-gaming splash, Nicola has put together a collection that screams future-modernism, and oddly may be the most accessible collection out there.

It can be split into three camps:

The first is the Wearable. These are the pants, jackets, tops and boots that have and will become apart of the new wardrobe for stylish lads everywhere.

I come for the puttee, but stay for the trench coat

A fine sweater indeed

Second are the odd but "salvageable" Not to say that they need to be salvaged, but in these outfits lay some choice articles of clothing. But the third is the realm of video games and Hollywood sci-fi, a flowing landscape of shiny plastics and end-bosses.

Retro futurism, horror spectacle, that dude from The Cell who tormented Jennifer Lopez, cellophane zombies and what I can only describe as Cat Walk Vader. This show was all over the place, launching itself full force into bizarre genre after genre. Yet despite this, it is stunning to watch for it's bold geekiness (intended or not).

Source Style.com

Dreamscape Styles

2010-07-28T22:09:00.009-04:00

The ladies over at Fashion Me Fabulous (and, well, everyone else) have been talking up the damn-fine-in-a-suititude of Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

Fair.

Jeffrey Kurland, costume designer for Inception, speaking recently to Clothes On Film, recounted the importance costumes play to the core theme of the movie,

Arthur’s character was a cab driver in this dream and Cobb’s character was a kidnapper/thug. To be true to the scene and convincing to Robert Fischer (Cillian Murphy’s character), they were dressed accordingly. Their leather jackets were different in fit and style but still kept a cohesive look respecting the architect and the dream.

With attention to detail like that, it only seems logical that any fine dressing film buffs could buy a reproduction or two, and find themselves looking as sly as Mssr. Levitt. Not today, Mr. Spock.

Film Jackets is a site dedicated to one task; finding that jacket you saw on the screen, and getting it to you. On any search for a cinematic coat, it is my first stop, and usually my only. With nearly a hundred other styles available, the results for Levitt's wardrobe are a stark "Not Known".

One Google search later, and hope disappears again. Designer Jeffrey Kurland has neither studio site, nor online store. In fact, the only results turned up for any Inception inspired duds, were a handful of fan-made t-shirts over at Red Bubble, and a very nice upscale store in Toronto, featuring Kenneth Cole, Haight/Ashbury and Buffalo, that just so happens to share it's name with the film (and I'm sure is getting quite a bit of confused traffic such as myself).

While nothing officially reproduced may be on the racks online any time soon, most up-scale mens stores should be able to cater to the look you're after. Just tell them Gordo sent you.

Photo credit American Superstar
Clothes on Film

Time has come today

2010-03-23T17:39:00.006-04:00

Humans have kept track of time since, at the very least, 10, 000 BCE, developing both simple and complex calenders that allowed them to keep track of the seasons and better predict when to plant and harvest their crops. Magellan used 18 slow pouring hour glasses to track his (doomed) voyage around the globe. Einstein's assertion that time was relative completely changed how science thought of the natural world, and allowed us to venture to the stars (or at least, in their general direction for a few million miles before the battery runs out).

Today, we stand on the brink of a brave new world, with a brave new way to tell time.
Today, we Defy.

Lasers, explosions

I've been fascinated by the road wrist watches have gone down in the last decade. While supe'd up watches are nothing new, I myself as a young child pined over a "limited edition Dick Tracey communicator watch!", they've been trying their best to incorporate new technology as fast as they can. Why? Because they've all but died to the 35 and under crowd, who turn to their cell phones for the time, just as they turn to them for just about anything else.

"Black microblasted titanium case, Black titanium bracelet with blue lateral inserts, Deployant buckle, Unidirectional rotating black carbon fiber bezel, Screw down crown and push buttons, Black dial with silver carbon fiber in center, Luminous hands, Small seconds subdial, Chronograph feature (Seconds, Minutes, Hours), Magnified date at the 12 o'clock, Tourbillon visible at the 11 o'clock, Scratch resistant sapphire crystal, Automatic mechanical movement, Water resistant to 1000 meters/ 3330 feet. Shock and high pressure resistant."

Who is this fantastically expensive watch for?
Batman?

For what it's worth, wikiAnswer list the following as records for diving.

"A Navy diver submerged 2,000 feet (609.6 m), setting a record using the new Atmospheric Diving System (ADS hardshell suit), off the coast of La Jolla, CA, on Aug. 1 2007.

The deepest open circuit scuba dive was accomplished by Pascal Bernabé (Ralf Tech/WR1 Team) who on July 5, 2005 descended to 1,083 feet (330 m). The dive took place near Propriano, Corsica."

This is the problem I have with watches.
When they just tell time, they're fantastic. A gold watch, or pocket watch on a chain can be the perfect accent to a terrific outfit, and make a far better statement on your personal state-of-class than the snazziest smart phone ever can.
In a post-camera phone world (where the phone-in-one seemingly began), the gadget watch seems like a retro gag. Sure, it may have titanium plates, silver carbon fibre, and the ability to survive far more atmospheric pressure than the person wearing it, but can it play an mp3? Can it interact with GPS? Can I check my Gmail?

