Archive for March, 2010

The objective and independent New York City-based Luxury Institute reported the results of the "Best of the Best" luxury brands in the U.S. based on the 2010 Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI) survey. This survey identifies the top brands that deliver true luxury based solely on the unbiased ratings of wealthy U.S. consumers. The following four luxury categories were rated: Women's Fashion (37 brands), Women's Shoes (38 brands), Men's Fashion (32 brands), and Men's Shoes (20 brands).

The LBSI asks high net-worth consumers to rate luxury brands by category across four equally weighted components: Consistently Superior Quality, Uniqueness and Exclusivity, Making the Customer Feel Special Across the Entire Experience and Being Consumed by People Who Are Admired and Respected.
Which luxury providers deliver the best combination of quality, exclusivity, customer experience and peer prestige in the U.S., Europe, Japan and China? Europe, Japan and China results are from late 2009, whereas U.S. results were released in March 2010.
Simply stated, the items are ranked according to quality, exclusivity, customer experience and peer prestige by those individuals who can afford to buy the very best fashion products.

The "Best of the Best" are:

Men’s Fashion
U.S.: 1) Ermenegildo Zegna, 2) Brioni and 3) John Varvatos
Europe: 1) Loro Piana, 2) Ermenegildo Zegna, 3) Giorgio Armani
Japan: 1) Ermenegildo Zegna, 2) Giorgio Armani, 3) Louis Vuitton
China: 1) Giorgio Armani, 2) Louis Vuitton, 3) Dior Homme and Paul Smith (tie)

Men’s Shoes
U. S.: 1) Salvatore Ferragamo, 2) Hermes, 3) Louis Vuitton
Europe: 1) Bottega Veneta, 2) Piaciotti Cesare, 3) Salvatore Ferragamo
Japan: 1) Salvatore Ferragamo, 2) Versace, 3) Giorgio Armani
China: 1) Louis Vuitton, 2) Versace, 3) Giorgio Armani, Brian Atwood and Gucci (tie)

Women’s Fashion
U.S.: 1) Robert Cavali, 2) Hermes, 3) Balenciaga
Europe: 1) Chanel, 2) Valentino, 3) Louis Vuitton
Japan: 1) Hermes, 2) Chanel 3) Louis Vuitton
China: 1) Prada, 2) Yves Saint Laurent 3) Hermes, Gucci, and Dolce & Gabbana (tie)

Women’s Shoes
U.S.: 1) Christian Louboutin, 2) Manolo Blahnik, 3) Zac Posen
Europe: 1)Christian Louboutin, 2) Manolo Blahnik, 3) Jimmy Choo
Japan: 1)Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo, Hermes
China: 1) Salvadore Ferragamo, 2) Gucci, 3) Hermes

Handbags
U.S.: no data available
Europe: 1) Hermes, 2) Chanel, 3) Jimmy Choo
Japan: 1) Hermes, 2) Louis Vuitton, 3) Chanel
China: 1) Hermes, 2) Lulu Guinness, 3) Ferragamo

Milton Pedraza, CEO of the Luxury Institute states "Each year we try to increase the number of brands that are rated by the wealthy and this has brought about some interesting surprises," "Brands that might not be expected to be top-rated by the fashion experts have made the top three. While unexpected, we see consumers as the ultimate experts on brand prestige and this year they are voting on the entire perceived price/value equation of the brand as well as prestige."

The proprietary Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI) survey is the only unbiased measure of the prestige of leading brands among wealthy Americans. A national sample of 1265 wealthy U.S. consumers, half male/half female, with an average household income of $287,000 and average net worth of $3.8 million was surveyed online. Males rated only the men's categories and females rated only the women's categories.

About the Luxury Institute (www.LuxuryInstitute.com)
The Luxury Institute is the uniquely independent and impartial ratings, research and Luxury CRM consulting institution that is the trusted and respected voice of the high net-worth consumer. The Institute provides a portfolio of proprietary publications, research and consulting services that guide and educate high net-worth individuals and the companies that cater to them on leading edge trends, high net-worth consumer rankings and ratings of luxury brands, and best practices. The Luxury Institute also operates LuxuryBoard.com, the world's first global, membership-based online community for luxury goods and services executives, professionals and entrepreneurs.

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How to Buy a Suit: The Complete Video Guide

From dealing with the sales guy to choosing lapels—everything you need to know about buying the perfect suit. PLUS: More tips, brought to life by GQ's editors in a video by Douglas Keeve
By Adam Rapoport
Photographs by Peggy Sirota

You’re about to make a serious investment. But the choices (and not to mention the salesman) can be overwhelming, frustrating, and flat-out confusing.

