Inspired by Post of 27/03/12

It has been pointed out by a few people that yesterday I was in an uncommonly bitchy mood and also on some very thin ice, particularly as I may be guilty of occasionally having t-shirts printed for friends and myself when we are about to go on tour...I say to my detractors and in my defence - What goes on tour, stays on tour!!  Alright, it's not all comedy t-shirts it's the one idiot from the other night who inspired my post, my rage and my amnesia for my own witty t-shirt shenanigans.  Honestly though this bloke was enough to cause anyone to lose the plot and possibly their lunch. (vile)

Onto, lighter and brighter fashion banter.  So this got me to thinking about bias, what causes it? how strong it can be as a motivator? and what we might lose out on because of it? (I know Mum, my grammar)  We all have some degree of bias in our fashion choices, whether it is due to a belief that we have terrible legs, that must remain covered or a belief that we have fabulous arms that should be shared with the world (you know that wasn't arms, when I first wrote the sentence but I thought I'd try for a more unisex option).  Either way it is doubtful to be true because nothing is uniformly true and being comfortable will always make you look more stylish, as well as the fact that incremental changes can make unmeasurable difference.  Take those imperfect pins, so the shape is wonky and the colour pasty, let me tell you a secret the people who notice, aren't worth your notice.  They are like me yesterday, angry at something else and taking it out on everyone else.  Bully's and bitches, people are their own biggest problem.  So my advice is whatever you know to be true, check in case things have changed in the time you weren't looking.  Try a different option and see if it might add a little something to your sartorial weapons chest, giving you a whole new style card to play.  Might even be the ace in the hole.

No excuses, it's just wrong.

Usually the fashion choice of youngish men and girls who haven't worked out their chest will attract attention anyway, the Comedy t-shirt makes me cringe.

Don't misunderstand, I love a printed T-shirt but I'm talking about pattern or a particularly recognisable slogan or logo, something that is recognisable but not distracting.  I'll be honest if I wanted something to read, I'd have picked up a paper on the way to the pub, for that does seem to be where you see the most of them.  Maybe that is my problem with them, I want to know what they say and invariably don't want to be caught staring at the person wearing it.  I understand the principal of irony and all the other excuses, but lets be honest the problem with people who 'reject fashion' and go their own way is that invariably they all look the same and it isn't a good look.  The reality is that these t shirts cost more and are worse quality than most things available on the Highstreet, and they detract from who you are.  Having said that if you feel the most interesting thing about you can fit into a slogan on a t-shirt then maybe it's the right choice for you. (That's harsh but fair).  So next time you see a slogan that you think perfectly describes you buy the fridge magnet version and spend the rest of your money on anything else.

There are so many better ways of telling people who you are than these obvious and invariably offensive articles of clothing.  Illustrating an affiliation, to a band or even an experience you had, is more interesting and might even be the start to a conversation.  Don't let the people judge you unfairly just because it's wash day.  People may look at the slogan and think "hah, funny", but they aren't going to talk to you because of it.

Relegate these t shirts to the pyjama or gym only pile, please for my sake.  They bring out my bitchiest tendencies and this is not a side of myself I like very much.

Trends I just love...

 
For me spring summer is a chance to exemplify your personality through fashion, when you are less concerned with battling the elements you have the opportunity to focus on the types of clothes you actually really like.  You can show your style personality and open yourself up to the world.  The focus stops being on covering every inch of skin and moves to the details, as finally they will no longer be covered by coats and scarves.

This season there is a movement towards clean and elegant lines, many designers seem to be influenced by the simple but geometric, elegance of the 20's.  The thing about simple elegance though is the details are on show, there is little distraction from imperfections.  However, this gives you the opportunity to have some fun with wilder patterns and more exciting accessories.  I love jewellery (huge surprise) but this season there are fabulous pieces around that can add so much to all your favourite outfits.  It's a great understated way of adding interest to both your work and casual wardrobes.  By making your clothing choices slightly more of a blank canvas these pieces will be showcased and you'll get the compliments you deserve.

