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The Idle Man – How To Dress Business Casual

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New article written for the Idle Man up today, read the full piece here. Shop all your menswear needs with theidleman.com! 

An excerpt from How To Dress Business Casual – Min A. Lee:

Learn how to navigate the business casual dress code for your summer office attire. We put together our favourite pieces to keep you comfortable while maintaining a professional and smart appearance. 

Read more Men’s Style Guide features.

When it comes to dressing for your 9-to-5, the grey area between sleek tailored suits and getting away with denim is challenging. Depending on the work environment, business casual allows men a chance to express individuality without overstepping those bounds into losing respectability among their peers.

The challenge is finding what looks work best for your environment as well as your style, and keeping a balance between business appropriate wear, and a comfortable outfit to help you get through the day. With everything from business casual suits, shoes and trousers to choose from, we’ll help you through the minefield and help you find a look that will work for you.

What is Business Casual for Men?

Business casual. It’s a term that gets thrown around a fair amount, but what exactly is it? In simple terms business casual is similar to smart casual, but tends to relate more to your work environment, and so can adapt according to your surroundings. If you’re in a traditional office where people tend to wear suits and ties, then you might be more limited to what casual aspects you can incorporate into your wardrobe. However there are still ways that you can keep your outfit comfortable as well as smart, and this is what business casual is really all about.

Business Casual Suits for Men

Normally, when we speak of suits it’s about formality. In the case of business casual you can still pull off a tailored suit. It comes down to knowing your fabrics. Cashmere, silk and velvets are best for those evening occasions. Heavy weight wools even worsted wools are a no-go for summer. Aim for:

  • Linen
  • Cotten
  • Polyester

You may find these light weight fabrics wrinkle easier, but are much more breathable for the warm seasons. They may not have the luxurious appeal of fine wools, but you’re wanting for a more relaxed vibe to begin with. Keep the colours on the lighter side and the cuts well-fitted. If you really prefer dark grey and black, you can always lighten things up with a cool patterned shirt. Usually socks and suits go hand-in-hand, but you can skip on them for summer.

mens outfit grid smart business casual suits
PHOTO CREDIT: The Idle Man | SHOP: Suits

Business Casual Blazer

There’s more freedom that comes with using a blazer, single or double-breasted. You can pair it with different coloured trousers for personality. Though as with all men’s business professional attire—keep it tailored. You want to avoid looking unkept. Make sure the length of your trousers are hemmed properly.

On the other hand, this is the chance to explore different textiles. Generally, blazers are solid to help define them from sports jackets, and neither come with matching pants. We will go into the difference between the two later on.

Here’s some other style points to consider:

  • Pass on wearing a tie.
  • Sport a good quality t-shirt underneath.
  • You can get away with unbuttoning the collar.

Make sure that you follow complementary colour rules. Check out this quick guide to understanding the colour wheel. Having a chance to play with style doesn’t mean avoiding all the rules. You don’t want to clash.

outfit grid mens business casual blazer
PHOTO CREDIT: The Idle Man | SHOP: Blazers

Business Casual Jeans

The main question is, are jeans business casual? Yes and no. There are ways to make jeans fit into the mens business fashion category. Of course, this is if your office allows it.

First here’s what not to wear:

  • No distressed denim, whether purposely done for design or not. Distressing is strictly casual men’s fashion only. Your boss doesn’t want to see holes all over your pants and if you are dealing with clients on a regular basis, they don’t either.
  • No fabric that’s showing wear patterns around the knees and seat. Those pairs need to stay in your weekend pile.
  • No heavy whiskering or edgier dye jobs, such as acid washes. It doesn’t look as professional as it needs to be for men’s business casual.

With the blues, keep it clean and keep it dark. Summer tends to be the time for lighter blue washes, but darker is sharper. It looks more confident in the work place. You can go for monochrome blacks and blues or step out in high contrast with lighter tops and jackets.

If you really want to try colored denim, look for solid pale grey or beige, neutral tones. White is another option that can look savvy. There are a spectrum of jean colours out there, but the vibrant ones look more well-groomed when worn as a trouser.

Mainly, if you are going for jeans, everything needs to be immaculate. From the jacket to the shoes—make sure they all fit you correctly, nothing baggy, especially the jeans. Preferably keep to a blazer and a crisp button down to help take away the lax appearance of denim.

For more on dressing business casual follow the link above. 

 

Composure Magazine – Surf, Swim, Sun

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Trend Story for Composure Magazine! Make sure to check out the magazine site for more celebrities, fashion and beauty.

Surf, Swim, Sun 

  • As temps keep rising, express your personal style with on-trend swim styles and accessories, ideal for poolside barbecues and beach parties.

Be sure to click the link above to find where you can shop each of the looks and accessories.