Zenith is a fantastic company who have produced quality time pieces for years.
And to be frank, I think they should stick to doing just that.

Photo source Zenith/Amazon

Perfecto!

2010-03-16T15:32:00.002-04:00

I'd like to share with you my latest fashionable obsession.

One of the cultural cornerstones of near-and-current contemporaria to came out of the end of the Second World War was the motorbike. Not an innovation of the global conflict itself, the bike was one of the unexpected bastard-child no one saw coming. As a literal army of young men arrived home from the front lines, as occurs with many wars and generations, some found themselves a piece out of place.

Still wired for war, many set out on their own, leaving behind what friends and families they once had, joining up with army buddies and criss-crossing the country on the ex-military standard Harley Davidson. By the close of the 1940's, the biker had become a national bogeyman, a nightmare on the edge of the otherwise forced-smile-happy-home-made Atomic Era. When Marlon Brando blew into the town of Wrightsville with his Black Rebels club in the classic counter-culture film The Wild One, he changed forever how the public saw youth-in-leather... and he did it wearing a Perfecto 618.

Marlon Brando circa 160 pounds

Designed by Irvine Schott in 1928, and refined into its familiar form by the mid-40's, the Perfecto is the ultimate leather jacket. Instantly recognizable across the globe as "badass", the Perfecto style jacket has become so intrinsic to the rebel-look that decades of rip-offs and selling out by those wearing them hasn't tarnished the jackets bad-boy reputation. It floats freely from fashion trend to fashion trend, sexually androgenyous and gender neutral unlike any peice of clothing in history. If you find one that fits, no one really cares, or can tell, if it was made for the opposite sex.

Joan Jett circa Blackhearts

I spent the better part of 3 months searching mostly in vain for this very piece. 'Come hell or high water', remarked I, 'it will be mine.' At first I was surprised by how hard it was to find... iconic enough to have survived Disco, yet missing in action... I had assumed at the very least 60+ years would result in a few piles of the old things waiting for someone to claim them and return them to their former glory. I was wrong. Mere hours before I would resign myself to another season without this glorious piece, one entered my life by way of H&M. Faux leather, "crinkled" creases all over (as per current flare laws, apparently) and badly in need of a pressing, it was still love at first sight.

So here's to you, legendary pop-culture icon jacket.
May you raise hell, rock out and terrify parents for another 60 years.

Ramones, circa 1-2-3-4

Katty on the runway

2010-03-09T14:08:00.004-05:00

There are a few designers that we here at Bloke believe to be of such concentrated creative insanity, that to not watch as they pass by is to embrace the inky bitterness of self-imposed blindness.

Vivienne Westwood is their queen.

Easily the most talented member of the fashion collective/experiment/freak out that spawned the Sex Pistols, English punk fashion, and through a sad 30 year long journey of cultural twists and marketing turns, Avril Lavigne, Westwood has amazed, frightened, and sexually frustrated audiences around the world with styles that usually defy any sense at all, despite being perfect. Without her, there is little doubt the 70's polyester hell would have carried on long into the late 1980's.

That someone would throw a stuffed cat at her during the finale of her Paris show on Friday makes all the sense it ever needs to.

Photo source Reuters

And the winner is...

2010-03-07T19:28:00.004-05:00

Glitz, glam, gowns, and the ruthless combat between designers and critics where the only casualty is the lady-in-question's style are the typical fair for the Academy Awards... unless you're the good folks at Out magazine.

Seizing on the sad fact that live-commenting the men on the red carpet this and pretty much any other year is an exercise in the mundane, Out has fashioned a what-if of leading fellas dressed in the best spring/summer has to offer.

While George Clooney, Jeff Bridges and Woody Harrelson are passable in some pretty oddball styles (Woody in a skirt? It's almost too perfect...), Matt Damon in Zucchelli and Christoph Waltz in Galliano steal the show.

Of course, it's wishful thinking. For chaps, the Oscars have always been a penguin affair.

Usually.

Photo source Yahoo Movies and Out Magazine

McQueen

2010-02-11T14:41:00.003-05:00

We here at Bloke were greatly saddened by the news of ace-designer Alexander McQueen's passing in London on Thursday. Early reports indicate that McQueen took his own life. He was 40.

The much celebrated designer had been a top name in fashion for years, redefining mens and womens style with the whimsy of a Dadaist. Even as late as last month, McQueen continued to produce brilliant new works that won over audiences with no hint that he was troubled. His career had been one success after another, culminating in induction as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2003 for his sartorial efforts, along with a highly praised personal line, and collaborations with MAC and Lady Gaga.

He will be greatly missed by all of us at Bloke and Fashion Me Fabulous.

Alexander McQueen
1969 - 2010

The mid-winter shoe

2010-02-05T00:08:00.004-05:00

The metaphorical mayfly... or better yet, june bug of foot wear. Made necessary by the siege warfare road salt wages every year against shoes and boots alike in northern climates. When a well worn pair are ceremoniously or unceremoniously heaved into the waste bin (choose accordingly), defeated by the caked on sodium that wears a shining fake-leather into cracked plastic, and sued or fur into stucco, the mid-winter shoe comes bravely to face it's ultimatly tragic destiny.

