Outerwear You Can't Go Wrong With

Greetings!

The temperature has dropped which means it’s time to break out your outerwear.  The fall is a great time for coats because of the many options you can choose from.  You can go with a classic look or you can try something with edge, and still have the appeal of a gentleman.  The fall allows you to put on layers and create something daring yet fashionable.  Here are a few coats which I think should be a staple in your fall wardrobe.

The top coat is a classic but ever-transcending coat.  The top coat has gone from the oversize coat you’d see on your dad to a tailored fit that shows a gentleman’s sense of style!  A tailored top coat comes in different colors and cuts to give you a variety of options, while making you feel comfortable.  One thing I love about these top coats is that you can add layers underneath to show your own personality!  If there is one coat you should have, make sure it is a classic, tailored top coat.

The bomber jacket is another classic which should make way into your closet.  Think Tom Cruise Top Gun but slimmed down.  The bomber jacket was made famous by pilots but now has a street appeal that catches eyes.  The bomber jacket presents an edgy look, but can still be worn in an eloquent way.

When you’re going for a calm and relaxing day, try a canvas military jacket.  This jacket is fun as it shows a relaxing side but still presents class.  The military jacket can be worn during any time of the day or even at night if you’re out with the fellas.  Try adding different layers to this jacket or even a scarf to present a different element.

The last coats I want to mention are not exactly coats, but outerwear which are great for the fall.  One is the zip hoodie.  The zip hoodie is comfortable, simple, and allows you to be flexible.  It looks great with a t-shirt, jeans, and boots.  This look is very laid back and leaves you comfortable in this fall weather.  The last is the cardigan.  A cardigan is not a coat per say, but it can be used as outerwear to add that certain class to your outfit.  The fall weather allows you to wear a cardigan without covering it with another coat.  A cardigan is classy and can be worn to just about any occasion!

 

 

Gentlemen, the fall presents us with an opportunity to think outside-the-box and show off what you’re wearing.  You do not just want to throw on any coat as that coat may throw off your whole outfit.  Wear your coat with a purpose!   And gentlemen, remember to make sure you are comfortable even though you are putting on layers.  One of the worst things you could do is throw on an exquisite outfit and look uncomfortable in fit.  Trust me; your vibe will rub off on whoever meets or sees you.  Lastly, remember to stay in a “Gentleman’s frame of mind.”  Until next time…

A Gentleman’s Mentality,

Jason Christopher

Good Morning Fall!

Greetings!

This only happens four times a year; the seasonal transition period.  Going from summer to fall can be a little tricky.  It’s not like fall to winter where the weather may be similar or late spring to summer where you already have color in your wardrobe and look to add a little kick to it.  Summer to fall means your wardrobe has a makeover.  It’s time to put away most bright colors and move into more moderate tones.  However, this does not mean you cannot have fun with different colors.  You can still wear your blues, reds, greens, and pinks, just not those eye-popping colors like you belong at a beach!  I love the fall because it’s a time where you can add on layers and accessories without covering it all with a big coat because the weather is frigid!  

It’s time to bring out the fall jackets and coats.  These are the jackets you can leave unbutton and show off what’s underneath.  You can show your creativity whether you have a feel for the biker jacket, blazer, bomber, military jacket, or trench coat.  You can throw on these jackets to give your outfit an extra pop and show that extra sense of style.  I have to recommend that you take the time in purchasing a couple of different coats for the fall because wearing the same coat over and over will cause it to lose its natural fit.  You want to keep your items as fresh as possible and having a variety to choose from will do so.

With the weather cooling off, this is the time for cardigans.  I am a huge fan of cardigans because you can wear them with an edgy feel or keep it sleek and classy.  Wear a cardigan with a button-up or a t-shirt.  Wear a cardigan with jeans, khakis, or slacks.  Either way you can add a cardigan to your outfit and keep the message you want to send.



It’s time to put the shorts away and pull out those pants you’ve been waiting to wear as summer comes to a close.  There is a variety of looks you can pull off with pants in the fall.  Especially when pairing your pants with certain shoes or boots.  Jeans are always a staple in your wardrobe, but try out a light color in contrast to the many dark pairs you own.  Khakis are great for the fall as they present a casual look that is different from what every other guy will wear.  Also, corduroys are back!  Now is the acceptable time to pull them out and wear them with pride.  Corduroys come in all different colors so make sure you try out something other than the tan and grey pairs. Corduroys also come in different thicknesses, so know that the thicker the corduroy, the more casual the look.  

Well Gentlemen, this is a little guide as we hit the fall season strong.  There are so many aspects when it comes to fall that I look forward to covering them along the way.  I love the summer and warm weather, but in the fall we can really show our unique fashion sense.  Be bold this fall and enjoy switching up jackets, cardigans, shirts, pants, shoes, boots, scarves, and hats!  Be daring and always stay in a “Gentleman’s Frame of Mind.”  Until next time…

A Gentleman’s Mentality,

Jason Christoper

An Important Accessory: The Belt

Greetings!

