With the process of moving never wanting, my agenda is still swamped with so many things to do (packing and getting things from my old place trumps everything else on the list right now - moving can be so depressing at times). Despite this, I 've found time to round up some great looks for menswear, but first I'll share a few tunes that are keeping me (fashionably) "fit and ready" before I delve into that <3
The recent trend of "hipster-labeling" kinda has me on my toes (for me anyway - more on that in a sec). In terms of music, my tastes vary - some days, you'll see independent artists on my playlist (which apparently makes me a "hipster" -?-), while on others I'll soothe my nerves with chilled, vocal-less tunes. Covering the whole range is altogether too frustrating, but I do happen to love "Two Weeks" by Grizzly Bear <3
I'd be a mindless bloke if I didn't include anything from Kanye. Call him crazy, convoluted, bigoted, or whatever: his music is dope <3 (no matter what way you cut it). The track "Classic" (with notable artists including Nas, KRS-One, and Rakim) is one that hearkens back to my days in high school (those memories are bittersweet, in many respects).
Lately, the blog has seen its share of womenswear highlights: I did reviews for Marc Jacobs, lauded Castiglioni's fervor from this years (a/w) Marni collection and had my heart taken away by the sartorial genius at Peter Jensen. It was fun stuff, by far. So fun that, to an extent, I almost forgot that I equally see value in the emergence (or continued growth - I'll let you pick <3) of menswear. Although many designers hit home in terms of aesthetic and appeal, I will only post my favorites. Don't worry - I pulled looks from a whole range (including one that leans towards the "heritage" ensembles that flooded stores just last year).
One word comes to mind when I see this look (from Bally): ingenuity. Individually, each piece from this would probably look a bit dated (leather trenches, for example - they worked well in '94, but in this age, opt for accessories in leather - NOT wardrobe pieces). However, when combined they make quite the statement. The usual mix of color gradations (hues ranging from taupe, sandy brown, chestnut - even the burnished belt detail is great to look at) helps this look stay modern and is further elevated by the relaxed nature of the denim + slouchy footwear. For guys that are just dipping into the foray of fashion, I'd say that this is definitely a look to consider when choosing pieces for autumn and winter.
In terms of heritage wear, I pulled this look from GANT's a/w collection (by Micheal Bastian of course). This is yet again a very great transitional look. The addition of a denim top under this 2 button corded blazer deserves big points, although I'm starting to feel that the gloves are a bit kiddish and loony. What saves this look, however (and makes it my favorite out of this collection) is the inclusion of slim cargo pants and worn in footwear. Usually, I rally against cargos - this ensemble could change things for me (maybe). A minor but distinct detail to consider applying to your own wardrobe: a bandanna. If you look closely, it serves an unconventional purpose as a pocket square. Very masculine indeed (I'd probably label this under "military preps" if I had it my way <3).
While the only handicap to this look is the chunky footwear (of which I obstinately avoid), I had to save what I consider the "bonne idee" of this collection . By far, this look ranks up there with my favorites overall: its structure, aesthetic, color and appeal are all spot on. If you haven't figured it out by now, I will finally admit it - I happen to be obsessed with Marni (between Jacobs and Castiglioni, I cant' decide who I adore more). The colorways put into this look are ridiculously entertaining and have just enough quirkiness and modernity to exude individual style. From my perspective, I'd trade the footwear with loafers to match this berry-hued overcoat. The mustard top and walnut slim trousers all help to keep it clean and no-nonsense. Really, I can't think of a better way to stay stylish in the colder months.
Have a great day! <3
UP NEXT: Highlights from Lucky FABB + The Met Gala
