ISTYLEU

Playing outside this summer? Want to feel and look cool? Get these.

2011-08-08T00:10:00.000-07:00

How long before those burgers are ready? Need some cool trainers to walk you to and from the liquor store? And don't forget to protect your eyes from those UV rays. While you're at it, look uber cool as well. Here are the must have for the dudes who love to play outside this season.

Vestal Watch - Destroyer Plastic
This is the watch that says "cool and edgy". The modern and youthful touches, from the variety of colors it comes in to its sleek and tough looking exterior, makes this the perfect summer watch. And just case in you fall into the deep end of the beach, the watch will keep ticking for about 150 feet (30 Meters Water Resistant). And yes, I think its time for you to serve those burgers. MSRP $130.

Vestal - The Destroyer (Red)

Native Shoes - The Jefferson and The Miller
Where the Crocs have failed, Native has been successful. How? Simply put, Native has made EVA foam shoes COOL. It took cues from the Converse Chuck Taylor and Vans making them instantly recognizable. If you look at the Jefferson, you would think they were a pair of rubber Chucks, with lots of holes. The holes give these shoes ultimate breathability, which mean dry feet in the summer. EVA also has anti-microbial properties which keeps your feet stink-free. Lastly, because it looks cool and comes in an array of colors, they can work easily with a pair of chino shorts during the day or pants during the night. MSRP $55

Native Shoes. The Jefferson (Top) , The Miller (Bottom)

Vestal Eyewear - De Luna
The final piece to your cool ensemble, the De Luna. Honey Tortoise hand formed acetate frames, 100% UVA-UVB protection from the lenses. And the stainless steel touches complete the look for this 60's inspired eyewear creation from Vestal. These sunglasses can be worn when you drive to and from the liquor store, or when you're hanging out perfecting your tan. Great look and versatility all around! MSRP $120

Vestal Sunglasses: The De Luna

Have a great summer everyone. Continue to stay and look COOL.

The Best Dressed Men at the Royal Wedding

2011-05-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

We all know that Sarah Burton, the late Alexander McQueen's right hand person, was responsible for Kate Middleton's beautiful wedding gown. The simplicity, fit, and ornate detail of the dress made the now Duchess of Cambridge the most watched woman in the world last Friday. But what about the men? Not much has been said about Prince William's powerful red dress uniform from the Irish Guard regiment or David Beckham's finely tailored morning coat with a matching top hat. Let's give these fine men some recognition on this special post from ISTYLEU.

The Duke of Cambridge: Showing authority, power and great style, the Duke wore the Dress Uniform of the Irish Guards regiment for his wedding. As a high ranking officer in the British Armed Forces (He's a Colonel), the red uniform features the Harp of Ireland and also the prestigious eight-pointed Start of the Most Illustrious Order of St. Patrick. I salute you for your great style, Duke!

Photo from the Associated Press

James Middleton: Kate Middleton's brother, James, gets style points for mixing the best of pastels in his shirt, waist coat and tie, with his navy blue jacket. The powder blue shirt, alongside the contrasting white collar, canary yellow waistcoat and summer purple tie gives him a modern and classy look.

Photo from Fashion News

David Beckham: He's the ultimate male style icon. David rocked Wills and Kate nuptials with a gray cravat, matching navy morning and waist coats, and his charcoal gray trousers. Topping off the look was his top hat, which I don't think he ever wore. Who would want to mess with that slick back hair style anyway? Not David.

Image from Access Hollywood; By Getty Images

Elton John and David Furnish: One of England's and America's power couple, the two have very contrasting styles. Elton, is usually more colorful and overstated, whereas David who tends to be behind the scenes, is more classic and understated. Those differences can also be seen in their wedding ensemble. Elton mixes his navy morning coat with a pale yellow waist coat and a lavender tie, while David goes classic with a mix of navy and grays for his coats and tie.

Image from Access Hollywood; By Getty Images

Be on the lookout for Spring on ISTYLEU

2011-02-08T23:23:00.000-08:00

Its coming...Its coming. In the next few weeks, we'll be talking Neon, Alternative Tuxedos, Paint Splatter, Whites and lots of Whites, Prints, Wide and Long trousers, Stripes, Going Camping, Cargo, and Jute shoes. You're probably wondering "Oh my god, Neon is back?!" or "What's an Alternative Tuxedo?" or "What's Jute?". Stay tuned as there will be more ISTYLEU coming your way as we get into the coolness of Spring 2011.

Jill Sander 2011

Dries Van Noten Spring 2011

Dolce & Gabbana Spring 2011

Happy Holidays to all ISTYLEU readers

2010-12-23T13:28:00.000-08:00

Thank you for all the support and feedback in 2010. I wish you and your families love, peace and great style this holiday season. See you in 2011.

ISTYLEU's LAST MINUTE Favorite Things this Christmas

2010-12-23T13:25:00.000-08:00

The clock is ticking and you don't know what to buy for your Boyfriend, Husband, Dad, Grandfather, or Buddy. Some of you might cave into the pressure of still going that extra mile for a cool present, and some may just get what ever first catches you eye given the time you have left. Here are a few suggestions of what to get HIM before the clock strikes 12 on Christmas Eve.

1) The iPAD from Apple. This gadget is so readily available its like candy. Available in most of the large electronic retailers like Best Buy and Future Shop and also on the Apple store, this gift is one that is quick to find and get for your man. It comes in 16, 32 and 64gb flash drives, wi-fi and 3G options. Starts at $499.

2) Techno Hoodie from Old Navy. This zip-up sweatshirt comes with machine washable ear buds (the earbuds are threaded through the drawstrings and the jack emerges from the right front pocket), attached to the hood so you can just plug in your music wherever you go. Great for lounging, running, walking or hanging out...while listening to your favorite beats. On sale now for $15 (Reg.$29.50) at Old Navy

3) A Subscription to style and fitness: GQ and Men's Health Magazine. These are my two favorite magazines in terms of content and quality of writing. Both provide helpful tips on style and good health. And what better way to start 2011 but give him new ideas on how to look and feel better. Men Health, $1.49/issue. GQ, $1.00/issue. While you're at it, throw int the GQ Style Manual, $10 as well. Its a great compilation of GQ fashion tips in 2010.

4) Argyle Sweaters and Slim Jeans from JOE. For $39 each, you can't go wrong with these items from JOE Fresh. I have a pair of their Slim Dark Denim and I love them. It feels and fits like an expensive jean, but costs much less. And the argyle sweaters come in variety of colors that go well with dark denim. Visit your favorite JOE store today.

5) Gift of Sight: Bruce Eyewear. This is my favorite specialty eyewear store in Vancouver. Its got an amazing selection from brands like Cutler and Gross, Alain Mikli, Harry Lary, Mykita, Theo, Robert Marc, Dita, Retro Super Future and Kirk Originals. Get your man a gift certificate towards a new pair of prescription glasses or a pair of cool sunnies. For more information, check out Bruce Eyewear online or at their Gastown store in Vancouver.

ISTYLEU's Favorite Thing #8: Everyone COMUNE this holiday

2010-12-18T16:41:00.000-08:00

"COMUNE was formed from the idea that there will always be people out there who not only embrace the rawness and imperfections of everyday life but also use it to creatively push the boundaries of what’s possible in skateboarding, fashion, art, and music their own way, with complete disregard of the consequences. Their goal is to provide clothing that reflects this lifestyle of carefree idealism and to support the people that choose to live it."

One brand you should check out this holiday is COMUNE. Its got too many stuff to talk about here so I'll let your fingers do the checking online. Visit COMUNE here.

There's a few things I love about this brand. They make cool t-shirts. The creative line drawings, letter logos, and use of black and white imagery make the shirts unique. They make an assortment of denim whose fit goes beyond that of the skater look. The euro-feel of some of the jean cuts, makes them great for stuffing them into your boot. Lastly, they make great accessories. From weekender bags to card wallets,the clean and cool aesthetic of this brand makes it one of my favorites.

