Simple is always better

Dressing up means making sure you always look classic because that will always be timeless.

Lanvin For H&M

H&M's next designer collaboration will be with Lanvin on collections of womenswear and menswear hitting stores November 23, the chain announced overnight in a press release. Alber Elbaz will design the ladies' collection while Lucas Ossendrijver will design the men's. Elbaz said in May that he hadn't considered doing a fast-fashion collection, and last year said of mass-market collaborations: "I have a problem to do a collection that is a secondary line. I mean, you don't want to be the stepsister. You want to be Cinderella. Show me one girl who wants to be the stepsister."

www.DMITRYNY.com

"a tie without color is like a man without a soul."

Style Gaga

Crazy, stylish, and unique, Style Gaga

Dressing Sharp for Black Tie Affair

Marc Jacobs Gets Naked With Louis Viutton

In the January issue of Harper’s Bazaar Magazine, you will find Marc Jacobs’ all-naked spread. It’s a publicity ad for his collaboration with Stephen Sprouse and their limited edition graffiti design.

The two first collaborated in 2001. Then new line, will have Speedys in rose motifs (Sprouse’s signature) coincides with Sprouse’s book release in February.

Marc Jacob says, “I tried to take what Stephen had done at Vuitton and then kind of flip it in my head, and make it Vuitton’s work for Stephen, not Stephen’s work for Vuitton.”

Stunning in San Francisco!

First Lady Michelle Obama was in San Francisco last Monday night at a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee. She was joined by House speaker Nancy Pelosi and Dr. Jill Biden. Mrs. Obama selected earrings from the Cage Collection by Mary Esses. The earrings feature large vivid green amethysts of 69 carats, set in a nest of 18k white gold and accented by diamonds. They were the perfect compliment to the Mauve leopard burn-out velvet dress from Thakoon.
The First Lady is fast becoming an avid fan of Mary’s designs, often turning to her to accent her look at many note-worthy events and appearances. This marks the fourth occasion that Mrs. Obama has worn jewelry from Mary Esses. www.maryesses.com
www.thestylist-aml.blogspot.com

Does this make you look?

So, sex is always used to advertise most of the products that we use in our daily lives. But drugs? Do you think it's pushing a bit much?

Your Grandpa Never Wore His Tie Like This

Take a classic piece of accessory like a men's tie and give it a twist. Slim jeans, slim shirt, and tuck in that tie!

Italian Chic

A man looks good and stylish only when he doesn't really try.

Sex always sells

As much as we are afraid to express our sexuality for some reason sex is always used to sell products and services. No one pushes the buttons like Tom Ford for his men's line and cologne.

Unretouched Photos Of Madonna’s D&G Ad Campaign

Someone must really have a thing for Madonna; this is the fourth time unretouched images of her have leaked — this year! This time, the images are from the Queen of Pop’s recent ad campaign for Dolce & Gabbana, and while the differences pre- and post-production are certainly startling, we can’t help but wish the design duo had gone with the originals.

Yes, Madonna has wrinkles, veins, and muscles for which she’s worked long and hard — and all of those things are what make her so fabulous. If they’re going to choose to hire a 52-year-old icon, mother, and super star, they should show her as she is — otherwise, what’s the point?

And additionally, there’s something so wonderfully light, vulnerable, and refreshing about these pre-production images. Now that’s an ad campaign that would have made us stop and stare.

HERMES belt is always classic and stylish

Via Roma, Genova

Yes, most of the men in downtown Genova look this sharp. Even with a motorcycle helmet and CHIPS shades, he’s still got you beat. This Hermes belt is crazy expensive and everyone is wearing them. Just shows you how versatile the belt is. Dress it up with a beautiful navy suit, or rock it with a pair of torn jeans.

Dolce & Gabbana Underwear

Listen up men. If you want to turn your lady on, or your guy, D&G underwear will help you do that. Great quality, and lots of attention.