On a side note:

Pairing swim wear with body type can have its challenges, but keep in mind what styles speak to you. Are you more of a retro-vintage fan or a go big and glamorous? Perhaps simple is how you tend to gear your wardrobe.

Regardless for every category you find yourself leaning towards there are suits and sets that will accentuate your beauty or cover those “trouble” areas you prefer not show. Sometimes it is trial and error to find what you personally feel is your best. You might find more than one cut works out great as well. Limiting yourself to wearing one style because swimwear guides say it’s so doesn’t have to happen. I always feel trying everything on and taking what makes you feel your most gorgeous is all that matters.

Most importantly, make sure you always, ALWAYS, protect your skin (our largest organ) from the sun.

If you don’t know where to begin, I definitely suggest checking out Composure Magazine Beauty Editor Anna Park’s stories—Shields Up: Sunscreen Basics and Screen Time. Both which share several worthy products to keep the rays at bay, also directions on getting the best out of your sunscreens.

 

 

Composure Magazine – Rebekah Marine

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From the current issue of Composure Magazine a look into how one woman works to change our perception of the fashion runway industry. Find the print here.

An excerpt from the full article:

When Rebekah Marine’s confidence down the catwalk won over the fashion industry, she not only fulfilled a lifelong dream but also proved that a disability didn’t have to hold anyone back from making a fashion statement.

Story by Min A. Lee

When Rebekah Marine walked the runway for designer Antonio Urzi during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week last year, the audience was agog. Sure, the silver body paint and futuristic dress were spectacular, but what really made heads turn was the myoelectric prosthesis that Marine wore in place of her right arm and hand, something she calls an “accessory.” Born with Symbrachydactyly, a congenital limb anomaly, which, in her case, meant an unformed hand and partial arm, Marine had faced numerous rejections during her early modeling years. But that day, she made headlines, becoming a face of diversity in an otherwise rigid runway world.

The self-proclaimed “Bionic Model” says she feels grateful to be at the forefront of such a massive shift in perception. “It’s interesting, yet humbling, to see the constant headlines of disabled models making a push in the fashion industry,” says Marine. “I never saw anything like this growing up; there just weren’t models like me. I hope in the next five to 10 years, disabled models won’t just be a headline but a new standard. It’s important to educate people about disabilities, and the fashion industry is the perfect medium. It’s such a huge platform to reach people.”

FINAL NOTE:

I tend to work a lot of trend stories and layout designs, but the part of fashion I truly enjoy is interviewing the people working within a difficult and competitive industry who found even the tiniest beginnings of their dreams being fulfilled. While a lot of strive to be huge influencers/bloggers, I always end up falling for those who view fashion as a humbling and life-changing experience.  

Sounds like a love affair right? Haha, not quite, but learning strength from a woman who never let physical differences hold her back and then to become an advocate for uplifting the young, impressionable people around her in positive ways…there’s much…much to respect. Fashion has become such a numbers game within the confines of social media, but I like to hope that these talented individuals will continue to have a beautiful light shining on them throughout their careers.  

I hope even more you’ll really take the time to read Rebekah’s words and feel her emotions when she walked her first New York Fashion Week. Heartfelt and kind, I know deep down this woman will always remain the same and true to herself. Yes, fashion is about clothes and yes it is about the people who wear them…but as a whole it as Rebekah said—”a huge platform to reach people.”

Visit her site and see more here.

 

 

 

Composure Magazine – Etoile Jewelry

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From the latest issue of Composure Magazine available here. Be sure to get your print and read about Cover feature Rhea Seehorn, top beauty picks and favorite fashion trends for summer.

*Note for article:

When I first chanced upon Isabella Kim her designs were striking to begin with, but as I watched her work develop over the past four, five years she honed her skills in jewelry making. Her craftsmanship was always solid to begin with, but as style and tastes continue to grow she really created the perfect line for vintage lovers.

Being able to speak with her about her lace bracelets and necklaces was an interesting peek into her life as an artist before she became a jewelry designer. I eagerly await to see how she continues to build her collection with each season.

An excerpt from the article which can also be read here: 

When Isabella Kim, inspired by both traditional ceramics and modern glamour, experimented with gold glazing pottery in college, her professor at the time was not pleased. But ultimately, this out-of-the-box thinking led Kim into the world of accessories, culminating in Etoile Jewelry, a line of exquisite lace-like jewelry. As foreshadowed by her education abroad, Kim’s approach to jewelry doesn’t rely on following what is popular, but rather her own deep regard for history. “I’m fascinated by Art Nouveau style and art from the Renaissance period. I collect pictures of René Lalique’s jewelry and William Morris’ wallpaper and Alphonse Mucha’s illustrations — clothing decorated with embroidery, lace, ribbons and jewels. It seems that classical antique Renaissance art fits my taste.”

