Pattern Recognition

Solids, checks, and plaids are always great standards for your closet. I myself often count gingham amongst my favorite colors. Blue-and-white, and of course my pink-and-white patterned shirts make for a great breather from the plain button up. Why not take it a step further with a fresh graphic alternative. Atypical patterns like micro-sprockets, stars, and dots available with slim body, barrel cuffs and button-down collars are waiting for your social engagement. However, like all engagements, there are a few rules. Patterns, from a distance, should look like one cohesive image. Think and work in miniature, most geometric objects look best in this state. Roll up your sleeves to break the most vivid of prints. Keep what is near them as quiet as possible: flat-front pants, a quiet tie or no tie at all. Patterned shirts can speak volumes on their own. No experimenting with the collar. Anything more than a point or button-down can clown up your costume.

Think outside the shoebox

A good friend of mine once said to me "Shopping is my favorite sport." I agree, and like any sport you need to prepare a little and dress appropriately. Specifically, I'm talking footwear. Far too often I see men with tennis shoes trying on pants and suits. Would you wear those gym shoes with the suit you're trying on? If your answer is anything other than an immediate no, turn the computer off. Leave the cave and be sure to pin your address to the inside of your shirt so someone can help you find the way home. When shopping be sure to have the shoes you would wear with the suit or outfit you are purchasing. Not only will this help you get better idea of how the completed ensemble looks, it can also prevent you from fashion mistakes and impulse buying. Don't want to take your shoes with you. Stop by the shoe department and ask for the pair you are intending. For those who may dread the dressing room, a simple adjustment such as this can ease those dressing room anxieties and result in a more pleasurable shopping experience.

Genetic Jean Pool

Ok. I am quickly approaching the age where genes matter. As do jeans. I've recently come to the opinion that 'nice' jeans are the best approach for a budget mommy-makeover. And I went after that brand of makeover with gusto by investing mostly in Hudson's (my toosh would HATE if they went out of business!).

But, alas, the cost of my jean-etic vs. genetic battle was getting a little pricey...until Friday when I discovered the Joelle fit Anoname. And the fact thay they're juniors and I went down a size? It's a win-win for me and the product gurus with the sense to cut their sizes bigger.

I am never at a loss for words when talking about myself or what I am wearing. When talking about you and others I tend to have less to say but still an abundance of observations and testimony. However, in this situation I was at a bit of a loss. There does exist the appropriate pink shoe and this isn't it. If you are going to add color to your shoes, keep it grounded in tangible reality. Pinks and Purples are fun and so should their medium be. Sneakers such as the Converse All Star are a great way to successfully express your fancy for color and remain stylish whether your out being social or riding the A Train uptown.

I have recently started a new affair. Since a relationship with shoe brands is never monogamous I'm not really hurting anyone else. Keep in mind that sensible shoes are to your outfit what potatoes are to food. It doesn't matter how perfect your shirt, pants and any other layers are, if your shoes are incorrect than the whole outfit is ruined. I recently discovered these gems at Macy's. Imported directly from Spain, Mezlan Men's Shoes are extremely well made and possess a timeless style. Two important factors when taking into account the fact you want your shoes to last for quite some. The rich colors available can easily supplement your wardrobe, compliment a suit for the office and formal events, or a great pair of denim for a more casual occasion.

Sometimes, Always, Never

Ever wonder what buttons on your suit jacket should be fastened and which ones shouldn't? If so, you're not alone. Here is a simple way to help you remember. Start from the top button and work your way down. Sometimes button the top, always button the middle, and never button the bottom. Easy for a three button jacket. Some three button suits are made so that the lapels roll to the middle. On those suits you leave the top button unfastened. For a two button suit do away with the "sometimes" bit, always buttoning the top, and leaving the bottom unbuttoned. Coats are designed to flare away at the bottom, and thus the bottom button should never be used as it throws off the tailoring and turns your silhouette into a cylinder. For those feeling venturesome, bold, and brave enough to enter the fashion forward arena and wear a one button suit. Which you should only do for social events and never to the office - unless you are a world famous jazz musician and your office is a nightclub. When wearing a one button suit you can and should button it.

More

Tory Burch. It's a sequin mini. I'm trying to crop out the massive k-tape that is cramping my style, here...

Here is some Calvin Klein...you can't see the fantastic asymetric (not usually a fan of asymetry but this works) rouching, but it's very subtle and clean. Just like the womenswear designer himself...

Tell me you can tell the difference between these two strikingly similar but totally different dresses...

Paying homage to the mommage...

Because who doesn't want to see what I'm wearing against the backdrop of a Nordstrom's restroom? And? White jeans? ALWAYS a good choice...