Top 10 Reasons Why Men Cheat

1. Because they can …
This is possibly the hardest one to understand, but when men are offered sex, they are likely to take up the offer. Research suggests that this is because they are less used to be propositioned and so are more likely to feel flattered and wanted.

2. It boosts his ego …
Men in long term relationships tend to feel less attractive to the opposite sex, so when a woman pays attention, he will allow her to stroke his ego some more. The thrill of the chase leads to a massive ego boost when he finally sleeps with her.

3. You grow apart …
You stop taking an interest in golf or playstation games, and he finds somebody else who does. He'll then want to see if they are compatible in the bedroom, too…

4. He has fallen out of love …
He may just be staying for the kids, or for financial reasons, or because he doesn't want to hurt you, so he'll seek love elsewhere. To him, this is win-win.

5. You argue a lot …
He will become less and less happy at home, and will go elsewhere to be comforted.

6. Your sex life has died …
Whether you've stopped making an effort or you're just no longer interested, if your sex life is suffering chances are he will play away.

7. It's exciting …
If your life has got boring, he will probably be bored. This is the reason men cheat with people they think are less attractive then their partner. The new woman will be more attentive, and make more of an effort, and he won't be able to say no.

8. To see if he can …
If his friends get away with it, or his parents did, he may just want to see if he can too

9. If you've let him in the past …
It's true, once he has done it once and been forgiven, he won't think twice about doing it again.

10. If you did it to him …
Whether you actually have or he just suspects you to, he will feel hurt and upset and most of the time he will want revenge, whether it's in the form of a barmaid or his ex-girlfriend.

World’s Most Expensive Condoms

This time Sagami Rubber Industries, the first condom manufacturer in Japan and Okamoto's archrival, is introducing a luxury brand of condom "Sagami Original 0.02 Premium". According to Sagami it would be the thinnest and most expensive condom in the world.

The high-end condoms "Sagami Original 0.02 Premium" is a new addition to the popular "Sagami Original 0.02" brand polyurethane condoms, which achieved toughness (three times higher bursting pressure and two times higher tensile strength than normal latex condoms) and thinness (world's thinnest 0.02mm) at the same time. "Premium" gained even more softness and flexibility than its predecessors.

Comes in gorgeous black and gold packages.

Released on Feb. 14th, 2009, at the price of 2100 yen (approx. 23 USD, including tax) for a 4pcs box. Admittedly it is quite expensive, more than five dollars a shot, but it might be a good idea for lovebirds to enjoy the extravagance on special occasions like Valentine's Day, to make up for the cut in expensive gifts and dinners due to the state of economy these days.

Speedos or Board Shorts?

Men with confidence wear speedos. Men without confidence wear board shorts.

LnA Tees

If you are in shape and like wearing T'shirts, LnA is the brand for you. They are a little pricy compare to other brands out there but very worth it. Available for men and women, great quality and wears very well.

When in Sorrento, please visit La Torre

On my last trip, I was invited to eat at La Torre. I have to say, I never ate such amazing food before.

Ristorante La Torre
Santa Maria Annunziata, Massa Lubrense, Campania, Italy

Food concept: Traditional.

Wine: Everything produced by Feudi di San Gregorio. The owner of the winery is a frequent customer of "La Torre".

Service: Efficient and friendly. All members of the family serve.

Clientele: Italians. There was no tourist in sight!

Location and ambience: In the small village of Santa Maria Annunziata, in Massa Lubrense.

Chef/Owner: The Chef is Maria, who chats with the customers when she is not busy in the kitchen. Maria's husband Tonino, is managing the service.

My Pick of Top 3 Colognes for Men

1. Terre D'Hermes by Hermes
2 Silver Mountain Water by Creed
3. Baie de Genievre by Creed

European Men's Fashion Tips

European men have a style that's intrinsically their own, and this flair for fashion has many admirers. At once sleek and comfortable, the European man maintains a look that speaks of quality without being vain or overdone. Several touches set the European man apart from others. Take some tips into account to create the look that so many fashion fans covet.

