Mens Fashion Essentials: Jeans By DK

A pair of smart blue jeans are undoubtedly the most versatile article of clothing a man can own. They therefore require the most thought and research when buying, as they serve more an investment than a simple purchase. A well fitting and coloured pair of smart blue jeans are invaluable to a man's wardrobe as they can be worn with shoes and a shirt, yet equally look laid back and stylish with a t-shirt and plimsoles.

Although a man should obviously own more than one pair of jeans, this is a guide for that important pair that can be worn to work and worn on your days off, yet at both times looking 'fashionable'. For a detailed overview of the denim jean, its history and the production of the various styles, I would recommend checking out the following documentary.


When it comes to buying that one pair of jeans that you can work smart or casual, I tend to give the example of Marc Jacobs. Marc Jacobs always wears a perfect example of this type of jean (and quite understandably so given his position). There are two main things to point out here: fit and colour. Getting these two points correct are the key to that perfect pair of smart jeans.

Fit

For smart jeans that look great when dressed down also, the fit is a crucial consideration. The cut of jeans you will want to go for depends heavily on your frame and build. Somebody like Marc can get away with wearing slim and skinny cut jeans as his thighs are quite slim and long. Strictly speaking your average man will want to go with well fitted 'slim' cut jeans, however if you are of a slightly stockier and short build, straight cut will serve you well. Equally those on the slimmer side can possibly get away with more 'skinny' cut jeans, those that are more tapered than 'slim' jeans. However here I feel the need to stress the fact that jeans that look sprayed on and fit like leggings have no place in a man's wardrobe.

The jeans should be fitted around the thighs, however not feel too tight or restrictive. The legs ought to be tapered, however your leg shape should determine the amount. Generally speaking you will want your jeans to be tapered at the bottom, so that you are able to wear smart shoes. The reason being that smart shoes tend to be slimmer than casual shoes or trainers, therefore the jeans need to fit properly around them. Length is also a key consideration, look for something more akin to casual trousers than general jeans. However remember than if you find jeans that fit well, yet are too long, they can easily be hemmed to your required length. One important thing to note is that this should be done after you first wash your jeans, due to the risk of shrinkage.

Here are a few tips for when you are shopping for your right fit:

• Make sure to take the belt you wear most often to try on with your jeans. Dress belts should never be worn with jeans, so go for a casual leather or webbing belt.
  
• Wear the shoes you intend to wear with your jeans, out shopping. Try them on with your jeans to get an idea of how the jeans will fall. Do not be afraid to ask in the shop for a pair of shoes to try on with the jeans, if they happen to sell them also.
• Try to get a feel for the everyday fit. By this I mean take time to walk around, squat and sit in the jeans. They should not feel restrictive or pull up too much when you are seated.
  
• If in doubt over waist size, go for something slightly tighter. The reason for this is that smart jeans tend to be worn slightly higher than your casual jeans. The denim will also stretch over time, meaning that they will relax and fit naturally once you start wearing them.

Colour and Fading

Colour and fading are also a vital consideration for smart jeans. A plain dark blue is the easiest colour choice, as it allows you a clean backdrop on which to build your outfit. The lack of any fading provides a sharp and clean look, yet the fact that the material is clearly denim gives a casual and modern choice. However if you want something slightly more casual and a little less crisp, slight fading can be a good choice. For this choice however, stick to dark denim with minimal fading, as too much fading will not provide the smart look we are trying to achieve. Some slight whiskering and honeycombing can look less finished and provide a nice contrast when dressed up. For an alternative choice a colour such as dark grey can also look quite nice, although for the purposes of an essential item, they are probably a second pair you can invest in rather than your primary.

Remember that as these are smart jeans any additional embellishment or detailing is for the most part best avoided. Some smaller details such as contrast stitching can be quite nice, however no additional embroidery. Also it should be noted that the back pockets should be as plain as possible, some slight stitching, such as the trademark patterns for Levis or Nudie are usually fine, however something like the painted gulls of Evisu are probably best reserved for casual jeans.