Building Your Perfect Business Wardrobe

Learn the secrets to dressing for success from the GQ fashion editors
By Paola Kudacki and Tom Schierlitz

Dressing well for the office shouldn’t add stress to your workday. You just need to know the basics. Here are the essential items to add to your closet—and how to wear them. Follow this guide and you’ll assemble an elegant, easy-to-use wardrobe that’ll take you to the top of your game.
Rules: Building Your Business Wardrobe

The Five Suits You Need in Your Closet

1. The Gray Suit
Think of it as the anchor of your business wardrobe—strong, elegant, and always appropriate, whether you're interviewing for your first job or addressing the shareholders at your last. A gray suit looks sharp and clean with a white, soft blue, or light pink shirt but is versatile enough that it'll go with just about anything. Any shade will do, but we recommend a medium gray, like the one this gentleman is wearing. Click on the NEXT button below for the season's best gray suits, in three price points.

2. The Solid Navy Suit
You can't go wrong here. A navy suit is always a safe, classic choice, and it travels seamlessly from the boardroom to an evening out. It lends itself well to almost any shirt-and-tie combination, but to up the elegance factor, pair it with a crisp white shirt, a dark solid tie, and a pocket square (think Cary Grant). Click on the NEXT button below for the season's best navy suits, in three price points.

3. The Solid Black Suit
It used to be that a black suit wasn't a safe choice for the office, but these days it's a staple. Just make sure yours is cut on the slim side and fits correctly. (However you feel about your job, you don't want to look like you work in a funeral home.) Click on the NEXT button below for the season's best black suits, in three price points.

4. The Pin-Striped Navy Suit
A cool classic that exudes confidence. You can anchor it with a solid shirt and tie or get adventurous—like the guy here, who's mixed it with a striped shirt and a striped tie. Just keep the components within one basic-color family and make sure that the stripes of the suit, shirt, and tie aren't too close in scale; one of the patterns should be bold and the other two more muted. Click on the NEXT button below for the season's best pin-striped navy suits, in three price points.

5. The Khaki Cotton Suit
A business wardrobe might consist mostly of dark suits, but spring and summer give you the chance to lighten up (literally). Do it in style with a khaki cotton suit. Pair it with a solid (blue, white, or pink) shirt and a dark tie for the office, then loosen it up (e.g., lose the tie and socks) for an evening out. Click on the NEXT button below for the season's best khaki cotton suits, in three price points.

Suits: Know Your Size
It sounds obvious, but it's not. The most crucial element of a suit is its fit, and not many sales guys understand how a suit should fit or, more specifically, how you want yours to fit. Before you step into a dressing room, get a handle on the various components of a suit.
1) Shoulders:
The suit's shoulders should hug yours. The shoulder pads should not protrude beyond your own shoulders.

2) Chest:
You should be able to easily button the jacket without it straining. Conversely, there shouldn't be too much space between the button and your chest—no more than a fist's worth.

3) Length:
When your arms are hanging straight down, you should be able to cup your fingers under the sides of your suit jacket. However, these days, with shorter suits in style, some jackets reach only about an inch or two beyond the cuff of your suit sleeve.

Suit Buttons
Think about the style of the suit you're buying. The first thing you need to consider is the number of buttons on the suit. This will determine a good deal about the cut and fit.

The three-button suit became the dominant look in the 1990s; it now seems to be the standard young man's choice. Instead of opting for one of those high-cut versions, look for one with a roll-over lapel—one in which you button the middle button, encouraging the soft lapel to roll over the top button.
For years the two-button suit was the go-to conservative, Capitol Hill getup. Now every fashion label imaginable is designing two-button suits, except they're making them more streamlined and modern. This cut is what's most in style right now—and it's the most versatile, looking good on almost every body type.

If you're looking for something rakish, a bit more high-style, try a one-button suit. It's not for everyone, but if you can pull it off, it's a sleek look.

Vents
A center vent is all-purpose; it is both modern and traditional. You can't go wrong.
Side vents are more European, a bit more suave. They also add a little more shape to your suit.

Lapels
A notch lapel—what you see on most business suits—is the standard. You're always safe with a notch lapel. Go for one on the narrow side, which will have a more modern, slimming effect.
A peak lapel is more old-school and elegant. And now it's enjoying a comeback with high-fashion and business crowds alike. It makes a statement. Just don't get them too wide—you don't want to look like a Sopranos extra.