I spoke to a client this week who I recently did some work for and her comment was, "It's the little details that make so much difference to the way I feel."  This is so true, because actually all clothes make an outfit of some description but it is tying the pieces together that causes the impression of a stylish and confident individual.  The easiest way to do this is think about where you want people attention to be drawn too and what you want people to glance over.  If you hate your bust, then don't have a pendant sitting on it, if you'd rather people didn't look at your stomach due to a heavy weekend then don't put a belt under it.  Bags are the ultimate distraction and this season, if you are making a purchase I would push you towards buying a signature piece, by this I mean a bag that draws attention, anything but black or brown (blah!), I'll put money on the fact you have those covered so welcome to the world outside the box - now start thinking.  Bright colours, interesting shapes, embellishments, exotic skins/prints - Don't chose the safe option if you are going to spend your money, do so on a work of art that isn't seasonal and you will enjoy for much longer, not only that it'll work harder for you and you'll get more out of it.

What a be-A-utiful day!

 It's here, it's here!!  The sun is back, my sunglasses went on, the roof came off my car (don't worry it's supposed to, I didn't get carried away with an angle grinder)  It snuck up on me a little this year, I was going to get the old pins out today and then realised that I was both glow in the dark pale and thanks to the gym seriously bruised.  (Not a look I would recommend) Pale is perfectly acceptable but bruised really does send the wrong message.  So what are the alternatives for those not blessed with legs they feel comfortable showing?  As I was having lunch outside today I took the opportunity to have a little look at the choices some people had decided to make.  What I saw, naturally raised more questions than answers, as is so often the case when you watch the general public, you may have noticed.

From the young lady who didn't get the sun memo and was clearly dressed for mid winter, thick tights and scarf, she did not look comfortable. To the pre-requisite sandal and sock situation, which I will never understand but is tradition so I will say nothing.  I love a flirty summer skirt, I think they look effortlessly chic and the patterns that are available this season mean that whatever your pins look like you'll look great.  Never forget that you can use fabric and style to distract from things you don't like about yourself, without having to suffer in full coverage.  If you do feel that you aren't ready, or just plain don't want to uncover for the sun, remember that natural fabrics are every inch your friend.  They are the cheapest air conditioner you can find.

This may not be the best thought out or most cohesive set of thoughts I've ever had but I did have a really nice day in the sun.

Wardrobe malfunction.

It can happen to the best of us, but it is the way you deal with it that either makes it a huge drama or an amusing anecdote to tell another time.  (Unless of course it's a planned malfunction to satisfy your need for attention, in which case, I can't help you.)  People are invariably kind and will not judge you for the fact that the Karma fairy has decided to make you look silly.  I have a million of these stories.  There was the day I was all dressed up and flouncing around Selfridges only to be informed by a Security Guard that the ink from my paper was smudged across my forehead or the day my trousers split in a not dissimilar fashion to the woman in the image above, not to mention countless coffee stains and the occasional broken heel.  It happens, it usually happens at the worst possible time but how you deal with it, will make the difference.  Maybe because I am clumsy and the Karma fairy and I seem to run into each other slightly more often than most, I've got a fairly good coping mechanism.  I laugh and shrug it off - fix what I can and forget about what I can't.  Take as an example, a man with an open fly, zip or button it and forget it, don't then constantly check your flies because at that point you look like a bit of a weirdo, not to mention all that fidgeting is really distracting and makes you look even more uncomfortable, which makes other people nervous, especially if they came in later and don't know why you are playing with yourself.

If it's a slightly more dramatic wardrobe malfunction, like a split seam.  You have one option ask for help, someone will have something you can use for a short term fix, I am not suggesting you stand on a chair and yell, "Is there a seamstress in the house?" but quietly ask, there is no need to draw attention to the problem in order to fix it.  For example the woman in the image above would have a short term fix if she just pulled her top down over the problem, no one would have been any the wiser and her bum would not be immortalised on the internet.

So when it happens take a deep breath, fix what you can and just get on with your day.

Fashion voice

Sometimes I make a throw away comment that gets me into trouble and sometimes I make a comment in a throw away fashion that sticks in my head and becomes an idea.  This is one of those.

