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

Ah, the spread collar dress shirt – the middle ground of dress shirt collars

First, physically. The spread collar is literally right in between a forward point collar and a cutaway collar. While the points of a spread collar are spread farther than those on a forward point collar, they aren’t so boldly swept back as a cutaway collar.

Instead, they spread just enough to be tastefully hidden under the lapels of a jacket, but close enough together to cover the collar band of a necktie. Added bonus? This ‘in-between’ shape fits a both skinny four-in-hand knot and a bulky half-windsor with equal aplomb.

Second, the spread collar is also sartorially and stylistically down the middle. If the forward point collar ‘guy’ is the strict traditionalist and the cutaway collar ‘guy’ is the sprezzy trend-setter, the spread collar ‘guy’ falls comfortably in that sweet spot in the middle.

He’s not stuffy, but he’s not breaking any rules, either. It’s the kind of neutrality that also adds versatility, holding its own against peacocky suit in a bold pattern, or elevating a standard and somber grey or navy business suit.

| BRIAN WEARS | Ermengildo Zegna suit, Brooks Brothers shirt and tie, Rolex Datejust watch, Shoes c/o Paul Evans | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Third, while cutaway collars are often avoided by men with wider faces and, likewise, men with skinny or long faces avoid narrow collars), the spread collar falls smack dab in the middle. As such it’s incredibly versatile, working well with most all face shapes and sizes.

One important styling note – unless it’s your personal preference, the generally accepted advice is that narrower collar spreads look better unbuttoned and sans tie than wider collar spreads. An undone cutaway collar without a tie just looks off to most people.

On the contrary, an undone forward point collar can look spot on. Again taking that middle ground, a spread collar might not be my first choice to wear open, but it can definitely do the trick.

As for the origin? Well, it’s a tough one to pick out, but the spread collar hails from around the time of the Duke of Windsor as he was often seen sporting the style.

Beyond that, it’s another classic style that may very well have been around since the initial development of the modern shirt collar – and for that matter, it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Adam Lehman
He Spoke Style

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The drive of a lifetime along the Big Sur coastline in the new Ferrari California T

There are some things in life you’d be hard-pressed – or possibly a fool – to pass up. Like another piece of chocolate. Ahem. Or someone giving you the key to a shiny new Ferrari. So when I was offered the opportunity to travel to Big Sur last week to test drive the new Ferrari California T, my answer was simple and emphatic: yes.

One thing I should mention right off the bat is that I am not a “car guy” in the connoisseur/geeky/gear-head sense of the term. I’ve owned some nice cars. I’ve driven some nice cars. And I appreciate and understand what makes them awesome machines from an aesthetic standpoint as well as what’s under the hood.

So when Joe Richardson said to me at lunch after I arrived at the Ventana Inn, “You always know when you’re talking to a car guy,” he knew that I wasn’t the same kind of car guy that he and Ben Clymer from Hodinkee – also at the event – were.

(By the way, in a former life, Joe wrote a fantastic car blog, which he should be encouraged to start up again.)

That’s my way of saying, if you’re looking for a technical review, this isn’t the blog post for you. What I can promise, however, is an honest to goodness description of the experience, which just happened to be nothing short of amazing.

| WEARING | Reiss blazer, Al Bazar shirt, Levi’s jeans, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Cartier watch, To Boot New York boots | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Michael Shaffer | LOCATION | Big Sur, California

Now, I’ve driven luxury cars in the six-figure price range before, but nothing as exotic, sexy – in that Italian way – or expensive as a Ferrari. It was always one of those cars I’d glimpse only rarely – usually in the pages of a luxury magazine, certainly not on the street – and never gave too much thought as something that was attainable.

But beyond the price tag, for me, Ferrari has always given off an air of unapologetic masculinity – an automotive testosterone bomb, if you will – which never completely jibed with my outlook on personal style and appearance. Look at the 458, 488 or LaFerrari. Freaking sexy as all hell, but you’ve got to admit that those aren’t cars for everyone.

The California T, on the other hand, is not that kind of Ferrari. When I first saw the car in person, I was surprised. In a very pleasant way.

The car’s profile and stance isn’t nearly as aggressive or imposing as other models in Ferrari’s lineup. If there is such a thing as an every day Ferrari – or a Ferrari for the guy who doesn’t think he “fits” in a Ferrari – this is it.