Here are my favorite things from COMUNE this season.

ISTYLEU's Favorite Thing #7: Vestal Lynwright Sunglasses

2010-12-18T15:19:00.000-08:00

Nothing says "True Hipster" than the Vestal Lynwright Sunglasses. This architecturally inspired piece makes every guy look cool. From the clean lines to the quality lenses, this is a must have for the guy who has everything else.

It's very rare to find a pair of sunglasses that both on trend and on price. The Lynwright bodes simplicity and exudes great style. Available in three frame/lens combinations, Black/Grey, Tortoise/Brown and Milky Grey/Grey. For more information, visit your nearest Vestal dealer and check out Vestal online.

ISTYLEU's Favorite Thing #6 - All Saints Ludlow Sweatpants

2010-12-09T15:00:00.000-08:00

I've been a big fan of the brand All Saints since I first set foot in London this year. Their leather apparel, vintage denim and most importantly their plethora of boots can fill my closet any time. Since that visit, All Saints, has recently opened a store two hours from me in Seattle, WA.

This season, one of my favorites from this label is something very basic -- sweatpants! Not just any ordinary sweatpants, its from All Saints. The Ludlow's dropped crotch is inspired by the popular harem pant. The generous amount of room in that area allows for alot of movement whether for sport or just lounging around the house. The fleece back sweat pants with a heavy vintage wash feels comfortable on the inside and the outside.

If you're looking for that classy, cool and stylish sweatpant that you can wear anywhere, this is the one to pick. Price $100, £60.

ISTYLEU's Favorite Thing #5 - beats by dr.dre RED Special Edition HD On Ear Headphones with Control Talk

2010-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Is your man an audiophile? Can he tell the different levels of treble and bass? If he is, then Monster's beats by dr.dre headphones could be the perfect gift this Christmas. Popularized by Grammy-winner Dr.Dre, these headsets captures every detail of sound that runs through its wires. The sound is balanced and the bass thumps..a lot. Although bigger than the usual headphones, the smart tri-fold design make for easy storage when not in use.

And who say's this headphone is only good for your music. Solo HD's cable also works with your iPhone utilizing Monster's ControlTalk™ for iPod® playback control allowing for music phone hands-free calling.Its also a head turner with its stylish design and high gloss finish that comes in black, white and the special edition RED. A portion of the profits from the Beats Solo HD (PRODUCT)^REDSpecial Edition headphones will go straight to the Global Fund to fight AIDS in Africa. Retail $280, available at Future Shop and Best Buy or wherever Monster headphones are sold.

ISTYLEU's Favorite Thing #4 - Scented Chocolate Bars from Cocoa Nymph and Ayala Moriel Parfums

2010-12-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

I like chocolate. And so do other guys although they may not admit it. What's better than great tasting chocolate? Great smelling chocolate. Vancouver-based artisan perfume house Ayala Moriel Parfums has joined forces with CocoaNymph chocolatiere Rachel Sawatzky to create the ultimate indulgence - scented chocolate bars.

With three amazing scents and flavours, choose from Espionage, with smoked salt, jasmine, and juniper; Guilt, a combination of orange blossom, blood orange, and wild oranges; and Roses et Chocolat, a fiery rose, saffron, and chilli.

Chocolatier Rachel Sawatsky describes the Espionage bar as multi-layered. “It is chocolate, flowers, smoke, spice, and wood all at once. If I don't eat anything else, I can still taste it after an hour. The finish is extremely long and lovely.”

And for those of you that are dark chocolate aficionados, the Roses et Chocolat is a great choice. "Roses et Chocolat was the hardest to complete,” admits Rachel. “But it is also the richest and darkest. The bar is dark and brooding, like a boudoir from Baz Luhrmann`s film Moulin Rouge.”

This present makes a great stocking stuffer for the man who loves fine and decadent chocolate.The chocolate bars are $12 each or 3 for $30 and are available at CocoaNymph Chocolates & Confections, located at 3739 West 10^th Avenue in Vancouver, BC and online at cocoanymph.ca and ayalamoriel.com.

ISTYLEU's Favorite Thing #3: iBottle Opener IPhone Case by iPhoneBottleOpener

2010-12-08T06:00:00.001-08:00

First it was the flip flop with a built in bottle opener. And now its an iPhone case. I'll guess you'll never know when you're going to crack open a bottle of cerveza while on the phone. Not only can it open your beer bottle, but it also serves as a protective case for your iPhone. Its hard shell slip on case alongside its soft touch feel makes it a great add-on to your collection of phone cases. Just imagine the number of beers you can drink while your checking Twitter, Facebook or playing Angry Bird. MSRP $19.95 plus S&;H. Available online at iPhoneBottleOpener.

ISTYLEU's Favorite Thing # 2 - Premium "Tight" Gray Selvedge Jean from Cheap Monday

2010-12-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

Gray is the new Black. Whether it a solid Dark or a washed out fade, gray is my "pick" color this season. One of my favorite things in stores now is Cheap Monday's Premium Gray Selvedge"Tight"Jean. What is selvedge? It means its never been washed or bathed. Its denim at its purest form. The Swedish brand known for its quality denim at a moderate price has created a nice fitting jean that looks amazing with a pair of cool sneakers or with a distressed boot.

The pant has a normal high waist with a long rise, tight fit and tapered leg. Given the unwashed nature of the jean, it can feel really snug. "Tight" is the original Cheap Monday fit born in 2004. The Premium Tight is an updated version using a higher end denim that has selvedge finishing on inside seams. Check out Vincent Park and Cheap Monday. Retails for $155.

ISTYLEU's Favorite Thing #1 - Converse Chuck Taylor Storm Boot XHi with Woolrich Fabric

2010-12-07T14:04:00.000-08:00

Winter is all about cool boots. You'll see alot of them on ISTYLEU's Favorite Things this holiday season. First up is the Converse Chuck Taylor Storm Boot XHI with Woolrich® fabric. This boot is cool for many reasons. It can look both rugged or casual. It features a dual upper that has a leather outer layer and a Woolrich® inner layer. It keeps your footsies warm with its soft cotton lining. It's also one of kind (yes, I haven't seen one like it anywhere else). Lastly, the Storm boots also sport heavy duty eyelets and a rubber lug outsole to give your feet "grip" in bad weather. I've worn this in snow and rain, and they function amazingly well.

Definitely a must have for the guy that wants to stand out from the crowd by being cool, rugged and stylish. For more information, check them out @ Converse MSRP $170. Available in Vancouver at Town Shoes, Gravity Pope and Little Burgundy.

JOE Fresh lands in Vancouver

2010-10-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

This week marks the opening of the first free-standing JOE store in Western Canada. For those of you who are not familiar with the brand, JOE Fresh is a Canadian high style - low price clothing label started by Joseph Mimran who is also the Creative Director of the brand. In one of my interviews with Mimran, I've asked him what is JOE about. He said "JOE is about new product, fresh price. That's what I want people to remember." And after this weekend, I think many people will get to see and understand what he meant.

Paulo Vallejo of ISTYLEU and Joseph Mimran, Creative Director for JOE Fresh
Shot at LG Fashion Week, Toronto Canada 2009
Photo by Darryl Humprhey

I went on opening day to check out what menswear they had available. This place is spacious at 14,000 sq ft and 2 floors. The experience from the time you walk in to the time you left was amazing. I wasn't disappointed.

They had trend pieces like slim denim jeans to great classic pieces like wool double breasted peacoats and cotton v-necks. The mens area was exceptionally well merchandised. The staff was friendly. And the fact that they had tills on both floors made it easy to shop.

Some key finds:

Cotton Cardigan - $29
Wool Pea Coat - $89
Cotton V-Neck Sweater - $29
Dress Trouser - $39
Slim Dark Wash Denim Jean - $39
Basic Tee - $5

The store's grand opening is tomorrow October 16. Make sure to check out the street party from 2-6pm with performances from Divine Brown, Marianas Trench and many more. This free concert will be happening on the corner of Granville and Dunsmuir, which will only be open to pedestrian traffic.