Raw Appeal

One type of denim jean is highly sought after by collectors and is made by the most exclusive of denim designers, with prices in the range of thousands. This type of jean is made from 'raw denim' (also sometimes known as 'dry'), which is essentially virgin denim.

For the majority of jeans on sale, whilst in production they have been washed and treated for the required effect. For example for faded jeans, they are often thrown into a tumbler with water and rocks in order to quickly achieve a worn in look. Jeans are usually washed in the factory, so that the immediate shrinkage is taken care of. Denim is an organic material, meaning that it is made from cotton and dyed with indigo, a plant extract. Once the material is dyed, it is left to dry and becomes 'denim'. The manufacturers will then wash the denim for the first time. When the denim first becomes wet the fabric will shrink due to its nature. By shrinking the denim immediately it is easier to work with, as the size and flexibility is now pre-set. It is important to note however that denim always maintains a slight flexibility despite the number of washes, and it is recommended to wash your jeans when you first buy them to get a better feel of their size.

The treatment of denim in the production process will also determine many of the characteristics of your jeans. Fading of jeans is usually done simply by tumbling them with rocks, and throwing away any jeans with sizeable holes or major damage. However this will understandably damage the denim and reduce its lifespan. Chemical fading via enzymes is another process that is used to give more precise fading, yet this also weakens the fabric as the enzymes quite literally eat away at the fabric. Similarly bleaching is a common practice, which provides high contrast fading, yet again reduces the lifespan of your jeans.

These processes provide that much looked for 'worn in' effect, however due to their harsh treatment of the denim, reduce the lifespan of the jeans. This was an actual conscious decision by denim manufacturers to boost profits. Originally all jeans were made of raw denim, the fading was done by the wearer and they would last for a number of years, becoming 'worn in' nautrally and over time. However for this highly desired fading and for the softening of the denim, it often required years of wear by the owner. This meant that jeans were not a common purchase, with one pair lasting for many years.

As such manufacturers felt they needed a way to boost profits by providing jeans for the consumer that gave the desired look, yet would not be the only pair they wore for a number of years. By providing pre faded jeans, they gave the desired look of being that persons favourite and most worn jeans. At the same time the process of fading reduced the lifespan of the jeans as the material was weakened, which meant that the consumer would have to return for another pair within a far shorter period of time. Another factor was that the consumer effectively invested no time at all in achieving the desired look of the jeans, meaning they were more willing to discard and replace.

Images courtesy of Superdenim Forum. First set: 4 months wear, one soak. Second set: 12 months year, two washes.

The appeal of raw denim, such as that worn by Marc Jacobs, lies in the early history of mass produced denim. Originally all jeans were made and sold out of raw denim. Given that they had never been washed, the colour was very deep due to the indigo dye and the jeans as a result also felt stiff. However even after a few hours wear creases would appear that were completey unique to the wearer and their body movements. The more they were worn the more these creases would be defined, providing a totally unique and personal look to the denim. The more they were worn, the more they would also adjust and flex to the wearer's body shape. Unlike pre washed denim, raw denim has the virtue of its original flexibility and versatility, meaning that the wearer could effectively mould their jeans. Any fading was done by the wearer and the investment of wearing was shown in beautifully custom and unique fading and creasing.

To this day this is something that designers and consumers will pay a hefty price tage for. Designers will often pay thousands to buy original 'vintage' denim from generations ago, to see how the denim has faded and the unique creasing of the wearer. These will then serve as inspiration for the colour and fading of that designer's own denim collection for the new consumers. Higher end denim of this nature is often hand faded, with the jeans being put onto scale model legs, which are then used to fade and crease in a 'natural' manner. The legs are bent and often sandpaper is used to fade at where the creases naturally occur.