Gentleman, the past few days a pet peeve of mine has reared its ugly head and I must take the time to point it out.  A lot of things we do in our lives involves the finished product.  This is the product we want everyone to see once its fully accomplished.  Now, where I am taking this in terms of men’s fashion, I will tell you.  That pet peeve is a worn down or hideous belt.  As I have said before, we must be able to be adventurous in our fashion and step outside of our comfort zone to expand ourselves.  However, when we neglect smaller parts of our outfit, like a belt, we are neglecting our outfit as a whole.  When adding a men’s accessory like a belt, whether for style or necessity, we should take pride in it.  Wearing a belt that sticks out like a sore thumb takes away from our finished product.

 

In your closet, you should have two basic belts.  You should have one black leather belt and one brown leather belt.  In a previous post on shoes, I mentioned to try different shades of browns.  The reason I mention this is because if your shoes are a brown that have no relation to your belt, find a brown belt that you can match with those shoes.  The belts should be between one inch and one and 1/8 inches.  This will make it possible to style your belts with all types of pants. 

 

There are also other belts made of different materials and different styles.  You can also find canvas, vinyl, and braided belts.  (Even ties as belts are coming back on the scene, but that’s a topic for another time!)  The thing with canvas belts are they should be geared more for the spring and summer seasons.  They present a better lightweight option along with more color.  Remember to try and match your belt with what you are wearing.  Do not let the belt take over your outfit.

I thought about doing a quick post like this a while ago, but I figured as Gentleman, we would have this part down.  The past few days I have seen well put-together men, but then a belt that looks like it was thrown on when the lights were off.  Remember, people tend to notice the little things, especially if that little thing sticks out like a sore thumb.  Gentleman, lets make sure when we leave the house we are a finished product.  Until next time…

A Gentleman’s Mentality,

Jason Christopher

What Do Your Shoes Say About You?

Greetings!

Gentlemen, we all know the importance of having a great shoe game.  When it comes to our feet, it’s important what we put on them.  People tend to take notice of our shoes and how we treat them.  When it comes to shoes, it is important to have multiple styles.  It is also important to treat our shoes with care.  Just like the suits we invest in, we invest a good amount into our shoes.  It is important to keep the shoes in pristine shape.  We have to make sure to have the correct shoe trees, polish/conditioner, and whatever repairs done promptly to ensure our shoes stay as impressive as the day we purchased them.

In your closet there should be shoes that point at the toe, square at the toe, or are rounded off.  Wearing shoes with that come to a point demonstrates a slender sort of look, which is great with fitted pants.  Having shoes that come to a square at the toe are a basic necessity in the shoe world.  This type of shoe (especially black square toe shoes) will always have a certain class that is ready for any occasion.  The shoes that are rounded off at the toe are also a great option.  Not only can these shoes be matched up with a fine-tailored suit, but they can also be worn in a casual setting.

Shoes do not only come in black.  Do not get me wrong, having a sleek black shoe is timeless but your shoe collection should contain other colors that show your creativity.  Shoes also come in brown, but why not try a chocolate brown or light brown.  And fellas, lets not forget that shoes do not just come in leather.  Try suede shoes out, as suede can present you with all different types of colorful options.  Have you ever tried a navy or light red suede shoe?  If you haven’t, trust me that once you do, you’ll look to be as creative as ever.

I mentioned before that you should take care of your shoes.  Take pride in your shoes as they represent a part of you.  Well kept shoes usually means a well kept man.  It is important to have the right shoe trees, polish, and shoe repair shop to maintain your shoes.  Cedar shoe trees are a great purchase as they will preserve the shape of the shoe and absorb moisture.  Have polish for leather shoes, both black and neutral.  For suede shoes, have a suede eraser handy to get out any scuff marks.  Then use the brush to get the suede back to the liking of the shoe.  Lastly, find that shoe repair shop in your town.  You’ll find that the man who repairs shoes is a life saver.  Whether its replacing the heel or putting in new stitching, he’s saving you hundreds of dollars!  This man will show you the importance of taking care of a great shoe.

And just like I mentioned before about investing in a good suit, you should invest in good shoes.  Cheap shoes are made of cheap materials and will not work for you in the long haul.  You walk on your feet all day, I’m pretty sure your feet would not mind the extra love.  Take care of your shoes and they will take care of you.  Until next time…

A Gentleman’s Mentality,

Jason Christopher

Find The Right Dress Shirt

Greetings!

I have noticed this before, but I have really paid attention to this lately.  Gentlemen, when wearing a button-up shirt make sure the shirt fits correctly!  I say this because we are no longer in the 90’s where a button-up shirt fits like a parachute.  You do not have to hide anything under your shirt, so wear the shirt like its meant to be worn.  Before purchasing your shirt, make sure you know your measurements, correct neck size and arm length.  The shoulder seams should hug your shoulders and the sleeves should not be too long.  The better your shirt fits on you, the more class and confidence you will display.

Remember to never settle on one shirt.  Button-up shirts from different companies do not all fit the same.  It is important to sample out the right style until you settle on the right shirt for you.  One of the most important things I can say about buying a button-up shirt is that it is not about the label.  Whether you buy your shirt from H&M to Banana Republic to Charles Tyrwhitt to Thomas Pink, make sure the shirt fits correctly.  No person is going to come up to you and ask to see the label on the inside of your shirt.  However, a person will come up to you and complement you on your style!