Have fun. Happy shopping. And I look forward to hearing your stories.

Time Travel with Prophetik Menswear at Vancouver Eco Fashion Week

2010-10-08T16:04:00.000-07:00

"Why present genuine ideas & true character if artificial ones are more effective in the marketplace of power? There is a war at hand between the balance of the needs of the individual and the needs of the community between freedom and order between passions and principles between selfish desires and stewardship short term verses long term. Community needs leadership either steer the changes shaping the vision or be steered by the changes thus leading to dysfunction. We can either wait for change to be imposed upon us and so increase the risk of catastrophe or we can make some difficult changes on our own terms and so reclaim control of our destiny. The glittering blinding promise of easy fulfillment is so seductive that we become willing to forget our true feelings and abandon the search for authentic purpose and meaning in our lives but the promise is always false because the hunger for authenticity remains."

www.prophetik.com

If you asked fashion industry experts where they would find the next big thing or the next big designer, you'd probably hear the usual cities like New York, Los Angeles, London, Milan or Paris. Who knew that a American civil war town whose population is about 55,000 could produce a designer whose impeccable attention to detail and forward thinking will be admired for years to come. American designer Jeff Garner’s Prophetik, a men’s and women's line has that theatrical, romantic and renaissance feel that you only see in film, plays or musicals.

Out of Franklin, Tennessee this line blows my mind away with a number of pieces that can either be worn as separates or as a whole ensemble. In talking to Jeff Garner, he casually mentions that "the goal is not necessarily to have guys wear and look like everything on the runway but rather for them to take pieces from the collection and individualizing it by combining it with what one already has." The clothes are all made out of organic natural fabrics which are dip-dyed with botanically derived pigments.

Seeing brands Prophetik take a bold step in eco-menswear gives me hope for future. "The trigger for change is education" according to Garner. "We all have dress behaviors which come from what we see in the media and our own social environments. We pick it up and make it our own. If we are educated on eco-conscious options, we can make the right choices."

Jeff and I also got talking about the marketability of the line. People who saw the show are probably wondering whether guys would actually buy it. Its eccentric, unique and non-conventional. And Garner's response to that is "Men buy visually. They want to see it merchandised on mannequins or worn by other men. I don't expect men to dress like me or like the models on the runway. I want them to see the pieces, inspire them, and make it their own."

There's also a health benefit to wearing eco-menswear. In his powerful video, Jeff talks about a sample maker who gets sick from inhaling fibers from non-organic and chemically dyed fabrics. This just proves there's more to the article of clothing we wear that as individuals we don't know about.

I loved everything about this line from the looks to the actual pieces. To Jeff and Prophetik, I look forward to your success.

Here are my favorites:

Photos by Peter Holst

A Return to Eden: FEEL GOOD MENSWEAR

2010-10-08T16:03:00.000-07:00

Last week, Vancouver played host to its first Eco Fashion Week.Its very rare to see menswear in the area of organic fashion. When you do see it, its usually done either really well or it just becomes a poor attempt at being eco-friendly.This season we saw a brand from Sao Paolo, Brazil make some of my favorite trend and classic pieces fashion-forward not only in terms of design, but also in quality.

Welcome EDEN! Born in Brazil's largest city, EDEN is a100% organic fashion label for menswear. All garments are made with organic cotton and dyed with natural pigments free from harmful chemical products. A joint venture between YD Confections and Coexis, the company promotes the use of organic cotton through partnerships with farmers organizations, coops and the fashion industry. Why wear a t-shirt or a pair of denim jeans made of organic cotton as oppose to your non-organic one from your favorite label? Here's why according to TreeHugger.com

"Conventional cotton is one of the most chemically-dependent crops, sucking up 10 percent of all agricultural chemicals and 25 percent of insecticides on 3 percent of our arable land. That adds up to 1/3 of a pound of chemicals to produce enough cotton for a t-shirt, and 3/4 of a pound for a pair of jeans. And that's just not bad for the planet; 20,000 deaths occur each year from pesticide poisoning in developing countries, many of these from cotton farming, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)."

Regina Landim Noppe of Green Sapphire Imports, the exclusive North America distributor for EDEN enlightened me on the brand, the line and purpose behind EDEN. "This season for Eden is called Organic Ocean. Inspired by colors from the ocean like sandy whites, sea foam green and sea blues, the line ebbs and flows with a mix of classic and trendy elements. All products are 100% organic and made using sustainable practices. Most importantly, we are NOW (Natural Organic World) certified which guarantees that all the raw materials used in the production of organic cotton comply with international organic standards."

And with the ocean inspiration Landim-Noppe mentioned, the show couldn't have been more calming and inspiring. The colors and the fact that there were cool clothes on the runway made with eco-friendly materials and sustainable production practices, brought a sense of excitement in this new area of menswear.

Look out for EDEN in your North American city soon. For more information, visit EDEN here.

Here were my favorites

Striped Deep V-Neck, Distressed Denim Jeans

SeaFoam Green Denim Jean

Double Button Slouched Polo, Chili Red Trousers

Stone Gray Tie-Dyed V-Neck

Sandy White Harem Pant
All photos by Kris Krug

Menswear Top Trends F/W 2010

2010-09-09T00:15:00.000-07:00

Its not always that you get an opportunity to hear Barbara Atkins, VP for Fashion Direction at Holt Renfrew talk about menswear. Last July, I met Barbara at the Holt Renfrew Fall 2010 Fashion Preview Event in Vancouver. The last time I saw her was in October at L'Oreal Fashion Week in Toronto. Barbara is one of Canada's premier fashion experts. When she says its "In", its "In".

During the pre-show cocktails, Barbara and I had a brief chat to get re-acquainted. One thing we discussed were her thoughts around the changes in lifestyle and how that impacts the trends we're seeing this season. Not knowing, this was also the first 5-10 minutes of her presentation. Atkins said "People are moving away from formalities. Everything is quick, easy, casual. In fashion, the direction is leaning towards smart casual. Suits and ties, although still nice, are not the norm anymore. Today, its about comfort, ease and intelligence." And on personal style, Atkins gives great advice "Authenticity is your next heirloom. Personal style stems from color and off beat combinations. Have your modern classic pieces, and personalize them with folklore and global decorative inspirations."

Here are the top Menswear Trends for FW 2010

1) Battle Gear. Military inspirations are seen across all dimensions of wardrobe. From combat boots, to military detailing on jackets and coats, to army green totes (aka "man bags"), this is the theme for the season.

2) Knit Picking. Cardigans, vests, knit outerwear, urban joggers and toques are just some of the must have knitted pieces for Fall/Winter 2010. Cashmere is still the best when it comes to comfort, warmth and ts soft feel to the skin. Merino Wool is great alternative.

3) Jacket Required. Whether it be tweed or velvet, pinstripe or solid, every man needs a jacket in their wardrobe. Its that one piece when added to a plain white tshirt and jean ensemble makes it a sophisticated and modern trio.Coordinate your jackets with a cool, silk pocket square or fashion forward skinny tie.

4) Jean-ology. Its not a faux pas to wear denim with denim. This season, there'll be a lot of varieties on how denim is treated and worn. You'll see the brave souls mixing denim washes for their tops and bottoms. and some will simply be happy with a flattering pair of distressed denim jeans. This fall/winter dress up or dress down your denim with some of the other trends this season.

So what are my top "Must Haves" for the season? Here's what I'm thinking:

- A slim tailored tweed, herringbone or moleskin jacket.

- A pair of distressed slim boot cut ,dark indigo washed denim jeans

- A pair of vintage or vintage looking leather combat boots

- A 3 button Henley t-shirt

- Accessories: Utility Bag (aka Man Bag), necklaces with unique pendants, slouchy toque, over sized scarf.

Happy Shopping!