Some people have a very specific style, they make a decision and stick to it whole heartedly, it is part of their identity.  This is a fast route to a style rut, lets be honest, it's like learning set phrases in a foreign language you may get 2 beers and directions to the town hall but when you want to try something different, you are either going to be frustrated or disappointed.  When you look at women you think are stylish, do they always look the same or do they tweak their look to offer a different perspective.  Are they always wearing new clothes or does it just look as if they are because of the alternative way they have chosen to put things together?  This is someone with a Fashion Voice, they have something to say that invariably others want to hear.  Those are the people who manage to make a mass produced item look like an original, purely because they play with their clothes, just to see what might work.

Today I went on a magical mystery tour to Clevedon and discovered a shop with one of the clearest fashion voices, I've ever heard.  It was a clarion call, they know exactly who they are and have a really strong personal image to go with it.  I was, as they say, impressed.  I met the owner and you can tell that the premise of her business is selling products that she loves to people she finds it interesting to meet.  You know I love anyone prepared to go the extra mile and I just got the feeling that for her the extra mile is the least she is prepared to do.  So if you find yourself in the area do drop in or I've poppedd a link to their website below.

Twenty Four Shoes

I know it is not often that I advertise or endorse, products or services but I think this one is absolutely worth while and I can trust that you'll receive the same treatment that I did.

 

Fashion and functionality for sport

     

Whatever your workout preference, be it hard core or a simpler walk around the park - everything is easier when you feel comfortable and a little bit stylish.  Achieving a goal is hard work and rewarding yourself by ensuring that you feel good whilst doing it is something to be commended.  Not to mention the fact that technological advancements in fabric, mean that there are now items out there that will not only enhance your workout but also aid in your recovery.  I'm a big fan of anything that stops the bad and enhances the good, where the bad is legs that feel like someone has attached lead to your skeleton and the good is that feeling you get straight after a workout, where you feel tall, strong and empowered by your achievements. (Even if that achievement is just getting started)

So allow me to introduce you to a few helping hands that I have discovered over the years, I'm not a fitness expert but I know I workout more effectively and am less distracted when my clothes aren't an issue.  

1. Here is a simple truth, no one else cares what you look like in the gym, the only person focused on you, is you. 
2. Compression leggings will help your legs from feeling like they are going to die half way through, Skins are the best known but most companies now make these garments but they are worth making an investment in, as you want them to be effective.
3. Bamboo makes for really soft, comfortable workout clothes - that treat your skin a little more kindly.
4. That enormous t shirt, is not hiding anything and just makes you feel gross.
5. Why should you feel any differently about yourself in the gym than you do in the office, you've still got a job to do.
6. It is not always necessary to push harder, sometimes working smarter will have more effect.
7. After a workout your body needs protein for repair, not crisps for a treat.

As I stated I'm not a fitness expert, I can't tell you the best way to achieve your goals in this arena but I can promise you that setting them will really make a difference.  I can also tell you that it is vital that you reward your hard work, one of the easiest ways to do this is celebrating your new body by putting it in a better wardrobe.  When you feel better, you look better and in truth that can also be reversed.

When things are flying take a step back

 Do you remember when Saturdays were about this?
When you'd wake up with a rye grin about the fact the most stressful thing you'd have to do is maybe roll over?  Let's be honest those days died the second you got a smart phone for more than checking your Facebook.  Saturdays have become about doing all the jobs you didn't quite manage in the week plus the events that everyone books in for Saturday because it's every body's 'day off'.  I'm exhausted just reading my diary for today let alone thinking about how to accomplish all of it and still look like, well... tonight Matthew I need to hit pretty close to Goddess - I have one of those events but no pressure.

