from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

If there’s one thing I’ve learned having spent a lifetime in the arts, it’s that everything is connected. Like, everything. The world we live in and the culture we’re a part of has a huge influence over such a wide range of things. Visual arts, literature, architecture, movies, media, music.

Take the British Invasion of the 1960s, for example. Much of the music from that era was the perfect antidote for heavy-hearted and dispirited Americans after significant cultural losses, both stateside and overseas. It was a much needed diversion, and one that changed the course of music history. I don’t think it would have happened quite the same way if the cultural landscape did not provide such a perfect storm. The more you see these connections, the more you appreciate things. And it really makes life so much more exciting.

On the style side of things, blue jeans were popularized in the 1950s – once a sturdy garment worn by blue collar factory workers, it was one of the first ways the youth of the 50s and 60s broke away from the “conformist” uniforms of their parents, and has become an iconic symbol for cool and rebellion.

| LOCATION | Lincoln Black Label Home NYC | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Personal style draws from many different aspects and spheres of influence. Sure, the clothes we wear are the most immediate and outward expression of our personal style, but that’s just one dimension of it—a single chapter in a larger lifestyle story. There’s a tendency in the land of online menswear to make personal style all about personal dress, which can lead to the very logical, but very WRONG, conclusion that a) if I have good clothes, then b) I will have good style.

You guys understand this issue, but it’s worth reiterating—men’s fashion is only one pursuit in a well-rounded modern gentleman’s life, and just one way to show the world who you are and what you’re all about. Your other pursuits and passions bring the complete picture into focus. What kind of car do you drive? How do you decorate your home? Can you appreciate a fine whiskey or cigar? Your musical taste, and so on, is what defines your style.

The Lincoln Motor Company understands how style all comes together. And we recently had the chance to see and experience Lincoln Black Label at Home, a collection of four vehicle interior themes that are meticulously expressed with high-end, bespoke materials. Each theme reflects a different personality, a different feeling and emotion, and a personal style. We were invited to visit the Black Label at Home penthouse, where each theme was exquisitely brought to life in the home design of a four-story apartment space in Union Square, Manhattan. We were there to add menswear to the mix and tell each story on a bigger lifestyle level. So hop in! Let’s go for a ride.

Center Stage

| A FLAIR FOR THE DRAMATIC | Center Stage is all about making bold choices with self-expression. Inspired by fashion and the theater world, it’s a theme that carries a dramatic expression.

Modern Heritage

| ELEGANCE WITHOUT OPULENCE | | Inspired by a refined, classic taste highlighting an understated sophistication. This is a theme for those who can appreciate a clean, modern aesthetic, and who aren’t afraid to have a white leather sofa in their living room.

Indulgence

| THE RICH ALLURE OF CHOCOLATE | And I would add, great whiskey and fine cigars. Just like the most exceptional scotch or perfectly rolled cigar, this theme came together with select ingredients, blending flavors and textures into a singular, sensory experience.

Oasis

| RETREAT FROM THE CHAOS | This theme borrows from Eastern influences. Experience true harmony in an environment that encourages serenity and peace of mind. An escape from the daily grind of an extremely busy life.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Disclosure: Compensation for this post was provided by The Lincoln Motor Company. The opinions expressed herein are mine alone and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of The Lincoln Motor Company.

The post Lincoln Black Label first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

The unofficial start of summer means it’s time to begin thinking about dressing for warmer temperatures. A simple way to look dapper in the heat involves losing the blazer, wearing a waistcoat solo, and rolling up your sleeves a bit. Here’s some inspiration.

| WEARING | Reiss waistcoat and chinos, Brooks Brothers Black Fleece shirt, Christys’ hat, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Tateossian and L. Jonas bracelets, Timex watch, To Boot New York suede loafers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

A waistcoat is the most versatile part of any three-piece suit. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: add one whenever you are buying a suit and have the chance. You won’t regret it. If you don’t think you’ll wear a three-piece suit that much, you will get some milage out of the waistcoat. In the summer, it often becomes something of a “sleeveless” blazer for me.

Roll your sleeves up to beat the heat and add a casual touch. My preferred sleeve roll is a two-step process. One big roll of the cuff up just past my elbow, then doubling up so the second roll just lets a bit of the cuff show.

