Blocking out (and Blacking out) the Rain

We’re expecting the MAJOR STORMS in L.A. this week, which means a rare opportunity to put on some outerwear and dig a few choice accessories out of the closet.  Never mind that MAJOR STORMS only means LIGHT DRIZZLE, we’re just excited for the change in weather.  The trench and umbrella are obvious choices, [...]

Style 101: Statement Sneakers

Break out of your usual weekend shoe routine by mixing in a pair of bold statement sneaks every so often.  It’s easier to pull off than you might think.  Rule 1:  Chose the shoes wisely.  Nothing you might actually run a marathon in.  Rule 2:  Keep everything else understated and conservative.  Keep the jeans trim [...]

Style 101: The Case for 2-Button Jackets

Many punches have been thrown in the 2-Button vs. 3-Button jacket debate, and while there will probably never be a clear winner, we would like to throw our weight behind the 2-button camp. Our argument emphasizes the visual lines created by the cut of the jacket instead of any stylistic of fashionisitic differences. Sticking to classic, flattering lines is always appropriate, and the deeper V created by the 2-button cut beats the boxy 3-button any day. And in honor of football season, we’re using telestrator technology to teach.

Style 101: Vest and Jeans

We’re definitely glad to see the waistcoat being embraced by modern man, but we do have concerns that poor execution could sink an otherwise noble attempt at stylish self-expression. On the left, photographer Alexi Lubomirski shows why he is one of GQ’s most stylish men in America. His counterpart on the right, on the other hand, gives off the hipster-in-a-shrunken-vest vibe. The styling between the two pictures is similar enough to show that the difference between good and bad comes down to proportions. The visual lines created by the GQ version paint a long, lean figure with broad shoulders, while the Nitrolicious version comes across a little disjointed and oddly shaped. Here’s why:

Style 101: Rules and How to Break Them:
Match the Belt and Shoes

The Rule: Match ‘Em

According to the tenets of man-law, thine belt shalt match thine shoes, and this violation is just the kind of thing that tends to get noticed. The black-black or brown-brown pairing is always appropriate and should be the default setting for any sensible getup. This is an attention-to-detail test, underpinned by a recognition that a dress belt isn’t really for holding up one’s pants, but for adding an element of connectivity to an ensemble. Keep the shades and patterns close, and keep that style reputation intact.