For more beautiful work by Isabella head over to Etoile Jewelry. 

Composure Magazine – Wanderlust

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From the print issue #11 of Composure Magazine, trend and fashion story + layout spread design based on travel favorites.

Wanderlust Style – Min A. Lee

  • SEYCHELLES –For the couple wanting true relaxation, the Seychelles, often referred to as the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean,” is heaven, with its world famous powdery beaches and crystal ombré waters. Breezy tops and sundresses along with trendy swimwear pieces are ideal for basking in the sun while sipping a delicious cocktail. Ahh, the stress-free life!
  • PARIS –If you’re a pair of sightseers, Paris boasts over 50 museums and monuments, renowned eateries, and of course, is home to one of the major four fashion weeks. In a city where art and fashion are cherished, look to chic, classic finds that will have you looking stylish even among the Parisians.
  • NEW ZEALAND –Are date nights always movie nights for the two of you? Then New Zealand may be the place to go to release your inner geek, exploring Hobbiton and reveling in the picturesque landscapes used to film the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Go ahead — run around pretending to be night elves! Just dress appropriately for the popular walking tours.

To read the full story and find the items featured as well as where to shop them CLICK HERE! Be sure to pick up a print issue!

The Idle Man – Going Grey

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Article posted up on theidleman.com – How To Style Grey Hair

By Min A. Lee

From red-carpet celebrities to social media influencers; grey haired men, whether dyed or natural, have proven that silver is a stylish alternative to the norm’ when it comes to creative colouring. Check out our complete guide on how to take going grey from old to bold in no time.

Read more about men’s grooming.

It’s morning, and all is well. A quick look in the mirror, you feel great then suddenly you see it… a grey strand. For those of us with dark hair, that little sprout of contrast is blatant. Is it stress? Is it aging? A combination of both perhaps?

Hard to believe, but your hair is actually white before the proteins in the strands are hit with a dose of melanin. It’s this relationship between keratin and melanocytes that give the colour you see everyday. Genetic factors are the main culprits that cause a reduction in melanocytes, hence that dreaded first sprinkle of grey.

Your DNA maps everything, including where you will see changes begin. Don’t panic. Grey isn’t viewed the same way as it was before, there’s no need to hide it. The colour has been boosted with a new, modern life thanks to celebrities and social media influencers.

Emil and Rasmus V. Albrechtsen of the most followed youtube channel in the hair industry, Slikhaar TV, show us the process of creating silver fox perfection from their own Denmark studio with master colourist Ulises Garcia.

Completely switch up your hairstyle or gracefully streak some smoky tones into growing natural greys. Hair is a great experimental field. The best colourists can take any hue and turn it into a seamless balayage. We definitely suggest having a professional to help you achieve exactly what you want as they will take into account your skin tone and natural hair.

This is important to know whether you should go for warmer or cooler shades. If your hair is quite dark, you’ll have to go through bleaching. This alone could cause a lot of breakage if not done properly. Some will even bleach in stages over time to prevent major damage from happening. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help on maintaining your dye, silver and grey will be trickier.

Once you have the exact shade desired, it is time to consider the cut. The thickness of your hair, your face shape, how much effort you want to put into styling, all these factors are crucial. Fortunately, the Idle Man examined some classic hairstyles that will have you covered.

Read on for more going grey inspirations and maintenance guides for dyed or natural hair. Also, we examine the right wardrobe colours to elevate your silver.

For the full article click here to learn more styling tips, color preservation and shop grooming products at The Idle Man!

The Idle Man – James Bond

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Article up on theidleman.com – How To Dress Like James Bond

By Min A. Lee

“An in-depth look into 007 reveals a complex protagonist with immaculate style. We examined a selection of Bond films for some of the best lessons in tailored menswear and accessories you’ll ever receive. You’ll be dressing like James Bond in no time!

Read more Men’s style guides.

While we are obsessed with the current James Bond, Daniel Craig, the iconic style that has become vital to bringing the literary character to life on the silver screen began with three men: Terence Young, Anthony Sinclair and Sean Connery.

TerenceYoung coached Connery into portraying the Bond that would set the bar since his first film Dr. No. Using his own bespoke tailor, Anthony Sinclair, Young felt everything worn by Bond was a huge proponent of the persona.

We asked Remmert van Braam, founder of the popular Bond Lifestyle, from the clothes to personality, what is it about James Bond that attracts men and women:

Bond always knows his stuff, from the wine he drinks to the car he drives, he knows what he wants and wants the best. This is something Bond creator Ian Fleming already put in the novels, naming specific brands and Bond’s sartorial preferences. Usually these are high-end, quality products. It might sound materialistic, but what men and women might admire in Bond is that even though he gets all the best things, he just as easily ruins bespoke suits, handmade shoes, or expensive vehicles and he doesn’t seem to care. Except of course when it’s his beloved Aston Martin DB5 (or his Bentley in the novels).