Greatest Hits: Banana Republic, where Classic just never goes out of STYLE

2010-09-09T00:10:00.000-07:00

If there's one brand that is timeless yet current, its Banana Republic. I've been a big fan of this brand ever since I bought my first dress shirt from them in 2002. I may not have that shirt anymore but I will never forget why I got it. Great quality. Excellent price point. And remarkable details such as the mother of pearl buttons, crisp collar and impeccable tailoring of the shirt.
This same attention to detail still remains today with all Banana Republic products. Its one of my favorite places to shop for those eternal pieces that look good today and 10 years down the road. As proof of that, my first Banana Republic wool trench is still in great shape after 8 winters.

Since Fall and Winter is coming up, here are my top picks from Banana Republic.

Heritage Timeless Trench Coat: One can never go wrong with well crafted trench coat. The key things to look for in a trench are as follows:

- Fit.Give enough room in the coat to accommodate times when you're wearing a sweater. Make sure the shoulders (coat and actual shoulder) line up.
- Fabric. There are two main types of fabrics used for coats. Wool works best if you have dry, cold winters. Treated Cotton are great for wet and cold winters.
- Cut. Trench coats are slimmer now then they were before. For slim fellas, stick with a slimmer cut as opposed to the more traditional, boxier cuts of the trench coat.

Heritage Timeless Trench, $325

Heritage Shawl Style Cardigan: Nothing says warmth better than a nice, comfortable, classic cardigan. Knits are still a must-have this season, and this is worth getting if you don't already have one in your wardrobe. This versatile and character filled cardigan is one of a kind. You can practically dress it up or down, at work or after work. I love the shawl collar, the various shades of gray, and the coziness of this piece. Highly recommended!

Heritage Shawl Collar Cardigan, $158

The Denver Boot. Fall and Winter is never complete with a good pair of boots. Whether its a cowboy boot, a military boot, or a dress boot, you just need to have one in your shoe closet. Over the years, Banana Republic has expanded their shoe collection. "Driving Loafers" are ones that this brand makes really well. This season they brought back the Denver Boot. Once only available in-store, the boot is now available online. I love the softness of the leather and the comfort of the memory foam insole. Just like most boots in the market, this one is not water-repellent. Make sure to spray it with a silicone based water repellent spray which you can buy at your favorite shoe store.

Denver Boot, $160

These items are all available in store and online at http://www.bananarepublic.com.

Happy Shopping!

Spring/Summer 2010: Accessories to punch up your wardrobe

2010-06-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

Color. Texture. Pattern. All of these are elements to making your once boring spring/summer wardrobe into one that is more interesting. Outside of buying that summer plaid shirt, there's a bunch of other things you can do to increase your cool factor. Here are my top picks for this season's MUST HAVE accessories:

The Straw Fedora
Ball caps are out. Beanies are no longer in season. If you want to be the cool guy in town, put a Fedora on your head. First used as an men's accessory in 1919, the fedora has made a return to mens wardrobes in the 90s. Popularized by the likes of Justin Timberlake, Hugh Jackman, Usher and Johnny Depp, fedoras make a great addition to your wardrobe. It brings "cool" to your casual or formal ensemble.

Eric B Fedora, Goorin Brothers, $40

The Aviator

Also known as Pilot Glasses, Aviator style sunnies fit almost any face. It comes in either a plastic or metal frame, aviators easily be picked up at your local trend store like Urban Outfitters or H&M. If you want to go for the original, RayBan still makes the best aviators in the market today.

Ray Ban Aviators, The Sunglass Hut, $139.95

Pocket Squares
What is a Pocket Square? Its a piece of fabric, typically silk, that one puts on the breast pocket of one's coat. This simple yet elegant accessory amplifies what was once a bland blazer or suit jacket. If you have a solid color jacket, I would recommend a printed pocket square. If you're wearing a blazer that has a pin stripe or a window pane print, I would suggest a solid color pocket square. And if you're really daring, I would go with a print on print combination.

Plaid Silk Pocket Square, John W. Nordstrom, $39.50

Driving Loafers
One of those pieces from the 80s that have also made a comeback, the driving loafer is the perfect roadtrip shoe. Comfortable enough to be a slipper, functional enough for managing your gas and brake pedals. Available in suede and full grain leather, the loafer can easily be worn with a cream linen suit, a pair of jeans and some good old Bermuda shorts. Definitely a must have this season.

"Air Grant" Loafer, Cole Haan, $148

The Tote
Also known as the book bag, totes have come along way from the feminine image it once had. Today, men can easily carry a tote like it was an attache or messenger bag. The manly tote is usually very structured, made in leather, canvas or a bit of both. It also tends to have some simple details like rivets, buckles and straps.

Tote with Shoulder Strap, The Brothers Bray and Co, up to $100

Cutler and Gross: To be SEEN rather than To SEE

2010-04-17T15:17:00.000-07:00

A trip to London wouldn’t be a complete without a visit to Cutler and Gross, the UK’s premier eyewear designer. With two boutiques in Knightsbridge, London, Vintage and Flagship, it was great to see was this label was up to over the last 40 years.

Vintage Boutique

Flagship Boutique

Graham Cutler and Tony Gross are the men behind the brand. They are practically responsible for transforming the purpose of eyewear from “to see” to “to be seen”. Their pieces have graced the faces of celebrities like Elton John , Victoria Beckham, Beyonce and among many others. The name is very much associated to one’s originality and flair. It transcends time. And its client base diverse.

I’ve personally been a fan of the brand since I first saw them at Vancouver’s best eyewear store, Bruce Eyewear. So during my visit to London, it was bound to happen that I take home a couple of pairs. Here are the members to my growing collection of eyewear pieces. If you’re in London, visit their Vintage boutique first, to see one of a kind, special editions pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. And then make a visit to their flagship store to see some unique, modern day collections. If you’re in Vancouver, Canada, come to Bruce Eyewear in Gastown.

For more information on Cutler and Gross, click here

For more information on Bruce Eyewear, click here

London Fashion Week: Menswear Highlights

2010-04-17T13:59:00.000-07:00

Its been more than a month since my visit to London Fashion Week. The memory still lingers primarily because of the quality of the shows and the lovely people I met. Being a menswear writer, my favorite day was February 24. This is when men with great style and designers with fashion forward ideas step out and converge.

The Vibe. Eclectic. Energetic. Exagerated. The buzz was definitely there. As it was the day for the gents to shine, every guy in the crowd had their own concept of style. From tuxes to colored trousers, military boots to espadrilles, from bow ties to oversized knots, the guys covered it all. Of course, the ladies loved it. Some of them participated in the event by wearing menswear inspired outfits like blazers, boyfriend jeans, and even bowties. Hair Salon Toni and Guy were giving free haircuts to male attendees.

The Shows and Installations. We all know that some of the best menswear comes from Europe, London especially for ones that are more fashion forward and unique. This season was dominated by some up and coming designers who I hope make it to North America. Here are my top picks:

Carolyn Masey. It's not always that you see a female designer successfully create pieces for men. Carolyn is an amazing talent. Her unique attention to detail beats some of her male counterparts, hands down. I spoke to Carolyn after the show and asked her "What is the biggest difference between a male and female menswear to detail." And her response was "Female menswear designer see things in a different light. We know what's sexy. We know what looks good on men. We are bit more daring on what we want guys to wear. Our attention to detail is more meticulous. Our style is more pleasing to the eyes. Male menswear designers tend to put out pretty much the same commercial stuff out there. Boring!" Here are my favorites from her AW2010 collection:

JW Anderson. Relatively new to the industry (label started in 2007), Jonathan William Anderson has created quite a name for himself in the London menswear scene. His unique perspective on style has caught the attention of stockists locally and internationally. He says that the JW Anderson man is one who is "a chameleon, a researcher and open to change. He's kind of a loner. But overall he is obsessed with taste". I couldn't agree more. Check out my favorites from his AW2010 show:

TopMan. Topman Design is a directional premium collection which is stocked online at topman.com, the London Oxford Circus and New York Flagships as well as key international stores including La Foret in Tokyo, Incu in Sydney and Shine in Hong Kong. Creative Director Alister Mackie - AnOther Man, Fashion Director and superstylist - and Gordon Richardson - Topman Design Director all decided to do a solo show as part of London Fashion Week. If you haven't had a chance to browse or shop at their online store, check it out here. This season saw a great showing of unique coats, jumpers and pants. There was a hint of conservatism but also a flash of creativity in the detailing that only a London based brand can do. Belted coats, faux-fur lined collars and contrast piping on jumper pants are just some of the element that caught my eye. Here are my favorites from their upcoming AW2010 line:

London Fashion Week AW 2010 so far....so good.