I have to admit that the idea of getting behind the wheel of this vehicle was both extremely exciting and kind of nerve-racking. A 3.9-liter turbocharged V8 engine with 553 horsepower is certainly something I’ve never had the opportunity to handle before.

Sitting in the driver’s seat for the first time and receiving instructions on the car’s features and how to use them, I was definitely getting butterflies in my stomach. Especially the guidance to not use, under any circumstances, one feature in particular.

On the thin center console, there are three buttons. One is for putting the car in reverse. Another is for engaging or disengaging automatic shifting. And the last is the launch control. From a dead stop, engaging the launch control will, well, launch the car very, very, very quickly. And since I had no intention of launching into the Pacific Ocean, I recommended we put some tape over that button.

Starting the car – the sound. The initial burst is menacing, filled with power and potential energy. It’s a deep sound. It’s muscular. It’s throaty. It’s unlike anything I had heard.

How does it feel to drive? Exhilarating. It’s a race car that you can drive on the street. The suspension is stiff. The transmission is amazing. For most of the drive – save for the city driving – I opted to drive the car manually with the paddle shifters. Why on earth would you not?

As you’d expect, the car is fast. Very fast. I paired off with Ben and we both deliberately allowed a generous amount of road to open up between us and the cars in front of us just to downshift and floor it. Let me tell you, that will put you back in your seat!

Let’s talk about the setting. Is there a more appropriate place to drive a Ferrari California T than on the California coastline in Big Sur? Not that I can think of. The views were spectacular and inspiring, even when they were zipping by at 120 mph. I mean, I imagine… Anyway.

After about 30 miles up the coast, we turned inland onto Carmel Valley Road. Once you hit the hills, the road becomes extremely twisty. It was a thrill to drive and brought me back to some of the sick descending and cornering I used to do on a bicycle. I just wish it was a closed course!

Ben and I took turns leading. With 10 years of cornering experience via bike racing under my belt, I thought I might be able to take Ben to school, but not only was I not putting anything over on him, but he took me out of my comfort zone several times.

A Ferrari will always get a reaction. No surprise there. I experienced two different types. One was the one you’d expect – people gawking and/or wanting to talk about the car. The other was, “Asshole!” I found this one particularly puzzling, seeing as how it was shouted at me when I was going just 25 mph in traffic!

Nevertheless, driving a Ferrari for the first time was something I will never forget. And the fact that it was a whirlwind trip to Big Sur – I was literally there for 36 hours – only added to the magical and unreal nature of the experience.

Thanks, as always, for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Thank you to Ferrari, the Ventana Inn and Visit California for providing this amazing experience.

The post What’s It Like To Drive a Ferrari? 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

How to look and stay cool this Memorial Day weekend in cotton and linen

Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start to summer, brings with it pool parties, barbecues and hopefully a welcome dose of warmer weather.

If your weekend includes a meal or cocktails at a nice restaurant in addition to – or in place of – any of the above activities, you’ll want to dress appropriately.

Here’s some inspiration in cotton and linen that’s sure to keep you cool and looking good.

| WEARING | J.Crew blazer, Uniqlo shirt, Saks Fifth Avenue pants, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Rolex Datejust watch, Loafers c/o Tod’s | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

It can’t be overstated how important it is to choose fabrics seasonally. For breathability and comfort in the heat, nothing beats cotton and linen.

If you’re reading this post, you’ve likely already got the requisite navy blazer in your closet, but for spring and summer, remember that a lighter shade of blue is a better match for the season. This cotton blazer is currently in heavy rotation.

A chambray or denim shirt always gives a blazer/trousers combo a casual touch.

Summer – whether unofficial or not – is also the start of hardcore loafer season for me. Always san socks – well, no-show socks, to be more accurate.

Thanks for reading and have a great holiday weekend.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Memorial Day Cool in Cotton and Linen 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 club collar dress shirt is as stylish as ever, just not as exclusive as it once was

If there’s ever been a more British origin story than that of the club collar, I have yet to hear it!

Back in the late 19th century – much like today, actually – Eton College was the school of young British up-and-comers. From royalty to celebrity, the sharpest young men of the Western world yearned to call Eton’s campus home. As such, those that got in felt distinguished and somewhat above the fray, and wanted the world to know.

Unfortunately for them, this was a time when all the fellas dressed sharp on the regular. Etonians wanted an even more unique way to show their school allegiance and set themselves apart.

Now, they could have made things easy by simply adopting school colors and plastering them all over their duds à la most modern universities. Instead, they decided to make a purely stylistic distinction by altering a minor yet substantial part of a man’s uniform: the dress collar.

