LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Blazing Blazers

Every Fashionisto, and even Fashionista, should own a blazer. One good blazer could mean a variety of outfits for plenty of different occasions.

Matched with a pair of dress pants and leather patent shoes, your blazer can provide you with a look that's perfect for your summer job in an office or meetings and presentations for school. For more of a dressed down look, pair your blazer with a pair of chinos. A pair of cool sneakers and a graphic T-shirt underneath can also really bring your blazer from a dressy to a more relaxed feel suitable for going out with friends, going to class or wandering the streets of Montreal.

This McGill Fashionisto opted for the second, more casual look with his blazer. Paired with grey jeans and a pair of slip-on Vans, he isn't over doing it for school but instead he's adding a touch of class to his outfit. The powder blue colour of his blazer is also great since the pastel trend from spring/summer hasn't gone away just yet.

And as the days get cooler and the snow starts to fall, there's no need to part with this article of clothing! Throw on a knit sweater and a cozy scarf under your blazer to bundle up, or slip a warm coat over top. No matter what time of year it is, or what type of occasion you must attend, you can always find a valid excuse to wear a trusty blazer!

Hint: Zara Man has a great collection of classic blazers in a variety of shapes, colours and styles for very good prices!

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Black Stripes

In my articles I always relate the looks with not only fashion, but also with history and society for example — this time will be no different.

Nowadays, wearing stripes is very common. Everyone likes them no matter their social class. However, a few centuries ago stripes were only worn by those banned from society, crazies and diseased. Over the years, this prejudice was pushed aside and stripes began to be linked with new ideas: freedom, playfulness, humor and youth.

After all this explanation, we can understand the choice of the Fashionisto. The T-shirt has a patterned flashy striped, which makes the look vibrant. The colorful Nike shoes are another interesting visual detail. To avoid overwhelming the look, he chooses tailoring trousers. The set of all these three pieces give a sense of spontaneity and fun to his look.

Hint: Mixing patterns is very cool and fashionable, but we have to be careful because we may appear more ridiculous than fashionable. When in doubt always choose a look with a neutral piece to mix with a more crafted piece so you will never missed.

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Double Dose of Denim

Until recently the thought of denim on denim gave people flashbacks of cowboys, and not necessarily in a good way. Thanks to the '90s revival from the runway to street fashion, doubling down on denim is definitely in. The go-to for this trend is usually a light wash denim work shirt paired with dark denim jeans; but this Fashionisto puts a new spin on the look.

Interestingly, this Fashionisto pulls his denim-on-denim look together without wearing a classic blue jean piece. Instead he pairs a bleached jacket with a pair of coated jeans, both micro-trends that have been on the rise in 2012. Another trend that seems to have jumped in popularity this year, thanks to social media sites like Pinterest, are DIY projects. Finding a just right bleached denim jacket like this Fashionisto’s is not an easy task, so why not take matters into your own hands and make it yourself? There are many tutorials online that seem straightforward, even for a DIY novice. Plus when you make it yourself you can create a custom piece, be it dip-bleached (think dip-dyed but vise versa), splattered or completely bleached.

Let’s be honest, there are few things more fulfilling to us Fashionistos and Fashionistas out there than when asked “Where did you get that”, and the response is “Oh this? I made it;” feeling their reaction of perhaps being impressed, but almost certainly being inspired in one way or another to create something of their own.

Hint: Combine these denim trends with a coated jean jacket in an earthy color. The texture will come off as leather, but still feel as lightweight as a traditional denim jacket.

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Summer Favorites

As we get back into the swing of school, summer trends linger and memories follow. It’s hard to believe classes are back in session when the days remain so hot and summer memories so fresh. Boys rep light layers and crisp colors a little longer continuing the Cape Cod look, a summer favorite. How could I pass up snapping this Fashionisto? He not only looks so perfectly put-together but he reminds me all too much of the beach days I’ve been missing. Sporting his blue crisp button-up and green shorts, two classics that never seem to get old. From season to season classic shorts remain. They re-style and revamp, never to completely go out of style.