2010-02-23T05:05:00.000-08:00

Its been 5 days now at London Fashion Week. And to say that the fashion here is outgoing or innovative is an understatement. The fashion here is just advanced by North American standards. At some point the key trends and pieces will eventually trickle down to other parts of the world. But if you’re one of those people who want to be different, unique, stand out than the rest of the crowd, London is your town.

Sarah Brown and Harold Tillman, chairman of the British Fashion Council

Photography by Holly Falconer

LFW opened last Friday with Sarah Brown and Harold Tillman, chairman of the British Fashion Council (BFC) doing the honors. One of the unique things about London Fashion Week is the presence of an exhibition which houses local and establish designers and their wares. This gives attendees from around the globe a chance to purchase either individual pieces or place orders for their stores. Esthetica, the BFC’s fashion initiative was also launched that day. This program is London’s epicentre for ethical fashion and practices. Currently with 28 member designers, Esthetica continues to leads the way and prove its strength in the industry.

Photography by Laura Pannack

Now the shows. Menswear doesn’t happen until tomorrow up to Friday. So for now, I’ll talk about some my favorite shows so far and my favorite pieces for AW 2010.

Paul Costelloe

Paul Costelloe has been showing at London Fashion Week for 15 years. Having opened LFW for the last five, he started the show with a collection that showcases unique materials, unexpected tailoring, and impeccable detailing while still maintaining classic silhouettes for both the men and the ladies. Some of my favorite pieces:

Jena.Theo

Jena. Theo was the other label that I thought had great pieces. Run by Jenny Holmes and Dimitris Theocharidis, these you designers focused on a lot of draping, fabric and new silouhettes for AW2010. With the 50’s as the inspiration era and an almost 3D effect to the way their clothes flow, this label is going a long way. I hope to see their stuff in North America soon. Although I wasn’t a big fan of the styling here are my favorite pieces”:

Sass and Bide

I first caught of Sass and Bride on the MTV show “The Hills” when they did a show in Los Angeles with publicist Kelly Cutrone. Since then I’ve been hoping to see one of their shows live, and I did here at London Fashion Week.

Hailing from Sydney, Australia, designers Sarah-Jane Clarke (sass) and Heidi Middleton (bide) showed a very strong collection this season. Known for their signature clash of the bold, the beautiful and the obscure, Sarah and Heidi had pieces that should be in every woman’s closet. From the Victorian lace details to the clown pinstripe pant and the shark tooth shaped purse, the whole look for Sass and Bide, although chaotic is perfectly placed. My favorite pieces:

Mark Fast

Mark Fast is the “The Canadian that did”. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Mark has gone a long way in the world of fashion here in London. He’s also caused a lot of controversy primarily with the use of plus-size models for his runway shows. A knitter at heart, most of Mark’s pieces is contoured to the body with the use of elastomeric yarns. He is daring in the way he wants his clothes to fit and drape. More importantly, he dares to be different in all aspects of fashion, on and off the runway. My favorite pieces:

The shot that made front page in all fashion media.

Matthew Williamson

Award-winning Matthew Williamson has wowed the crowd again with his AW2010 collection. From coral blues, Victorian collars to the fur wraps, the styling and the clothes themselves were just inspiring. One of the key elements in Matthew’s work has always been that the clothes hug the woman’s body so it shows every curve and line. It drapes almost perfectly, to the point where one thinks that it was made especially for the woman wearing it. My favorite pieces are:

Vivienne Westwood Red Label

British fashion icon Dame Vivienne Westwood has once again made me want to go back in time, pick out some great pieces in modern history, and wear them today. Like other Westwood shows, the models were all decked out in pale, theatrical makeup, with hair teased and backcombed in different places. The color palette, the silhouettes, the styling, and overall look and feel of the show are beyond amazing. A symbol of organized chaos, Vivienne did well in creating balance among a mixture of plaids, solids, and menswear inspired pieces. To some it can look deshoveled and to others its great Vivienne Westwood. My favorite pieces:

That's about it for my catwalk report. More menswear coverage to follow.

All runway photos provided by Catwalk.com

New York Fashion Week Fall Winter 2010 - Menswear Highlights

2010-02-20T15:42:00.000-08:00

Things were a bit quieter this season in New York. Same time last year the city and fashion week was buzzing with A-list attendees, sizzling runway and off-runway shows, and a vibrant energy. This year, I felt there were less people at the tents (and around them), but also less of a representation for menswear. Perhaps it was the economy. But also perhaps there are a few more celebrities who were away , attending other festivities such as the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Regardless, there are some very obvious trends that are happening for AW10. Some of them are not so new and are just extensions from last years key pieces.

Trend 1: Cropped Pant and Boots

This is new for the season. Very much a European influence, the crop pants and boot combination is something not every guy can pull off. An evolution of the “stuffed jean in your boot” style, this look will go well with the lanky guy who’s looking to stand out, be daring and different.

The other key piece that showed up in most of the menswear shows is the boot. Either military, motorcycle, or an oxford boot, having a pair will be necessary to keep on trend.

Duckie Brown AW 2010

Images by Getty Images

Trend 2: Men in Tights

Very Robin Hood. This trend started late last year. Coming from the whole skinny jean phenomenon, men started to go “skinnier” with their bottoms by shifting to tights. More of a German influence, these tights are built differently compared to the women’s version. They usually feature support panels, sometimes include front openings that resemble flies on jeans, and also have reinforced feet. Again for the uber-metrosexual, this shouldn’t be hard to pull off.

David Elfin AW2010

Images by Getty Images

Trend 3: Fitted Double Breasted Blazers/Jackets

Not really new as we saw a bit of it same time last year. There will be more of it this year. The double breast, although tends to make guys look wider and broader, looks amazing in a fitted cut. Almost resembling a peacoat, it projects a very dapper and clean look. You’ll be seeing various versions of this coat starting September 2010.

Diesel Black Gold AW 2010

Images by Getty Images

Trend 4: Waxed Suiting

Everything is waxed these days. From denim to full suits, waxed fabrics give clothing a bit of shine but also a layer of protection from the elements. Last year, metallic suits were big. This season it will be a bit toned down. Suits will still be tailored (as they always should be), with a hint of shine as a result of the wax treatment.

Calvin Klein AW 2010

Images by Getty Images

Trend 5: The Hobo Traveller

Multiple Layers, a Leather Back Pack, and Military Boots. It’s not as simple as one may think. “Oh let me just throw on a bunch of stuff, and then I’m done. The trick is to be able to create balance within the chaos of a few, sometime uncoordinated pieces. This trend is very street wear inspired from the streets of New York, London and even Berlin. Brands like William Rast and Rag and Bone were one of the first labels that embraced this look and made it commercial.

Rag and Bone AW2010

Images by Getty Images

All in all, AW2010 will be a bit of rehash from last year. Same color palettes and same cuts. What will be different I think will be how guys style themselves. I think the basics and classics will still rule the game, but will be accentuated by some of the trends from the runways. As always, take what works and make it your own.

Next stop, London Fashion Week.