It typically comes from the post-Christmas month-spanning sales, when prices are in free fall. A pair that began as $90 now wears the bargin-red sticker of $17.95.

They are an investment only as a stylish 'survival' method until the ice of winter and the mud of sping clear up, and like Leonidas and his 300 at Thermopylae, are fated to be destroyed fending off the worst the world can throw at them, protecting the rest of your shoe rack.

They are usually a thicker sneaker of boot, perfect for the cold and wet seasons, but uncomfortable (and by then, ugly) in the summer, eventually becoming out of style by the fall.

Few ever make it that far. Most begin to fall apart by May, and are religated to being hidden in a closet or kept outside in the garage, rarely if ever to be worn again.

This year, I think I shall do my best to save mine.

Fashion Week FW2010: Paul Smith

2010-01-27T16:56:00.004-05:00

Paul Smith turned up the volume up on classic menswear pieces with bright colors, bold, mixed prints, and intriguing details, especially with the jacket colors and lapels. He mixed casual and classic by putting the hoodie in the classic suit and making the prints large and colors rich.

The monochromatic looks showed Paul Smith's excellent tailoring, interesting proportions, and unique details.

Photo Source: GQ.com

Fashion Week FW2010: D&G

2010-01-25T09:24:00.000-05:00

If Thom Browne's Moncler Gamme Bleu man is a military-inspired ski champ than D&G's man is a laid-back, yet stylish, snowboarder to appreciates his warm winter brights as much as a tuxedo with snow boots. While snow pants dominated the runway, D&G still showed it's roots with strong denim appearances. Formal wear for on an off the half-pipe made appearance too with a strong mix of sporty and dressy.

Photo Source: GQ.com

Marc Eco Star Wars Style

2010-01-22T13:15:00.001-05:00

If you've ever fancied yourself a Rebel pilot, a stormtrooper, a bounty hunter, or even a Sith lord, Marc Eco has made it possible with geek-chic Star Wars hoodies.
These hoodies go beyond the typical fan shirt and actually look like the uniform or costume of the Star Wars characters. With the hood off, most just look like interestingly designed hoodies (especially the Darth Vader and Stormtrooper versions).
The hoodies range in price from the $29.99 (for the clearance styles) to $150. May the force be with you.

Fashion Week FW2010: Etro

2010-01-22T09:39:00.001-05:00

Etro's zany styling aside, the fall collections features menswear classics in rich colors and bold, but traditional, prints. The majority of Etro's line would make great wardrobe staples. Pile on Etro's knee-high spats, picture frame necklaces, bright scarves, jodhpurs and a statement hat to achieve the collection's attention-getting look.

Photo Source: GQ.com

Gilt-y as sin

2010-01-21T20:41:00.007-05:00

Amidst the passionate designs and impressive patterns of Fashion Week, Gilt Man brings us a short but sweet sale on the threads of John Varvatos.

You will be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful line of conventional menswear. Rarely a shade lighter than grey to be found in the entire collection, these black and white combination score again and again. These are the outfits I hope to someday be paid enough to whimsically afford (that is, to save my credit card information on the designer's checkout page, with a direct hot-line to my phone for easy and thoughtless purchasing).

No, scratch that.
I'd turn to a life of crime for these outfits.

Classiest damn bank robbery ever

Photo source Gilt Man.com

Fashion Week FW2010: Moncler Gamme Bleu

2010-01-19T14:32:00.005-05:00

Were a traditional military man to wake up in Thom Browne's Moncler Gamme Bleu barracks, he would find himself severely lacking in color, prints, whimsy and voluminous cold-weather wear. The show opened on a runway lined with cots from, which the models emerged and dressed. This unique showcase brought focus to the military stylings of the bright, buoyant collection.
The Moncler Gamme Bleu man may be colorful, stylish, whimsical and rather hopeful, but he is not without function. Since Browne has forged a collaboration with skiwear company, Moncler, much of the clothing is athletic and performance focused. The winter wear is down-right practical for cold climates without being boring or pedestrian. What do you think of Thom Browne's adventures in skiwear?

Photo Source: GQ.com

Fashion Week FW10: Alexander McQueen

2010-01-19T09:39:00.000-05:00

Alexander McQueen has fall covered head to toe (literally) in prints. McQueen prints range from skulls to scales and from paint spatter like prints to some resembling the whimsical prints recently seen in his women's wear collections. These prints cover everything including suits, jackets, bags and even shoes, McQueen shows all of is whims. The skull sweater is my favorite item. What are you thoughts on McQueen's Fall Show?

Photo Source: GQ.com

H&M Selling Skirts for Men

2010-01-18T08:51:00.001-05:00

A friend posted this on his Facebook page and didn't seem too keen on the idea of skirts for men (outside of the traditional kilt). And gauging by the media attention it's receiving, a lot of people are a little surprised by it. My friend also queried if any ladies would be seen on a date with a guy in a skirt. I, being a lady, responded with a "yes." A guy with a strong enough sense of personal style and with the confidence to wear what he wants in spite of weird stares and odd comments is a guy worth being seen with.
I quite like the design of this skirt. It looks like its probably made out of better fabric than most women's skirts offered at H&M (men's clothing typically has better fabrics). It's a clean, classic design too. It might be a men's skirt but if it sells in the Midwest (doubtful), I'll be trying it on.
H&M's spring look book is also featuring lovely, bright oranges and harem pants for men. What do you think of skirts (and even harem pants) for men? Would you wear them?

