Remember when Fridays everywhere were casual? Menswear retailers portrayed the look with crisp, khaki chinos and impeccable open necked shirts. There was an occasional sweater, often tied around the shoulders. Reality was far different — bank clerks dressed like garage mechanics, senior executives wore golf shirts and there wasn’t a pressed pant in sight.
Over time, the extremes got straightened out and many corporations found themselves with more relaxed dress codes — jacket and tie no longer required — every day of the week. But neckties have always been a way for men to personalize their look — so I’m not surprised to report many have turned to French cuffs and cufflinks instead. Men young and old have embraced this combination with new enthusiasm. Here is a subtle way for a man to express his personality.
The older generation generally follows the formal traditions that dictate both jacket and tie de rigueur with French cuffs and cufflinks. But younger men — most have never worn this combo — show off the look, tie-less, and without a jacket.
Whichever style is yours, keep these tips in mind:
Posted on September 30th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Accessories, Dress, Fashion, Menswear | 2 Comments »
Often called “ the designer’s designer,” Cuban-born Isabel Toledo was little known outside fashion’s inner sanctum until First Lady Michelle Obama selected her shift dress and coat for the January Inauguration Ceremony. Last week in NYC, I visited The Museum at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) for an exhibition of Isabel’s work.
Posted on August 12th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Celebrities, Dress, Fashion, Image, Menswear, Special Events, Womenswear | No Comments »
Style-makers and trendsetters, even Hollywood celebrities, have long known the benefits of combing Goodwill Stores for hidden gems, but a funny thing happened on our way through the recession. Goodwill stores across North America noticed an increase in sales – the exact opposite of most retailers. According to senior management at the Maryland head office, the time was right to improve the brand – “to promote Goodwill as a cool place to shop.”
Posted on July 28th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Dress, Fashion, Menswear, shopping, Womenswear | 3 Comments »
Not just one specific thing, like the Pashmina craze that recently swept across the planet. I’m talking about every single accessory category a girl could crave, with the possible exception of millinery. The timing is perfection itself – great news in a season of closely trimmed clothing budgets. All these accessories provide a much-needed boost [...]
Posted on July 9th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Accessories, Fashion | No Comments »