Style Manifesto 2010 - Get Back to the Basics

2010-01-23T23:26:00.000-08:00

By the time you're done reading this article one of two things can happen, either you go through your closet and realize that you need a complete makeover or you realize that you have a great style foundation and now its time to build on that.
When men's fashion writers chat about changes in the industry, or the latest and greatest in product, the conversation usually is limited to the 3Fs: fit, fabric and finish. I guess its a guy thing; just straight to the point. This past year we saw a lot of embellished trends come out of menswear. Acid wash jeans. Ripped jeans. Metallic suits. Intricate knitted sweaters. Superfluous colors and patterns.

This year, I believe we will see a paradigm shift in menswear; a shift that will encourage men to really know who they are and get to the basics of sartorial style. To start that shift, ISTYLEU would like to share your style manifesto for 2010.

1) Stick with what works. Yet be open to new variations of "what works".
We all have our favorite trousers, dress shirts or shoes. "I like them because they fit like a glove". "This shirt just makes me look like a million bucks". "These wingtips make me walk on water". Regardless of clothing item, one thing to think about this year is how can I still stick to the classics that fit but still be "on trend, in time" with my wardrobe. That favorite shirt you have, is a similar fit available in french cuffs? Or those wingtips you love so much, do they come in a boot format? Explore new options to what works.

2) Refill on the BASICS.
Last year, I met Joseph Mimran, the man behind the successful high style, low price label JOE FRESH. I got some great style advice from the guy who also was behind the success of Club Monaco, now owned by Ralph Lauren. He said "If there is one thing a guy should have a lot of in his closet, its crisp, white, dress shirts. You can never go wrong with a nicely pressed white shirt." So if you only have one white dress shirt, you're better off investing in more than trying to wear paisley to keep up with the Joneses of mens fashion.

3) Two is better than One -- for Dress Shoes or any shoes.
If you only have a pair of dress shoes, start thinking about getting another pair, even if its the same style. Some men are very particular about their dress shoes. Some like a wider toe box in a wingtip, while others like a long, more modern toe. From a woman's point of view, they look at shoes as metric for where you've been. Sloppy, scuffed up dress shoes tells a woman that you've been around the block (not in a good way) and could care less about your appearance. First impressions count. So tie your laces and shine your boot.

4) Know your FIT.
Just because you weigh 200 lbs, doesn't mean you have to wear an XL on that suit jacket. Go to a professional tailor and get measured. While you're at it, maybe even get a custom fitted suit. Also know what fits your body type. Keep those measurements with you at all times. It will make shopping for the right pieces much easier. Here's a quick reference guide of measurements you need to ALWAYS know.

Dress Shirts and Suit Jackets

Neck

Measure around your neck just below your Adam's apple.
Add a half-inch to the measurement for comfort.

Arm

Have someone measure one of your arms, with it hanging straight at your side.
Measure from the center back of your neck, over the top of your shoulder and down to your wrist.

Chest

Measure around your chest, right along the lines of your nipples. Add about half inch for comfort.

Trousers/ Pants

Waist

Bend over to one side to find the spot where your waist naturally creases.
Measure this spot; it should be right under your navel.
Keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor and snug against your skin, but don't pull it tight.

Inseam

Stand up straight with your legs about 6 inches apart.
Have a friend measure the inside of one leg from the crotch to the bottom of your ankle.
In this case, measuring a pair of pants that fit you well can be fairly accurate.

5) I will KEEP my wardrobe FRESH.
Aside from staying with the times, having a fresh wardrobe with pieces you wear on a regular basis is a great feeling. Clutter in general is a pain in the behind, and to some degree holds you hostage. Donate items of clothing that you haven't worn in the last year or two; you will never wear them again, even if you think so. Or hold a clothing swap with your buddies or even the girls in on it. More and more women are wearing menswear these days.

What are your style resolutions? Share it with all ISTYLEU readers by adding a comment below.

Have a great 2010!

Last Last Minute Gift Idea: Wurkin Stiffs Collar Stays and Cuff Links

2009-12-24T11:49:00.000-08:00

All guys have had an experience or two where their shirt collars have fallen flat. Most guys will use and sometimes even wash the flimsy collar stays that come with the dress shirts. Guys, those are meant to be taken out when you're not wearing your shirt! Other guys will buy stiffer plastic collar stays from their nearest tailor or favorite menswear store. Once they've lost their ability to prop up your collar, they end up in the trash bin. Another piece of plastic in your landfill that's non recyclable!

Wurkin Stiffs was started by Jonathan Boos as a result of a wardrobe mulfunction while preparing for a dinner engagement. "I was getting dressed to take my wife out for dinner and have drinks with our friends in downtown Sarasota. My wife had bought me an expensive shirt the prior week, in which I was putting on to wear for that evening. Looking in the mirror, I could not believe the shirt's collar. It would flare out and not stay in any position I would put it in." A lot of guys go through this not only before a dinner date but every time we put on a dress shirt.

Hello Croc Fashion Power Stays, $70

As a result, Jonathan came up with the first magnetic collar stay, Wurkin Stiffs. Priced from $35-70, the collar stays come in a variety of pattern and styles. The Power Stays are put inside your shirt's collar stay pockets with the super strong magnets placed on the inside of the shirt. The collar then stays in place, in whatever position you want. The collar stays are 2.5" long, pretty standard length for most shirts.

Hello Croc Fashion Cufflinks $115

Outside of the collar stays, Wurkin Stiffs also has an amazing collection of fun cuff links. Just a note of on cuff links, make sure they don't take over your outfit. Keep it chic, cool, and collected.

Click here to purchase your Wurkin Stiffs Power Stays and Cuff Links.

Last Minute Gift Ideas: The Kindle from Amazon

2009-12-20T21:13:00.000-08:00

One of the most celebrated electronic devices of 2009, the Kindle from Amazon is a must have for the guy who is an avid reader. Why carry a bunch of books from the library, when the Kindle can hold up to 1,500 titles in its magazine-thick casing. Its got 3G wireless so you can order books, read blogs, and access wikipedia from practically anywhere.

You can read for a week without having to recharge the battery; much better than the old model that only lasted for 4 days. And if you get tired from "flipping the pages", you can have Kindle read you the book in clear audio. Available on Amazon for $259.

Last Minute Gift Ideas - Portella IPhone/ITouch Case

2009-12-20T20:39:00.000-08:00

Sometimes shopping last minute has its price. At $150, this full grain leather IPhone/ITouch case makes a great present for your techie yet sophisticated boyfriend. The minimilast aspects of this leather case makes you wonder why it costs so much.

The Portella IPhone/ITouch Case

Well, its soft leather case, stylish gold zipper and minimalist functionaility makes it more than its worth. It also not only holds your gadget in place, but has enough room for business cards, credit/debit cards, and your executive class frequent flyer card. If you're looking for something to stylize his I-device, this will fit the bill. Available online at Want Les Essentials de la Vie.

Last Minute Gift Ideas: Argyle Sweaters

2009-12-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

The argyle pattern has made a successful comeback over the years. You can find in socks, shirts, and of course sweaters. Joe Fresh is a high style, low price Canadian brand that has produced some good sweaters for guys this season. Argyle sweater make can easily be dressed down or up. The v-neck styles make great dressy sweaters while the round neck ones are good for a casual dinner date.

Priced at $39, Joe Fresh's assortment of wool argyle sweaters make a great last minute present for the men in your life. Go to Joe Fresh for more gift ideas.

Holiday Gift Guide: Let John Varvatos turn you into a ROCKSTAR this holiday with Rock Volume 1

2009-12-10T14:20:00.000-08:00

John Varvatos continues to be one of my fashion and fragrance icons. His clothing and fragrance line to me epitomizes what COOL looks and smells like. In the summer, the Artisan fragrance was a hit among ISTYLEU readers. This Christmas, John Varvatos would like you to try Rock Volume 1. Yes, there's word of a volume 2 just like one of those "Best Of " CD sets.