A lot of colour for a Browne

2009-11-10T14:42:00.002-05:00

A few months ago I touched on the, er, adventurous foray into meggings (the aptly named male legging), with a few off hand comments made about the "dangers" of feminizing men's fashion in such an absurdest ways that I never thought I'd meet a rebuttal in the form of anything less than Eddie Izzard.

Ah, but for the plans of mice, men and meggings, there are designers like Thom Browne.

A designer by way of his early days with Club Monaco, themselves under the monolith of respectable menswear, Ralph Lauren, and deservedly celebrated, Browne has made a name for himself by redefining the art of casual class. His latest project though is far afield, as seen this October with the release of his imaginative 2010 collection.

Bridging the age old gap between mens and womens style has always been a leap of faith into a dark pit for the male, where we can't see the other side, and the ledge we're jumping for may actually be in the next chasm over (unlike women, who had the foresight to bring a few flashlights and a collapsable footbridge). A heaping pile of misdirection have been required for anyone setting this particular scene in the past, such as Glam and Hair rock's macho posturing in eyeliner and jaguar tights, two examples of "fuck you-ship" that rather than being met with shock and disapproval, would today run up against a mighty wall of "so?" and "who cares?", among other comments.

The modern world requires a subtle touch for such a crossing to work.

Vanguard of the revolution against the convenience of pockets

Mssr. Browne, to his credit, has created a whole new look. I'm just not sure if mature-male-as-school-girl is necessary whatsoever. And that's the best design out of the collection. The rest serves up a steady helping of operatic polkadot pant suits glittery beach caps with built in night vision goggles.

Not that it's all bad. Lose the cap and that's not a bad cardigan and tie combination, and you've gotta dig the leather jacket and reds (sans lips) our friend in the skort is wearing.

If only someone would get him some pants.

Images care of Fabulon

Freddie Face Warmers

2009-10-21T10:12:00.006-04:00

Anyone with the fortune to walk by an American Apparel daily knows that they serve as the epitome of "win some, lose some". While one month, a display may feature very stylish and, most importantly, wearable outfits for the us lowly commoners with an interest in stretchy fabric, another month may see blinding electric neon clothes made only for those residing in the negative-sizes with a power outlet somewhere up their butt.

The following fits snugly in the "lost it" category.

Behold, the Unisex Mustache Mask

As a Canuck, I really do understand the appeal of the hood, or balaclava, or the ski mask, or the face-bag as one friend in elementary school used to call them. A frozen face is never a pretty sight. I also understand the desire to not make the wearer look like they're going to take hostages. My disappointment with these Mustachios is two pronged. First, they look like they were drawn on by a stockboy at the behest of their overstressed boss, rushing around the store muttering something about "liquidation"... unsure if they mean stock or staff.

Second, it's been done better.

They even come with mix-n-match mustaches.

Many Happy Returns

2009-10-19T03:08:00.002-04:00

How better to celebrate the return to the airwaves of the pop-satire brilliance that is The Venture Bros. than with this month's Auxiliary Magazine's interview with co-creator, writer, artist and fashion fanboy Doc Hammer?

"I like to spread myself thin in the arts. I think it's good to suck at as many disciplines as ya can" - Doc Hammer

Getting to read it for free at AuxiliaryMagazine.com of course!

Hammer talks shop, show, style, and about his band Weep's first album, Never Ever.

Well Dressed Words: Mark Twain

2009-10-07T10:52:00.000-04:00

The Versatile Vest

2009-09-07T19:07:00.000-04:00

Yep, the seasons are changing here in North America, and that means it's time to pull out your long-sleeves and head to H&M to grab a new pair of denim. While you're out, you might keep in mind that there's no better time to invest in... a vest! Seriously–a vest is just the thing to keep you looking snappy and up-to-date. And no, we're not talking about that kind of vest, as classy as it may be.

A well-fitted suit vest (or "waistcoat," as our friends in Great Britain refer to it) that can be worn with a variety of outfits is a wardrobe essential. What we're going for here is a herringbone pattern, or perhaps a fine pinstripe. As far as color goes, a subtle grey/brown blend or an in-between grey, so that it'll go with those great brown Mike-Konos Oxfords you picked up last weekend. Versatility is the name of the game here, because if you can wear it with jeans, slacks, and a full-blown suit, you've just tripled your investment.

And just like that, you've already taken a step to turn the economy around. Sort of.

Indie Spotlight: Optics

2009-08-21T09:39:00.000-04:00

Are you lucky enough to be endowed with imperfect eyesight? If so, you should seriously consider checking out SALT. Optics for your next pair of specs.

