Fashion Tips

The Manifest Of A Well Made Men’s Dress Shirt.

If there is one thing that is fact, it is that dress shirts have various qualities. Looking at a shirt, it is not that easy to determine the quality of that particular garment. To be frank, pricing is not the only factor. It can be misleading in some cases. Some expensive dress shirts are not good quality as some cheaper dress shirts are better made than imagined. Your collar is falling off is a good indicator of a bad quality shirt. Strait forward stitching and soft touch fabric is more of a good quality men’s dress shirt. Most high quality men’s dress shirts share 6 important qualities. These are: Fabric, stitching, collars, yolk, buttons and cuffs.

The fabric for 90% of quality dress shirts is cotton. This can organic or Egyptian, which is well known for its durability. The other 10% is broken down in various materials. A good collar stays in place or “flipped” as is said in the fashion industry. Cuffs should keep their rigidity. The yolk is the top of the shirt on the reverse side of the shirt. These should have lines down the center of the shirt, but facing slanted upwards. No wrinkles should be seen anywhere in the collars cuffs or yolk as this is a sign of mediocre quality. Buttons are to be secured tightly with no threads anywhere. With any piece of apparel, one should know that time has an effect on the longevity of a shirt.

Lastly, good, clean maintenance is always good for clothing whether it be a shirt or any fabricated product. Dry cleaning or cold water washing and hang or flat drying is usually the preferred methods of cleaning quality shirts. Today most individuals do not hand wash shirts as it can shorten the life span of it.

Once upon a time, there was a fashion-less person who packed up anything because it was vacation time, but had to realize that was not a good idea, especially when a cruise to a hot spot is involved.

Besides getting castigated by his friend, who mentioned that running through airports and terminals with excess baggage was not fun for him, as he was tired of the clothes bulging out of his luggage. Fighting with a suitcase was not on his agenda on this holiday and since most cruise lines believe in comfort clothing things have changed.

The airlines are now charging for added luggage, so packing lightly is a good idea. In order to do this, one needs to know what fashion and accessories should come along for the cruise venue. Packing your entire closet is silly - to say the least.

ShirtsGoneWild has some tips and guidelines for you to ponder on.

Ladies Wardrobe

First Things First: Mini shorts are only appropriate at the pool deck or while exercising in the gym on board. The lido buffet is a stretch, but still acceptable. Swim suits are limited and should be worn only at the pool with a nice wrap.

Daytime Fashion: The ladies wear should be sundresses and skirts. Casual is the name of the game. T-shirt ensembles are always great along with short sets.

Shore-leave: There are exceptions to every rule so, if you are going diving or canoeing, very casual is the way to go.

Evenings: Cruise ships assign daily dress codes –Cruise lines decide dress codes everything from resort casual to informal to formal. Usually these dress rules are after 6 p.m. there are usually 2-3 formal nights and some semi-casual on a seven day cruise. So Ladies - Keep the nice silk dresses for the super high end restaurants.

 

Male Specific Wardrobe

First Of All: Khaki’s always works on a cruise. A nice mens designer polo shirt is a winner with blue or navy and even khaki’s. You can, pretty much, wear this anywhere on board, except for the scheduled dinner theme. Don’t bother wearing this by the pool, either. But wear swim shorts by the pool.

The Daytime Guide:  Indoor activities should include: Jeans, shorts, scorts, and camp shirts. Shorts are versatile with a camp shirt. As a good idea wear a silk, short sleeve JoeyJ or Tommy Bahama camp shirt. Both of these designers work well. JoeyJ specializes in high gauge Ahimsa silk and organic shirts are very big these days.

Shore-Leave: Again, keep it casual. Most on shore restaurants like and appreciate good attire.

Evenings: For the men, makes sure that tuxedo is ready to go. Pick any Tuxedo you want but make sure you match. This day and age, suits are being more seen because of style. Some ships do rent out Tuxedo’s.

Suits and ties will also work well for these formal events on or off ship. 

Unisex Attire

Cardigans and Jackets: Enjoy the top layered look. Do not forget those windbreaker or raincoat for those less than desirable tropical days. If you are going to Alaska, it is best to bring it all with you, Tank tops and rain jackets, and sweaters to shorts and Jeans.

 
Head & Face Gear: Sunglasses are a necessity, baseball caps or safari hats are in need for those sunny yet cooler days. Bring olive oil for your skin, my experience is that this is by far the best oil for your skin on dry or humid days when on a cruise. Bananas or sweatbands work when need be.