I guess I wouldn’t want to demine them to cargo shorts. For when I think cargo I think that awful '90s trend. Originating with the record-breaking question, how many pockets can fit on one pair of pants? So maybe we’ll just call these “summer shorts”. Cargo or not, this Fashionisto impressively rocked them in his beach inspired outfit.

With so much summer talk I came to find out a little more about this Fashionisto. Turns out he was working at a childrens camp all summer. Giving back to the community gave him a little something too, new bracelets. Close up, I took note to his accessorized wrist. Another classic to accompany the summer shorts, friendship bracelets. Something you can’t buy in a store but always look good casually sported on the wrist. I'd say it was the perfect way to make his all so trendy outfit a little more original.

As we turn over a new leaf this year and flow with the next set of trends, don’t forget your summer memories or your casual classics. I know we all have something like a friendship bracelet to remind us of Summer ’12. Let's just hope it looks as good as his. Rock your frienship bracelets throughout this school year and remember don't ever doubt your classic shorts.

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: All-Over Print

All over prints are one trend that isn’t slowing down for fall. Our Fashionisto today shows one way to work prints in your transition wardrobe. All-over pattern can be daring and a little intimidating to attempt at first but starting with a T-shirt is a good way to ease into the trend. Pairing his all-over printed T-shirt with dark wash jeans, he keeps the focus on the print. He makes his school day look classier with a leather backpack and taupe suede lace-up shoes. For someone who wants to keep their day look more casual sneakers are a fun alternative to a dressier shoe.

The fun thing about an all-over print is that it can be dressed up or dressed down. Our Fashionisto’s look would still work with a printed button-down. There are options for how much and how little print you think you can handle so if you are feeling bold try out a pair of printed pants. If you are just looking to try out the trend, sticking to a T-shirt is a low-key and easy way to test run the look. If you’re looking to try all-over print for yourself, Asos and Urban Outfitters have some fun options.

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Winter Layering

There’s not a lot to like about winter, especially in Melbourne with its typical cloudy and cold with a chance of anything weather forecast. As usual, getting dressed for Melbourne’s changeable weather is a delicate process, like assembling a mille feuille pastry. However, the current cold snap has forced Melbourne Fashionistos to layer darker garments to adapt to the patterns of the city’s murky weather.

Today’s Fashionisto is a master at layering dark clothing, in an oversized jumper teamed with dark denim, a chunky scarf and rugged combat boots. The outfit is completed with a grey safari jacket, which adds a military aesthetic and is perfect to ward off the winter chill.

To recreate this look is simple, but don’t be fooled as layering in a single colour can create a blob effect. In order to avoid looking like a lumpy mattress, it is integral to break up your look by mixing different tones, textures and cuts. This Fashionisto has taken full advantage of this technique by layering an earthy tone overcoat, which provides a contrast to the black jumper making the black appear sharper and crisper. The key is to stick to lighter basics underneath to prevent the bulky look. Also, choose slim-fitting jeans much like this Fashionisto to balance out the lower half of the ensemble. By following the footsteps of this Fashionisto, you too can be comfortable without having to sacrifice style.

The point of layering clothing, other than keeping warm is to display the contrasting items. This is why layering with different colours and cuts works well together and creates a softer and more balanced look. Like a delicious pastry, the perfect partner and a good haircut, some of the best things in life have lots of layers. By applying this philosophy to your wardrobe, you too can be functional and stylish, especially as the temperature drops below freezing.

Hint: Designers from Acne, Claude Maus and Trimapee introduce seasonal and multifaceted ranges of dark garments, captivatingly designed to suit the tradition of layering.

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Rock The Stripes

Last week I took a trip down to San Bernadino for the Rock the Bells Hip Hop Festival. I have always loved going to festivals not only to hear the good music, but to see what awesome style is showcased there. This Fashionisto was definitely rocking his hipster festival style at Rock The Bells. I saw a lot of Fashionistos going with a more urban street style, but this one looked just like someone straight off of the Pitzer college campus.

In the 107 degree whether, this Fashionisto kept cool, pun intended, by folding his pants up to mid-calf. He decorated those pants with a nice mustard and olive striped tank, similar to the one sold at Karmaloop, and topped it off with a nice dark fedora to compliment his high-top, all black Converse All-Stars.