Wear Fitted Clothing

European men eschew baggy clothing at all costs. Everything from jeans to suits have a slim or slender cut that skims the line of the body. While Americans may make a practice of wearing loose swim trunks and pants that hang low, European men are known for skimpy swimwear and slender jeans. If skinny pants are too much, a straight cut will do; leave the wide-legged styles on the rack, unless you're purchasing a linen resort pant.

Own a Quality Suit

While it may seem like the deal of a century to find a $99 suit, European men would pass the same bargain by in favor of something of higher quality. Whether it's custom made or simply a good off-the-rack garment, the European men's suit is usually a cut above most American popular corporate fare. Plus, a well-made suit will press and wear better than a cheaper suit, making it a lower-maintenance garment than its budget counterpart. Sylvie Branch of MadeMan writes, "Knowing that you can quickly dress for dinner or other event helps create that relaxed European elegance."

Wear a Scarf

A scarf, casually knotted around the collar of a half-open button-down, is effortlessly stylish and sophisticated. Another scarf, tied in the ascot style with a sports jacket, commands respect and appears regal. "The scarf is quickly becoming the accessory for cosmopolitan men. The scarf is a slightly whimsical, unusual accessory, so if you haven’t tried one, now’s your chance," Men's Flair writes. There are several ways to tie and drape your scarf, so keep that little piece of adornment for occasions casual and fancy alike.

No Fanny Packs

In Europe, men roam the streets with a male purse or a messenger bag. The fanny pack is a quick tourist identifier and a relic of a bygone era. A messenger bag carries a lot, including a laptop, wallet, keys and personal electronics, plus it looks more sophisticated than a lumpy pouch that hangs from the waist. If in doubt, purchase a leather or nylon model in black or brown that matches a wide range of clothing.

Marinella, the best tie in the world

It is at the beginning of the XX century that Eugenio Marinella throws the bases of what would become one of the most fabulous Neapolitan "successful stories ". In 1914, at the eve of the first world war, Eugenio decided, showing an undeniable amount of courage and initiative, to open a shop in Piazza Vittoria, on the elegant Riviera di Chiaia in Naples, at that time, as today, one of the most beautiful waterfronts in Italy.

The position proved to be strategic for a little shop of only 20 square meters, in front of which the Neapolitan high society went walking. After having carried out the works of restructuring and having acquired the two studios, a very large one for the manufacture of shirts, and a smaller one, for the ties, Don Eugenio set out on his first journey to London, to meet his future suppliers…

The shop soon becomes a small precious casket in which authentic treasures of refinement and taste can be found, a small corner of England in Naples. In a time when the English style is a lot in fashion, Marinella is the only one to propose, in Naples, a vast range of exclusive products coming from London, exacting the sole right from the English suppliers. At the beginning, the main activity of the shop is not the tie but the shirt, queen of the men wardrobe. With the purpose to be at the top of the fashion and of the quality, Eugenio persuades some artisans shirt-makers, of level without equal, to move from Paris, to teach his workers the art of the cut.

The History

The history of Marinella family starts with the founder Eugenio Marinella who, when he was 34, and after fifteen years in the field of the men clothing, decided that the moment had come to change the style and the way of dressing of a man of importance. He is just the founder of the " Marinella philosophy ": more than a sale point, a salon where the human relationships are based on availability, courtesy and respect. After him, his son Luigi and today his grandson Maurizio, have brought forth his philosophy making the Marinella ties a real symbol of elegance. In the years before his death, Don Eugenio had imposed his grandson Maurizio, who was about ten, to spend every day a few times in the shop so that he could breathe its air; so Maurizio received two teachings: the one by his grandfather about the relationships with the old clientele, and the one by his father that manages the advent of the economic boom. Maurizio has been able to conjugate the entrepreneurial spirit with the availability for clientele: in the Christmas period, for example, when the queues at the shop are endless, he offers sfogliatelle and coffee to the people in wait. If the small shop in Naples is, today as yesterday, the place of meeting of the elegant people of the whole world, it’s due to the three Marinella generations, that have never wanted to transform the name in a great trademark, but they have preferred to associate to it the image of small shop that today, as in 1914, proposes products of quality in a discreet and convivial but in the meantime informal background.