When you go to buy your shirt, ask the store representative to point you in the direction of the slim-fit shirts.  If slim-fit shirts do not do the job, there are also extra slim-fit shirts available through some store.  When I go to pick out my shirts, I actually like to try the shirt on with a pair of pants and shoes as if I were to where it out.  This is so I know I am making the correct purchase and have no doubts running through the back of my mind.  Slim-fit dress shirts help set the tone for your outfit and how everything else will fit.

Now go out and find the shirt that’s perfect for you!  You are wearing the shirt; the shirt is not wearing you.  Remember there is no need to wear a button-up shirt that looks like you are hiding something underneath it.  Cleaning up and wearing a shirt that properly fits you will enhance the right features on your body.  Look forward to the complements and remember to be a Gentleman.  Until next time…

A Gentleman’s Mentality,

Jason Christopher

"I don't got the bright watch...I got the right watch."

Greetings!

One of the best lyrics I have ever heard from one of the greatest music artists of all time, Jay-Z, is, “I don’t got the bright watch, I got the right watch.”  That statement right there is plan and simple.  I feel that too many times, guys get into buying the gaudy, most expensive watch because they want to show off.  Well guys, we are gentleman and we should not want or have to show off.  That gaudy watch will take away from what you’re wearing, and most importantly you as the individual.  When buying a watch, make sure the purchase is the correct purchase that shows off your style and class as a gentleman.  You should want your timepiece to add another layer of sophistication to you and your outfit. 

  

One maker of watches I am a huge fan of is Movado.  The watches Movado produces are very distinct and oozes class.  One watch Movado produces is called the Swiss Serio Stainless Steel Bracelet 38mm.  I am a huge fan of this watch.  The face of the watch is very simple, solid black and silver tone dot market.  This watch does not have diamonds implanted all over to say, “Look at me.”  But, trust me, this watch is noticeable because of its classic and sleek look.  Most importantly, it adds another dimension to your outfit while not taking away from it.

A big thing to know about watches is that one watch will not match everything you have in your closet.  It is important to have a variety at watches that can match up with your different tastes.  Having watches with different bands its great because it allows you to be creative and have fun.  Adding color in your watch shows you care about yourself from head to toe.  Like I said before, it is important to take care of the little things.  It is the little things that get noticed the most at times.

 

Again, remember to get the right watch, not the bright watch!  Your watch does not have to show off.  Let your personality and confidence show off.  Take the time to invest in a quality watch because the higher quality watches last for a long time.  I am sure you would rather have a quality watch that lasts then one that you have to replace every year.  Your watch will speak for itself and reflect on your personality.   Have fun and switch up the style and bands of your watch.  Lastly you do not complement the watch, the watch complements you!  Until next time…

A Gentleman’s Mentality,

Jason Christopher

Bring Out Colorful Socks

Greetings!

I talked about adding some color in our outfits before since it is the summer.  One specific item I want to touch upon is the dress sock.  Fellas, when we put our suits on I understand it is quite normal to throw on a pair of black, navy, or brown dress socks.  However, let’s step outside of these generic colors and throw in some pink, yellow, orange, red, purple, or light blue.  Now, you may ask why wear colorful socks if no one will see them?  Trust me, people notice socks as you sit down or when you walk.  Gentleman, it is important to take note that people notice the little things.  By stepping outside the generic realm, this shows a colorful (no pun intended) and outgoing side of you.  Personally, I have received complements before about my socks from ladies, which has led to more conversation.

 

Now, there are many designs out there that draw positive attention.  Please stay away from the cartoon looking dress socks.  Those socks portray you as a child and not the gentleman you are.  I am a fan of dress socks that are argyle or stripped.  These socks add fun to your outfit, while keeping a classy feel. 

When wearing these outgoing and fun socks, I’ve noticed that many gentlemen are concerned about what the socks should match.  First, you do not want to have your sock match exactly to your shoe.  This will make it look like you are trying to wear boots.  Let your shoes speak for themselves.  The only time your sock should go in unison with your shoe is if you are wearing a black suit, black shirt, and black tie to match.  Then you should have on black socks with your black shoes.  You should look to match your dress socks up with your tie or shirt you are wearing.  A good friend of mine always mentions having a good sock to tie ratio.  I agree with that statement, meaning if those two are in sync, they are great accents to the whole outfit. 

 

Gentleman, again since we are in the warmer months of the year so let’s take full advantage!  This is the opportunity where you get to be daring and take a chance on items you normally would not wear.  Step a little outside your comfort zone to grow and become more comfortable.  I guarantee if you wear a pair of yellow dress socks with a navy or charcoal suit, white dress shirt with a tie to match, you will not have a problem wearing another pair of colorful dress socks.  The complements will come from there!  Let’s not limit ourselves in what we wear, expand, and show our confidence!  Until next time…

A Gentleman’s Mentality,

Jason Christopher