Those consumers interested in raw denim jeans of their own for the creative individuality it provides are also willing to pay for the high end companies that manufacture it today in the original style. Japanese companies such as Evisu produce in their most limited edition collections, hand made raw denim jeans that have their highest price tags. However raw denim can also be bought at very affordable prices, such as those produced by brands such as Cheap Monday. Raw denim is often found in the premium section of collections, and as such is often made from selvage denim. Selvage denim is made from denim taken from the end of a loom, therefore the construction is much stronger. Selvage denim is easily recognisable by turning up the end of the leg of jeans, and looking for the tell tale band of material.

The individual fading of raw denim is highly sought after as it looks visually more coherent to the body of the wearer and has that personal touch. For example, if a person has their wallet in a certain pocket or carries their keys in a certain pocket, this will be reflected in the fading of their raw denim jeans. By looking at the top images of Marc Jacobs, it is easy to tell he is wearing raw denim, given that the creases and fading match to his natural body movements.

Another appealing factor of raw denim is that the fit is also far more individual to the wearer. The problem with jeans that tend to be mass produced is that the shrinkage has already occured in the factory, meaning that the jeans have a pre determined size with little or no flexibility. Raw denim means the owner can wear the jeans and allow the denim to stretch and shrink naturally to their body shape. One example of the flexibility and customisation ability of such jeans is the Levis Shrink To Fit jean, which actually comes in only three sizes. The owner will wear the jeans and sit in a bath of warm/hot water, allowing the denim to shrink to their individual size. The longer they stay in the bath the more the denim will shrink. Of course many of those who wear raw denim will actually put off washing their jeans for the first time in order to get a custom fit and better fading. The first time the jeans are washed, the indigo is uniformly washed off, meaning that contrasted fading is far harder to achieve afterwards.

General tips:

• The longer you wear raw denim before washing, the higher contrast in fading once you wash. Nudie recommend wearers to go 6 months before they first wash and Evisu recommend 5 washes in 4 years, however this is down to personal preference (and hygiene!).
• Try to wash all denim as little as possible as this decreases overall fading and the lifespan of the jeans.
• Wash jeans inside out to keep as much colour as possible and protect the stitching, which is actually closed off on the outside.
• Denim is best hand washed in room temperature water. Hot water can cause major shrinkage and colour seeping. Cold water can also the shock the fabric, meaning it will actually shrink more than in hot water in many cases.
• Try to avoid chemicals, especially biological cleaners as they damage the denim. Natural soaps such as Dr. Bronners or even plain water washes are preferred.
• Do not put your jeans in the dryer, let them hang dry as it prevents damage to the material. Hang drying is also actually a way freshening up your jeans if you do not wish to wash them too often, and is often the only recommended way of treating true vintage denim.
• Remeber that all jeans, regardless of whether they are raw, will shrink when you first wash them. However remember that raw denim will often shrink as much as 5% if required depending on water temperature.
  
• Indigo dye is the most common dye used in jeans and does bleed at first, so be careful of sofas and white trainers/shoes when wearing them at first.
• When storing your jeans, it is best not to fold them. One method is to hang them from a hook by a belt loop, however this can do damage to the stitching. The recommended method is to get a wooden clothes hanger with no cross bar and put each end through the belt loop at either end of the jeans and hang them so they fall naturally down.
• Remove your belt from the jeans when you are not wearing them. Leaving the belt actually damages the leather and causes weakening through creasing.
  

The main thing to remember is that your smart jeans are the pair you can wear dressed up and dressed down. When shopping keep in mind how they will look when dressed smart. This is the harder look to achieve and by virtue of the fact that they are denim jeans means they will automatically look good when worn casually.

Most importantly find jeans that you like and fit your body and personality!

I would also like to thank you all for your lovely comments and will try to comment you all back as soon as possible! -Dapper Kid

Men's Essentials Series: The Shirt By Dapper Kid

A good selection of shirts are essential to any man's clothing collection. The shirt can be worn both dressed up and dressed down and adds an instant smartest to any outfit. Adding a simple tie can add class, yet an open collar can exude a laid back and effortless style. The key to looking good in a shirt is simply knowing which type of shirt you require for your specific outfit and some basic rules for wearing a shirt.