So I have to make a choice do I hit and hope, or put a bit of thought into a plan, which may take time but means I'll achieve more.  It's about having the self confidence to know you can take a moment to step back and get an over view rather than diving in and spending the rest of the day putting out fires.  I'd put money on the fact that during the work week you know where and when you are going but because the weekend is 'free time' you try and relax into it and end up more stressed.  The same happens with your clothes when you know what to expect, making a choice is easy it is the grey areas where you end up feeling a little exposed and unsure of yourself.  However when you have the tools in place, ie a great kick arse outfit that makes you feel amazing everything else is pretty easy.  I wiffle on about it constantly but the confidence to stand in your skin (not literally, I'm not taking the blame for any arrests today), means that you won't stress about the little things and maybe a few more of your days will feel as if they started with a rye grin.

Wardrobe armour

An easy way of ensuring that you have an understanding, of the way your body fits into clothes is to think about the items you feel the most comfortable in.  The items that seem to breathe new confidence into every step you take, if you have no idea what I'm talking about - call me!  It's easy in life to start to accept the lowest common denominator as the norm and wait to be pleasantly surprised when things improve, to never think about the best things in case you don't get them and suffer disappointment.  One of my favourite sayings, "Is reach for the stars, because that way the least you'll get is the moon"  Don't get me wrong I know that it is exhausting to strive and there are days when it is just too much effort but it is on those days when a little effort will make the most difference.

I have a very dear friend who takes things deeply to heart, he never admits it but his confidence sits on a knife edge, and can be pushed either way by a breath of wind.  It is on the days when he is at his lowest when he makes the most effort though, because he knows this about himself too.  On the days when he's taken a knock and is wondering, what is the point he'll put on his best suit and prepare for the day like a Homeric arming, so that he is able to continue to recognise the opportunities for a better day.  It would be easy for him and all of us to sit in our black mood and hope that the world, just 'does one'(to coin a phrase) but that way leads to prolonged black moods and no chance of a better day as soon as this afternoon.

The clothes you wear should add something to the way you feel.  When you feel vulnerable and unsure you can chose to seek comfort and protection, from baggy or distracting clothes - hoping that the world will ignore you until you feel stronger or you can strap on your armour that offers you the protection of its implied self confidence and face the day.  Yesterday I was meeting a client, who quite frankly made me a little nervous, I don't have the option to let that show - so I strapped on a bit of tailoring borrowed some confidence and got the job done.

Making a choice

Please excuse my absence, this week has been exciting and frustrating and I wrote several posts but found that what I had to say just wasn't quite right, so I'm going to make up for it, promise.  

We make choices every moment of everyday, left or right, porridge or toast but how many times do you check that it was the right choice?  Obviously it's not really my concern what you have for breakfast or how you got to our meeting but when you arrive you've got to know that you are giving me a bench mark.  An idea of who you are and how much you care about our meeting.  The same goes when you are dressing for an interview or date.  Before you open your mouth you are giving the other person big clues as to who you are and to a certain extent what you think about them.  The choices we make, occasionally, subconsciously can make more of an impression, so without trying to put you in a situation where your head is getting ready to explode, you need to consider your choices and the messages you are sending.

For example, although dark lipstick is still on trend it wouldn't be appropriate for a first meeting as it is distracting, more specifically a way of drawing attention away from what you are saying and into the realms of physicality (that really is the most delicate way I can say that).  However, for a first date something I seem to be doing a bit more of these days, again heavy make up sends out the wrong message - because you are essentially wearing a mask, already placing another barrier that you'll have to move through.  By keeping things simple, using make-up as an accent rather than a mask, you are intimating that you have the confidence to stand in your own skin and know how to make the best of yourself.  You care enough to make an effort but are not desperately seeking external approval.  

For you boys my advice is simple, the devil is in the details.  People will notice if you have only ironed the colour and cuffs of your shirt.  You have to think about what your skin looks like it may not be historically manly but your skin should be moisturised as its basic maintenance and again is something that causes an unnecessary distraction, if not done.  

Wasting money?

Many of my blog titles and subjects come from the conversations I have, or I loosely relate them to a personal experience I've had with a client or friend... I try to be non specific but those, they are about always know when they see themselves in my writing (yes it is a test to see how often they read my blog)  Today I met an individual with a tiny brain, some might have called him small minded, he accused me of being a waste of money, or as he put it, "just money for old rope", my blood is ever so slightly on the boil!!  I know he won't read this, I doubt he could but it'll make me feel ever so slightly better... so if you'll indulge me.  This is why I am worth my price.