What a Tailor Can and Can’t Do For You
A tailor can make a good suit great, but he can't work miracles. Click on the NEXT button below for the areas you should direct your tailor's attention to.

Shoulders:
If your suit doesn't fit in the shoulders, it's not going to fit anywhere else. Salesmen will tell you they can reduce or reshape the shoulder pads. Don't listen to them.

Pants:
If the pants are an inch or so too tight or too large in the waist, a tailor can usually fix them. But if it's more than an inch, you're asking for trouble

Jacket:
A tailor will usually need to alter the length of the sleeves. Insist that you'd like a quarter inch of shirt cuff to show. The sides of a jacket often need tapering so they contour to your torso. And check out the collar: Many times there is a roll in the back of the suit jacket, up near your neck. A good tailor can correct this.

How To Wear A Double-Breasted Suit

By Michael A. Lubarsky

The cookie-cutter two- and three-button suits are great for everyday wear, but there is no comparison to the swagger of a double-breasted suit. The glamour and heritage of the overlapping suit jacket is the quintessential gentleman’s style. Yet, the double-breasted suit is disappearing from many stores, in another sign that menswear trends have moved too far toward the casual and pedestrian. This may be partly because so few men actually know how to wear the double-breasted suit. This is a shame, because a simple two-button sack suit is far less comfortable.

The following are fashion tips to keep in mind when you're figuring out how to wear a double-breasted suit and bring back a classic look that should never have disappeared to begin with.

Assess your body shape
Like the three-button single-breasted suit, a double-breasted suit looks best on a man of medium or tall build. However, any man can wear the double-breasted, provided the jacket is tailored at the waist. This is the one suit jacket that every man should have tailored to his torso. By bringing in the waistline, the wearer’s shoulders become more prominent. Smaller men can actually benefit from the double-breasted profile. Even if your waistline is wider than your shoulder width, the overlapping lapels can help to hide that waistline spread.

Choose peak lapels
Double-breasted suit jackets should always have peak lapels. Notched lapels were sometimes seen in the early 1990s as designers experimented with various styles and cuts, but the shape of the jacket dictates a peaked lapel that accentuates the shoulders.

Look for 6-button jackets
The smaller the neck opening, or rather the higher the lapels cross over your chest, the greater number of buttons your jacket will have. The double-breasted suit is marked by two rows of vertical buttons. The optimal number is a six-button jacket with two rows of three buttons on the outside and one additional closure button on the inside.

Choose versatile fabrics and colors
The double-breasted suit has always been considered a conservative suit choice, but the style is timeless. It looks best in a fine all-season wool that can be worn from autumn to late spring and into summer. The sheer amount of fabric and coverage in the jacket are not ideal during the hotter months. Choose a dark-blue with either a pinstripe or windowpane pattern. The pinstripe is more formal and can be worn for business or evenings out. The windowpane lightens the profile and adds a dash of sporting athleticism to the cut. If this is your only suit, skip the black wool and go with a solid, dark navy blue that allows multiple tie and accessory options.

Balance the jacket with the trousers
Plain-front trousers have become the norm, but a traditional double-breasted suit demands a trouser with a pleat at the waist and hefty cuffs at the ankle. The suit jacket is simply too imposing and will look top-heavy without the pleat or the cuff.

Coordinate with shirt styles and accessories
A straight collar is acceptable, but take advantage of the broad shoulder profile of this suit and wear a wide-spread collar shirt. The jacket itself hides much of your tie and a spread collar widens the shoulder and neck area, allowing the tie to become an additional focal point.

For more formal events, wear a French-cuffed shirt with cuff links that reflect your personality. Whether or not you wear a French cuff or cuff links, you ought to wear a pocket square. You may feel too dressed up in this casual age, but when has a beautiful woman ever remarked how much she likes a man because he always dresses down? With this in mind, don’t be afraid to learn how to fold a pocket square and add a touch of class to your wardrobe. You can even wear the pocket square when you pair the suit with a dark-colored turtleneck for that quick weekend dinner in the city or last-minute business flight.

EUC CHRISTIAN DIOR LATTE BROWN WOOL DOUBLE BREASTED PEAK LAPEL SUIT 44 R 34 x 32
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NEW NWT Mens SEAN JOHN Double Breasted Charcoal Gray Suit 42L 42 L
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Fashion Tips For Tall Men

By Maggie Kalogeropoulos

Sure, tall men might be good at reaching the top shelf or making that slam dunk, but when it comes to style those with plenty of height to spare face a different set of fashion challenges than others. Pants that are too short, shirts that are too tight and shoes that are too small make dressing a hassle for those over the six-foot mark.