The most important thing any man should know, is a simple understanding of a shirt and the types available. This may seem pretty straightforward, however armed with this knowledge you will find that you are able to make a more appropriate choice when shopping and when dressing generally. The construction of a shirt is simple enough to work out from visual inspection. The key parts to identify are: the collar, the spread, the placket, the cuffs, the arms, the two front panels, the yoke and the back panel. These are the pieces that make up your shirt, and the individuality of each piece will lend itself to which thickness of tie you can wear it with or whether or not you can wear it open collar, to name two examples.

Collar

The collar and spread of a shirt are undoubtedly the most important parts of a shirt, both visually and style wise. The collar has been a part of men's fashion for hundreds of years and the modern day meaning of the word is thought to have emerged around the year 1300. However even though it has been around for this long, many men still are unsure as to the types and which to wear on a certain outfit.

The basic type of collar is actually called the 'spread collar', which is seen most often in the shops. It tends to be between 3 and 6 inches between the tips of each respective collar, and this spacing is actually key to your look. With a smaller spread you will want to go for a thinner tie blade and a thinner knot, for example a basic four-in-hand. With a wider spread you will be able to go for a thicker knot, such as a half or full Windsor. These shirts are mostly worn with a tie, however depending on the fabric and cut, you can wear casually, for example with a sweater or cardigan. For the smarter spread collar you will often require 'collar stays', which are placed behind the tips of the collar, usually in a pocket already sewn in by the manufacturer. Many shirts will come from the store with a plastic stay already in them, however good quality silver or metallic stays can be bought for a guaranteed straight collar.

'Slim Fit' shirts mostly require a thin blade tie, however more often that not can be worn open collar. The reason for this is that the spread is smaller and that the fit is more akin to a t-shirt. In contrast, a shirt with a wider spread will almost always require a tie, looking far too wide on the chest when worn open collared. The slim fit shirt, worn either open collar underneath a sweater, or with the collar open, rolled up sleeves and a casually hung tie, will look good. The versatility of a slim fit shirt therefore makes it a worthwhile basic addition to any man's wardrobe.


For a more casual shirt, simply paired with linen or denim trousers and footwear such as deck shoes or loafers, a 'button down' (usually an 'Oxford') shirt is worn. The button down refers to the collar, which is buttoned down at the tips, although the term is often incorrectly used in American English for a general 'dress shirt'. The button down collar is a feature of the sports shirt, and is usually not worn with a tie, although there have been exceptions such as Gianni Agnelli (who also wore his tie outside of his sweater!). The fabric of this type of shirt is usually a washed cotton, or often a linen blend. The shirt will be more fluid and less crisp, meaning it can be a very rugged and practical shirt. For a button down shirt a plain colour is not usually a good choice, opt rather for a micro print, plaid or 'washed' colour, to fit in with your casual look.

These are only two of the main types of collar, however other styles such as a 'tall' or 'eyelet' collar also exist. I chose these two as they are the most commonly worn collar styles, and indeed they are the most essential styles for a wardrobe.

Cuffs

The other main part of the shirt that must be chosen with care are the cuffs. Cuffs are a very important detail in a shirt that many men often overlook. There are various types of cuff, however the main two are the 'barrel' and the 'double' (often called 'French') cuffs. The barrel cuff is the most simple, with a single length cuff closed with a button. This type of cuff is most commonly found on casual shirts. The smarter option is the double cuff, which as the name suggests is double the length of a traditional cuff, and is folded back over on itself. This type of cuff is usually bound with cuff links of a silk tie. The cuff is therefore a detail point where a man can use a suitable decorative cuff to finish his look.