It is easy to fill a wardrobe with clothes but the problem with that is people are creatures of habit.  They go to the same section and wear the same pieces in the same way without deviation, either because they know it works or they have decided that, that is the only option.  It is natural for people to think in a linear fashion, I bought that to go with that, I wear that in a certain situation, etc - end of story.  Except I see it as my job to give those pieces a new story, a more varied story - with sub text and maybe even a plot twist.  I don't know the restrictions that you as an individual may have enforced so I can offer up an honest opinion, therefore increasing the worth of the individual pieces and minimising the waste that may already be occurring.  I ask the questions you haven't considered and shine a light on the blind spots, I remove the question marks you might have and illustrate how you can achieve better and more interesting results with the same products.  It's not about buying a new wardrobe but falling in love, again, with the one you already have.  Invariably people are attracted to a particular colour palette, which means the outfit combinations can be unlimited.

The second reason I know I am worth the money is because I am honest, I trade on my reputation and if I don't think I am offering anything to a person I will be the first to say.  I don't want to waste my time any more than I want to take your money for nothing.  My business is building on referrals, so I must be doing something right.

Sorry about this, not my usual but I was really annoyed, the good news is I don't think he'll be ringing me for an appointment any time soon.  So I get to focus on my lovely clients instead which is where I'm off to now.  Changing the world one well tied scarf at a time. xx

Who you are vs what you wear

I was thinking today, can you tell who a person is immediately by what they choose to wear? We all make snap decisions and attach labels to people based on the cultural stereotypes we have in our heads.  However most people don't think about the effect the clothes they choose to wear will have on their audience, their audience being - everyone they will see that day.

So how do you find the balance between dressing for your self and feeling comfortable and making yourself more acceptable to those people you meet.  In my line of work I have to be a bit of a chameleon, dressing in line with my clients but I do not want to feel like I am playing a part or wearing a costume, as that would feel dishonest, hence the need for balance, between their expectations and my preferences.  I use clothes to tell a story, they say who you are, where and how you see yourself.  In my humble opinion the least your clothes should be saying about you is that you care about yourself.  By that I mean, you care enough for your clothes to fit and be maintained (ironed at the least), you care enough to ensure your clothes suit your personality.

There are not many people who can pull off a top hat for day wear, but if you can why shouldn't you?  It says you have a personality, dressing for others does not mean removing your personality from your choices it means, trusting that people will like you because you are comfortable and secure in who and what you are.

Surprise, it hit me between the eyes!!

Here is a sentence I never thought I would read with out some degree of scorn let alone write but here goes.  This week I found some amazing things in an Oxfam Shop.  I know!!  It helps that the shop in question is run by a genius in a fairly affluent area of the country, for those of you that wish to go hunting, its the Oxfam Boutique on Park Street in Bristol.  My love affair and change of heart began with this Ozzie Clark, original 1970's dress, unfortunately Sarah does know her stuff so things are priced appropriately but think of the yummy feelings you get knowing that you have done something good for the world and achieved fashion greatness.  As we have previously discussed it is all about the added value, not what you spend so much as how you feel about the items you take home.

So what else did you find - I here you cry, well the answer is lots actually.  Particularly if you are the proud owner of a little imagination.  I was there for the International Women's Day event, obviously I was very proud to be asked to help out.  I went in with a certain amount of trepidation, as Charity shops really aren't in my comfort zone and I expected to be next to useless but very quickly I started to see the potential and a great alternative to throw away pieces from the high street, which do not allow for much in the way of setting yourself apart from the ever growing crowd.  So it was a case of changing my perspective in order to achieve the potential, I felt like I was on Oprah - it was an Aha, moment (if you don't know what that means, lucky you as you are obviously significantly cooler than me).  Come on Lizzie not much more track lets try to stay on it... There were fabulous accessories at great prices, a great way to update or try a new look without a heavy investment.  Instead of focusing on the stereotyped negatives I started to look at the shop as a wardrobe of items that still had potential, like the Jaegar oversized blazer, that was baby soft and easily could be used in a wardrobe as a weekend option and look very on trend, whilst having the advantage of knowing you won't see another.