I hope everyone had a very relaxing Memorial Day. I know I sure did. I spent the entire weekend soaking up some rays out by the pool. It felt indulgent. In many ways, it was the calm before the storm as we’re going to have some heavy lifting to do in the next few weeks as we make the final push to get the new site tested and live. Big changes on the horizon.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post A Sleeveless Summer “Blazer” first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

A blog redesign, a new series on YouTube, and a whole lot of travel. Catch up with me and go behind the scenes at HSS in the latest episode of Ask He Spoke Style.

Be sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel and leave your questions in the comments, send them to me via email, or get in touch via Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #AskHSS.

Thanks for watching.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Ask HSS, Ep. 15 – Where Have You Been?! first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

When it comes to travel, comfort and style are sometimes viewed as mutually exclusive. But is it possible to have both? Absolutely. Continuing our ongoing partnership with Zappos, read on for some simple tips for style on the go.

| WEARING | Cole Haan coat, Banana Republic shirt, Levi’s jeans, Herschel duffel bag, Common Projects sneakers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Keep it simple. When traveling, it’s best to remember that simple is always stylish. Sticking to some well-fitting basics will ensure you’re looking good on the go. Favorite white button-down? Check. Slim dark denim? Check. Lightweight coat that works dressed up or down? Check. I love the subtle leather detailing under the collar, by the way.

Keep it versatile. When I’m traveling, there’s usually something I’m required to do – dinner, cocktails, an event – when I arrive. Often this means I won’t be able to wear what I’m comfortable traveling in later that evening. Here, again, is where sticking to the basics always works in your favor. Slim dark denim should be a wardrobe staple. Looks good paired with a simple white button-down and transitions easily to night with the addition of a navy blazer.

Keep it comfortable. Comfort and style don’t always go hand in hand but they should, especially when it comes to travel. It can be tempting to “dress to impress” when we’re on the go, but always wear what you know to be comfortable when traveling.

Have the right bag. A big key to style on the go is having a functional and great looking bag. Traveling between Baltimore and NYC as much as I do, a medium-sized duffle, like this handsome one from Herschel, always does the trick.

As I mentioned in our first post in partnership with our friends from Zappos, there’s so much more to the online retailer than shoes. Whether it’s style for the office, or style on the go, they’ve got you covered from basics to accessories and more. Stay tuned for the next installment!

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Disclosure: Compensation for this post was provided by Zappos. The opinions expressed herein are mine alone and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Zappos.

The post Comfort and Style On the Go first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

While there’s no denying a navy blazer’s place as one of the most timeless and versatile pieces you can own, sometimes you need something with a little more seasonal flair. A light blue blazer is the perfect alternative for spring and summer style. Here’s one way to wear it.

| WEARING | Suitsupply blazer and tie, Shirt c/o Eton, Reiss chinos, J.Crew belt, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Loafers c/o Allen Edmonds | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

If, like me, you gravitate towards blues and browns as foundational wardrobe colors a light blue blazer will instantly transform your spring summer style. Light blue is a little less dressy than navy but no less versatile. It looks just as good at the office with a pair of chinos, button-up, and tie, as it does off-duty paired with jeans and a simple white button-down.

Spring/summer blazers always look best when you strip away some formality. Three patch pockets along with a soft-rolled and slightly pleated shoulder project a casual nonchalance that is no less elegant than a more structured version.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post New Summer Classic: Light Blue Blazer first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

Of all the details to obsess over in menswear, fragrance is interesting because although you don’t see it, it adds that perfect finishing touch to any look. When I’m getting dressed in the morning, a spray or splash of cologne is the final detail before heading out the door. The right fragrance complements both your outfit and the season and completes the whole package. Here are five fragrances to wear this spring/summer.

1. Diptyque Philosykos

I can’t count the number of times I’ve strolled by the Diptyque store on Bleecker in the West Village. They’re famous for their home fragrance, but also have quite a few compelling colognes as well. I first got hip to Philosykos after reading this interview with Nick Wooster last year. It’s a favorite of mine during the spring.

What it smells like: Fresh, clean, and vegetal. Natural fig with just a hint of sweetness.

When to wear it: Bright and sunny spring/summer mornings with a slight chill.

Shop: Diptyque Philosykos

2. Acqua di Parma Colonia

It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of classic Italian style. And when it comes to complementing those types of sartorial leanings, nothing beats a traditional Italian eau de cologne. Acqua di Parma is fresh and masculine and always transports me to Italy.