Luchino Visconti ordered galore of it, all with blue or red background, unlined as foulard that he coordinated to coloured small pocket Indian silk handkerchiefs. Aristotle Onassis used to buy twelve of it in one time, rigorously black, to discourage the interlocutors and never to make them to understand of what humour he was. Still today, as at the beginning of the century, the Marinella ties are round the neck of the most elegant and famous men: the book of the signatures jealously guarded in the shop enumerates the autographs of a lot of crowned heads and presidents of state, high exponents of the politics and the entrepreneurial world, of the culture and of the show. They have been round the neck of all the American presidents from Kennedy onwards, included Bill Clinton who was given them by his wife Hillary. Today among the noble customers there are King Juan Carlos and the prince Alberto of Monaco, several exponents of Agnelli house, but also Cossiga, Berlusconi and D’Alema.. Men endowed with good taste, who don't want to resign the tie, manufactured to measure by experienced hands, men for whom a Marinella tie is a true "author's knot."


The Decalogue

Here is a tie decalogue based on the Marinella's teachings.

1- As in all the things, also for tie it is a matter of size: the correct one stays between 8,5 and the 9,5 cm. at the widest point

2- The knot: it’s important to learn to do it without tightening too much, avoid the effect “hung.” Always untie it in the evening and hang the tie well stretched during the night.

3- Using the correct material: silk jacquard for the regimental, lighter silk model foulard for the printed cloth, pattern for the ties with an elegant tone, lines wool or Scottish patterns for winter sporting clothing.

4- A tie for every occasion: in the morning prefer a light colour and patterned tie, in the evening opt for a darker tie.

5- Don't take advice and don’t remit the choice of the tie to anybody: the only rule is to follow the instinct. Choosing the tie has to be an irrational action.

6- The instinct has to follow a certain logic, too. Absolutely avoid: too wide and showy patterns, ties with an only central pattern but also too pale and anonymous ones. Remember that the tie reveals the personality.

7- To prefer: even tint ties in definite colours, small patterns (pois, lozenges, little squares, rhombus, small cashmere prints), transversal lines of two or three colours at the most.

8- The colours: the tie must stand out against the suit and the shirt, without clashing. It must be of a colour darker than the shirt’s one and more intense than the jacket’s one. It’s often the only coloured note of a serious clothing, but be careful not to exaggerate! Avoid the pea green, the canary yellow as the fire red and the sugared almond pink. Darker colours, but not anonymous, the bordeaux and the dark red, the blue, the green and the brown.

9- The combining with the shirt is a mine-field where only the good taste can drive you: avoid however the overlap of a tie with a thick pattern on a squared shirt or the combining “all-stripes” of a regimental tie, stripes shirt and jacket in operated material.

10- Never the coordinated tie + small pocket handkerchief: it is as useless as anachronistic affectation. Always avoid to have a too cared and affected comprehensive look and opt for relaxed)elegance.

Unless you own a KITON suit, you basically don't own a suit.

I love when guys come to my boutique, and flaunt the fact that they just bought an expensive suit by Hugo Boss or Calvin Klein, and others.

If you really want to advertise the brand, then go and buy a KITON suit for yourself. Very exclusive and a real investment.

Dress Like an Italian.

Dolce & Gabanna knows SEX

Enhance Your Look With A Windsor Knot

The Windsor knot, also sometimes referred to as a Full Windsor or a Double Windsor to distinguish it from the half-Windsor, is a method of tying a necktie around one's neck and collar. The Windsor knot, compared to other methods, produces a wide symmetrical triangular knot. The knot is often thought to be named after the Duke of Windsor (King Edward VIII before his abdication). It is, however, named after his grandfather Edward VII. The Duke preferred a wide knot and had his ties specially made with thicker cloth in order to produce a wider knot when tied with the conventional four in hand knot. The Windsor knot was invented to emulate the Duke's wide knot with regular ties. The Windsor knot is worn on more formal occasions, and it is especially suited for a spread or cutaway collar that can properly accommodate a larger knot. For correct wear the tie used for a Windsor knot should be about 40cm longer than a conventional tie.