Rest assured, however, that tall men are not doomed to be out-of-date and out-of-style; vertically gifted men, too, can dress as spiffy as their shorter, more fashionable brethren.

And what better place to turn to for fashion tips for tall men than the NBA? Former NBA players and uber-tall fashion experts Jalen Rose and Allan Houston, gave us the lowdown on how to dress your bigger build.

What are the biggest fashion challenges facing tall men?
Allan: If there are clothes you like, you probably wont be able to get it in most places because tall men’s bodies are different. Most of the stuff you see are for men who are a little bit shorter. Even if you’re not athletically built, the height issue makes the difference. It’s easier for shorter men who are even a little wider to find clothes and make them work than it is for tall men.

Jalen: A lot of the time tall men can’t buy stuff off the rack because it doesn’t fit right; it may be too big in the waist or too big in the leg or too small in the ankles. You can’t get the same kind of custom fit as someone who’s “normal” sized. It becomes challenging, but tall guys just have to take a little more time and really take their look seriously. When you’re a tall man, you can’t just grab something and throw it on and have it work -- you have to put thought and effort into it.

The No. 1 fashion rule is about having confidence in your look. You should look in the mirror and accept, like and appreciate what you see. Yes, there are tips you should follow, but for the most part fashion is about your confidence and look. Be the clothes, don’t let the clothes be you.

Should tall men have their clothing custom-made?
Jalen: Ideally, everyone would love to have the opportunity to have tailor-made clothes, but if you can’t do that, the cleaners work just as well, you just have to understand your size.

Allan: There are big and tall stores… but it depends on what you want. Like for me, I’m not all about wearing suits; I like to wear jeans, sweaters and T-shirts, so when you start getting into the different elements of style, clothes gets a little harder to find, and so getting things custom-made becomes one of your only options.

What are the common fashion mistakes tall men make?
Jalen: A lot of the time, tall men might not find things in their size, so they might wear pants or shirts that are too big, or even a hat that’s too big. If you’re tall, you’re trying to compensate for the fact that your pants [for example] don’t fit well in the waist, so you overcompensate with the size.

Allan: There’s just not a lot of stuff out there for tall guys. When you’re tall, you most likely have a build that’s long and lanky, but most clothes aren’t built for that [body type] so most guys wear pants and suits that are too big or too small for their body. This is why you have to get your clothes tailored or custom-made.

Should tall men stay away from things like bright colors and vertical stripes?
Jalen: You can dress for the season; color is universal and it all depends on how you pull it off with the rest of your look. If you’re a tall guy, I don’t think the way you dress can be confined, but there are subtle ways to wear all the looks. There are ways to wear colors, verticals stripes…
Allan: I don’t believe in myths like that. I mean, I wouldn’t wear a bright green shirt with orange pants, but if you have a general idea of what works for you and you have a certain style, that shows me more than what you have on. It shows how you put it together and how you feel in it. That’s really what people see: Someone with confidence in what they’re wearing and how they’re wearing it.

Use common sense when you get dressed. Some men just want to go out there and make a big, bold statement, but if you’re tall you don’t have to do that.

What advice should tall men follow when suit-shopping?
Allan: Don’t be afraid to let the suit really fit your body. Embrace your body type. And I’m picky with ties, so don’t let the suit do all the work, let the tie do more of the work.

Jalen: My favorite quote is by Jay-Z: “So long and lanky, my suit it should thank me.” Your look is all about how you feel, so when you’re shopping, [what you choose] has to be you. Everybody has their own style, some guys like to wear a three-piece suit with a blazer, and some guys might like to wear a “corporate thug look” where you have on your gym shoes with your outfit -- there are many different ways to dress it up and down.

What are the best shoe styles for men with big feet?
Jalen: For dressy gym shoes, you can get into the Louis or the Guccis; for the dress shoes, you can go the gator route; but for everyday shoes, there are tons of brands you can rock, and that’s what makes your look so fly. Having big feet doesn’t tell you what type of shoes you should wear. There are men who like to wear cowboy boots, dress shoes… It all depends on your outfit.

Allan: I don’t like the big, floppy types of shoes, but I think that it’s really a preference thing. It really comes down to being comfortable and to not wearing shoes that make your feet look a lot bigger than they are.