Given the rock and roll inspiration behind the product, the box resembles that of a speaker. And as you open the box, its hard not to notice the heavy metal casing and bolt cap packaging of bottle. The flask shape and the JV icons on the casing tells the whole story around John Varvatos and his love for Rock and Roll music. My interpretation of the icons "John Varvatos.King of Rock and Roll. Established in 2000".

The rock and roll vibe carries on to the actual scent of this product. With notes of coffee and rose absolute, this Fall scent is sensual, masculine, and explosive. Outside of the great scent, what also struck me about the fragrance is its longevity. Where some colognes easily evaporate when sprayed on your skin, this one lasted for at least 24 hours. On my clothes, they've lasted for longer making it a great all-day, all night fragrance.

Rock Volume 1 is a limited edition and I've been told that Volume 2 will be released next year and Volume 3 a year after that. So get your Rock & Rollo mojo going and visit your nearest John Varvatos store or department store where John Varvatos fragrances are sold. Price $82.00

For more information on John Varvatos Fragrances click HERE.

Holiday Gift Guide: BE what others ARE NOT with Hardihood

2009-12-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

What makes a great T-shirt? Wearability. Unique design. Fit. Sometimes when guys buy tees the first thing we look at is the brand. Brands come and go, but quality doesn't. The best t-shirts I find are made of 100% cotton, have a modern fit, and a design that you don't see on every man at the mall or on the street. Hardihood shirts and hoodies fall in that category. With products made in Canada, the brand reflects the "courage to be different". And it shows in the diversity of designs of their tshirts and hoodies.

One of my favorites from their Fall-Winter collection is the Striking Tee that retails for $80. I refuse to wear t-shirts that have big, obnoxious, overpowering logos in the front. But for some reason, this t-shirt was different. The graffiti like print, the 3 letter breakdown of the name (makes you read), and the strong style statement on the back makes this a unique piece. Plus its made of 100% cotton and has a great feel to the skin.

Another piece you should check out is the Motto Pullover. The best hoodies are the ones that have weight and substance, not just in design but also in the fabric used. This thick cotton-poly blend hoodie has a thermal lined hood which keeps the your head warm during those cold winter days and nights. The gel screen print design on the back of Hardihood's unique slogan also gives this simple hoodie an elegant touch.

Some celebrities spotted wearing Hardihood include Taylor Lautner from Twilight and New Moon fame, DJ Roger Sanchez and Minnesota Twins hitter Justin Morneau.

"I AM WHAT YOU ARE NOT" is a life motto every person should live by. One must strive to be different and globally we have to celebrate those differences. Start by picking up one of these pieces at the following stores listed here.

Holiday Gift Guide: Keep it SIMPLE

2009-12-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

The last time I did a review on shoes from Simple, I commented that "it felt like I was walking on air". This holiday they've come out with a new line eco-friendly shoes that doesn't disappoint one's sensitive feet. One of my favorites from that line is the CARwalk, which is made from eco-certified suede. You're probably what that means. To keep it simple, the suede is from an eco-certified tannery (BLC/ISO 14001). A tannery is a place where hide is treated to make it into leather. Aside from the suede, the shoe's flannel lining and shoe laces are made from organic cotton from non-genetically modified seeds and is grown without the use of pesticides and herbicides.

So what makes this shoe so soft to walk on? The "pedbed" aka the cushiony and supportive padding at the bottom of the shoe, is made of super soft, squishy polyurethane and recycled car tire. The sole is also made of recycled rubber tires offering great grip for those slippery slides in the rain.

In black and in classic taupe, the skate style casual looks of the CARwalk make it a great addition to any man's shoe collection. Spray it with some eco-friendly all protector water repellent and you're ready to battle the elements of the season.

Price $135. Available where Simple is sold or online

Holiday Gift Guide: The Gift of Time

2009-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

There are two things that tell a woman where a man is in his life - the shoes he wears on his feet and the watch on his wrist. You don't have to be wearing a $3,000 dollar watch to impress the ladies, but you need a watch that defines your personal style and exudes confidence. Marc Ecko's The Maestro is one such timepiece. More of a casual sport watch, this dual time zone unit has the weight of a more expensive timekeeper. It features a polished stainless steel case, a piano black top ring, a scratch resistant mineral crystal face and a black polyurethane strap. The watch also has a depth rating of 50 meters (150 feet).

I had the opportunity to test this versatile watch over the last few weeks. The piano black top ring makes the watch easy to pair with a suit jacket and dress trousers. The casual elements of this watch like the rubber strap works well with a pair jeans and a t-shirt. My only wish was that the Maestro had a date function. However, this makes a great present for the guy who's looking for low price-high style watch, who travels quite a bit between two time zones or simply wants to know what time it is in another part of the world.

Price is $165. Available where Marc Ecko watches are sold. Visit Marc Ecko online for more information.

Holiday Gift Guide 2009

2009-11-23T01:07:00.000-08:00

This is going to be the first Holiday Gift Guide for ISTYLEU and frankly I'm looking forward to it. Every week leading up to Christmas, various products will be featured here to give your woman (or friends and family) ideas of what to give you for Christmas. So make sure to have them visit ISTYLEU regularly. There will be fragrances and there will be gadgets. There will be male style essentials and there will also be accessories. There will also be some fairly high priced items for those that have some extra cash to spare. And as we get close to the big day, there will also be some last minute gift ideas for the shoppers who procrastinate.

Right now, I can tell you that there will be a new fragrance that I think every guy should have this season. There will also be a pair of kicks that's made from recycled materials. And lots more. So subscribe to the RSS feed, follow me on Twitter @istyleu, and spread the word to your friends and families. You do want to get a present you like, right?

Day 5 - GotStyle Menswear honors Canadiana

2009-11-01T21:36:00.000-08:00

As a menswear style blogger, I've been waiting for GotStyle's show since I registered for LG Fashion Week a month ago. Canada, in general, is not known for menswear. So its good to see a show who's goal it is to expose the great designers in this category. Melissa Austria, owner of GotStyle menswear store on King Street West in Toronto gathered the best of the best in menswear Friday night. Grouped in four Canadian seasons (all showing Spring-Summer collections), the show featured pieces from Christopher Bates, Costa Pavlou, Bustle, Skmpeez, Red Canoe, Juelz Rok, Gregory Allen, Juzd, 1921 jeans, 18 waits, Maison St. Pierre, Kwasi, Lipson, Trepaul and Empire Clothing. Outside of the generic models, the show was infused by local male celebrities like Nico Archambault from So You Think You Can Dance, Michael Landsberg from Off the Record, David Clemmer and Bruce Turner from Style by Jury and Ben Mulroney, host of E-Talk and Canadian Idol.

I spoke to Melissa during my visit to their store a few days prior to the show. She gave me a personal tour after the interview and we discussed the growth of menswear in Canada. "Canadian menswear is growing. The problem is that they're known more outside of Canada than it is here." said Austria. "I did this show primarily because I made it my mission to promote the great menswear design talent we have. And as a store we carry all of these emerging brands and we're proud of that.", she added.

Out of all the labels on the runway, one that really stood out for me was Red Canoe. A label born in Northern Ontario, the line takes its inspiration from the Canadian outdoors and the people who live and enjoy them; fishermen, aviators, hunters, and tourists. Its that adventurous spirit that lives in the defined outdoor clothing that easily been worn in cottage country and the city. Patched sweaters, polos and full size leather back packs are things to definitely look forward to from this label. Also, the use of logos from vintage Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) insignia and Cesna plane, was unique and well placed across the tees and jackets. Can't wait till they open their store in Whistler, BC in time for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Nico Archambault from So You Think You Can Dance busts a move on the runway

Christopher Bates and Costa Pavlou (below) and their SS 2010 pieces (above)

Red Canoe and Founder Dax Wilkinson

Ben Mulroney check his pulse on the runway

Queen of Kings Gotstyle Menswear Owner Melissa Austria escorted by Nico Archambault from So You Think You Can Dance, Michael Landsberg from Off the Record

All Photos by Paul Flynn

I asked Melissa what she would advice the male readers of ISTYLEU. And she mentioned the following 3 points which I think all of you should take to heart.