What it smells like: Citrus, verbena, lavender, a hint of rose. An elegant, fresh, natural and timeless Italian eau de cologne.

When to wear it: Afternoons or early evenings après-beach or pool.

Shop: Acqua di Parma Colonia

3. Penhaligon’s Bayolea

Despite being founded in 1870, Penhaligon’s was new to me when it arrived in a care package from Barneys a couple of months ago. The Bayolea fragrance was actually a once-retired archival formula, but I’m very thankful that it has been revived. It’s another classic summer scent that has just enough of an elegant twist that makes it unique and interesting.

What it smells like: Earthy citrus, pepper and a bit of spice. A zesty, crisper and fresher take on a classic bay rum, though not nearly as deep and dark.

When to wear it: Daily, deep into the hot summer months.

Shop: Penhaligon’s Bayolea Eau de Toilette

4. Byredo Oud Immortel

Even if designer fragrances are way on the periphery of your menswear-related interests, you’ve no doubt seen a ton of ouds flooding the market. They’re unmistakeable. I’ve given a few of them a quick spin, including Le Labo’s version and the extreme pricey Illuminum, but for my money you can’t beat Oud Immortel. It’s become a daily wear for me this spring and summer.

What it smells like: Earthy, but delicate. Herbaceous moss, light patchouli, oud.

When to wear it: A unique scent that’s good all day, every day. Would be particularly intriguing as the finishing touch for a first date dining al fresco.

Shop: Byredo Oud Immortel

5. Royall Bay Rhum

Here’s a classic masculine summer scent if there ever was one. It’s one of the first bottles I picked up once I began to explore the world of men’s fragrance. You can actually make your own bay rum cologne very easily – there are no shortage of reviewers on Amazon telling you how easy it is – but for the non-DIY-inclined, a bottle will only set you back $40 at Brooks Brothers.

What it smells like: Rich, dark, musky. Bay leaves and clove.

When to wear it: On an island vacation. Or anytime you want to feel like you’re on an island vacation.

Shop: Royall Bay Rhum

Share your favorite summer fragrances in the comments.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post 5 Favorite // Summer Scents first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

I’m fortunate to live right across the street from one of the best restaurants in Baltimore – Woodberry Kitchen. They just won a James Beard award, so you know they’re legit. It’s all local, including the bar program, which means no citrus. My friend Dre, the head bartender (and soon to be full-time student), is very inventive, however, and he considers the lack of lemons and limes less of a handicap than a challenge. A couple weeks ago when the weather had just turned decidedly towards summer, Rob and I were on our way back to home base after a shoot when we saw that there was an outdoor happy hour going on. Needless to say, we stuck around for a bit.

| WEARING | Suitsupply blazer and shirt, J.Crew jeans and belt, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Tateossian and L. Jonas bracelets, Tod’s loafers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

A linen blazer should be a staple piece in your spring/summer wardrobe. The right fabric makes all the difference for warm weather style. I recommend choosing one in tan or light blue. Patch pockets and a soft shoulder keep it on the casual side of dressy.

White denim for the win! You know one of my favorite “styles” of dress is what I like to call sharp casual: blazer, button-up shirt, jeans, killer shoes. I consider white denim to be the spring/summer equivalent of your other staple pair of jeans: slim dark denim. Looks put together, shows confidence, and is sure to stand out in all the best ways.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Friday Night Happy Hour first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

When summer rolls around, so do brighter colors, lookbooks full of inspiration centered around these colors and all manner of guides championing them. But what if you’re just not into being so colorful? There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. There are plenty of other ways to dress “seasonally” with a classic menswear color palate – blues, browns and greys – without including something brighter. As I’ve been saying for the past few weeks, it’s all about choosing the right fabrics. Here’s an monochromatic look, featuring a trifecta of summer fabrics.

| WEARING | Reiss double-breasted blazer, J.Crew shirt, Saks pants, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Tateossian and L. Jonas bracelets, Suitsupply loafers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Blazer: wool. Wool probably isn’t the first fabric that comes to mind for warmer weather, but it comes in different weights and weaves. My blazer is 100% wool, extremely lightweight and extremely breathable – a must for wearing a double-breasted blazer in the summer.

Shirt: linen. A linen shirt is a summer staple. Though mine gets the most use when I’m headed to the pool or beach, it adds a casual summer touch to a dressier outfit. Remember that linen wrinkles very easily. There’s no way around it. You just have to embrace the suck.