The amount of cuff shown is also a key consideration, as it actually draws attention to the hands and can visually lengthen the arms. One example would be early Hollywood dancers, who would use their white cuffs to draw attention to their hands, where they would twirl batons of sticks. Generally speaking you will want to show around one to two inches of cuff. One important thing to note is that when wearing a double cuff, you will want to avoid a full sleeve sweater or cardigan, as the prominent shape of the cuff will stretch your knitted top.

General Tips

General tips for a shirt are simple enough. Fit is a key consideration, you want something that is fitted at the shoulders and back. This is usually down to the 'yoke' of the shirt, which is the piece of material at the upper back of the shirt, that dictates the fit and shape of the rest of the shirt. You want the shirt to fit well, however not too feel restrictive when leaning forward. Equally your sleeves ought to cover most of your watch when you put your arms out in front of you. Remember that a slightly tapered shirt will usually be your best option, otherwise the fabric will balloon around your lower torso. The length of a shirt is also a key consideration, as it will determine how the shirt can be worn. Generally if the shirt is longer, you will have to tuck it in. If you want to wear the shirt loose, you will want a shorter length, that does not fall too low.

Ties

Ties are a natural accessory for most shirts, however this can also ruin an entire look.

1. Generally speaking you want your tie to be darker than your shirt, as this provides the most definition and gives a focus.
2. Colour wise, go with something that compliments your shirt, for example a dark blue on a light blue shirt.
   
3. When going for clashing colours, make sure than the shades are correct.
4. Patterns on both shirt and tie are most often avoided, however if done right they look wonderful. Usually a micro pattern on a shirt paired with a larger pattern on the tie will look better.
5. The fabric of the tie you want is usually determined by the fabric of your shirt and suit. You will want fabrics such as wool for a washed cotton or linen shirt and wool suit, however for a crisper suit and shirt a silk tie is recommended.
   
6. The width of the tie blade and type of knot are based on the spread of the shirt and the break point of your suit, so pay careful attention to these details.
   

-D.K.

Cologne, A Man's Essential

Cologne is an essential element to all men and should be used in conjunction with your daily hygienic regimen. I'm sure every man, before going out on the town, has applied cologne not knowing that he just sprayed his worst nightmare for everyone to remember. Finding the right cologne can be very simple. It is the scent that's sexy, not cheap, manly, not Brut, and powerful but not pungent. Keep in mind that cologne can be viewed at as an accessory, making the look complete.

Here are some helpful tips to guide your search for the right cologne:

• -Never buy cologne just because it smells good on someone else. Cologne interacts with skin differently depending on the texture. Oily skin tends to interact with cologne causing the scent to because stronger and longer lasting. Dry skin absorbs cologne causing re-application often. Melanin in the skin has an effect on scent. Darker skin tends to make fragrances smell a bit sweeter.




• When smelling cologne for the first time, remember the three scent levels. High is the level of the cologne when first applied, which is the first impression. Waiting 10 to 15 minutes and smell again, the cologne has reached mid level. Low is the most important level in smelling cologne. After one hour, smell the area again, now the scent has absorbed and mixed with your skin. This is when you determine if this cologne is right for you.




• Buy more than one brand of cologne. Just like shoes...you need more then one scent! It’s good to have at the very least, three different types.

Here are some brilliant colognes to help in your search:

Cartier

Dior

Giorgio Armani

Prada

Issey Miyake
Dolce & Gabbana

-Chavo Killingsworth

Wardrobe Help For Men

How many times have you gone shopping and walked out empty handed? It happens to the best of us. To build a wardrobe that suits your lifestyle, you must first figure out your lifestyle needs. Active wear, business attire, or causal wear? Which one are you focusing on when shopping? Once you're armed with a direction, you have to know your wants as well as your needs. Two things to keep in mind are, how the new garment will work with items already in your wardrobe, and also the fit of the garment.

Purchasing solid colored items always works well with what you currently have. A new black belt and shoes would spruce up your already amazing look. Classic pieces like button down cardigans and layering pieces also work. Acquiring accessories is also a great way to add color and have fun with shopping.