— Remmert van Braam, Bond Lifestyle

Clean silhouettes, easy shoulders, a slight flare to the jacket and movable fit define the Conduit Street tailor’s aesthetics. The British style embedded by Sinclair still translates across all of the 007 films to this day.

Let’s break down all of Bonds’ main looks, and how to achieve them.

The Tuxedo

Tuxedos appear heavily throughout the Bond movies. It’s important to remember, tuxedos are notably different from suits:

  • Suits can be worn anytime of the day, while formal tuxedos are for evening.
  • Color plays a role; tuxedos are usually black or extremely dark blue. Suits can be lighter shades.
  • Traditionally tuxedos will contain satin: the lapels, buttons, trimming down the trouser legs, while suits don’t.
  • The jacket lapels themselves are different. You won’t see tuxedos with notched lapels.
  • Tuxedos should have a bow tie versus wearing casual neck piece for suits.

Whenever we think of ‘Dr. No’, the first scene that comes to mind is that epic moment when through a cloud of cigarette smoke, Connery introduces himself as, Bond. James Bond. He was wearing a Sinclair designed tuxedo in midnight blue with a Lanvin shirt, these moments were the start of many.

The Grey Suit

Throughout the Connery era, Sinclair’s clean aesthetics were at the forefront. A popular style was his glen check three-piece suit in Goldfinger, featuring narrow lapels, ticket pocket along with the slip of a handkerchief and notched lapel waist coat.

Here’s Roger Moore working a grey, chalk stripe jacket with a peaked lapel. What’s the difference between pinstripes and chalk stripes? The latter is set wider, and sewn at an angle to mimic a tailor’s chalk line.

As time progressed, Brioni dressed Pierce Brosnan in neutral, but with a wider lapel with a higher gorge and no waist coat. The pleated trousers of Sinclair disappeared for slimmer cuts with darting.

Brioni was switched out for Tom Ford by “Quantum Of Solace.” While Craig did wear the Italian brand for one movie, a change in costume designer also influenced the change to Ford. Though there is variation between the designers of Bond’s suits, the fact remains from Sinclair to the more modern take we see now—grey is timeless.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE AND SHOP THE IDLE MAN – TOP MENSWEAR DESTINATION!

Composure Magazine – Layout Design

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2 Page Layout Design For Composure Magazine – Read The Full Story By Anna M. Park HERE!

Composure covers the latest in celebrity, beauty and fashion news. Classic, compelling and in-depth features in the printed monthly issues are worthy reads.

fashion-writer-the-idle-man-mens-best-watches-under-100

The Idle Man -12 Best Watches Under £100

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Fashion article up on theidleman.com – The 12 Best Watches Under £100 – Min A. Lee

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“A symbol of identity and status, watches provide major style flexibility, but can come with hefty price-tags. We rounded up the 12 best men’s watches under £100 to keep you looking sharp.

Check out more from our Men’s Style Guides here.

Previously The Idle Man brought to you a brief history on men’s watches and finds under £500. Overall, what is it about watches that has survived decades of technological advances?

It comes down to symbolism. Watches are common gifts for major achievements, whether it be a company promotion or a special birthday, think “coming of age.” They have become heirlooms to many, holding special memories as they are passed down through the family tree. It’s rather hard to pass down a tablet or apple watch. Technology doesn’t have the same longevity. Watches cross generational gaps. There’s a huge possibility you’ll treasure the same watch company that your Grandpa did.

No matter how the economy dips, watches retain value. The amount of time and craftsmanship that goes into creating a single mechanical dial pushes this value higher. Take a look at this in-depth video by Hodinkee, founded by watch connoisseur Benjamin Clymer, exploring Seiko manufacturers.

Now let’s take a look at the money aspect. Patek Philippe, need we say more? Who wouldn’t lust for a watch from the famous Swiss manufacturer, but we’re talking 5 figures at the very least. That is to be expected from a design house that has supplied royal families.

Style has gone far beyond dressing head-to-toe high end brands. Fashion moves quickly. This constant change has impacted how we shop. Many find themselves mixing high to low or favouring mid-tier designers.”

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View the video and read the entire article containing the best mens watches, more style tips and shop for all your menswear needs at theidleman.com

 

Composure Magazine Story – Mesh It Up

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Trend story written for Composure Magazine, read the full article and see the fashion here at composuremagazine.com.  Be sure to pick up a printed issue as well as view the newest Anniversary issue!

Design by Viajane.com