SALT. Optics is a relatively young company, hailing from Southern Cali since 2006. Their dedicated, experienced team designs and assembles their eyewear in-house, using impeccable style and craftsmanship. In the collection you can find everything from Tortoise-Shell Acetate frames to classic Aviators, and their designs are spot-on.

The WAYNE frame / Black Rain color combination is a personal favorite, especially with fade-tint lenses.

Find them at your local independent eyewear specialist.

(and yes, the company name is suffixed with a period.)

Image/Product Page: saltoptics.com

Burn your pants

2009-08-09T12:21:00.001-04:00

Back from summer vacation sporting the hottest red sun burn orbiting a star can give, only to find that all bets are off

"Meggings" have returned.

And doesn't he look excited to be wearing them?

Fascinatingly, although a google search drew up a great many opinions about meggings, not one helped in finding somewhere to buy a pair (a fate worse than death for one who can't even sew a button).

Indeed, meggings hold a peculiar mystique in the world of men's fashion, residing in the same uncanny valley as kilts... pretty cool for an idea, but a bit too fem for the average dude. Anyone who's seen the grey concrete of a side walk would find themselves surprisingly familiar with meggings already, as the multitude of joggers and cyclists passing in "why so tight?" athletic wear seem to increase exponentially every summer. But confined to sport, they have a reason for invading the world of guys, as easy to explain away as swimmers shaving their legs.

Removed from this masculine logic, they become a stylish Bermuda Triangle, intriguing and seductive, but mysterious and deadly, luring young lads in with the promise of being years a head of the trend game, only to slam shut at the last second, forever lost to a world of Cosmanics, like manscara and beard gloss, never to drink beer and play full contact football in stripclubs again.

Image care of the beautiful people at Style Sightings

The Importance of Shoes

2009-08-03T12:43:00.000-04:00

Friday, during a long train ride, a saw a guy get on the train wearing a straw hat, check shirt and cuffed, dark-wash jeans. It may have been a simple look, but compared to the rest of the slubs on the train wearing cargo shorts, sneakers and t-shirts that looked like "free gifts with purchase", the outfit looked good. That is, until he moved to sit down. That's when I saw his shoes. Crocs.

Dos and Don'ts of Shoes by Fashion Me Fabulous on Polyvore.com

This is the importance of shoes. The outfit was clean, casual and smart, but the shoes ruined it. I've been thinking all weekend about how many different and better pairs of shoes could have kept that look together. Paul found the perfect ones yesterday when he wrote about these Sperry Top Siders (also mentioning the importance of shoes. Paul, you read my mind). Comfortable, summery, good for walking around the city--these shoes do everything Crocs do, only they look good doing it.

Pictured:
Cuffed Jeans, Levi, $98
Straw Hat, Village Hat Shop, $18.95
Terracotta Check Shirt, Land's End, $19.99
"Do" Boat Shoe, Sperry, $80

Shoes that your Grandpa Wore

2009-07-31T11:19:00.000-04:00

Having a good pair of shoes to complete your outfit is crucial, and summer is the perfect season to showcase your stylish kicks. Since 1935, Sperry has made some of the best summer footwear: the classic Top Sider.

[image: sperrytopsider.com]

These 'Siders are great, whether you're cruising the lake in a Chris Craft, or getting horizontal in the backyard hammock. They can be dressed up or dressed down–-versatility is always a bonus (especially during prime wedding season).

Grab a pair, and be creative. Classic never goes out of style.

Travel Stylista: Ellington Leather

2009-07-28T00:17:00.000-04:00

There's nothing more fashionable than traveling with great bags. Whether it's your signature messenger, a carry-on duffle, or a simple field bag, Ellington's got you covered. Their beautiful creations are durable, utterly masculine, and not outrageously expensive to boot.

Vintage Links

2009-07-26T14:14:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Paris over at our sister site Fashion Me Fabulous for dropping it in one with with this brilliant redesign of the only accessory a man truly ever needs; a vintage leather caddy bag courtesy of Etsy.

Golf has always had it's own ideas about style over the years, with little regard for how they look to the uninitiated or the colour coordinated. Until a few years ago, saying "golf" and "style" anywhere in the same breath/sentance/paragraph/multi-volume series would have led to at most a chorus of laughter, at least a chuckle or two.

Except for this guy. He's my new hero

Tiger's distinct red & black outfits saved the sport from itself, bringing a boardroom casual atmosphere to the one place many go to escape work. The downside of course being that looking sharp at the links can hold all the excitement of baking pies in a snow bank (that is, not even considerable).

Don't forget to check out the other brilliant luggage and bag designs in the collection.
Now if you'll excuse me, I have a tee off in 5.

But does it smell like moth balls?

2009-07-21T14:11:00.000-04:00

I have to admit, I've been privy to the images of some pretty terrible things in my life, terrible films and haircuts that will never be washed from the darkest and most nightmarish recesses of my mind... but few have been as revolting, as this jacket.

70% off?
I can't imagine why

The Tommy Hilfiger Madras Two Button Trim Fit is perfect for anyone interested in traveling back in time to the 60's and 70's to hunt upholsterers... I say upholsterers, because the last time I saw that jacket, it was a couch in my grandmother's basement.

