Author: I-Ching Tsai

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Silver Attack

Do you ever think about why people wear accessories? In the Medieval days only the Kings and Queens and all the influential people used to wear accessories because they were the only people that could afford it and it was a sign of how rich they were. Due to the reason that most of accessories were made of real gold and expensive gems during old times. Nowadays, people wear accessories for different reasons such as following their own traditions, impressing others or completing their satisfaction.

Many of us look to magazines for the newest trends for the upcoming seasons, this Fashionisto creates a look that he calls his own. Today’s Fashionisto is an accessory-lover who can’t say no to any silver stylish accessories. He chose to wear a silver ring which is designed like a hand holding a yellow diamond. In addition, he also matched his silver ring with a silver snake necklace. Since he was tending to focus on his special accessories more than his clothing, he just wore a simple navy T-shirt with a pair of dark jeans. I like how he decided to just focus on one thing because it make more sense.

I personally like how he opted to finish off with the dark leather boots, without a doubt, one of my favorite pieces from this particular Fashionisto’s outfit. These pairs of dark leather boots matched his outfit perfectly in a stylish way and I admired his persistence of wearing them even though it was really hot outside. If you want similar boots, you can check out some here. Dr. Martens Airwair Boots have become a fashion trend in the past few years.

Hint: Since he loves silver accessories, I would suggest a nice silver watch to go with the silver theme. On the other hand, he could also go with a silver belt. Rock yourself with your accessories, guys.

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Quality is the Key

High temperatures combined with high humidity can make life uncomfortable, especially for people in Taiwan. Recently, the hot weather in Taiwan has made people lazy to dress up. I started to notice that people care more about the quality of fabric rather than the fancy style of the clothing now. Partially because that people think better quality fabrics can defeat the high humidity. Some simple T-shirts are designed in a way that help people stay cool and comfortable.

According to this week’s Fashionisto, “In order to seek out better fabric choices, it is best to try garments on for fit and comfort, as clothing that is tight or fits oddly can be maddening in hot weather.” He is a T-shirt lover who cares more about the quality of the clothings than the style. Today’s Fashionisto shows us how to dress comfortably rather than too fancy.

For him, he thinks this light gray color T-shirt is really comfortable to wear and easy to go with other items. This simple graphic T-shirt from H&M is great. He’s added some nice dark washed denim, which I believe every guy needs in his closet this summer. By having fitted jeans, his outfit looks a little more modified. Try some like these from Urban Outfitters. He paired the denim with a paired of black sneakers from Converse. He has updated this basic formula with a blue five-pocketed messenger bag, and looks totally interesting. For the accessories, he has the crystal earrings and stylish silver metal watch.

Try changing out the Converse sneakers for something more fun and comfortable such as Toms shoes or even Sperry’s for summer days. It only takes one simple change to become a unique individual.

P.S. The Fashionisto wanted me to mention that he wasn’t unhappy, but just really shy!

 

 

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Dog Lover’s Fashion

How do you normally choose the combination of your clothes? The combination of a T-shirt and jeans seems so simple, but it has remained a classic for a reason. According to famous style blogger Aimee Song, “White T-shirts or tees are a staple in my wardrobe.” Aimee states that even though she has so many tees, she knows each of them is cut differently, has a slightly different texture and fits her body differently. Therefore, we know how a T-shirt is a must-have item for a lot of people.

On this windy day, I spotted this Fashionisto walking his dog through the neighborhood. I had to stop him because not only do I love dogs, but he looked super comfortable with his own style. He chose to wear a basic gray T-shirt from Forever 21 with a pair of white shorts. This combination made the great harmony of colors and style. Like a simple dark T-shirt, white shorts is definitely one of the must-haves for summer since they can be paired with just about anything.

As for accessories, he chose to wear a colorful belt with the combination of red and blue. If you are interested in this kind of belt, there is a similar one on Urban Outfitters right now. I loved how he wears a belt which made his outfit stand out more and came to a good balance. Also, he chose to wear a Nike running shoes with the combination of light gray and neon green. The neon green sneakers made his dark pieces stand out more. I also found a similar pair if you are interested in, please check them out here.

Personally, I love this look because it will never get old or bored. He looks great and he looks comfortable as well. Let’s admit it, we are sometimes lazy to dress up. In this case, this outfit shows it’s possible to be comfortable while being stylish.

Hint: These muted shorts and T-shirts are perfect for almost any occasion that you could imagine all summer long. I would suggest you to stock up in plenty of different colors!

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Superman is Coming

The legendary red-caped superhero is back with a bang, and this time not just to protect the citizens of earth, but to rewrite the superhero stereotype. The recent movie “Man of Steel” has been influencing Superman’s fans incredibly, and in different ways. It seems that supporting the U.S. spirit in fashion has become quite the trend this past year. Superman is definitely considered to be one of the U.S. symbols, so I was really excited to see this Fashionisto supporting U.S. spirit even in Taiwan. That’s why when I ran into this Fashionisto, I knew I needed to stop him and discuss his outfit.

