Tips For Spring/Summer 2013

This is a great video I found on how to look your best in the Spring. It's hard to look dressy while it's so hot, so here are some casual threads to keep you cool.

Happy Hunting,
Mr. Darcie

Bow Tie Me Up

Bow ties have caused a bit of controversy over that last few months: Are they cool, or nerdy? What are they worn with? Can they be clip-on,  pre-tied, or should they be tied by hand? How do you tie one anyways? And aren't they for hipsters?

Today we are going to put your bow tie worries at ease. When worn correctly, they can look sharp and draw attention. Some people swear by the bow tie, such as Jonathan Snyder from Southern League Magazine. Bow ties are a great way to show off your individuality and set you apart from the crowd, which could be just what you need to capture the attention of a special lady.  Here are some great ways to incorporate a bow tie into you're everyday look.

For a formal event, always wear a black bow tie for a sleek, sharp look. A pre-tied bow tie is perfectly acceptable. These will have sharper corners and will set you apart from the black-tie crowd. This has been a big trend with celebrities at awards shows this season. They know how to pull off  bow tie without looking nerdy or stuffy. For more style inspiration, check out these red carpet bow ties. This is also a great look for a summer wedding, either as a groomsman or a guest. 



For a more casual look, play with texture and pattern with your bow tie. Knits are in right now, and so are quirky fabrics printed in plaid, polka dots, flamingos, martini glasses, or just about anything else you could think of. Ditch the suit jacket and wear with a tucked-in, button down shirt. A bow tie can look great on a denim shirt, or paired with a white shirt and suspenders. These can be clip-on, pre-tied or hand-tied. Trust me, no one is judging you on your ability to tie a bow.

Most importantly, a bow tie should fit your personality. Funny, easy going men look great in a bow tie. If your style tends to be more serious and professional  you may want to skip out on this trend. Moreover, never wear a bow tie with a t-shirt. Just don't do it. To start your collection, head over to The Tie Bar.

Happy Hunting,
Mr. Darcie

Louis Vuitton Luxury

The Louis Vuitton spring collection is a great place to draw inspiration. If your style is clean cut and classic, or cool and trendy, the Spring 2013 represents a man who knows how to bask in luxury. Their nautical themes this season includes leather jewellery, anchor themes, and blue and grey tones. Trade your tie in for an ascot, and unbutton the top button for a relaxed, beachy look. Neon tones have also taken center stage in this collection, but should be deferred for a more classic look. Try pairing a navy blazer with a slim fitted white jean and boat shoes. The cool sophistication will be a modern take on the classic yacht captain. 

Designed by Kim Jones, this collection reflects on his travels to Thailand and are meant to "remind the adventurer of sandy beaches he'd known and loved," according to this Esquire article. Read the article for more information on the design and construction of this high-end line. 

Happy Hunting,

Mr. Darcie

The Effect of A Good Suit

Never underestimate the power of a properly fitted suit. In the business world, it is always important to make a god impression, and this is doubly true when it comes to women. If you want to be perceived as an Alpha - male, there is no better way to do this by wearing a tailored suit. All of your friends will look like young boys when compared to the intimidating stature of you in a suit. If you don't believe me, Sir Micheal Caine will demonstrate:

When buying a suit, regardless on price, one thing is very important: Get it tailored! If you suit cost $400 or $4000, it will not look good if it doesn't fit you right. Some stores will do tailoring for free on merchandise you buy in the store. Even if you do have to pay, it's a good investment. You want to look like a man, not like you are playing dress up in your fathers clothes. Secondly, make sure what you are wearing is a modern style. Avoid large plaid prints and wide lapels, and get a nice trim fit across the shoulders. If you can, shop for a suit with a female friend: she will make sure you are heading in the right direction. Otherwise, this GQ article is a great guide for finding the right suit. Finally, a man in a suit is like a woman in heels: you need to learn how to walk in it. Remember to hold your shoulders back and walk with confidence. Having your head down and shoulders hunched will ruin the effect of the suit. 

Happy Hunting, 

Mr. Darcie

Eton of Sweden

 The collared shirt been both 

established and revolutionized by the world-famous shirt producers, Eton of Sweden. The bring class, style, and the top quality in fabrics and construction. After nearly a century of hard work, Eton represents the leading brand in men's shirts. This is due partially to their extraordinary materials: the entire collection is made from Pima or Egyptian cotton. The Luxist had an interview with Erik Wilkinson, Eton's Director of Sales for North America. He claims their success is due to a "completely vertically integrated process", from the sourcing of materials, to the fabric finishing to the construction of garments. Head over to The Luxist for the full article.

Check out the male model Eton has been used in their last few ad campaigns. This rustic man sports a scar over his left eyebrow and a rather impressive beard. Ladies every wear are swooning over the bushy beard which had become a trend in recent years.

Happy Hunting,

Mr. Darcie

The Great White Gatsby

No woman can resist the sharply dressed Gatsby, played by Leonardo DiCaprio in The Great Gatsby, due in theatres on May 10th. Academy Award winning designer Catherine Martin transforms Jazz Era fashions to look modern and sophisticated. Only she could turn a period movie into the next big trend in men's fashion. 

Catherine teamed up with the Brooks Brothers to release a certainly dapper menswear line based off the movie. Channel your inner Gatsby with a three piece suit and a pair of two-toned oxfords. Smart blazers are paired with plaid vests or colourful bow ties for a unique spin on 1920's style. Black tie style is transformed with lapel waist coats, and bow-ties. The look is clean, composed, and very, very rich.

Expect a vintage feel to formal trends this season, and try to incorporate them into you're everyday look. A pocket watch, straw hat or bow tie can give some extra class to an outfit. Complete the look with a glass of scotch and a beautiful woman. To view the entire collection, visit the Brooks Brothers website. 

Happy Hunting,

- Mr. Darcie