Pants: cotton. It’s important to get the most out of your suits and the trousers from a seersucker suit work great as a separate all summer long. Why no belt? I get side tabs rather than belt loops on all of my custom clothing. One of my favorite sartorial details.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post A Summer Fabric Trifecta first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

Whether you’re headed to the beach or just down to the pool, you’ll want to be prepared. Here are seven must-have items for you summer beach/pool adventures.

1. Beach towel. Whether to put down on the sand or a poolside lounge chair, you’ll want a towel that’s big enough and that feels like it belongs. I like a blue cabana stripe beach towel. It’s so classic looking and always reminds me of the French or Italian riviera or a boutique hotel on a tropical island.

Shop: Cabana stripe beach towel

2. Swim trunks. The most important consideration when choosing a pair of swim trunks is length. Unless you’re a surfer and live the lifestyle, stay away from board shorts. And unless you’re very slim or European, stay away from super short and small stretch trunks. A four-inch inseam is my favorite length for its classic look without being too short. The Ibiza collection from 2(X)ist is a great option.

3. Sunblock. Seems like a no-brainer, but easy to overlook. There are many choices out there and I’ve used several, but I have to say that if you’re heading to the beach or the pool, Hawaiian Tropic is my favorite. It just smells like the beach! Also, don’t forget to check out our guide for summer skin care.

4. Water. Spending any time in the sun at all means that you need to stay hydrated. Be sure to pack an ample supply of water.

Shop: 2(X)ist swim trunks, Hawaiian Tropic sunblock

5. Hat. A hat helps keep the sun off of your face and, of course, adds a great touch of style. A light-colored straw number is the way to go.

6. Sunglasses. If you’ve ever forgotten your sunglasses on a sunny day, you know how uncomfortable the sun can be. With sunglasses, it’s all about the glass. And polarized is tops.

Shop: Goorin brothers hat, John Varvatos sunglasses

7. Bag. Finally, don’t forget a bag for carrying all of your beach essentials. Make sure it’s rugged and durable. Canvas, straw, mesh, and even woven plastic are all great options.

Shop: Vans beach tote

Thanks, as always, for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post 7 Beach/Pool Essentials first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

Have you ever noticed that the more someone knows about a subject, it’s often very hard for them to explain it in simple terms to someone who knows nothing about what they do or study? Academics are generally the biggest culprits. I’ve been there. You get so deep into something and so specialized in knowledge, terminology and concerns specific to whatever discipline it is that you almost develop blinders to the “real world” and “normal people.” Going so far down a rabbit hole that it can be difficult to answer a simple question like, “What is it that you do/study/are researching?” without saying, “Uhhhhhh,” or speaking what might as well be a foreign language.

Menswear can create a similar predicament. Knowledge is power in terms of creating a healthy style vocabulary from which to draw from on a daily basis, but it can also be a stumbling block. The more you know, the more you think and the more you might overthink. We’ve all been guilty of this at some point. I certainly have. Putting on the same-old same-old might seem boring even if it’s super sharp. It’s easy to get caught up in an outfit-driven spiral where you’re constantly trying to do something different.

It’s great to experiment, but sometimes it’s completely unnecessary. When you find yourself in that mindset, force yourself to get back to the basics. The weekend is a great time to do that. Here’s a very simple outfit made up of five key casual basics.

| WEARING | Levi’s denim jacket, Joules sweatshirt, J.Crew chinos, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Common Projects sneakers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

1. Denim jacket. Even during the summer, it’s good to have a go-to lightweight jacket. A denim jacket always looks great with a casual outfit and is a great way to dress down an office look as well.

2. Athletic sweatshirt. This is my roll-out-of-bed-don’t-want-to-think-about-anything weekend piece. Classic, rugged, stylish. Looks good on it’s own or with a button down underneath.

3. Classic chinos. Jeans go with the weekend like chocolate goes with peanut butter. But if you’re sporting a denim jacket, you’ll want to avoid the Canadian tuxedo (unless, of course, you don’t). Here’s where your classic pair of chinos comes in.

4. Classic shades. Accessories make an outfit and a great pair of sunglasses are a must. A Clubmaster style pairs perfectly with the Americana of denim, chinos and a sweatshirt.