As a fan of both chic and geek, I've allowed myself a benchmark for what constitutes "too damn silly"; if you put on a jacket, and look more ridiculous than Doctor Who, then take it off and hang it back on the racks.

Granted, this is going to start getting difficult the closer Matt Smith comes to looking like any other hipster at the bar on a Saturday night.

Suspenders and elbow patches never go out of style

The shirt off my back

2009-07-13T01:08:00.000-04:00

Back after a week of sun, fun, and a summer flu that saw me log more hours dead in bed than during all of college, so we'll be looking to take it slow on the road to recovery... which just means two for one Tuesdays are in effect.

First, big shout out to the good folks over at T-Shirt Alert, who despite being slower at updating their articles than I am, have hours of archive material and links for days, to interest any t-shirt aficionado.

Secondly, more democratic designs, though sadly many of them rubbish, can be found at T Shirt Countdown, who turn to the vox popular to determine what's in and what's out of their catalog. Nothing mind-blowingly fantastic, but sites like this bubble with far too much potential to avoid (and are great places for habitual rack-divers to get their fix far from the hustle and bustle of Winners).

I'm not saying it's a good design
I'm just saying they sell it

More taste than tofu

2009-07-06T13:44:00.000-04:00

As we draw closer to the end of Feet Week (a week has ten days, right?) we trod through weirder and weirder country in the search for something soft underfoot.

Vegetarian Shoes requires no description at all, but since I have an article to write, a little redundancy can be forgiven. This British company, based in a single shop in Brighton, proudly offers quality footwear in a wide variety of styles for both men and women, with a professional guarantee that at no point did anything sold, from laces and velcro to tongue and sole, have a pulse.

From owner, creator and designer Robin Webb:

I had started to teach myself to make shoes four years earlier after leaving Art College. I was inspired to hear that in parts of Africa, car tyres were recycled into soles. This got me thinking and soon I was making shoes out of anything I could lay my hands on, but being veggie I didn't want to use leather.

Then I made an exciting discovery, -a synthetic Microfibre material used for yachting upholstery. It looked and felt like supple leather, but was 'breathable', unlike other plastics. After some experimenting, I realised that this was what I had been looking for, and Vegetarian Shoes was born.

I'll admit, there's really nothing too strange about anything they offer... even their vegan leather is pretty main stream these days in terms of alternatives to traditional fabrics... it just makes me wonder what past lives my Chuck Taylors had, as I can't find a "vegetarian friendly product" sticker anywhere on them.

You won't believe it's not leather.
Or you may, I don't know.

A definite must-see for anyone looking for handmade products of an excellent quality, especially for outdoor and nature wear.

Diamonds on the soles of her shoes

2009-07-02T14:13:00.000-04:00

Today we jump over to the good folks at Style Crave for a look at ten of the most expensive mens' shoes from around the world. With absolutely nothing coming under the $500 mark (or "pocket change" as wearers of these may be heard remarking) we here at Bloke can guarantee lots of lookie, but no touchie under any circumstances.

Just three pairs of these and I could pay off my first degree.
Seriously.

My very sole

2009-06-30T14:15:00.000-04:00

It just wouldn't be fair to ramble on for a week about what other folks fit on their feet without giving the beat from my seat.

To quell the summer heat (gotta get off this rhyming scheme), in splendid spite of sandals and Berks (which we'll get into later) I turned to the Benny.
First the Benny Breaker by Puma, a light weight canvas sneaker, that can be snagged at any reputable sports clothing store. Mine are actually the white invert of the above, with a splash of green wave on the side for colour.And second the even lighter weight Benny by Aldo, a classier looking leisure sneaker that comes in a variety of designs, varying from the above seen and owned harlequin pattern, to more.... abstract choices.

Feet Week

2009-06-28T10:27:00.000-04:00

We're kicking off shoe week here at Bloke with a little help from our friends over at Sneaker Freaker Magazine and the remarkably designed New Balance A20.

New Balance takes a trip to the ol’ Wild West with their new Navajo-Indian inspired A20 boot. Perfect for the urban cowboy roaming Harajuku’s proddy prairies, this suede steed features embossed NB branding on the heel and tongue, leather heel tassels, chunky cross-stitching plus woven rainbow bands similar to the patterns found in traditional Navajo textiles.

Oh man... now I'm going to have Hollah Back Girl stuck in my head all day.
Dammit.

Anyway, enjoy poking around AF, they've got a simply fantastic array of new designs, and we'll be back with more tomorrow!

Lids

2009-06-22T09:28:00.000-04:00

Today we doff our caps to the cherry on the top of any assembled ensemble, thanks to the good folks over at the Village Hat Shop, who are guaranteed to have the right fit for even the most swollen of heads. From western and derby to fedora and even top hat, the Village has styles and designs to fit all noggin's with modest-to-a-bit-steep-but-okay prices.

Older than dirt but twice the thread count

2009-06-18T10:21:00.000-04:00

So you think you're the vintage king of your little corner of Bohemia? Let me tell you my friend, while you're wallowing in your 60's and 70's hand me down charm from your parents and grandparents, Defunkd is rocking the old school so hard, I could have sworn I saw Buddy Holly, Richy Valens and the Big Bopper shopping around for carry on luggage.