His accessory choices were just so simple and yet again, cool. A chain necklace, a few bracelets and oversized rounded aviators gave the cool to his style. I absolutely love when guys compliment their outfit with jewelry and other accessories like scarves, hats and sunglasses. Those small touches make their style personal!

Guys, when you think that your outfit needs “more” try adding rings, belts or even fun socks to take your outfit from ordinary to extraordinary. Your outfit needs to be practical but fun. Like this Fashionisto, try adding one bright piece to mostly neutral pieces. Pick a piece that you would like to showcase and make that the center focus. Also, make sure your outfit is suitable for the weather. This Fashionisto wore a tank to give his arms a nice tan but also wore a hat to prevent excessive sunlight to his face, neck, and shoulders. Wearing Converse was a great move for the festival. We all know that wearing sandals to a festival is asking for a broken toe! The chucks were stylish but practical with a shell-toe. Now, you are already to go to the next Coachella, Bonaroo or even Rock the bells. Remember, be practical, but show some of yourself. After all, it is the place where artists showcase their work. Be the aritst!

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Fall Styling

Today it finally happened. After months of thick and drowsy summer heat, today it actually felt like fall was soon to be upon us in New York City. The shady side of the sidewalk induced chills, the light breeze prompted me to roll the sleeves of my button-up down and I quickly realized in my bralet top and high-waist shorts that I was not dressed appropriately for the crisp weather.

But this Fashionisto was. Not only were the colors he was wearing neutral and typical of a fall wardrobe, but the individual pieces themselves looked enviously cozy. His camel knit sweater (which was complete with darker suede elbow patches) was the perfect heaviness to keep him just warm enough, and was a great piece to break up his otherwise dark outfit. His navy/gray pants played beautifully off of the sweater's warm hue as he decided to try out the popular trend of cuffing his pants to show his gray socks.

Sure, his accessories are minimum, but it is the minor details that make his outfit stylish. His relaxed yet fashionable backwards baseball cap (which by the way matched perfectly), his quirky tortoise-framed glasses, his color-coordinated backpack are hints of masculine styling which make him stand out from the rest of the boys who simply threw on a tee-shirt and shorts. Styling allows him to look put together yet still in a subtle and relaxed way.

Hint: To get a look like this Fashionisto's stick to a limited color palette. Choose two to four colors to craft your entire look out of, and try pairing plain accessories such as hats, stylish shoes, briefcases and belts with a bit of self-tailoring. The final product will be simple yet stylish, and hopefully as comfortably chic as the one pictured here!

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Pink with an Edge

We have received tiny doses of spring over the past few weeks here in Storrs, and they have been making me feverishly reach for my salmon raincoat instead of my seemingly resilient long black wool coat. I’m longing for flats and non-mittened hands, along f course with the kind of wind that doesn’t give you a fiery red nose and uncontrollable matted hair. However, one downside to the weather getting more lovely means we are getting closer and closer to our bittersweet graduation date. Being a senior in my last semester at UConn, (where on earth did the time go?!) I am trying to take in every last drop of anything and everything with my fellow Huskies.

Walking around campus, I decided to waste some time talking to a friend of mine while she was at work. Little did I know I would find my next Fashionisto. I can’t even begin to explain the benefits for a college male by wearing a pair of pants that are not ratty sweatpants or flavorless jeans. He took simple colors and styles and made himself a great outfit. I have always loved khaki and navy together, but by adding the zing of pink through his shirt, this opportunity couldn't be passed up. I am especially in love with his jacket; the motorcycle collar adds the perfect amount of edginess to his very classic outfit. There's nothing better than keeping onlookers on their toes when taking in your whole ensemble.

Hint: Add a tie with a fun pattern to liven up your ensemble.

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Casually Formal

The cold weather is a great excuse to experiment with fashion. Layering is a must and for guys this may seem a little more difficult with not as many accessories to choose from. I spotted this law student Fashionisto whose outfit seemed to combine the formal and casual world of men’s fashion — something that creates endless styling possibilities. He layered a nice button-up with an argyle sweater, a classic cold weather look that, with the addition of the neck tie, is also a great idea on how to dress up for those not-so-formal holiday parties that may be in your near future. He kept the look casual by pairing it with jeans, a khaki hooded coat and plaid printed sneakers!