1) Its all about the FIT. Wearing pants, shirts, jackets, sweaters a size bigger looks tacky. Look clean and sophisticated at all times.

2) Have a perfectly tailored black suit. It will never go out of style.

3) Invest in more than one coat. Coats make a great add on to a suit or a casual ensemble. Trench, Car and Overcoats are just some of your options.

Day 4 at LG Fashion Week: Dominated by Evan Biddell and RUDSAK

2009-11-01T20:26:00.000-08:00

We are nearing the end of fashion week and the shows still keep getting better. I was really looking forward to the last two shows of the evening and I wasn't disappointed when the time came.

Evan Biddell, another graduate of the hit show Project Runway Canada, not only showed a great collection but more importantly delivered a great production. Starting off with an animation clip, almost very superhero like, it made wonder if the theme for the collection was that of superheroes. Well, there were some elements that were of the "leap tall buildings" kind. From billowy dresses, capes, hoods, and jumpsuits, Evan has once again outdone himself. There were also steel-like one piece swimsuits that look slick and powerful. Staying true to his design aesthetic of urban elegance with a hint of fantasy and futurism, each piece kept the audience in awe. And he even did a bit of menswear too with the matching jumpsuits. I asked Evan "what's with the jump shorts?" And he coyly answered "The women have been doing it for a long time. Why can't men." Good answer, Evan.

Evan Biddell and his models
All photos by StudioLit

Following Evan Biddell was Evik Asatoorian and his label Rudsak. Rudsak is known for its simplicity, elegance and clean yet distinct lines. And this season, those characteristics were quite obvious. Think your most classic pieces like the trench coat and the belted dress for the women, and the safari coat and the bahama short, add some lamb skin leather, and a dash of chilli red or mushroom colored dye, and you've got a preview to Evik's Spring 2010 line.

The theme revolved around jetsetting in the 60s where a couple would ride into the sunset on a private jet and in some cases maybe a vintage motorcycle. The collection had a bit of both settings. The women wore belted dresses combined with leather coats and bomber jackets. My favorite piece was this chili pepper belted leather dress. Staying on the chili pepper color block, I personally love the red shorts and pants the male models wore. Combined with beige or mushroom colored jackets, it made me want to go on a luxury vacation.

I spoke with Evan after the show what his advice is for people who are scared to wear colored leather pieces, be it a jacket or a pant. He said "We've come a long way with leather and the quality of the material. Having a colored leather jacket is a must in the Spring. There is no in-between seasons in Canada or when wearing a leather piece. For both men and women, having the right fit is also very important. Its time that individuals seize the day, be more courageous, more daring, more personal with fashion. The pieces this season accomplish that."

All photos by Angela Y. Martin, AYM Photography

Day 3 at LG Fashion Week: High Style, Not so much High Price

2009-10-22T14:08:00.000-07:00

Its the third day of fashion week and everyone is looking forward to the evening shows. Attitude by Sears, Joe Fresh and Pink Tartan were all showing. And for lovers of great style, these three brands have a lot to offer. Attitude by Sears is a brand the major retailer bought from the now defunct Eaton's. According to Cynthia Florek, Trend Manager "With Attitude, Sears now has the opportunity to take on a new market, a new customer." The brand was launched last Fall and now carries a full line of pieces from head to toe.

Photography by Kimberly-Lynn

As the Attitude customer is describe by Florek as one who's "on trend. not trendy", the runway showed a lot of pieces that the modern woman can add to their wardrobe. The blends of neo-nautical themes, black and white color blocking, and occasional pops of coral presented a very well balanced collection for Attitude.

Photography by Kimberly-Lynn

I asked Cynthia what her key pieces for the season were and she said:

The Peg Pant
The Dress (Soft) Short
The Boyfriend Blazer
The Jumpsuit
The Oversized Tee

Photography by Kimberly-Lynn

As a woman of great style, I needed to ask for some fashion advice. Kept short and sweet, Cynthia's response "Mix it up". And with that I'm sure women all over will be mixing up their wardrobe with pieces from Attitude this Spring.

Following Attitude was Pink Tartan led by Kimberly Newport Mimran, the other half of Canada's fashion couple (the other being Joe Mimran, aka JOE Fresh). This season the line was dominated by 80's themes -- bold shoulders, glitzy sequin vest, and cropped jackets. But its not just like any rehashed garments or styles. Pink Tartan has infused it with enough luxury and glam that will make women want to go get it ASAP.

Photography by Angela Y. Martin
http://www.fashionmagazine.com

Some strong pieces from the collection - the mini dress - the trench coat - the sequin dress - the "nautical" wrap dress

The third night of fashion week was capped with JOE Fresh, the high style - low price clothing label started by Joseph Mimran. Known as the JOE behind this value priced label, he has managed to make great style affordable to everyone. It was interesting to see how certain pieces from his wife's label Pink Tartan made it over to his collection except that his was priced for much less. On the men's side, true to his own personal style statement, Joe stuck with slim cut trousers, fitted cardigans and blazers.

I spoke with Joe prior to the show to get a better understanding of the brand. "JOE Fresh is about new product, fresh price. That's what I want people to remember." mentioned Joe. As most people know him more for his success with the Club Monaco label, I asked what lesson he took from that chapter in his life and has applied it to Joe Fresh. And he said "Never settle for anything less than the best".

And the best pieces I thought from this season's showing are:

For the women, its the use of the light, airy and yellow fabrics in the pleated skirts, oversized shirt dresses, and the shirt/jacket combinations
For the guys, yellow nylon jackets, sand colored slim chinos, and the contrast vee sweaters.

Photos by Angela Y. Martin, AYM Photography

Day 1 and 2 at LG Fashion Week...so far, so great

2009-10-20T15:26:00.001-07:00

LG Fashion Week kicked off with quite a spectacle: Holt Renfrew's media reception and Sunny Fong's (Project Runway Canada 2009 Winner) VAWK fashion show . The Art Gallery of Ontario was packed with media, industry and fans of Sunny's work. In talking to Sunny later that evening, he mentioned to me that he chose to be away from the tents primarily "to be different and try something new". He did that as well with his collection.

Sunny Fong, VAWK
Photography by Jenna Marie Wakani

12 amazing pieces grazed the runway each of them with its own unique personality. What struck me the most was use of cut-outs in the gowns and the deep v-necks adorned by ruffles in the blouses. The suiting pieces I think will soon be a staple in every woman's wardrobe.

"The Group of Seven"
Photography by Angela Y. Martin
http://www.fashionmagazine.com

Following the VAWK show, the lucky few headed over to Holt Renfrew's Bloor Street location for the annual media welcome party. Alongside Canada's fashion elite, there was also a great mix of industry and entertainment representatives. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of Holt Renfrew own "Group of Seven", as Barbara Atkins, VP of Fashion Direction for Holt Renfrew puts it. In the group included Mikhael Kale, Lida Baday, Smythe, Jeremy Laing, Denis Gagnon, Greta Constantine, and Pink Tartan. Also spotted at the party were Joseph Mimran, head honcho for Joe Fresh who I will be meeting this Thursday, and Entertainment Tonight Canada host, Rick Campanelli.

Another big event that day was the 100 years of fashion presentation presented by L'Oreal Paris. As the fashion of today is determined by the fashion of tomorrow, the show was a glimpse to what influences we'll be seeing in the seasons to come. Corsets, flared trousers, bow ties, bubble skirts, the high waist, are some of the "vintage" styles that were presented at the show.

Photography by Steve Alkok for ToxicHollwood.com
More images HERE

Day 2 began with Filipino designer Brian Maristela and his label Lizares at 3pm. As most filipinos are known for their ingenuity, Brian presented a spring summer collection dominated by variations of the "barong tagalog", the country's national formal garment made from pineapple fibers. He also combined this with treated linens and cottons for the shorts, pants and jackets, making luxurious ensembles for the guys next season.