From classic trainers (back when they were used for, you know, sports) and Hawaiian shirts, to oddities you (I) never would have considered wearing, like the below featured 50+ year old prison jacket, plus a massive section of ebay-available t-shirts for the guys and gals, Defunkd delivers the unexpected.

"You bett'r not git shank holes in dem shirts boy" the imposing chain gang guard shouted, petting his shotgun and smelling oddly of his sister, "that there's haute couture"

8 Bit and Well Fit

2009-06-16T12:56:00.000-04:00

Think Geek achieves a new high score with these cutting edge graphic 8-bit ties, unlocking a bonus level of menswear and terrible tongue in cheek video game puns. Available in either classic red versus classic blue, they carry just enough geek cred meets design innovation that we can overlook the rather sad fact that they are, horror of horrors, clip ons.

Stylish Tie Looks just like what Mario wore to his high-school graduation.

Not available for purchase; clip on emo-hair.

What more can be said?

2009-06-12T14:19:00.000-04:00

For anyone who's a little new to the fashion scene, I'd like to take the opportunity now to introduce you to who could easily be considered the ultimate style guru to ever grace these inter-nets. We at Bloke and Fashion Me Fabulous swear by him, as not only does his taste never falter, he always finds a way to track down the most incredibly dressed people, not on the catwalks of Europe, but the streets of everyday cities and towns (well, so long as you consider Paris and New York everyday cities)... and more, is ballsy enough to walk up to them and take a photograph.

Anyone who's picked up a copy of GQ will be familiar with Scott Schuman, The Sartorialist, and frankly, you should be too.

Check him out at both his blog and over at Style.com

He's the other man...

2009-06-11T12:26:00.000-04:00

Thank god (Allah, Buddha, Jebus and the bartender) for the Atlantic delay. I speak of course of the perplexing month(s) long wait for anything published across the pond in jolly old England (those of you keeping score may have noticed a trend...), which must be shepherd over the big blue wet thing on a one man dingy powered by sheer will and a lazy current.

An Other Man's Spring and Summer style guide is finally here, and as I said, thanks for the delay, otherwise I would have completely missed out on snagging a copy. An Other Man, by the publishers of An Other and Dazed & Confused (excellent publications of repute) hits selves bi-annually with the designers collections, and rarely disappoints. Though I'd sooner turn to Dazed/Confused for articles and interviews, Another Man is essential for the Style Guide included with the issue (and how could you say anything bad about a magazine that follows up a near inch thick copy with a "free" guide, itself worth the price of admission?) that features the near-entire line of men's collections on only the twiggiest of male models.

Sadly, no matter how hard I wish upon the full spectrum of stars in the night sky, I can't find any of the images from the magazine online, aside from the cover... so here's my favorite design this year from Dolce and Gabbana instead.

"Report for Duty" really is a terrible pun

2009-06-09T12:36:00.000-04:00

Colbert captures class even in combat.

Brooks Brothers’ Southwick factory in Haverhill outfitted Stephen Colbert with a custom-tailored camouflage suit for his USO tour of Iraq.

The clothing company made the suit using the Army’s “digicamo” material and the Madison style from the 1818 Collection.

“The suit has all of the finish details found in Brooks Brothers suiting, including a tan lining with the jacket sleeves lined in a cream and green-striped fabric,” the company said in a statement.

Now if only they'd design an evening flack jacket, maybe Dolce and Gabbana camo.

For wearing and watching

2009-06-09T02:21:00.000-04:00

These ties have a hidden surprise.

Thanks to Paris over at our sister blog Fashion Me Fabulous for bringing to my attention Miss Feeney's Finery classic fedoras and deceptively exciting ties.

Secreted inside the liner of each necktie and fedora is a Kent Steine signature pinup girl. A partnership with Steine was a perfect fit for Miss Feeney's. Steine produces images in the classic pin-up style, with just the right amount of modern appeal. Miss Feeney's founder, Marie Shepard, says of Steine's work: "We were looking for an update of the classic Pinup Girl; bringing her into the 21st century while keeping all of her demure, war-era sensuality intact. Kent really gets it." Pinup ties were all the rage in the 1940s and 50s, and it is this trend that inspired the creation of Miss Feeney's Finery.

And on that note, I'm off to raid my grandfather's old clothing chest.

No school like the old school

2009-06-05T09:21:00.000-04:00

I must admit, I've been looking forward to this article for quite some time, but was never sure just how to get the ball rolling. I first came across the site/community/magazine a few years ago through a '7 shades of Kevin Bacon' esq wander through wikipedia, beginning with Joey Ramone and ending with The Chap.

As they may have put it better in their "manifesto" than I ever could:

The Chap proposes to take a stand against this culture of vulgarity. We must show our children that the things worth fighting for are not the latest plastic plimsolls but a shiny pair of brogues. We must wean them off their alcopops and teach them how to mix martinis. Let the young not be ashamed of their flabby paunches, which they try to hide in their nylon tracksuits - we shall show them how a well-tailored suit can disguise the most ruined of bodies. Finally, let us capitalise on youth's love of peculiar argot Ð only replace their pidgin ghetto-speak with fruity bons mots and dry witticisms.