Benefits

When tied correctly the knot is tight, and does not slip away from the collar during wear. It is very comfortable to wear, as the knot itself will hold the tie firmly in place while still keeping space between the collar and neck.

The knot is symmetrical, well balanced and self-releasing. It is a large knot, which amply displays the fabric and design of the tie when wearing a closed jacket or coat, and helps keep the throat area warm during the colder winter months.

A large knot can distract attention away from the wearer's face; therefore some say a Windsor best compliments a strong square or round face, or those sporting facial hair.

Men’s “Black Tie” Dress Code

If you are being invited for an event that requires “Black Tie” then you should know how to properly dress for the occasion. This tutorial on Black Tie Attire will teach you everything there is to know, such as: What it is, the history of this formal dress code, alternatives to black tie dress, and how to add a more personal character to this somewhat uniform looking dress code.
What is Black Tie Attire

Traditional Black Tie consists of a black tuxedo jacket, white tuxedo dress shirt, either a cummerbund or a waistcoat, a black bowtie, and polished black shoes. Most tuxedo jackets these days are single breasted. The lapel you choose is personal preference. Most popular is the notch lapel, but peak or shawl lapels are also common choices. As far as the dress shirt is concerned, the biggest difference lies in collar style as well as a pleated or non-pleated front.

The type of shirt you choose dictates, at least to some degree, if you should wear a cummerbund or a waistcoat. If you choose a pleated front dress shirt, then the cummerbund is a better choice. If this is the look that you are going for, then you may also want to add black studs in place of regular shirt buttons. It is the small detail that will add elegance and a touch of sophistication to your overall look. For non-pleated dress shirts the waistcoat is usually a better choice.

Besides pleats or no pleats on the dress shirt, think about what collar type best suits your outfit. Most common is the turn-down collar – which looks just like the collar on a regular dress shirt. Besides this collar style, the wing-tip collar is also popular. The wing-tip collar stands up around the neck, and only the tips at the front are folded over. The wing-tip collar looks best when worn in combination with a waistcoat instead of a cummerbund. Finally there is the mandarin-collar which is an around-the-neck stand-up collar. This type of collar is not worn with a bow tie, but with a larger stud-button used to also close the top of the shirt. In addition the sleek cut of this collar is best combined with tuxedos that have a shawl lapel.
What about “Black Tie Optional” Invitation

If an invitation reads “Black Tie Optional” then this usually means that the host would like men to dress up in a tuxedo and women in an evening gown, but doesn’t want to enforce it. Should you own a tux then you should wear it to the event! If you don’t, and don’t want to rent one, then a dark gray or black suit, white dress shirt, and elegant solid color tie (best are black or silver) will be a good alternative.
Warm Weather Black Tie

If you are invited to a formal “Black Tie” event that occurs during the day, and/or in warm weather then the black tuxedo jacket is often times exchanged for a white one. Everything else will stay the same.
Accessories for Black Tie Dress

Although “Black Tie” might look quite uniform without much room for interpretation there are plenty of ways to add a more personal character to the look. The key is in the accessories, and in those little details you choose. Below are accessories commonly chosen for black tie events.

Cufflinks & Studs:
Wearing cufflinks instead of regular shirt buttons is a great way to add more personal character to the look. Traditionally the studs are black in color. Cuff links on the other hand can be chosen with much less restriction. Almost any style, design, and material will do as long as the colors match the black & white theme.

Handkerchiefs:
For Black Tie regulars, handkerchiefs are almost a must-have. The white handkerchief is chosen almost exclusively although colors such as silver, cream, tan, and ivory are picked as well. Keep in mind that if you choose an off-white color, then your shirt should be in similar color. Otherwise the white dress shirt may make the ivory handkerchief look like a “dirty white”. To learn how to best wear a pocket square, please visit our guide: How to Fold a Handkerchief.