Footwear: Sandals are a must for 70% of the time. There is no need to pack a full suitcase full of shoes. Dress shoes are in order for those formal venues. Sneakers a must for the fitness center on board.

This will cover you for that next fun cruise you go on. So just sit back and organize yourself before you go. 

What to wear at a fitness club

For some, it isn’t just getting up in the early hours of the morning to get on that treadmill, go to Zumba class, practice yoga or hit the weights. No, the real question is “What do I wear?” Being an avid fitness person, I have compiled some good possibilities for your workout garb.

Let’s start with the obvious: T-shirts and pants.

When you exercise, you should wear loose-fitting T-shirts that allow you to move freely. In the summer, wearing lighter color tones will help you keep nice and cool. Dark tones tend to trap light. In the winter this works well. Wear layers when it is chilly outside with hoodies to keep warm.  It is good to wear baseball caps for shade in sunny weather, and wool caps in the winter to keep your head and body warm. Do not wear plastic clothing, as these will keep you too hot and will not let any heat or sweat escape.

Sneakers are extremely important. Make sure they are well made and fit you correctly. Leave 1 inch in front of your toe or half an inch from your longest toe. Use supports or cushioned soles.  If you run a lot get the salesperson in the store to help. They can be knowledgeable. Remember: Wearing the wrong footwear can hurt your feet. 

Socks are also important because they absorb sweat and protect you from blisters. Sprinkling powder or starch is great for shoe odor!  Lastly, if you go snowboarding or bike riding wear a helmet. It's the middle of a year, and most probably people have promised themselves, they will exercise more. Whether you train with weights or are doing a marathon training having the right workout fashion can make it easier to stay committed to an exercise regimen.

Let's go over what not to wear to the gym.  

Do not wear clothes too big or oversized. By default when we know we're going to perspire, is typically to put on the most worn out, relaxed casual clothes we own. That is what some men do. Others more fashion aware, use nice fitting kind of loose apparel.

With women, the first step is to get the best fitting sports bra. The best way to figure it out is to do the jump test. Jump up and down and if your breasts move easily you have the wrong one. Do not forget to change bras as you sculpt your body because it will change as you lose weight. Assess this ever few months. What do you wear over your sports bra? That depends both on what kind of exercise you're doing and on what you are comfortable wearing.  T-shirts are great, as long as they fit; seams should hit at your shoulders from corner to corner, and the hem shouldn’t be longer than your waist. Over sized tees are ok but not parachute fitted tees. Look also for fabrics that absorb moisture, particularly if your gym is hot, or if you are running or walking in hot weather.

Choose pants with enough room to move about in, but don't purchase saggy, sweats. Draw-string or elastic waist yoga pants or jogging suit bottoms work well. They are wonderful for yoga. For Pilates use a slimmer cut, since your toes are facing the ceiling. Always wash and take care of your workout garb. Wash them in cold water and let air dry whenever possible.

This should give you some idea of what is good fashion at a fitness club or gym. The most important factor when working out is your comfort.

Don’t forget that after all - At the end of the day our body is our temple.

ShirtsGoneWild - What To Wear On Your First Date…

…well that depends where your date is decided to be. Let us break this down for you ladies and gents:

Oh yes, how exciting is the thought of a first date, it holds the hype of someone new, exuberant, exciting and hopefully an emotional beginning of a wonderful time. Of course, the first date also can come with a certain amount of stress because you want to impress him or her in every way possible while also genuinely enjoying your night out. Marketing guru’s say that today’s males are probably more concerned with appearing well-groomed and dressed, than men were in the previous years, plus having a lot to think about while planning the big first date - so wondering what garb to wear should be the last thing on your mind.

To help you get a grip on a first-date wardrobe, we’ve combined a few of the most common first-date scenario’s and what one should wear in each situation. We don’t want you to be under dressed or too dressed for that matter. With today’s hottie looks, it is imperative to have first class fashion on a first date, this will give your personality a chance to shine a bit more. On first dates, the first impression will usually carry the rest of the outing so it is vital to make sure it isn’t botched.

The main objective of this article is to give you some fashion sense for that special first date, so that you don’t over or under dress. One of the most important things to remember is to be comfortable so your personality can be fluent and as natural as usual. Always select your clothing with passion. And if the date doesn’t work out for you, you will at least be comfortable with yourself. There’s always someone else that will match your criteria. There is someone for everyone. Just make sure she is a lady not a woman - there definitely is a difference.