This Fashionisto’s look is a great example of how easily a daytime look can be transformed for going out at night or dressing for holiday events! Start out by opting for a blazer in a dark neutral color and trade the sneakers for dress shoes. Though I think you can never go wrong with argyle, this could be a great chance to wear a holiday-themed sweater. Yes, they can be stylish! To amp up the dressy factor, wear slacks instead of jeans. With these elements combined, you could go with or without the neck tie. Layer on a funky scarf to create an even more wintery, holiday look!

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: A Positive Plaid-itude

With the smell of pumpkin pie in the air and Thanksgiving around the corner, this season brings time for a Fashionistas/os to put together a festive outfit for the holiday occasion. Whether you are eating a Thanksgiving dinner at home or dining out, it's important to dress comfortably while remaining trendy for the occasion. This holiday also brings along time to see old high school friends or family where it has been a while since one's last visit. Dressing to impress is a must for the holiday season!

Between cooking a delicious meal and talking with friends and family, it’s nice to be comfortable yet still look nice. This Fashionisto said he would wear a plaid shirt, jeans and converse on Thanksgiving like he did in this picture. It allows him to be able to cook in the kitchen yet go play flag football afterwards with all the guys. This plaid staple looks great in any season. When the weather starts to get colder here in North Carolina plaid looks great with a cardigan. The plaid button-down is a classic yet versatile piece that will stay in your wardrobe through time. Ralph Lauren, J.Crew and Urban Outfitters have great options when choosing a plaid shirt with quality. Plaid looks great with boot cut jeans like this Fashionisto paired it with. Cargo pants is another option to choose from when looking for something to pair with plaid.

Remember to grab your plaid for this holiday season for a comfortable yet trendy look for the festive season!

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Simply Vintage

Let’s hear it for the Fashionistos who use hand-me-downs to their advantage. This Fashionisto shows off a mint green top that was passed down from his father. There’s something about the mint green color that is so refreshing. It’s a perfect choice for polished, refined looks. This Fashionisto also had the ability to make formal wear look a bit casual, which is great for Fashionistos that still want to push the envelope with a stylish look, and be comfortable as well.

I love the large collar on this Fashionisto’s mint green top. The fact that he left a few buttons open really allows the collar stand out, and makes him look like a ‘70s vintage maven. It was also a great way to make his look go from plain to unique without having to add any other accessories. He decided to steer away from over accessorizing and allowed the outfit to speak for itself. Pairing his mint green top with a pair of black pants really allows to shirt to stand out. The style of his pant is similar to the Agent pant from Express, which is perfect for those Fashionistos who like to move freely and feel comfortable.

This Fashionisto also did a wonderful job maintaining a simple vintage look. His shirt does all the talking, and he does a great job complementing it! The tan button on his flap pocket adds a very cool hint of detail, and his tan loafers are a perfect choice to bring out more of that color to complement his look. In addition, he wears a silver ring for a hint of bling.

So, my advice to my fellow Fashionistos is to see if you can go great lengths with just a shirt!

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LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS: Cuffed and Comfy

For any fashion-conscience soul paying attention to the changing seasons, it comes as no surprise that one of the most difficult times to dress is during the transitional period. The decision on whether to stick out the current season or jump the gun to the next isn’t one that comes easy, but it looks like this Fashionisto has nailed the in-between look right on the head.

Now that most of the male species have lost their beef with the color pink, it’s nice to see variations of the hue being incorporated into men’s spring and summer wardrobe. Not only does this spotted Fashionisto do right with color, but notice the homemade cuff on the bottom of the shorts. The cuffed short is a trend that has recently been made popular among designers with the Italian-based brand Marni leading the pack. The cuffed short is great on guys for multiple reasons: for those who have a thinner leg, the cuff gives the illusion of some added weight to the fabric but, other than the functionality of the cuff, the look exceeds any amount of cool that can be reached by just letting the fabric hang. Though bold, hiking up the hem a roll or two definitely pays off in fashion and cool points.