Launched in 1999, The Chap out of England is part sartorial satire and statement, mixing critical humour about the state of modern fashion (well, Chavs really) and youth with snappy style and Gatsbian sensibilities.

Sadly, the publication was recently threatened, like many during the recession, with having to neatly fold their Arrow collars and close up shop. Though they seem to be out of the woods now, for the most part, I urge you to hop on by the site and show your support (I'm sure they'd love monetary donations, but a little publicity probably helps just as well).

T-shirts, T-shirts, T-shirts

2009-06-04T02:18:00.000-04:00

We'd simply be fooling ourselves if, in our quest to find every t-shirt anywhere, ever, we overlooked Threadless any longer... and we're only on the second article. The outstanding designs and amazing price(s) should be more than enough to rock your socks, but t-shirts so good they actually sell prints for your wall?

Damn.
Damn indeed.

Captain's Closet

2009-06-02T14:23:00.000-04:00

With work nearly completed on a rather lengthy post I've been meaning to write for...oh wow, longer than I'm comfortable admitting, I'd like to take the lazier route today before finally tackling tomorrow and instead link you to a damn decent spread over at GQ this month starring New-Kirk Chris Pine and this year's line of summer suits.

Check out the moccasins by Banana Republic.
Brave lad there.

Steam

2009-06-01T10:30:00.001-04:00

All I can really say is, thank you Etsy, for showing me that the impossible is not only real, but has a decent shipping and handling cost.

I'm not much for Steam Punk (aside from marveling at) or tailcoats, but it'd be a shame not to recognize the potential both offer.

Polo Party

2009-05-30T10:15:00.000-04:00

Metro Pop celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fred Perry Polos (well, Fred Perry anyway) by embalming a male model, possibly in some vain hope of preserving his youthful good looks for the 200th anniversary.

Nice polos though.

And don't let the thrift in article size fool you, Metro Pop is always a welcome treat for the fashionably inclined, and I'm not just saying that because issue 41 is on newstands now.

Etsy Shop: James Anthony Apparel

2009-05-27T20:47:00.000-04:00

Shop: James Anthony Apparel

Specialty: Men's & Women's apparel feature unique illustrations

Check It Out Because: These t-shirts move beyond typical graphic prints you can find at most stores for something different and eye catching.

Price Range: $16 to $42

More Info: James Anthony Apparel is being exhibited at Alphonse Berber Gallery in Berkley, CA.

Favorite Items: Death of Marat T-shirt $26; Princip T-shirt $26; HRH T-shirt $26 (pictured)

T-shirts, T-shirts, T-shirts

2009-05-27T14:31:00.001-04:00

In what is the first of a daring new project to catalog every available t-shirt on Earth and online (a feat comparable to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro walking on your hands) today we offer you Teextile, who in partnership with American Apparel present and sell inventive t-designs on a "here you see it, soon you won't" platform. Designs are peer-created, voted on, then all orders are placed before the stock are created, making every shirt made a limited edition of sorts. Great for t-afficionados and artists alike.

Bloke on JengaJam

2009-05-26T10:26:00.000-04:00

Don't miss Bloke and Fashion Me Fabulous writers Mike and Jael Paris on The Late Night JengaJam tonight at 10:30 est, who will be talking fashion and style with the always suave Jack Jengaship, and Mike will be forced to walk a trail of embers for taking so damn long to update the page.

Also out

2009-05-26T10:19:00.000-04:00

As well, pick up a copy of the latest issue of T-World: The Journal of T-Shirt Culture, out now. This bi-annual publication is jam packed, cover to cover, with the most innovative and brilliant t-designs found anywhere. If you can't find something to interest and excite there, then you're probably dead.

With time...

2009-05-26T09:46:00.000-04:00

Be sure to check out this month's Palladium, including interviews with Frost/Nixon co-star Michael Sheen, artist Nicolas Bourriaud and singer Raphael Saadiq, with a full gallery for the Spring and Summer collection from all the big names.

"Buttoned up and still cold"

2009-01-21T23:50:00.000-05:00

The gods of the Canadian winter have finally arrived in the Atlantic capital city of Halifax, and though it's been said that you must suffer for fashion, who ever said it first probably didn't consider -25 below C, with a wind chill.

Suffer for Fashion - Of Montreal

And while the casual survivor wear would work a treat during the frigid months, they're damn boring to look at during an already bleak and gray time of year.

Also, they cost more than my Xbox 360.

Luckily a mall isn't really a mall if it doesn't have a proper shirt-and-tie mens wear store, the internet is boundless, and vintage (read: used) shops always have one or two (or if they're really sharp, many more) fine looking, winter wind resistant classy jackets that will leave you warm and styling, even as the world freezes around you.

(Hats optional)

Overture

2008-09-14T15:05:00.000-04:00

Never underestimate the Youtube videos your friends link you to. Fantastic use of simple white t-shirts and original designs.

D.A.N.C.E. by Justice