In a restaurant

Make sure you think about where to go to eat and what type of restaurant it is. High-end or casual locations need to be pre-empted in one’s mind. If it’s a chic looking establishment, make sure the proper suit is in order, and do not forget those dress shoes.  Having said that, if you’re going to a two hundred dollar a plate eatery and you are wearing sneakers and shorts, your chances are slim, for an end of evening hot night cap. (First time out isn’t a good idea to have her thinking you’re off center)

It seems that some men do go overboard to impress on that infamous first date. It is true, that it will probably be a nice restaurant, not the ritziest but pretty upscale. The best trousers to wear are JoeyJ or Prada. They fit so well and hide any flaws. Upstairs, a man should wear a nice well fitted dress shirt by Gucci or Luigi Borrelli which will give you that classy and refined look. As far as shoes are concerned, no sneakers, but stylish loafers will do the trick. Ferragamo is always a winner. Make sure they are neat and clean and shined up if they aren’t new.

At the movies

Of course there also are the movies; which is sometimes protocol on the first date. So if you’re usually a good dresser, apply your effort to being dressed down a bit. Let’s be honest about it, you aren’t starring in the movie. On the other hand, some of you guy’s dont dress up enough. Since you are setting a kind of precedence for the future, you want to look somewhat tailored. So the trick is to look good but not to overdo it.

Basically dress in a comfortable manner, so to just look good for her. If you choose to wear a pair of jeans to the movies, True Religion is the best pick. Toss on a Tommy Bahama embroidered silk shirt and match your theme.

If you’re a bit chilly, a nice JoeyJ sports jacket or blazer will do the job to complete your look. But make sure your colors offset each other. (If you’re wearing green jacket, go a shade lighter in the shirt or wear black)

In the night life

Some also choose the night spots on a first date. Casual is best and add some unusual elements to your garb. Remember, you are there to have fun, so a nice relaxed look is in order. For bars or dancing, forget about putting on edgy accessories. Look simplified and wear a pair of jeans and a nice sweater or cardigan pair it with a striped shirt, and unusual colors with a jacket. Don’t wear too many layers, because you will be sweating most of the night. 100% cotton is a good choice because it shows structure, has a very casual flair and of course is comfortable. Blazers always work well too, if they are solid in color.

Stand out in the crowd whenever possible. Leather shoes will finish the look. White, Tan or Black is the correct choice.

In the park

Of course, you won’t be wearing a zoot suit to a picnic, or to the park. Sneakers, with shorts and a well groomed look is what women like. Clean nails are always in. Do not bring along friends - it’s a killer situation. Instead, focus on your date and wear colors that stand out in a park, like blue. You will be outdoors, so, khaki shorts are a must. Ralph Lauren makes the nicest pair of shorts and is well known to ladies. Polo shirts by Hugo Boss are a nice finishing touch. Nice brown sandals are a cool choice and are easy to take off on a picnic blanket. Banana republic has a nice selection.

Cheese and wine always works. Do not forget the chocolate either.

Before you go out to that club open your closet first

How imperative is your fashion that you wear in a nice nightclub? Ignoring the fact, that you won’t even get in the establishment, if you wear incorrect apparel. Wearing the RIGHT clothes can be the difference in you spending the night, stirring up conversation with hotties or being stuck at the bar, as popular as a monk in a disco. Yes, people, it’s really that dire.

The official dress code for most high end nightclubs is listed as stylish attire. Don’t forget stylish to one person is a clown to another. It would be a good cognitive move, to make sure you dress to get received by the doorman with impression, rather than get rejected before you even get in, capische?

It is a good idea not to look like an idiot. So don’t dress like your neighbor ladies and gents. Just because they look Goth doesn’t mean you’re going to a party at a cemetery.

Women should wear comfortable shoes and keep them on all night and not taking them off and holding them in their hands, because of discomfort. Women spend hours applying makeup to look the part and seems silly for one to have the drunk and disorderly look.

Week nights are usually for tourists, but make sure when you go with people, that you don’t match any of your friends. It’s time to stand out. Most of these men will wear long sleeve shirts, folded up and open buttoned shirts. Thin black ties are wonderful for setting you apart from your counterparts. Sports coats go over well on the west coast and Vegas. Whatever you do, don’t look like you’re part of the team.

Most hot spots frown upon t-shirts, and is not a good idea. It does not mean you will not see anyone with one on. Rules are usually bent for known clients, so if you don’t know the door guy, wear a nice jacket and be creative. Dress pants are fine in any club, but you don’t want to look stuffy by any means, Armani and Diesel are good for most clubs. JoeyJ or Tommy Bahama silk shirts are great for the casual relaxed look. Savoir Fair is important at most clubs or nicer upper eschelon pubs.