Who are some designers that cater to tall men?
Allan: I used get stuff from Narciso Rodriguez, John Varvatos, Ralph Lauren… You can get a nice pair of jeans from a place called Jean Shop in New York, but as far as designers go, it’s really tough because it’s not really available.

Kevin Willis (who used to play for the Atlanta Hawks) has a line that caters to tall men. He has some jeans that a lot of athletes wear, and they’re as stylish as they’re going to get and they cater to our [tall] body types.

Who are the most stylish tall men?
Allan: LeBron James does a good job… Cuttino Mobley, Kevin Willis…

Jalen: Jalen Rose is a real good dresser! Keyshawn Johnson is a real good dresser, so are Michael Smith and Chris Carter.

Allan Houston retired from the NBA in 2005 after playing with the Detroit Pistons and the New York Knicks. This two-time NBA All-Star and fashion connoisseur stands at 6’6”.

Jalen Rose’s NBA career spanned from 1994-2007, during which time he played for the Chicago Bulls, the New York Knicks and the Phoenix Suns, among others. Jalen was also voted as the NBA’s Best Dressed and is currently the fashion editor at HOOP Magazine. He stands at 6’8”.

FASHION TIPS FOR THIN MEN

By Farah Averill

Unfortunately, not all men are born tall and handsome with naturally built physiques. Nevertheless, while you may not have won the genetic lottery, clothing and grooming choices can go a long way in helping you make the best of what you've inherited. This week, we're focusing on fashion tips for skinny and fat men because both skinny and chunky men can alter their wardrobes in order to flatter their body types and feel more confident in their skin. All you have to do is know yourself.

Many men spend a lot of time dieting and working out to achieve a slimmer physique, all while harboring serious envy for their skinny counterparts who can eat whatever they please without gaining an ounce. Because society tends to equate being lean with being attractive, it's easy to forget that being too thin is a real problem that some individuals face. When it comes to fashion, just as overweight individuals find it tough to buy clothes that are flattering for a larger body, super-slim people experience difficulty finding clothes that fit well and complement their smaller frames.

One way to bulk up is to join a gym and start lifting weights, alongside eating more protein and other foods that will add muscle mass to a bony body. However, don't worry if you hate exercise or can't seem to fit it into your day, because we've put together a collection of fashion tips for skinny men that will help you create the visual illusion of being larger than you truly are.

Buy blazers with small shoulder padding
To make your upper body look more muscular, purchase blazers with light shoulder padding. Be warned that bigger is not better here, as small shoulder pads will give your back and chest a visual boost, but massive padding will make you seem like a small boy lost in a man's jacket in addition to cheapening your look, even if your blazer is pricey.

Avoid slim-fitting shirts
Avoiding slim-fitting dress shirts and T-shirts is an important fashion tip for skinny men. Instead, opt for tops that come away slightly from your midsection, as these will hide a small ribcage. Don't buy your tops too large, though, as too much extra fabric will make you seem like you’re swimming in your shirt. In addition, avoid clingy fabrics. Check the labels on your tops to make sure they don’t contain too much elastic.

Tailor your blazers
Only wear single- or double-breasted blazers and make sure to tailor them so they fit properly throughout your entire body. Avoid any loose fabric under the arms or in the shoulder area. Also, a key fashion tip for skinny men is to keep consistency in your tops and bottoms, so don’t wear oversize blazers or sweaters with fitted pants (or vice versa) or your thin frame will be glaringly apparent.

Wear jackets at the right length
When it comes to jackets, make sure they all fall right under your buttocks. A shorter jacket will emphasize your height as well as your skinny waist, arms and legs. A longer jacket, on the other hand, can make you look like a blanket-covered stick.

Wear flat-front pants
Your pants should have a classic cut and remain simple with a flat front. Go for straight-leg or slightly boot-cut shapes and steer clear of tapered trousers or skinny jeans. Pockets also add a bit more volume to your shape, as do pleats and cuffs, but wear pants with the latter two features only when they’re in fashion. Don't be afraid to wear pants with lines or patterns because these add volume, although you’ll want to banish pinstripes from your closet as they will make you look like a beanpole.

Choose bulky fabrics
Choosing bulkier fabrics for all your clothes is an important fashion tip for skinny men. When in style, thick corduroy pants can beef up your legs. During the colder months, skip out on trends like fitted, grandpa-style cardigans in order to avoid resembling a schoolboy, and try chunky, knitted wool cardigans instead. As far as dress clothes go, select heavier wools for your suits and cotton dress shirts with a higher thread count. Whether you’re dressing up or down, always dress in layers as more clothes means you appear to have more mass.