Not only has this Fashionisto been spot-on with the bottom half of the look, the top half isn’t lagging in anyway either. It’s not breaking news to say that relaxed tailoring in menswear is “in.” Time and time again, loose silhouettes and dropped shoulders have been more than prominent on the runway. However (and a big however), depending on how you pair your flexible fit makes all the difference on whether your look becomes a jaw dropping “do” or a head turning “don’t.” Fortunately, our man got the memo and balanced his floppy flannel with tailored shorts. The plaid forest green does every bit of fall justice and once again, our guy grabs a few more points in layering it on top of a crisp, white v-neck — a technique, trick and trend boys everywhere should mimic.

The best part of the ensemble is that it’s virtually already in every guy’s closet. If you’re looking for new buys, Urban Outfitters has already done the dirty work for you. Don’t be afraid to transform what’s already in your dresser to add a new twist to your look. When it comes to plaid, it’s almost impossible to go wrong. Choose a heavier fabric like this Fashionisto did to parallel the chilly weather that’s on it’s way and when picking out colors stray away from bights and gravitate more toward earthy tones likes neutrals and greens to get in the autumn spirit. Getting your hands on such a shirt is incredibly easy, and since it's fall you can expect to see plaid in your favorite clothing store or go vintage and pick up a second-hand flannel at a local thrift shop. Whichever cuffed and comfy duo you end up with, make sure you come back to pick up last minute pointers from this Fashionista who is already ahead of the game.

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Let’s Hear It for the BOYS

Though it has become evident through my history of posts that I am obsessed with women’s fashion, at the end of the day I cannot forget about my fellow male counterpart. After all, I am of the male orientation and although I can drool in awe at gorgeous dresses and amazing shoes, I unfortunately do not have the dainty figure or killer legs to pull them off. For this matter, when on the lookout around town and snapping pictures of stylish gals, I can’t deny my eye whenever I see a wardrobe conscious lad sporting an ensemble I already love and have or would love to try out on myself.

In my Style Advice for the Week, I’m turning the table on my loyal readers and asking that the ladies kindly step down, because it’s time that we listen up and we 'Hear It for the BOYS'.

When it comes to being a young man and choosing his outfit for a guys' night out, the huge dilemma is how casual can he be? Well this question was answered when I spotted this Fashionisto the other day as I was returning from work to my apartment and actually debating what I would wear that evening for my very own guys' night out. I always live by the rule “dress to impress” because you never know where your night will take you and the last thing you want to do is make an underwhelming first impression.

Casual is good for a guys' night out, but make sure the pieces you pick still give you a stand-out look with minimal effort—guys always look your best! My favorite outfit of choice for this effect is pairing a pair of dark denim jeans with a plaid button down and some classic brown Sperry Top-Siders. For you boys out there who fear the thought of long sleeves, collars, and buttons don’t fret; I’m not suggesting you go out with your crew in a dress shirt. Take a look at this guy and opt for a lightweight cotton button down while keeping the sleeves rolled up to give you the easy laid back look you want to don for a night out with your boys.

Moreover, what adds a refined element to this casual look is this Fashionisto’s watch. A strong statement piece like his leather banded watch lets you know that this young fellow actually put effort into his guy’s night out look instead of resorting to and old pair of jeans and a tee shirt.

Hint: To get this look for your next guys' night out, look to TopMan and buy a pair of their Dark Blue Skinny Jeans. Match it up with the Dark Check Shirt from ASOS and walk out the door wearing Sperry Top-Siders Authentic Originals. And if you want to add a finishing touch to your outfit like this gentleman, accessorize your outfit with the Lacoste Barcelona Watch.

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Let’s hear it for the BOYS…

Penn State University shined some light on men’s fashion at their Valley magazine event. The look below of a black blazer and miss matched pants is a great way to stand out from the typical full black suit most Fashionistos wear. With the holidays arriving and graduation for some of you college Fashionistos, consider adding a new suit to your wish list of presents!

Style On,

Amy

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Let’s hear it for the BOYS

MURSE… or better known as a man bag. With school looming towards us it’s time to ditch that backpack you have been carrying since sophomore year in high school and upgrade to a more mature, collegiate look. Don’t let the title fool you these bags can be really masculine. I promise you won’t be the first or last to be rocking this trend to class.

Hint: A leather bag might seem costly, but should be considered an investment for your after college career.

Style On,