I'm not saying I'm going to start taking my clients to charity shops but I am saying that if you are walking past and have 10 minutes, it is absolutely worth having a look at the offerings and asking questions, ask the staff what they consider to be their gem pieces, they'll tell you where and what they are.

LBD alternative

A few years ago, because of where I worked I did some styling for the Brits, for the first time - which was incredibly exciting and made me feel very legitimate and cool.  When we were choosing dresses it was important to recognise, what we were trying to achieve rather than just concentrating on the outfit, it was as much about the reaction that the women would get.  There were other things to consider as well, what would the photos look like, what angles would be necessary to avoid, did the client want to draw attention or deflect it and whether it was worth the risk to take a chance.

Little Black Dresses are quite a safe bet, but they tend not to photograph particularly well or often as it is the expected choice, there is little risk but also little chance of a reward (like positive attention).  At a black-tie event I would bet my YSL tributes on the fact that 70% of the women there are in black dresses and dark colours of some description, which makes it tricky to compete.  It's the same with everything, if you compete directly, you make your life harder than it has to be, if you differentiate people remember you and you stand out.  Even Angelina Jolie, needed a gimic to make her black dress work.

So next time you are preparing for a black tie event why not push the envelope, make a different choice. Chose to stand out and cause a bit of a stir, I'm sure you'll have more fun.

Wendy's look book

Sometimes someone else just says it better and certainly more visually than I can at the moment. These are 2 of a selection of videos that I think are amazing, follow the links for a few minutes of fun viewing.

25 Ways to tie a scarf:

I sometimes joke that I am saving the world one well wrapped scarf at a time.  Well as my videographer skills aren't everything they could be.  Check out this fun video that I found and try something different, with yours today.

10 wardrobe Essentials:
Can't help but utterly agree!

Expectations - Internet shopping realitites

Today I saw the worst fakes I ever have, unfortunately they were in the hands of one of my clients, who'd done a little unsanctioned internet buying. (TUT TUT)  I'm not saying that shopping on the internet is a bad thing far from it, it's one of my favourite things, but the reality is that if someone is offering a designer item for a ridiculous price it's because its about as legitimate as a 3 legged chicken, it does happen but it isn't pretty.

If you know what you are looking for or are just aimlessly looking around to see your options the internet is a fabulous resource and with advancements like the virtual fitting room and www.dressipi.com it is becoming less of an adventure opening the boxes from the nice UPS man.  I have a list of sites that I use, because I know that they are good and the service offered is such that when they get it wrong they'll fix it quickly.  However when a client wants to use the internet for personal shopping, it is essential that I manage their expectations and also have real life experience in order to be able to inform their choice.
When a website says, "true fit" what do they actually mean?
How likely is it that they have altered the clothes on the model to show them to their optimum potential in the imagery?
How close are their colour contrasts and is it likely that the image although not technically deceptive is misleading?
It is my job to know the answers to these questions and more, but if you are in need of something and don't have the time or inclination to use my expertise, here are a few suggestions to ensure you aren't holding a pair of  plastic Christian Louboutin shoes.

1.  Use reputable sites, that are either recommended by friends or you know the brand from the high street.
2.  Don't be afraid to break out a tape measure and compare the specs to something you already own.
3.  Before purchasing always ensure that you fully understand their returns policy and check that you can accept their requirements.
4.  Check their delivery company: that you can control where or how they will leave your package.
5.  If the site is non EU make sure you understand the customs costs and that they don't add so much to the cost, that it changes the value of the item.
6.  Remember it is easier to ask a question than regret a mistake caused by not knowing.

In fact that last one is just generally a good life lesson so I'll end there and wish you a good day and happy shopping!

The Arm Party and you're invited!