This week’s Fashionisto wasn’t so daring with his accessories. Paired with his Superman blue T-shirt is a pair of khaki colored cargo shorts and navy leather loafers with front tie. Our Fasionisto’s gorgeous loafers with the front tie are from Lacoste. In addition, he mentioned they were really comfortable to wear and they came at a good price. He concluded by accenting his T-shirt and loafers which a matched theme in color: white, blue and red. For accessories he was rocking a camouflage, stylish, graphic print backpack. By not trying too hard, this Fashionisto has achieved a not so laid back but comfortable look.

Hint: If the Fashionisto wants to keep his Superman spirit, but also wants to add something to it. I would suggest the Fasionisto add a belt or a watch. A belt can really add to an ensemble and can also dictate the overall style of one. As we can see, this Fashionisto is a fan of superman products so he could try and incorporate this navy red stripe webbing plaque belt from J.Crew which might give his look a more put together feel. On the other hand, there is a website called “SuperHeroStuff” which might give this Fashionsito an idea of some things to add to his wardrobe.

 

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Plaid Fever

Taiwanese know how to enjoy their lives even though they are busy with their work. Some office ladies might spend their nap-time having an afternoon tea with their co-workers. While, some office men might wear fun accessories to make their look more charming. At least, people do something to make themselves feel better even though they work in a routine atmosphere every day.

I ran into this Fashionisto while he was enjoying a cup of coffee on the rooftop before he went back to his internship. He was a great example of enjoying his life while he was still working hard. Everywhere I looked I saw plaid. This week’s Fashionisto wore a light blue and pink plaid button-down giving the perfect mixture of summer shades. He wore it with a pair of jeans, incorporating the colors very perfectly. A pair of black Nike sneakers pulls the look together, keeping this Fashionisto in a fresh look.These are great shoes for most casual outfits. They’re stylish enough to help complete a look yet they don’t take away from the outfit.

A messenger bag can still come in handy, even though school might be over. This Fashionisto’s choice of this yellow messenger bag is as basic as they come and just about the ideal size to carry a few of your essentials. My favorite part of this bag was the design, which featured many little pockets that our Fashionisto said he couldn’t live without. He accessorizes his outfit with a silver watch with black leather.

Hint: Summer layering is all about what works best for you – keep it simple. Skinny shorts are great pieces to add to any outfit this summer and can help you achieve that balance.

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Time to Work

Sometimes you just might be surprised by how quickly time goes by. We didn’t even realize it was the time to start the next chapter of our lives. July is one of the exciting months because it could mean a variety of opportunities for college students: vacation, studying, working or applying for a new job. If you’ve decided to apply for an internship or a new job, you’re going to need to know how to dress appropriately. For men, it’s the standard business suit. These days, we see younger men hoping to do more with their outfits than just wearing the classic normal suits. Of course, accessories can give each business look its own attractiveness.

What I particularly admired about his outfit was his selection to wear a casual blue jacket as opposed to the usual overly picked blazer. This Fashionisto has achieved a not so laid back but impressive look. His choice of blue jacket distinguishes him from other business men but also looks professional at some point. Other distinguished items in his outfit were his Kenneth Cole loafers, his Bally belt and his Ray-Ban glasses. Specifically, Ray-Bans have been seen on just about everyone, even business men. With the combination of the silver and the black layer of his belt, this Fashionisto emanates personality through his accessories.

Unlike other businessmen, this Fashionisto carried a stylish Clarks black backpack instead of using classic business briefcase. The bag was actually multi-functional since it could be used as both backpack and handbag.

Hint: It is very easy to make your suit wear look impressive by adding a tie, watch or even some unique accessories. Business men still have the right to play with some fun accessories. If you are bored with a simple tie, please try this Liberty tie in the summer morning floral print from J.Crew.

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Into the Gray

Before I introduce Fashionistos this week, I have a little announcement for all of my lovely readers. I will be still continuing to catch and demonstrate how college students exhibit their special outfits and life runways, but now I will reporting from my hometown in Taiwan.

Taiwan’s temperature is about 35-degrees Celsius, which is about 95-degrees Fahrenheit this week. How are we to dress properly to be refreshing and comfortable when the temperature is elevated?

Today’s Fashionisto illustrates how suit coats are utilized to complement your summer outfit in an effortless and refreshing way. Just because the sun’s out doesn’t mean the dark pieces in your wardrobe must remain in your closet. This Fashionista knows how to rock a dark ensemble on a sunny day. You might think it’s crazy to wear a dark suit coats in this season; however, this Fashionisto said it’s definitely a respectful way to dress properly during work. Therefore, I got inspired by his persistence toward his own unique fashion taste. As we can see, this fashionsto is not only a fan of the color gray but also a master of matching brands together in a harmonious way.

He is wearing a light gray heart T-shirt from Comme des Garçons. Simple T-shirts are perfect for this time of year because they are easy to throw on during any day of the week. The famous fashion designer Rei Kawakudo, whose line focuses on clean and unique , once said “It is true to say that I ‘design’ the company, not just clothes.” Her confidence and unique design influences the consumers to continue purchasing her designs. Even now, this heart T-shirt has been a continuing trend on runways. This Fashionisto pairs his light gray T-shirt with a pair of dark jeans. Like a simple T-shirt, dark jeans is definitely one of the must-haves for summer since they can be paired with just about anything.