By far, the most important aspect to shopping is the fit of the garment. The fit determines if the garment is right for you. You can take a pair of trousers found at Banana Republic and turn them into Gucci atelier with a trip to your tailor. Find a good tailor, all the great dressers in history had a personal tailor, so why not you? Who would not want clothes that accentuate your assets? Also, you have to know your body. Dress your body with clothes that are the most flattering for you. Having garments fit properly gives you a certain level of confidence that makes you feel good about yourself (If you are in the New York or Los Angeles areas, click over to Stitched Tailors for their tailoring services).

Building a wardrobe is a lifetime endeavor. It will constantly change as you evolve through different stages of life. Remember to keep it simple and be appropriate. Your wardrobe should always reflect your unique personality and lifestyle.

-Chavo Killingsworth

The Right Jeans For Men

Jeans are perfect and every man loves them. Their versatility is truly endless. Whether dressed up or causal the look is centered on the denim. Although versatile, finding the right jean can be difficult. The size, length...look we've all be there!

To help make this process easier, remember never settle if it isn’t exactly what you want. When shopping for denim, go with your gut instincts. You know what you like! The fit is, however, important, because you want them to accentuate your best features. You will want to try on at least three different brands, and experiment with several washes.

Continuously being the latest fashion trend, the designers to choose from are broad. This can also be sort of intimidating, but just remember the look that you’re going for. Here’s a list of recommendations:

Citizens of Humanity

Diesel

Rock and Republic

Paper Denim &Cloth

Seven Jeans

-Chavo Killingsworth

The Puzzling Question: What tie should I wear, and with what shirt?

Pocket squares are essential as well. The square featured in this image, designed by Love & Eight for Lexus, is Minerale, created with volcanic minerals and is fast drying. The square is inspired by Lexus hybrid vehicles.

Some men find it burdening and simply difficult to decide on what tie to wear, with what shirt. Personally, I get really annoyed when my husband asks me what tie he should wear. However, I understand he trusts my opinion, so I oblige. Check out Express's shirt and tie guide. It is an interactive web page in which you can see how different shirts look with different ties. The patterns and colors are in trend, and are perfect for the office as well. Use this for inspiration for your favorite dress shirt and tie brands.

Need more ideas? This tie article, written by Amanda Brooks, is a perfect choice. Ties are classic and will always be a fashions staple in men's wardrobes.

Valentine's Day Suggestions, for Two

FOR HER

What: Romantic Foot Fantasy Kit
Why: The foot is the body’s play station pad to a sensual evening. Want a happy ending? This kit is packed with oils, creams, candles and even a feather to rekindle some of that lost passion.
Where: http://www.valentinesgift.co.uk/


What: A lovers pamper day spa
Why: The year has been hectic and life has thrown so many spanners at you that you’ve gained a toolbox phobia. Couples can forget it all, while getting pampered with facials, manicures, pedicures, a massage, or just a dip in the pool. Nice!
Where: http://www.spaseekers.com/


What: Jo Malone Bath collections
Why: How better to relax than with a deliciously scented bath? The glass decanter bath oils come in a variety of intoxicatingly delightful scents such as: Nutmeg & Ginger, Grapefruit, Verbenas of Provence, Lime Basil & Mandarin and Nectarine Blossom & Honey. Yum!
Where: http://www.jomalone.co.uk/


What: A Love Quest
Why: How fun would it be for your lady to search the city for clues that will lead her to a luxurious hotel suit, adorned with rose petals and champagne.
Where: Your imagination


What: Flowers & Chocolates
Why: I have many male friends who regard this traditional gesture as a waste of time. Well, I for one think it really depends on the lines in between that make a difference. Why not have the bouquet sent to her place of work or better yet, arrange for someone she may not know to meet her on her way home and give it to her stating who its from. P.S Don’t forget the chocolates. Remember what women equate them to? Tasty.