Wear turtlenecks and crewnecks
When you’re a skinny man, wear turtleneck or crewneck sweaters in chillier weather. V-neck sweaters will expose your neck and thin features. Similarly, open-collared shirts won’t flatter you, so button up your dress shirts as much as possible. Pay attention to the collar when you’re buying dress shirts and pick ones that have spread collars as they will make the upper portion of your chest seem wider.

FASHION TIPS FOR FAT MEN

Unfortunately, not all men are born tall and handsome with naturally built physiques. Nevertheless, while you may not have won the genetic lottery, clothing and grooming choices can go a long way in helping you make the best of what you've inherited. This week, we're focusing on fashion tips for skinny and fat men because both skinny and chunky men can alter their wardrobes in order to flatter their body types and feel more confident in their skin. All you have to do is know yourself.

The best way to look great in the long-term when you’re overweight is to lose excess weight with the help of a proper diet and exercise program. Once you start dropping pounds, your clothes will fit better and your confidence will increase along with your motivation to try new fashions and styles.

Since there’s no reason to put off looking good until you reach your goal weight, we’ve put together a few fashion tips to help you make the most of your shape right now and create a slimmer-looking physique.
Ensure your clothes aren’t too tight

Your clothes should fit perfectly. Garments that are too tight will reveal all the lumps and bumps you’d rather not draw attention to. On the other hand, while very loose clothing will hide your problem areas, it will also make you look larger than you actually are. Take care when shopping to choose pieces that skim over your body and smooth out its surface.

Don’t wear tops with sloped shoulders
Avoid tops with naturally sloped shoulders as these tend to draw the eye down to your midsection. Instead, check to make sure that all your tops have slightly squared shoulders as these will concentrate others’ attention on your body to your chest and face.

Don’t wear bold patterns
Avoid loud or bold patterns as they will make you stand out in addition to drawing attention to the upper half of your body. One pattern you should wear, however, is vertical lines; they create optical continuity and will help elongate the look of your body. Dark, solid colors are also your new best friend as they are an instant figure fixer and will make you seem 10 pounds thinner.

Wear low-rise bottoms
Instead of wearing trousers and jeans that hit at your waist, invest in low-rise bottoms that sit on your hips. Low-rise trousers have a shorter distance between the top of the waistband and the crotch of your pants than regular trousers. Also, ensure that the waistband of your pants is large enough to accommodate your midsection so that your belly does not stick out over your pants. A stomach that protrudes over your pants lengthens your torso and shortens your legs -- not exactly the most attractive combination. Rotund individuals should also avoid pants with pleats as they will make your pelvic area look bigger.

Empty your pockets
Don’t carry around excess baggage. Emptying your pockets of unnecessary items like bulky cell phones, overstuffed wallets and electronic devices will take the focus off a large midsection. On your pants, have any bulky side pockets sewn shut or removed by a good tailor. Doing so won’t cost much and it will make your hips appear smaller.

Wear V-neck shirts
V-necks are a great way to create the illusion of a slimmer neckline, particularly if you have a double chin, as they place emphasis on your chest area instead of on your neck. When it comes to dress shirts, choose ones with very pointed collars to focus others’ attention on your face. Avoid turtlenecks completely as they will make your neck disappear, meaning that you’ll look shorter and, therefore, bigger.

Wear three-button blazers
Avoid one- and two-button blazers. Instead, go for blazers with three buttons. They are just as classic as two-button blazers, but they will elongate your body and make you appear taller and, therefore, thinner. As well, always leave the top button on your blazer undone as it will stop your clothes from pulling, particularly in the area around your middle, and consequently, your movement will seem less restricted.

Stand up straight
It’s a tried-and-true tip: Work on your posture. Standing up as straight as possible will make you look like you just dropped 10 to 15 pounds and will also make you feel and act more confident -- a trait that most people find quite attractive. To appear even slimmer, buy shoes with a small heel of about half an inch to one inch.

Avoid bulky blazers
Avoiding bulky fabrics means that chunky wool sweaters are a big no-no. To stay warm in the winter, go crazy for cashmere as it provides warmth without adding bulk to your figure. Or, try a dress shirt and V-neck sweater vest combination as the sweater vest will keep you warm while also smoothing out your midsection and love handles. For suits, choose softer wools so that the fabric is as thin as possible. Invest in high-quality, lightweight wool suits if you can afford them as these will be the most flattering suits for your body and you’ll feel and look like a million bucks when you put them on.