5. White leather sneakers. A casual staple that was made for the weekend. There aren’t too many weekends that I won’t be found in my Common Projects.

Thanks, as always, for reading. Enjoy your weekend.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Keep It Simple: 5 Weekend Style Basics first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

Ciao! I just returned from a weekend in Florence with Luisaviaroma and what an experience it was. More to come about that very soon, but first let me apologize for the lack of content this week. My return home was quite an ordeal.

I flew from Florence to Frankfurt, only to find out that my return flight to DC had been canceled. I was rebooked on a flight that took me to San Francisco first – yes, you’re reading that right – before connecting to Dulles. Add to that my flight out of SFO being delayed over four hours and 36 hours of travel later I finally got back home. Hands down, the longest and worst travel experience I’ve ever had. So combine that with jet lag and needing to get ready to leave for another three-week trip this Saturday and I am wiped out!

Rob and I have been hard at work getting new content in the queue and I’ve been working very closely with our web designer to try and finalize our new design with the developers. These things always take longer than anticipated and though progress is slow, we’re excited about the shape everything is taking.

| WEARING | Suitsupply blazer, tie and shoes, Michael Andrews Bespoke shirt, Reiss pants, Oliver Peoples glasses, Maxwell Scott bag, Brooks Brothers pocket square, Timex watch, Tateossian and L. Jonas bracelets | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Other than that I’m happy to be getting back to business as usual. Classic menswear color palates, classic styling. Excuse the brevity of the style commentary, but I’ve about maxed out my jet lagged mental capacity for the day! Let me know in the comments if you’re digging this look.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Getting Back To Business (As Usual) first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

What’s your style sweet spot? For me, it’s when I’m mixing up casual and dressy elements. I call it sharp casual or casual tailoring, but whatever name you have for it, it’s an easy way to look good every day with minimal effort. Blazer, button-up shirt, dark jeans, nice shoes. Done.

| WEARING | Suitsupply blazer, Neiman Marcus shirt, 7 For All Mankind jeans, Timex watch, Coach double monk strap shoes | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

By far, one of my favorite blazers of the summer is this light blue wool, silk, and linen number from Suitsupply. It’s office-appropriate and works just as well as a tailored counterpoint to a pair of slim black denim.

Don’t forget that black denim is your in-between dress pant. Wear it as a slightly dressier alternative to your standard dark blue pair. Great for an office to happy hour transition or on a first (or second) date, when you want to look good but not as though you’re trying too hard.

Speaking of dates, if your aim is to impress – and it had better be! – make sure you’re wearing a great pair of shoes. After your face and smile, it’s the next thing she’s going to look at. Poor quality footwear is a dead giveaway for a style novice. Good shoes are often a bit of investment, but it’s one worth making.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Everyday Style: Casual Tailoring first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

The devil, as they say, is in the details. And strength of any outfit hinges on the care and effort you put into the finishing touches. As part of our continuing partnership with Zappos, here are three accessories that will instantly elevate your summer style.

| WEARING | Saks blazer, Al Bazar shirt, Reiss chinos, J.Crew belt, Dee Berkley bracelets, Ray-Ban sunglasses, Ted Baker loafers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Wrist game. There was a time when man jewelry was something I thought I’d never be able to pull off. If you’re currently in the same boat, my advice is to start simple. A couple small beaded bracelets or a simple metal cuff are a good place to begin. It’s gotten to the point where I mostly feel like my looks are unbalanced without the small addition of something on my right wrist to balance the watch on my left. I recently got turned on to the Dee Berkley collection and dig the simple and stylish options.

Aviators. I remember reading an interview with Tom Ford, in which he said something to effect of, “Not everyone looks good in aviators. I look good in aviators.” He’s right on both counts! Aviators are not for everyone, but if they work for you there’s nothing like the look – classic and cool. My personal favorites are by Ray-Ban.

Loafers. Summer was made for slip-ons and a pair of brown tassel loafers should be a staple of your summer wardrobe. No shoe is quite as versatile. The ones I’m wearing are by Ted Baker and can be found here at a very nice price point.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Disclosure: Compensation for this post was provided by Zappos. The opinions expressed herein are mine alone and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Zappos.

