menswear monday :: men's summer shoes

Happy Menswear Monday! Today we're talking shoes. We think that men have so much less to choose from when it comes to shoes than women. But the truth is that while they are limited in terms of office wear, there are an array of options for men to choose from when it comes to casual and weekend shoes. Today we're showing you some of our favorite summer picks for men ::

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If you're into tennis shoes, how about trying these Nikes for JCrew?

Nordstrom "Tampa" slip-on.

So there you have it; some casual options to give your man Happy Feet this summer! So ditch the flip-flops {except at the beach} and try a more polished look while also staying comfy and cool.

Until tomorrow!

Courtney

Menswear Monday :: Suiting Guidelines

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When it comes to suits, some men are very lost. Let's start with the basic guideline :: Fit is EVERYTHING. It doesn't matter how expensive your suit is, if it doesn't fit correctly it is going to look sloppy. So here are some rules to follow when you're suiting up ::

1) Fit - Your pants should be a "slimfit." This means that they shouldn't have any bulkiness or bunching excess fabric. This only gives the illusion of added weight. The shoulders should be narrow, and the waist nipped.

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2) Length - Trousers should be hemmed to reach the top of a standard dress shoe. Your socks should not show, and you should not have bagginess around your ankles. This gives a sloppy, unprofessional look. Your suit jacket should come down to the first knuckle on your thumb. If your jacket is too short, you will look heavier through the middle.

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3) No contrast stitching. Visible stitching on a suit is okay, as long as it is subtle and the same tone as the actual suit. Contrast stitching looks cheap!

4) Pinstripes :: If you're going for the pinstripe, choose a subtle and understated stripe. A pinstripe that is visible up close, but barely recognizable from afar is a good choice.

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5) Watches :: Never pair a sporty or plastic watch with your suit. Save it for your evening run or weekend activities.

6) Don't over-accessorize. A tie bar, pocket square and lapel pin are not necessary! A rule of thumb -- choose two of the three at most.

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7) Camel vs Brown :: If you have the choice between a chocolate brown and a camel / sandy tan suit, go for the tan. It will prove to be more versatile and flow between seasons more effortlessly.

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8) Polka Dots :: When wearing polka dots, make sure they are big enough to be recognizable and seen, but not so big that they look goofy and cartoon-like.

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So follow these guidelines the next time you're suiting up or shopping for a new suit. You can be sure you're doing it right!

Stylishly Yours

Menswear Monday :: The Do's & Don'ts of Pinks & Purples

Today I'm addressing something many men seem to fear and question :: the pink {or purple} shirt. Many of my male clients do a double-take when I tell them to add a pink or purple dress shirt to their wardrobe, and ask "Are you sure?" Absolutely. There is just something about a man in pink; It shows that he is confident in his style and manhood. Now don't get me wrong -- I'm not suggesting you head out to the nearest store and purchase a magenta or bright purple shirt. There are a few specific rules when it comes to men wearing pinks, purples & pastels ::

1) DO make it subtle. Try a pastel or pale shade of pink, or a plum purple plaid.

These = YES

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This = NO

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2) DON'T extend this rule to the bottoms. A Nantucket Red or deep salmon color is fine; but pale pink or purple pants usually give off the "Easter egg" vibe. Not something you want to do unless it's, well, Easter.

So many things are wrong here!

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3) DO pair with neutrals & darker colors. Wear your pinks and purples with a neutral suit, such as a gray, tan or black. When pairing them with pants, stick to a dark wash jean or neutral khaki. If you're adding a tie, go for something with deeper colors, such as  greens, navy and grays ::

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4) DON'T - Please, no florals! I feel that this rule is best described by the photos below. Need I say more?

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So men, don't be afraid to add a little pastel to your wardrobe. As long as you follow these few simple rules, you will look like a million bucks. We promise!

Menswear Monday

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Happy Menswear Monday! I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend. When it comes to various dress options, men are pretty much left with choosing from a shirt, pants and shoes. A blazer or sweater can add some versatility, but they have nowhere near the amount of choices that us women are faced with daily! From shirts, to dresses, to pants, to skirts to accessories and more, it can be exhausting!

Today I want to highlight a menswear accessory that recently came in the men's Birch Box :: colored laces. Yes, shoe laces. These army green laces replaced the dark brown ones in my husband's oxfords, and both he and I love the look. A colored lace can give men a way to accessorize with their shoes casually while staying classy. Clearly not something designed for a suit and tie affair, but rather with weekend wear and casual occasions. A neutral color like army green is perfect for winter, and you can choose a brighter pop of color for spring & summer.

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Here are some shopping options if you are a man, or shopping for your man ::

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So go ahead and try accessorizing with a colored lace! I can promise you will not be let down. Happy Shopping!

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