White experienced a huge comeback this summer in several designers’ collections. Therefore, he chose to wear a pair of white sneakers from Nike to worship the power of white. In addition, white sneakers make his dark pieces stand out more. As for accessories, he chose to wear a classic necklace from Georg Jensen with the combination of black and silver. I love how he wears a basic silver watch to match the silver necklace, which both work well with his outfit too.

Hint: If you are getting bored of matching your T-shirt with a pair of jeans, try a pair of Hawkings McGill Patterned Cutoff Chino Short in polka-dot pattern like this one here.

 

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Beat the Heat with Basics

Looking into most people’s closets, several statement items must be standout to reflect their personal styles. Tank tops, as a wardrobe statement piece, cannot only perfect your look but also beat the heat in the summer season. I am a tank top lover. But sometimes I’m confused with the way to perfectly incorporate it with other clothes and have it not look so boring.

As this Fashionisto demonstrates, the key to dress up for the hot weather is to opt for breathable fabrics. This outfit is great for a day out with friends, for fishing or even if you are still on campus for your summer classes. I spotted this Fashionisto in downtown Lafayette rocking a pair of Nike sporty shorts and a gray tank with some screen printing. He keeps it casual with a pair of bright yellow Havaianas flip flop. A pair of nice flip flops are a must-have for the season because they go with absolutely everything.

Lots of people choose to wear a comfy tank with a pair of nice shorts during this season. However, the way you choose to accessorize these basics will definitely make you stand out. As for accessories, he chose to wear a cool five-panel hat with the combination of navy and brown. If you are five-panel hat lovers, and you are worried about where to find one. I will suggest that you can find them in different designs on Urban Outfitters or ASOS. I love how he wears two colorful rope bracelets and a basic black beaded bracelet, which both work well with his outfit too.

Hint: If you are going to hang out with your friends in the heat, protect your eyes from the sun. Sunglasses are always a great addition to any outfit, especially this time year.

 

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Simplicity Works

The warm weather is finally here at Purdue University, and all of the students are ready to ROCK the summer for sure. One of my favorite things about summer is how students match up fun, summer prints and bright colors to create a summer fever. Shorts, graphic T-shirts, skirts and flip flops have been all over campus these days and people cannot wait to show more from their wardrobes. However, not all students choose to go with bright colors to celebrate the arriving of the summer.

I think simplicity is definitely the key and a trend for every season. While I ran into this Fashionisto in front of a coffee shop, his way of dressing just made me feel comfortable. Fashion doesn’t always come in a luxurious package; it might sometimes come in a very comfortable look. If you are too lazy to think about what to wear during this season, tank tops and flip flops are not your only choice. This week’s Fashionisto wasn’t so daring with his accessories. Paired with his dark blue short sleeve button-down shirt is a pair of khaki pants and brown leather shoes. For accessories he is rocking a black, stylish, graphic print sunglasses and a leather messenger bag. By not trying too hard, this Fashionisto has achieved a not so laid back but comfortable look.

Hint: If the Fashionisto wants to keep his simplicity, but he also wants to add something to it. I would suggest the Fasionisto add a belt or a watch. A belt can really add to an ensemble and can also dictate the overall style of one. As we can see, this Fashionisto is a fan of leather products so he could try and incorporate this dark chocolate classic buckle belt from J.Crew which might give his look a more put together feel. On the other hand, he could also add a Timex Easy Reader Limited watch from Urban Outfitters which would seemingly suit him perfectly.

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Blue Passion

Even though it is already the end of May, there are still some hard working students staying at the Purdue University Campus for their summer classes. However, it sure didn’t feel like summer was approaching these past few weeks at Purdue University with the rain and not so warm weather. Students still had their jackets on while they were outside. Jeans, hoodies, umbrellas and rain boots have been all over campus these days and I was getting bored of them.

However, this Fashionisto’s New Balance blue sneakers definitely caught my eyes while I was walking on campus. Instead of wearing rain boots, his sneakers are a perfect example of taking the summer pieces we can not wait to show, while also keeping warm enough for the not so warm temperatures we have been experiencing. In addition, the sneakers are also the perfect item to easily to clean up, even when they get wet or dirty.

This Fashionisto’s outfit is springtime ready because it is casual yet simple and has a very laid back look to it, which reminds us of spring. He is wearing a dark wash and a basic T-shirt with a logo. Simple T-shirts are perfect for this time of year because they are easy to throw on during any day of the week. This Fashionisto pairs his dark T-shirt with a pair of khaki colored cargo shorts. Like a simple T-shirt, cargo shorts is definitely one of the must-haves for summer since they can be paired with just about anything. He concluded by accenting his jacket and sneakers with a cap that matched them in color scheme: white, blue and red. The little sun image on his cap interestingly speaks out about how he wants the weather to be warm soon.

Hint: With hot summer weather quickly approaching, picking up a pair of awesome flip flops might be what your summer wardrobe needs. If you are getting bored of matching your T-shirt with a simple khaki cargo shorts, try a pair of Hawkings McGill Printed chino shorts in a fun pattern like this one here.