Wear pants with a longer hem
Wear your pants long to seem taller and thinner. They should hit almost at the ground to really lengthen your body. If you’re wearing shoes with a heel, the bottom of your pants should hit about a quarter to a half inch above the heel, no more.

WHAT TO WEAR
Whatever your body type, play up your best features and de-emphasize those you don’t love quite as much. Dress to flatter your shape, but don’t try too hard as you don’t want to look like a bald man who uses a comb-over to hide his flaws -- only to emphasize his problem areas.

Fashion Tips for the Short Man

The Short Man
Don’ts:
• Don’t wear a longer suit jacket. It just makes your legs look shorter.
• Don’t wear fat ties and wide lapels; keep it slim.
The 5 Tips Every Short Man Should Know
1) Be honest with yourself. Admit you’re short and buy short-length suits.
2) A pant leg with very little break will help you look taller.
3) Show some cuff to lengthen the look of your arms.
4) A peak lapel helps elongate your physique.
5) A lower button stance creates long lines, and that essentially stretches you out.
A Belt Makes You Look Shorter…
The more pared-down you are, the taller you’ll appear. So ditch the belt. Going beltless looks cool, and if your suit fits properly, your pants will stay in place.
Short Man, Slim Shoe
You don’t want to look like you’ve got weights around your ankles. Wear slender shoes.

The rules of style for men

By Niamh O'Rourke

As London Fashion Week kicks off, stylist Niamh O’Rourke gives her essential tips for the modern male

It's the film the fashion world has been breathless anticipating. And legendary Gucci designer Tom Ford didn't disappoint with his debut as a director.
A Single Man is a visual feast, beautifully shot and featuring an impeccably styled Colin Firth. His character may be in the throes of despair but he certainly wears a crisp white shirt well

Set in the 1960s, A Single Man, which is in cinemas now, is bound to be as influential on men's fashion as the extraordinary stylish drama Mad Men, which takes place during the same era - a golden age for men's fashion.

A word of warning, though boys. You have probably got used to your better half extolling the sartorial virtues of MM's Don Draper, with his slim-cut check suits, crisp shirts and narrow ties. Now you'd better prepare yourself for a real dressing down when you bring her to see Colin in all his glory.
But we've got a little help for you. Regardless of the latest trends there are still three key rules for the stylish man. Whether you're a street chic blogger who prides themselves on being ahead of the curve or a refined gent who appreciates a little luxury, sartorial salvation is in the detail.
Rule number one -- consider your choice of shoes carefully, they say a lot about who you are.

Secondly, it's worth investing in tailoring. Suiting is all about the fit, fabric and finish. You need to be patient in your search and be prepared to stretch the budget. A well cut suit will play a key role in your wardrobe so don't underestimate its payback.

Finally, rough and ready or slick and sharp, grooming is important so give your skin, hair and nails a little TLC.
Now that the basics are in order, what does menswear have to offer us for Spring /Summer 2010?

Double breasted jacket
According to Paul O'Connor, the menswear buying director for Brown Thomas, the double-breasted jacket or the 'DB' is this season's key piece. That said they're not for everyone and you need to have a trim tummy to pull this one off.
In place of the usual six or four-button version, this season's is a very low, two-buttoned offering. The shape is soft and the cut is short. To wear it well, team with a basic T-shirt or fine knit and a slim-fitting chino or jean.

Carrot leg chino
There's something a little disconcerting about using a vegetable to describe a garment, but this is the term that's doing the rounds; the 'carrot' leg silhouette.
Basically it's a slim-fitting, tapered trouser. Good in denim, but great as a chino, this looks super cool with a rolled-up end for a knowing nod to the '50s.

Dark indigo denim
When it comes to jeans, dark indigo are the way to go. Swedish label Acne does a great slim silhouette while Paul Smith's offerings are perfect for a more classic cut.

Checks
This street chic trend is here to stay. From the high-end Dsquared and D&G to the more accessible Topman and French Connection, the check shirt is fitting very comfortably into the '50s revival.

Go for a country'n'western feel with popper buttoning and piped trim. Alternatively, Gordon Richardson, Topman design director advises a short-sleeved hooded version to keep the look fresh.

Checks are not to be limited to the canvas of a shirt. Suits and jackets in everything from Prince of Wales to hounds tooth and gingham are all fair game.

Grey
This season, grey is the hue of choice. A light silvery tone to be precise. Mix with dark colors and discrete textures for an understated vibe. Alternatively, this neutral color works perfectly with pastels.