All images by www.themanrepeller.com

A phrase coined by "The man repeller" a great little site that amuses the hell out of me.  The grown up fashionistas call it "The Stack" but I think the original title is better and more fitting to the look you should try to achieve.  As far as I'm concerned it's like having my own jingly, jangly theme tune.  Yes I know these are extreme versions and not for everyone but it's a great way of upgrading a simple weekend look without having to think too much.  For me it is indicative of everything that should be fun about fashion, putting on all your favourite things, not worrying about the things that match just enjoying the pieces you own.  Jewellery is the place to do this, as although people will judge what clothes you wear no one does anything else but compliment jewellery so you can get away with murder.  WHOOP!!

To get the look right I'd simply wear jeans and a plain t shirt, let the Arm Party speak for itself and with the weather starting to warm up nicely nows the time to think about breaking one out.

A little something for the weekend

It's Friday, for me and I hope for you, tomorrow is a day of pyjamas and snuggling.  I have no intentions that exist outside of that simple dream.  However there is a way to hibernate without feeling like a slob and that's really important because as we all know the day that you put on a pair of sweat pants with a hole in them and the oldest t shirt you can find, will be the day, that either you manage to lock yourself out or possibly worse your Mother/friend/in-law/cousin twice removed will pop round for an unscheduled visit.  My promise to you is that if you still look good you will be left unmolested by The Fate Fairy and all her 'amusing' little hi-jinx.  Allow me to introduce you to one of my favourite brands all about contemporary lounge wear, that'll leave you comfortable and coordinated.

HUSH http://www.hush-uk.com, I have bought so many of their items and they are great, good fabrics that wash and wear exactly as you would want them to.  They also have something that I think is better than anything else, multiple leg lengths!  Their styling is effortless and they put together looks that work and you would want to wear/can wear and feel lovely in, even though all your planning on doing is snuggling up.  It's easy to find the motivation to look good for and in front of others but feeling great just for yourself is actually more important.  Not to mention stifling the intentions of that Damn Fate Fairy.

One for the boys

I love talking to new people they remind you of things you forgot you know and tell you things you never thought about.  So here is a series of sweeping broad statements that will either lead you to scream, "No!" at your monitor or chuckle knowingly.
1.  It's pretty common practice for most men to go from being dressed by their mothers to be being dressed by their wives/girlfriends with a few unfortunate personal t shirt choices along the way.
2.  Men don't change their style, they find something that works and then replace it, with out variation.
3.  It's easy for men to dress as they don't need more than a suit and a couple of shirts.
4.  Men don't care about fashion because it is made by boys for boys and real men have no place in it.
5.  A man does not need to consider clothes on a seasonal basis because classic male style, never really changes.

As with all sweeping statements the above is true but you won't look very far or talk to many people before it becomes a lie.  Men are becoming much more aware of a need to understand fashion and the role it plays in the way they can present themselves, however I don't believe they are influenced by male models so much as by other men they want to emulate - actors and sportsmen, it's more about lifestyle than the specific designer of a jacket, using these social cues of real men to show them the way to alter and upgrade their style.

Having said all that I feel it necessary to point you in the direction of items that are worth adding to your wardrobe this season.  The first, it's time to experiment with bright colours and pattern!  Stop playing it safe and throw in a few surprises to your look.  There are Hawaiian influences all over and it is time to get used to them, if these bright multi hue garments are a step too far for you keep it simple in block colour but BRIGHT!!!  It'll instantly reinvigorate the wardrobe you already have and cause a pleasant stir for you.  I know it is difficult to experiment with your work image particularly if you are centred in the corporate field as your clients may be distracted by it, but that is what the weekend is for, allow yourself some separation in your wardrobe that in no way involves sweat pants.  It is true that all men look better in a suit, but a man who can look good casually will always attract more attention.  Think Ryan Reynolds, who's look tends towards the smart casual, as explained by the Foster's advert or Michael Fassbender on Top Gear, great jeans and a fabulous leather jacket, easy, effortless and stylish.  Alternatively Tim Tebow, a sportsman who understands how to wear colour and look as if he belongs in it. (OK so the examples are much more about me than you but it's my blog and the more men who look like this the happier I will be!)