The post Finishing Touches: Summer Edition first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

A couple weeks ago, we had the honor of traveling to Florence to participate in the Luisaviaroma Style Lab. Along with many of the world’s top bloggers, we were there to preview and style Luisaviaroma’s fall collection. With so many amazing brands and styles to choose from it really was like a menswear playground. I put together three different looks, each of which we’re going to be showcasing this week. Here’s the first.

| WEARING | Corneliani suit, Lanvin shirt, Audemars Piguet chronograph watch, North Skull bracelet, Dolce & Gabbana shoes | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Matteo Cesari & Robin West | ASSISTED | by Markus Fowler and Daniel Frank of MenWith.co

With such an incredible range to choose from, it would have been very easy to overdo it. And since Luisaviaroma carries a ton of very fashion-forward designers, I deliberately wanted to highlight some of their classic menswear offerings. Case in point: this beautiful Corneliani navy suit. I was impressed with the superb fit off the rack of both the jacket and trousers, and the Super 160s fabric feels amazing on the body.

Spicing up a classic navy suit requires creativity and subtlety. A shirt collar can completely transform a suit’s presentation. The shirt I’m wearing is technically a tuxedo shirt, but worn open it’s an unexpectedly fresh and stylish option.

One of the best parts of the entire Style Lab experience was getting to meet and work with other global influencers. We had the honor of working with Markus and Daniel of MenWith.co. You probably already know (and follow) their immensely popular Instagram account. Daniel was particularly keen on adding this Audemars Piguet chrono to the outfit. A bit of flash without the flash, if you know what I mean.

Thanks, as always, for reading. Stay tuned for our next two Luisaviaroma Style Lab installments later this week!

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Luisaviaroma Style Lab: Simply Elegant first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

| TRAVEL IN STYLE | This Is Ground Mod 2 organizer

Let’s kick things off with some inspiration from some of the recent men’s shows. Here are some of the top looks, a little bit of street style from London, and a Pitti trend that you need to adopt this summer.

Test your style vocabulary: do you know all of these 31 style terms?

You know that a stylish leather duffel is one of my favorite travel bags. The venerable duffel is getting some updates, including this rather ingenious solution to the age-old conundrum of how to pack a suit properly in a duffel.

Cats and the internet. Food and Instagram. Gin and tonic. Things that go together perfectly. Just like coffee and haircuts.

Speaking of haircuts, I’ve shown you how I get mine cut as well as how I style my hair, and here’s a guide that shows you the right way to use pomade.

Nick Wooster, the man who likes to break all the rules, shares 10 of his personal style rules.

Trending: the bow tie?

What was I doing in Florence? This.

Sorry, GQ, these are not the 20 most stylish men alive. A better title would have been: 20 Famous People Who Happened to Have Had Street Style-esque Photos Taken of Them.

Tom Ford is doing everything is his power to make the Apple watch cool with this steampunk pocket watch version.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Now Read This: Your Tuesday Links first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

Although we previewed Luisaviaroma’s fall collection, the second look I put together for our Style Lab collaboration doesn’t feel particularly like fall. It’s a nod to those early autumn Indian summer days that make you wonder whether you really should have put your summer clothing away. Like the first look, this one was all about exercising restraint, highlighting classic pieces, and accessorizing smartly.

| WEARING | Dsquared2 shirt and chinos, North Skull and Le Gramme bracelets, Lanvin sneakers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Matteo Cesari & Robin West | ASSISTED | by Markus Fowler and Daniel Frank of MenWith.co

Obviously, this look is all about the chinos. There were many pieces by Dsquared2 in the collection that caught my eye and the color of these chinos really stood out. They’re a perfect summer-fall transition piece. Add a charcoal blazer for more of an autumn look.

The right accessories can make a good simple outfit a great one. A few well-appointed bracelets keep it casual and balanced. I love details that reveal themselves only upon closer inspection. Look closely and you’ll notice some subtle macabre features on the bracelets, which help tie them together with the python-embossed Lanvin slip-on sneakers. Edgy, without being over the top, and in your face.

How about this location? It’s an old abandoned tobacco factory, Ex-Manifattura Tabbachi. Between the fascist architecture and the numerous dead bird carcasses laying around the grounds – I thought the pink flamingos were a particularly ironic touch (R.I.P. Don Featherstone) – let’s just say it was a bit creepy. Matteo, Markus and Daniel from MenWith.co, and the rest of the team deserve some major pats on the back for enduring this location shoot!