FOR HIM

What: Barry White – The Collection
Why: Music is the only entity that our brains cannot filter. Set the mood with songs like ‘Can't Get Enough Of Your Love Babe’, ‘Love's Theme’ and ‘I'm Gonna Love You Just A Little More Babe’. This album is vintage soul at its best and is a guaranteed to create the perfect sheet action atmosphere. Great!


What: Eye mask & Heart cuffs
Why: The imagination is a wonderful place.
Where: Anne Summers


What: Diesel-Fuel For Life-Him
Why: Couples are constantly seeking vigour revitalizations in their relationships. It’s often hard to identify what will take your relationship to the next level, so why not start with one of the body’s most sensitive senses: The gift of scent. He’ll love it and you will love him in it.
Where: All good Eau de Toilette vendors.


What: Ted Baker Rib Jersey Boxer
Why: Apparently, women love black underwear on men, so you can understand why my chest of draws are loaded with them. Have your man looking at his best with this classic D&G under garment.
Where: House of Fraser


What: Home lap dancing kit
Why: No matter how good your man is, this will be one of the fantasies that he might not have told you about. Surprise him when he gets home or turn up at his place wearing only the outfit under an overcoat. Trust me he’ll be impressed. P.S. all inhibitions must be left outside the door.
Where: http://www.therandomshop.co.uk/

-Gabriel Wood

For the Love of Black

Contributed by Gabriel Wood

Emporio Armani Autumn 2008

I used to frown upon the grunge look in menswear, and especially "Goths". My problem did not lie in the genre of music but of the dress code to which it relates to men. Oh how I loathed the colour black when used solely from head to toe. I had a somewhat ignorant perception of how it should be used. I always thought patriot black should only be worn by funeral directors and by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. But of recent, I’ve had a vogue premonition for the use of this bottomless shade.

To learn about something, you must first observe it.

To understand something is to accept it for what it is, and this would prove quite an obstacle for me. I, firstly, had to research on the whereabouts of these colour, abusers but that wasn’t too difficult as there is a huge colony in Camden market (UK). Oh wow, what a culture shock! I have never seen so much of the same shade. After about half an hour, I wondered whether I would see any sense in this entire skeptical but, as the sun dimmed the shop fronts and quietened the Camden high street, I saw something I didn’t think I would ever see. Undisturbed and understated unity. There I was, utterly convinced that normal people dressed with coordinating colour and vibrancy, but I was wrong. I saw elements of red, shades of purple and other colours hidden in purposely placed accessories. Six inch metal bound platforms and neo-like trench coats are yet to be desired and I realized that by carefully placing hints of colour into an all black outfit, one can pull off a very good look. I decided to make a stop at the UNIQLO store in the heart of trendy Wimbledon, and purchased a black turtle neck jumper and some cream F-TROUPE smart trainers from Topman. I also purchased a black pair of slim cut jeans from Topman plus a black fitted suit blazer. I tried the outfit out as soon as I got home and to my delight it looked good. Who would of thought that the nipple piercing social rejects would be the base of inspiration. I find myself always wearing black, furthermore delighting my bank account with purchases pertaining to my new interest.

"Solid colours worn from head to toe can be good, as long as you coordinate it well with other elements."

Meticulous Male Shoppers

A few days ago I went shopping with my husband for some suits that he needed for business meetings. It was an interesting and even fun experience to see how men actually operate in the fitting room. Here is a list of a few things I discovered about men when they are shopping for clothing:

• Men are meticulous shoppers.
• They put items on hold, often.
• They always try on their clothing.
• They will pay a lot for a good item because price is not an issue.
• Men pay attention to detail.
• Their clothing has to fit almost perfectly, even before tailoring, or they will not buy it.
• Men are picky; they will not settle for anything but the best.

Men feel comfortable with women fitting them and would take a woman's suggestion to heart over a man's. They are curious and choosy about color combinations, and are usually set in their ways. However, they have a great eye for masculine colors. Most men think about their purchase for a long time before making the actual decision to spend their hard earned money.