If you have a phobia of color, introduce it into your wardrobe gradually in the form of a lightweight scarf, shirt, pocket handkerchief or subtle trim.

Accessories
Thick-framed glasses
Accessories are paramount when it comes to putting an individual twist on any look.
If you see yourself as cool enough to carry off any trend that comes your way, then a pair of heavy horn-rimmed glasses will establish your confidence.
These have been knocking around on the noses of the cool kids for quite a while now, but with Colin Firth sporting his very retro pair in A Single Man, you'll realize this trend is just about to take off.
In terms of sunglasses, it's the season of the classic shape, particularly aviators.

Brogue
The ubiquitous brogue can be either comfortingly classic or boldly retro, depending on the style you choose.
If you want to keep it classic, go for a traditional shape like a pair of Church's or Tricker's, both are quintessentially English brands steeped in craftsmanship.

If you want to go down the more flamboyant road, go for a bright color or two-tone option. This solid piece of footwear will be the lynchpin of your wardrobe.

Luxury holdall 'v' shopper
Always a talking point, the man bag can be a point of consternation. According to Gordon Richardson, "the luxury holdall will finish off any look".
This doesn't mean you need to go out and spend a fortune on a calfskin version by Etro but it does mean that it's a far cry from your gym kit bag.
Asos has a great selection for under €40 that plays the part perfectly. For a more contemporary look, Paul O'Connor suggests the shopper, a tote shape that every level of label from Prada to Acne is a fan of.

If trends play no more of a part in your wardrobe than a blue glitter shoe, then check out the following timeless pieces to keep your look polished.
Dark indigo jean: This is a smart version of a casual classic that is a great multi-tasker. Avoid boot cut and go for a classic straight leg like those by Paul Smith.

Brogue: You can never go wrong with a classic brogue. Opt for muted tones and a rounded toe.

Suit: An impeccably tailored suit will take you places. Try Canali for a classic broad fit or Prada or Paul Smith for something more slimline.

Trench or Mac: A belted trench like the Burberry classic in stone or camel is the perfect spring overcoat.
Crisp shirt complete with cufflinks and collar bones: Try Thomas Pink on Dublin's Dawson Street for a vast selection.

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The world of fashion has developed with the changing taste of an increasingly fashion conscious market. These days, one can find several brands of designer clothes in the market. Designer clothes are no longer meant only for women. One can find new, exciting designer menswear too. Giorgio Armani and Vivien Westwood are the makers of some excellent designer clothes. Designer clothes for men are not restricted to garments. Designer labels today produce designer men’s bags, designer men’s belts, and even designer men’s swimwear and underwear.

With the advent of the Internet, one can find all sorts of men’s fashion gear online. There are a few online stores which sell various men’s designer clothes. However apart from a few, there aren’t many online fashion stores that sell so many known designer brands all at the same time.

A man who cares about quality and style should have plenty of cool designer men’s clothes to choose from on the internet. Fashion savvy shoppers can check the catalogues of quality online stores to find the latest collections such as high quality designer jackets by Armani, Brioni, Gucci, Isaia, Kiton and Lanvin. Designer labels of this and other brands have enjoyed huge popularity among fashion conscious men.

A Designer men’s jacket can also make an excellent gift for someone you care about. If you’re a lady looking to purchase a cool designer jacket for your man then you could check the latest collection by Armani, Brioni, Gucci, Isaia, Kiton and Lanvin. Tom Ford is also an excellent maker of designer jackets that strives to creates, individual and fresh looks.

Designer hats are perhaps a niche market in the men’s fashion industry. Designer hats may not be as popular as designer jeans or jackets in terms of market share, however hats do have a steady portion of the designer menswear market.

So why is designer menswear so popular? Why do we buy the authentic designer garment and not the cheaper copy that looks identical? It’s a simple question with a simple answer. Designer labels are popular because they command quality, style, elegance and inspiration. They may be more expensive than standard clothing, but they set the standards where others follow. Designer clothes are constantly under the threat of cheap copies. This is the reason that in most western countries the production and sales of copies are illegal and rightly so. A civilized society protects creativity in order to stimulate more of it. Designer men’s labels such as Hugo Boss, Ermenegildo Zegna and Giorgio Armani are around because of their creativity and innovation as well as quality and elegance. Designers of such labels strive to constantly create new elegant and cool looks.

The next time you want to buy a sport coat, blazer or suit you may want to spend a little more and go for the real deal. You will feel better wearing it!

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