They took the standard collar points and merely rounded them off. And voilà! The ‘Eaton collar’ was born. The collar style soon soon became knows as the ‘club collar’ in reference to that “special club membership” it signified.

| BRIAN WEARS | Z Zegna suit, Brooks Brothers club collar shirt, Saks Fifth Avenue tie, Cartier watch, Loafers c/o Allen Edmonds | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

As long as style remained exclusive to the school, it gave off, well, that perfect air of exclusivity. Original only for a few, it became so well associated with ‘cool’ that as soon as the public could get their hands on them, the shirts were all the rage.

Club collar shirts remained wildly popular through the Boardwalk-Empires-times of the early 1900s in part because of their suitability to a collar pin. Later, they were picked up by prepster students who felt right at home channeling the Eton feel of social distinction.

And that rounded point is really all there is to it. In fact, all of the other collar variations can be found with club-collar styling. From button-down to forward point to spread, each is easily adjusted to sport rounded points rather than sharp.

Today, that original class distinction has been all but dropped. You needn’t be waspy and exclusive in order to rock a club collar dress shirt.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Adam Lehman
He Spoke Style

The post Style Defined: Club Collar 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 athleisure trend lives on, which is why we are still talking about it

In the realm of men’s style and fashion trends, athleisure has been unique in that it hasn’t adhered to the “here today, gone tomorrow” ethos of most trends. It’s still very much a thing. And it’s still very much a thing that is being discussed.

In fact, just last week I was asked for a quote on the topic for an article in the Wall Street Journal. Of the many questions I was asked and opinions I gave, only a small soundbite made it to print.

Because I know it’s a topic that has greatly interested HSS readers in the past, I’m publishing my complete answers to George Epadminodas’s questions below.

Let’s discuss.

George Epaminodas: Athleisure was meant to free men from the drudgery of tailored, uptight clothes – did it do that for you?

Brian Sacawa: I understand the reactive nature of the athleisure trend, but I don’t find it to be a positive development for men’s style. Society has finally given the average guy a green light to take an active interest in developing his personal style and curating a respectable wardrobe.

And as a result, men – “regular guys” – are dressing better than they have in years. Athleisure, at least when talked about in a dressed-up context, is sending that guy a huge cultural mixed message. Are we saying that it’s okay to look like a slob now?

Why do people like it and why has it caught on to such a degree? Beyond the comfort aspect, it’s because it’s easy. Putting together a suit and tie or sport coat and trousers outfit is a skill that takes practice.

There are so many variables and possibilities when it comes to classic men’s fashion. What type of collar, pattern, pocket square and tie combination, or shoes should you wear?

To the men’s style enthusiast, the almost infinite range of choice is what excites him. To the guy who only wears a suit when he goes to a wedding or funeral, it’s overwhelming.

GE: I read your hilarious post about athleisure – what is your aversion to the look? So I presume you never embraced the dressy sweatpant? Do you believe the trend is played out now?

BS: The term “dressy sweatpants” is so oxymoronic. There’s nothing dressy about them no matter how they’re tailored or styled. And although I prefer a more classic style of dress, I’m definitely not ultra-conservative and am open to more modern developments and updates to both tailored clothing and casualwear. But to me, dressy sweatpants just look plain sloppy.

Having said that, I’ve seen plenty of guys who wear the look well. But they’re younger, have more of a streetwise style and sensibility and are much more open to appropriating fashion’s latest developments into their personal style.

Listen, fashion is cyclical and the dressy sweatpants trend, like all trends, is going to pass. But for me, it can’t happen soon enough.

GE: A trickle down effect of athleisure is that tailored clothes are becoming more comfortable. Have you noticed this? Are you wearing anything that fits the bill?

BS: Right now we’re seeing a lot of “travel suits” on the market. These are cut from comfortable, generally wrinkle-resistant fabrics and have an unlined jacket. They’re perfect for the man on the go who needs to look good – maybe he has to run right to a meeting after a long flight – but wants to be comfortable.

I really like this development in tailored clothing because it promotes the idea that wearing a suit doesn’t have to be constricting or uncomfortable.

GE: Would you be more inclined to embrace tailored looks that had stealth comfort built into them?

BS: The travel suit is a great development. I’m looking forward to getting into one myself. But I think it’s wrong to suggest that tailored clothing is inherently uncomfortable. If a suit is tailored properly it should be comfortable.