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Luisaviaroma Style Lab: Endless Summer first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

You know I’m not one to shy away from a bold statement blazer. As evidence, I present Exhibits A, B and C. And truth be told, I originally envisioned this look as only using the jacket from this Gabriele Pasini suit. But seeing as how I decided to keep it simple in both my first and second looks, I threw caution to the wind and went all-in with my final Luisaviaroma Style Lab look.

| WEARING | Gabriele Pasini jacket and pants, Dsquared2 turtleneck sweater, Officine Creative boots | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Matteo Cesari and Robin West | ASSISTED | by Markus Fowler and Daniel Frank of MenWith.co

The best way to deal with a bold pattern is to keep the rest of the look as simple as possible. Rather than style this suit with a predictable button-up, I thought I’d change things up with a turtleneck to give it a bit more of a fall feel with an Italian flair.

A big plaid in a hefty fabric also reminds me of classic British style. I think of a cold and dreary November day in London. These leather dress boots add the perfect finishing touch.

Thanks for reading. And a huge thank you to DETAILS and the entire team at Luisaviaroma for having us.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Luisaviaroma Style Lab: Walk On the Wild Side first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

Do you need a horse race or special occasion to wear a seersucker suit? No. Seersucker is a great summer fabric – lightweight and breathable – and works perfectly for the office or those hot summer days you when you just feel like wearing a suit.

| WEARING | Saks seersucker suit, Al Bazar shirt, Gitman Bros. silk tie, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Tateossian and L. Jonas bracelets, Suitsupply shoes | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

In a classic blue stripe, a seersucker suit does carry a lot of baggage and you might not be able to wear it to the office without getting a bunch of uninvited comments about the Kentucky Derby. A brown stripe is less conspicuous and wildly increases a seersucker suit’s versatility. From a distance, it just looks like a tan suit.

Keep it simple in the summer. A plain blue shirt, navy silk knit tie, a couple accessories, and a great pair of shades are all you need to look great.

If you keep the rest of the outfit simple, you can have a little fun with your shoes. These kiltie tassel loafers have been a staple of my summer wardrobe this season.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Seersucker Suit & Knit Tie first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

One final post to wrap up our collaboration with Luisaviaroma. A little behind the scenes video of the shoot for each look along with some of the amazing sights and events we were treated to in Florence. Enjoy and be sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel!

Look 1

| WEARING | Corneliani suit, Lanvin shirt, Audemars Piguet chronograph watch, North Skull bracelet, Dolce & Gabbana shoes | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Matteo Cesari| ASSISTED | by Markus Fowler and Daniel Frank of MenWith.co

Click here to see the entire post.

Look 2

| WEARING | Dsquared2 shirt and chinos, North Skull and Le Gramme bracelets, Lanvin sneakers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Matteo Cesari | ASSISTED | by Markus Fowler and Daniel Frank of MenWith.co

Click here to see the entire post.

Look 3

| WEARING | Gabriele Pasini jacket and pants, Dsquared2 turtleneck sweater, Officine Creative boots | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Matteo Cesari | ASSISTED | by Markus Fowler and Daniel Frank of MenWith.co

Click here to see the entire post.

Thanks for watching. And thanks again to DETAILS and Luisaviaroma for showing us a great time.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Behind the Shoot: Luisaviaroma Style Lab first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

Here at HSS, we’re big on versatility and always try to get the most out of every piece of clothing, especially suits. However, you can’t wear every suit jacket as a separate with jeans. Some fabrics simply won’t work. If it has a sheen, for example, it will just look wrong.

| WEARING | Knot Standard blazer, Brooks Brothers Black Fleece shirt, A.P.C. jeans, Oliver Peoples glasses, Timex watch, Axel Arigato sneakers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

This pinstripe jacket from my new Knot Standard suit – full review coming on Monday – works because the four season wool fabric is earthy enough to pair with even a fairly distressed pair of jeans. Combining tailored elements with casual items is one of my favorite ways to style my clothing. It’s like a sartorial mullet. The pinstripes kick it up a notch.

A shirt’s collar plays a big role in any outfit. A button down collar strikes the perfect balance for any “sharp casual” look.

I’m excited to finally be getting home after a little over three weeks on the road. I’ll be heading up to NYC immediately, however, for the first menswear edition of New York Fashion Week. If you happen to be around, give me a holler. I always love meeting my readers.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Pinstripe Blazer & Jeans first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice