One of the top essentials in my closet right now is my trenchcoat (or one of them anyway). From short to long and every length in between, this piece of outerwear is an incredibly stylish way to embrace the cooler temps right now. And what a great way to accentuate the male or female silhouette! Check out these examples in different lengths, materials, and weights.
One of the easiest ways to remain fashionable with minimal effort is the crewneck sweater. Perfecty at home with denim or pants, button-down or not, tenis/zapatos/ o aun botas, it just works. Depending on the material (cotton/wool/cashmere/etc), you can dress it down or up respectively. Sometimes I go button-down, sometimes not. Usually dressier kicks I’d recommend the button-down underneath. Important to note: make SURE you have collar stays as you look ridiculous if your shirt collar flattens like a pancake over the top of the sweater. Check out examples below and note the differences.
The cooler temps are no reason to forsake the importance of always sporting the right timepiece. With so many options available, there’s no excuse to rock a super-bright joint that belongs exclusively in the summer or spring. Now is the time to begin pulling out the more subdued metals, leathers, and other materials. One needs to be on top of their watch game in the cooler seasons because at some point, that jacket or trench has to come off (once you duck into starbucks or borders on a chilly day for example) and nothing looks worse than a naked or ill-decorated wrist. Note the examples below and enjoy the phasing out of super brights for the stylish understatement of more subdued colors.
PS: Vintage pieces don’t hurt either.
With fall nearly here, it’s time to start rocking that oh-so angst-ridden material that the Seattle-grunge gents made so popular: flannel! This is some that, like it’s cousin, plaid, needs to be done carefully because nobody wants to look EXACTLY like Cobain (r.i.p. but dude looked like he smelled). Check out the examples below and note the commentary for each.
(The charcoal and black work well together to downplay the flannel pattern and note how the model rocks the shirt with sleeves rolled/bunched. Perfect way to pull off the ‘boyfriend’ look that’s so hot right now!)
(These two are classically feminine hoodies with the flannel print that sets them perfectly in the fall season.)
(These are two flannel shirts that are slimmer fitting to accentuate the beauty that is the female form. Very autumn yet very sexy.)
(This is that ‘new-flannel’ look that only the fashionably confident gents can pull off. When you pair it with denim that highlights one of the colors in the shirt, you’re making your mark and screaming style!)
(This black flannel shirt is the perfect partner to some raw indigo or black denim and black suede kicks. Equally at home with or without blazer, you can throw on a solid black tie and turn your fashion dial up a notch!)
(These two gray flannel shirts are just fine with a pair of black khakis or black denim and some oxfords or understated gym shoes. Throw on a topcoat or military jacket and brave the concrete jungle.)
And already we’re seeing the temps drop (at least here in Chicago and other areas that experience the four seasons). That means it’s time to start donning lightweight jackets again! Yay! Here’s where one of my favorite combinations come in:
the motorcycle jacket ,
a hoodie,
denim,
and high-tops
or stylish boots.
The reason I love this combo right now is because many stores are carrying moto jackets at lower prices than they will in a couple of months, so you can grab maybe two jackets (perhaps a lighter hue, and a darker hue) for about the price you’ll pay for just one later on. The great thing about the moto jacket is that it goes with so many options. Throw a tee on underneath if it’s a bit warm for the hoodie, or rock a button-down and tie if you want to dress it up a bit. The shoes need to match the general aesthetic though. For example, if going super casual up top (i.e. Tee or hoodie), feel free to wear more outlandish footwear (filas/pumas/nikes/etc). But when you decide to dress it up a bit (ex: button-down with/without tie), try some beautiful Italian boots or some understated hi-tops (supra/Calvin Klein/kenneth cole/Ralph lauren/etc).
*Optional, but HIGHLY recommended* I almost always go with some sort of neckwear depending on the top (scarf, tie, etc.)
*Bonus* For dramatic style points, go with the following:
Moto jacket.
A-tee or slim-fitting tank underneath.
Denim.
Ignorant footwear.
If you’re looking for unique forms of art, why not check out hong kong based coarse toys. Headed by the visionary artist Mark Landwehr, their current series ‘in a spotless world’ was features not too long ago right here in Chicago at rotofugi art gallery/store. Whenever you hear about a new product from these guys dropping, be sure to jump on it soon because they always sell out immediately. I’m sure these examples will demonstrate why. You can always see the latest showcase over at coarsetoys
One of my favorite parts about the fall and winter is the ability to layer my outfits with sweaters. In the summer season, however, wool is out of the question as are all other heavy materials. This is where the light-weight sweater comes in. Usually of a cotton or cotton/wool blend, these breezy babies are just what the dr ordered when the temperature is 75+. I always caution against anything underneath that’s heavier than an a-tee (guys) or undergarment (girls unless the plunge of the garment or other circumstance requires something of greater substance) because it’s still a sweater. If the occasion calls for it (i.e. It being hotter than a well digger’s behind), you’re more than welcome to roll up the sleeves. Rolled sleeves also make the light-weight sweater mesh well with shorts and sockless shoes so you may want to do that even in the evening when the blazing heat has subsided. With sleeves down or up, throw some variety into your weekly rotation with the light weight sweater.
One of my favorite patterns right now is plaid or checked. Depending on how tightly (or loosely) compressed the checks are, it can look like anything from twill to nearly solid. The seasonal versatility is high as well since all you have to do in order to transition from summer to fall is modify the pallette (for example, go from brighter hues to more subdued and darker ones). It’ll even last through the winter! And the more vintage the vibe, the more sophisticated the look. If you’re not sure where to begin, grab some burberry. They’ve had the checked pattern down forever and know exactly how to do it right! However you go about it, just make sure you don’t over do it (no checked shirt AND checked tie por ejemplo…) because you don’t want to look like you just came in from chopping down a tree 
Told you burberry was the way to go! This skirt can be paired with complementing pieces that highlight any of the colors found within the design.
Great for fall or winter, this white and black plaid jacket is a beautiful and classic essential for every lady’s wardrobe.
The subtle check in this suit isn’t too busy so you can wear a more daring pattern in the tie.
Plaid high-waist trousers are a welcome change from all of the neutral pieces we’ve seen as of late.
Couldn’t resist this plaid skirt. Note how well it pairs with the fitted top and red fingernails!
If only these joints came in my size!
Just a simple plaid dress reminiscent of those summer vacations you took with the family.
At only $200, this plaid short trench for us screams style and confidence!
Another piece that needs to be in every closet: The arabic scarf. Usually plaid anyway, this is a great piece that can be worn in a myriad of different ways all year long!
Simple. Stylish. Checked button down. Pair this with a solid tie and denim or dressier slacks and make ya mark.
BoHo is a go with this dress/belt/boots ensemble!
Plaid top/highlighting belt/solid skirt *sigh* beautiful simplicity!
Ah, the fitted short-sleeve button down. Why not do it differently and embrace the checked pattern?
Alot of people have been skeptical about rocking black in the summer (about as skeptical as many are about wearing white denim), even after reading my previous post ‘black on black’ done a while back. Truth is, black brings a dark sexiness to the summer wardrobe as well! You do have to be careful of fading since this can completely destroy the beauty of it. Also, like any color, this is not to be overdone. Goth isn’t a good look for anybody. If you’re trying to ease into it, try swapping some black denim in for an outfit where white denim was yor first choice. Or trade a black top/dress where you were going to wear a gray one. This time I’ve decided to display entire outfits as examples, sound good? Good. Now let’s begin
Ejemplo A :
Statement tee. Simple. Sexy.
Black cuffed shorts go perfectly with the edgy statement tee. Swap the heels for some hot sandals or hightops if desired.
This reversible jacket perfectly compliments the tee’s red accents and simutaneously stops the world from knowing you’re cold, dig?
Ejemplo B:
Pair this plunging v-neck with either of the following bikini tops for a perfect way to stand out this summer without being too outrageous.
Or…
Then add this chunky geometric bracelet…
And finally top it off with super skinny denim that bunches at the bottom!
Ejemplo C:
Joan jett all the way baby! Start it off right with this bangin’ jacket! Then…
This pink/white/black tee or…
This multi-colored/black/artsy one. Next…
In keeping with the rocker aesthetic, these studded hoops.
Add this huge diesel bag (almost duffel-like in appearance, no?)
This is a purely optional piece, but since you’re a rockstar, why not?
Now for us…
Number 1:
College lettered cardigan gives you a ‘home for summer break’/ ‘Almuni’ vibe. The white tee that dude is sporting is great for summer because if it gets warm, ditch the cardigan and the rest of the outfit will still keep its freshness.
Maintain that student/professor look with this key-charm KR3W necklace. Not sure why, but it just looks great with that particular cardigan.
These raw black jeans and classic kicks are the finishing touches (notice the patent detail on the denim).
Number 2:
The exposed and contrasting pocket makes this tee stand out from the rest of the gents living in t-shirts this summer.
Graphic watches are to be done in moderation, but this one meshes well with this ensemble, trust me.
Washed black is very different from crap that got faded because you washed it wrong. This is more of a charcoal and breaks up the deep black of the previously mentioned t-shirt without contrasting as much as a black and white combination.
End it with these super-slick onitsuka tigers with ‘Tokyo’ right on the back.
Example 3:
This example starts with a modern fit black suit and white button-down with an optional tie (there should be no need for explanation for this one)…
The ensemble takes a turn with patent hi-tops. Make SURE they’re patent! Since patent leather is more suit/tuxedo like, it won’t be as ‘out-there’ as normal hi-tops.
I’d personally go with this rubber player for a break from the normal leather. The shine of the diamond as well as the hardened crystal face will match the shine of the patent kicks.
Some materials are season-specific (I’m of course speaking for areas like chicago/new-york/etc that experience climate change). This can definitely be said of canvas. It’s usually regulated to warm weather, at least when it comes to footwear and accessories. I’d love to see more of either sex in this stylish material because it’s not only different, but mad chic as well! Instead of rocking the traditional leather (belt/bag/shoes/wallet/etc.) why not try canvas? It’s much more breathable and lightweight (great when it comes to those shoes at the summer wedding or eight that are coming up), and will definitely show off your fashion-versatility. Check out the following examples.
PS: If you’re wondering about when it’s appropriate to go sockless gentlemen, remember this rule of thumb: If the shoes have no lining, you can do without the socks. This includes dressier varieties such as oxfords, etc.
(These L’UNO’s in black or white by Gourmet are perfect for summer! I can’t get over the unique design with the cutout sections. Sick and stylish.)
(The nixon Time Teller P is great in any color but this canvas variety is specific for the warmer weather. Rock this with a canvas belt at the summer wedding. It’s black on black so it’s a more subtle statement.)
(The canvas belt is a great alternative to the heavier leather. When wearing to the office, wear one with a color or two that’s reflected in your jacket. The slick way a canvas belt can highlight a color elsewhere in an outfit is a definite head-turner!)
(A simple change in upper material can completely change up an outfit. Check out these canvas oxfords that would go well at the office, at the wedding, or even with denim on a night out with your baby! And yes, the same sockless rule applies here.)
(For a more dramatic statement in canvas, try a bold striped band timepiece like this one by lacoste.)
(If you notice, the belt for this dress is full-canvas. Since the belted dress is so hot right now, why not change the normal leather or patent belt out for a canvas one?)
(Canvas doesn’t have to be regulated to regularly found places either. Just look at these sexy red strappy sandals!)
(This is one of the better examples of canvas I’ve seen. This lightweight bright dandelion jacket is just what the doctor ordered for the summer!)
BAGS:
With so many bag options I decided to devote the last section to them. Enjoy the following examples.
(The vertical sling is for those men that can pull it off ONLY. Otherwise, you’ll look like you’re carrying a man-purse.)
(This may be one of my favorite messenger bags ever! Carrying this and you’ll look like you just came back from south africa on a business trip. Very ‘Upgraded Indiana Jones’ looking, no?