Thoughts on the continuing athleisure trend? Chime in below.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Featured image via @clothsurgeon

The post Why Can’t We Stop Talking About Athleisure? first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

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What do you wear to an early-summer after work happy hour?

It’s Friday night and you’re hitting up a favorite spot for an early summer happy hour. You left the office a little early, which means you had some time to go home and change. In other words, no office-to-bar outfit planning necessary.

What do you wear? Keep it simple, casual and cool.

| WEARING | Hugo Boss blazer (plaid version), Brunello Cucinelli shirt and pocket square, Armani jeans, Ray-Ban sunglasses, Rolex watch, To Boot New York loafers (similar) | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

It’s been a while since we’ve done a proper sharp casual outfit on the site. Now that it’s finally warm enough, I’ve been so focused on styling up my linen pants that I really haven’t been wearing jeans all that much. For a casual evening out, however, it’s a win-win proposition.

Dressing up denim is all about the blazer. I picked up this wool and cotton blazer at Neiman Marcus when I was down in DC earlier this week. (This plaid version would be a slightly more rakish choice.)

While I was in the store, I have to admit that I spent a good amount of time in the Brunello Cucinelli section. I’ve always kind of wished I could live in a Cucinelli editorial, but don’t quite have the disposable income to make that my reality.

However, on this occasion, I did splurge on this beautiful cotton button-down. You can’t see them here, but the pleats on the shoulders really make this shirt special.

With an outfit like this, footwear makes a huge difference to its overall appearance and feel. With white sneakers, it’d be sportier. With a pair of leather double monks, dressier. For me, a pair of brown suede penny loafers hits it just right.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

This post is sponsored by Neiman Marcus and ShopStyle. The opinions expressed herein are mine alone and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Neiman Marcus or ShopStyle.

The post Get Happy: Sharp Casual Cocktail Hour first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

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Do you ever have those moments that you talk about something and then see a TV show, movie, or an ad that is the same theme immediately after?

Brian and I were just talking about the movie Bullitt Saturday night while I’m here in San Francisco, and wouldn’t you know, within 12 hours visiting The Rake’s homepage they have a very well-curated story about cars as characters in classic movies.

If you read one article about Muhammad Ali, read The New Yorker’s.

Now that we’ve had our first unofficial kick-off to summer, brush up on your summer skin care tips, make sure you are using SPF and have the right scents in your arsenal. You also may want to invest in a summer grooming kit.

Don’t judge too quickly, but your next fragrance may actually contain rose.

Moving in with your significant other? Here’s how to avoid breaking up in the process.

This WTF link isn’t new, but every time we see this article about being buried in human pods it always sparks a lot of conversation. Makes sense… kind of totally creepy…

Are you living the tall man’s burden?

Start spreading the news. If you’re a fan of Ol’ Blue Eyes, a musical is rumored to be in the works.

I still cannot get over how passionate you guys are with the socks vs. no socks debate. Brian is always wearing miracle socks underneath, but you never see them. Simma. Down. Na.

Don’t complain about your passport photo, it could be way worse.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Robin West
He Spoke Style

The post McQueen, Sinatra, Ali and Other News 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

Toasting the launch of L’Odyssée d’un Roi with Louis XIII in New York City

LOUIS XIII Cognac is often considered the most unique and special spirit in the entire world. And for good reason. Made with a blend of up to 1,200 different eaux-de-vie ranging in age from 40 years to over 100 years old, there really is no other spirit with the same sense of history or heritage.

We recently had the opportunity to attend a private tasting and launch event in New York City for a brand new LOUIS XIII initiative and collaboration – L’Odyssée d’un Roi.

There, we learned about the history of this storied brand, had the opportunity to speak with the brand’s Cellar Master and, of course, taste LOUIS XIII.

Louis XIII L’Odyssée d’un Roi

L’Odyssée d’un Roi is LOUIS XIII’s tribute to its long association with luxury travel – from the legendary bar car of the Orient Express to the S.S. Normandie’s first-class lounge to the sleek cabin of the supersonic Concorde jet.

To celebrate this unique heritage, LOUIS XIII partnered with the French luxury houses Hermès, Saint-Louis and Puiforcat to create three one-of-a-kind pieces that pay tribute to the first shipments of LOUIS XIII in 1874 and its subsequent travels across the globe.

The pieces include a bespoke, hand-stitched Hermès trunk, a white gold pipette forged by the Art Deco silversmith Puiforcat and a crystal decanter and four elegant serving glasses, mouth-blown, cut and wheel-engraved by hand by Saint-Louis.