As I stated before above, jeans are definitely fine to wear and acceptable at most clubs or pubs. Just make sure the jeans are neat and tidy with no sags or have a baggy look.

Conservative is the name of the game.

Helpful hints for a passing grade for fashion at a job interview

· Fingernail Polish: Men or women. Long or ugly uncut nails are a real turnoff. Acrylic nails are also looked at as a fake personality. Your nails should be manicured. 

· Costume Jewellery: Not too much. 1 ring is fine. No anklets or nose rings. 

· Open-Toed or Backless Shoes:  No. If you want a disco look yes.

· Naked Legs: Wear hosiery, even on a hot summer day. Stockings can be in neutral colors or a fashion color. Just make sure they match your shoes.

· Antique Suits: These have lapels that are too wide (two inches) or too narrow (two inches or less). A great tailor can be great friends. Loose fit is best. 

· Short Dress or Skirts: Hemlines should not be more than two or three inches above the knee area. Do not wear tight pants or leggings to an interview. 

· Leather Jackets for Men or Women: Even leather blazers are not good for interviewing purposes. They look like outerwear. 

· Shirts for Men: A tie is a must, at least in the first interview. At the very least, wear a spread collared shirt no turtlenecks. 

· Bags or Briefcases: Briefcases, purses, bags, and shoes should all be serene in color and in new condition.

Conservative colors in various shades of blue and gray will work well. If one wears black to an interview, some see this as serious. If you do wear it, make sure another color is near your upper body to soften your tone. Tan or brown is still not a good idea as a business color and probably should be evaded. Once you get to round two of an interview, a good thing to do is change the color and tones. And make sure your shirt tie or anything else you wore last time out is not shown. As far as shoes are concerned, just don’t wear converse sneakers to a bank interview and all should be fine.

A career interview is not the place for a fashion extravaganza, although those in the arts and design industry can be more risqué. Everyone else should opt for a strong, but conservative look. More and more companies are returning to traditional professional dress. These tips are obvious to some and non-existent to others. Finally, don’t ever give up.

Whatever you wear should emphasize the fact that you're not an amateur but one who is ready to get to work at a new position. Make sure you let common sense be your guide and most importantly not to make any fashion botch ups at the interview. In today’s employee market is imperative to look the part.

We all want to look our best, but sometimes men can get stymied on how to look our best at function or events or just to go out and hang out with the guys go to the movies or take your lady out to dinner. On this page we will be you some helpful tips to help you accomplish this. Transitioning clothes from winter/fall to spring/summer can be fun and the key to looking good is relax.

Men’s Polo Shirts-When Ralph Lauren and Rene LaCoste brought polo shirts on the scene way back in the 50’s, they were available in white only. Now, there are multitudes of colors and styles. The rules have changed again. That is fashion for you. There are many different interpretations to what polo should look like and the fabric as well.

Usually if the day is bright and sunny we feel good and a nice light color shirt with khaki or stone go well with them. Stay away from a grey or black shirt with these lighter soft tones unless you don’t mind looking like a cloudy day. If you are going out with the guys color really doesn’t matter if a good football game is on, however if a lunch date is happening it would be a great idea to dress to impress. I suggest a soft solid light silk mens shirt. Again the shorts can be a neutral tone. Sandals are a must. Nicely pedicure nails are a must not a trend.

Men’s V Neck-Now let’s say you are going to the museum or an art gallery or something in that area of fun. A solid medium tone V Neck looks good. Trousers will be long but a nice pair of designer mens shorts will work just as well. Sandals are ok to wear for this ensemble for the coastal hot spots, but not in the big city. To complete this style a great idea would be a nice casual belt such as a D-ring cotton belt in a neutral color tone.

Summer Business Attire-We all know work is work; however we should look sharp at the office on a regular basis. Those bonuses by the way are an endearment to the way you look at work as well as job performance. There are many different types of dress shirt collars such as point, spread, and French buttoned; this would depend on the tie. Personally, I would go with a spread collar with a light striped shirt and a hue (color) in the same family. Let me give you an example. Wear a soft light green striped shirt with a darker version of the same color in a solid tie. Do not wear a green shirt with burgundy trousers. That would be a fashion disaster. A matching jacket would finish the job.

 Fall Attire-The autumn season is just around the corner and some of us want to look or best in the breezy winds of the day. Men w ill undoubtedly look snazzy in a light jacket of denim, which this year is one of the fashion statements being made on the east coast. Even the warmer climates will have some cooler weather so it will be a smart decision to have those Hoodie's ready to go as well. 2011 is a great year for comfort and most will take advantage of the loose fitting outerwear available today.

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