Opera Shawls:
The opera shawl is another accessory that is best chosen for night-time black tie functions. The shawl is not tied around the neck, but loosely worn hanging down from each shoulder. Traditionally the shawl was meant to be offered to women during opera intermissions to help stay warm. Most opera shawls are made from either silk, merino wool, or finest cashmere, they are white or ivory in color, and are typically decorated with fine tassels on each end.

How to mix Shirt and Tie Patterns and Colors.

It’s fair to say the most boring shirt/tie combo is the white button-down with the random tie. It just might be the male equivalent to the female sweatpant and matching track jacket combo. Wearing either just screams, “I give up! I have no clue how to inject creativity into my clothes, so I simply won’t!” Now, I’m not saying the white button-down/random tie combo doesn’t have a proper time and place, because I suppose it does to some. But mixing patterns and colors just looks way more put together, and way more sophisticated. But – there’s a catch. There are certain rules one must adhere to when attempting to mix patterns and colors, so listen up.

Rule #1: One pattern must be bold, in pattern, or color, or both. The others, should stay subtle.

Rule #2: Do not be afraid to mix in a 3rd pattern in your suit.

Here’s a tip: The tie doesn’t always have to be the star. If you have a great checkered shirt, go for it. But then if the shirt is the main star, then that means the tie and suit must be to subtle supporting actors. Get it?

Rule #3: Embrace the pocket square.

How to choose a great tie for your wardrobe.

To pick a pie matched to your clothes and the occasion is definitely an art. If you choose a proper tie, you will look attractive and charming. Simply remember these guidelines and you’ll master the art.

How to Buy a Good Tie:

1. Buy a tie with correct length. The standard is 130 – 150 cm. If you are a tall man, you need a longer tie. Try to wear them and it is an appropriate tie length if the triangle tip of the tie touches your belt buckle.
2. Unless you can afford to buy many ties, buy a general width of 8 – 9 cm which will never get out of fashion.
3. While shopping for a tie, you better bring your suit. It will help you imagining how the tie will look when worn. If the jacket is a sport coat, then you should consider the color of the trousers while selecting the tie.
4. Before you pay at the cashier, carefully check the tie for any manufacturing defect. It could be uneven weaving, stain, loose threads, discoloration, smudge, etc.

How to Match a Tie with Clothes and the Occasion:

1. Use silks or silk blend ties if you have a business meeting. You may use a polyester tie when you’re in regular office
2. For job interview, pick a conservative tie. Avoid ties with pictures and cartoons unless your interview is in the fashion or music industry. It is usually best to stay away from ties decorative color with your favorite logo. Just imagine showing up at the job interview with your Chicago Bulls tie around your neck only to see the signed Jason Kidd jersey on the office wall during the interview….And, make sure you know how to tie a tie.
3. You may wear cartoon or pictures tie at informal occasion, like birthday party or a family gathering.
4. Conservative tie for serious occasions would be a solid colored, striped or dotted pattern tie.
5. Match patterns and textures of the clothing with the tie. A light tone tie suits a dark colored shirt. Avoid wearing a striped tie with a striped shirt, with the exception of a pin-striped shirt. You better pick a solid tie instead.
6. Match the color too. A dark shirt suits lighter colored tie and a bright shirt can be relieved by a dark tie. Dark blue and dark red colors seldom go wrong in ties. You can also do gradation by selecting same color of your tie and shirt but in a lighter or darker shade.
7. Some people are aware that their face and skin should affect tie selection. Well, if you have a strong angular face, you should wear striped ties. Dotted and paisley printed ties go well with a round or baby face. Solid worn can be worn by everyone.

How to tie a tie, the Neapolitan way.

This video shows hot to tie a tie the Neapolitan way. A more stylish, and sophisticated way.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVQ_gLeZ-IQ">

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www.OVERSTOCK.com/dmitry ties