More than 50 individual artisans devoted over 1,000 hours per piece to produce these items. We had the opportunity to see each of these items up close at the event and I can tell you that they are, as you’d expect, absolutely exquisite.

Speaking of exquisite, let’s talk about the event itself. It’s always exciting to attend events in New York City, but this one was special and very well done. At most events, I’d say that I’m generally fairly overdressed so it was refreshing to be in a room full of people who all seemed to think – as I did – that classic and elegant was the right dress code for the night.

Among the many stylish gentlemen there that evening was Baptiste Loiseau, the LOUIS XIII Cellar Master. HSS readers know that I have an immense interest in whiskey and other spirits, and I was thrilled to have a chance to speak with M. Loiseau.

Recreating a scene on the fabled Orient Express.

From the very beginning of our conversation, one thing was abundantly clear: M. Loiseau is extremely passionate about the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into making LOUIS XIII Cognac.

He apprenticed for a number of years before being elevated to his current position, one that he serves in with humility and a deep reverence for the history and tradition of the brand.

I asked him about his personal history, his job, his process and how excited he was to be in New York City toasting the launch of L’Odyssée d’un Roi. Before he could even answer, I could see in his eyes how much it meant to him.

I knew the toast would be a big moment for him – and for me as well, as I’d not tasted LOUIS XIII before – so wished him well and went on to experience the exhibit.

Throughout the room were various listening and viewing stations, where we were able to learn about the storied history of LOUIS XIII as well as the details of each of the pieces designed for L’Odyssée d’un Roi.

Also on display were the artisans’ tools used to create each piece. For me, this was one of the exhibit’s highlights. Seeing these tools really helps you appreciate the craftsmanship and care that goes into the construction of something of extremely high quality.

Real people – not machines – designed and made these things. It’s something we often forget to appreciate in today’s modern world.

L’Odyssée d’un Roi will be auctioned off at Sotheby’s in various cities around the world to benefit The Film Foundation, an organization founded by Martin Scorsese that is dedicated to film preservation and the exhibition of restored and classic cinema. Great cause.

| WEARING | Ermengildo Zegna suit, Drake’s tie, Cartier watch

How Does It Taste?

Of course, the event we’d been waiting for all night was M. Loiseau’s toast and getting to finally taste LOUIS XIII. As the waiters swept through the room carrying silver trays with crystal glasses of cognac, you could feel the crowd’s energy and excitement.

After raising our glasses, I sipped LOUIS XIII for the first time. Here’s what I thought.

LOUIS XIII is a truly one-of-a-kind cognac. Its aroma and taste are light and complex. For me, the flavors were overwhelmingly floral and vegetal.

Rose had a strong presence, along with grasses and earth. It also had a nice subtle sweetness that emerged as it developed on my palate.

Would I recommend trying it if you ever have the opportunity? Absolutely.

A Quick History of Louis XIII Cognac

Where does the name come from? LOUIS XIII is a tribute to the French King who reigned when the Rémy Martin family put down roots in France’s Cognac region in the 1620s.

What’s the story of the decanter? The LOUIS XIII decanter is an original reproduction of a metal flask found on the site of the Battle of Jarnac in 1569. Paul-Emile Rémy Martin bought the metal flask in 1850 and decided to keep his finest and oldest eaux-de-vie within. LOUIS XIII’s iconic and classic crystal decanter is crafted by 11 crystal workers from the best French workshops.

How is LOUIS XIII Cognac made? Each decanter of LOUIS XIII Cognac takes four generations of Cellar Masters over 100 years to craft. The blends are stored in cellars in Limousin oak barrels. Each year, the Cellar Master will taste the blend to monitor the aging process.

When a Cellar Master finishes a blend, he draws upon an extremely selective collection of eaux-de-vie. A final blend may contain up to 1,200 different eaux-de-vie, ranging from 40 years old to over 100 years old.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Photography by Kelly Taub/BFA.com and Rob McIver Photo.

In partnership with Louis XIII. The opinions expressed herein are mine alone and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Louis XIII.

The post Toasting with LOUIS XIII Cognac first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

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What to look for when you’re picking out a shaving brush

If you’re thinking about adding a shaving brush to your grooming routine, you probably have some questions. Why use one? What are the different kinds of shaving brushes (because there are many)? And which shaving brush is right for you?

Here’s a quick primer to help you make the best decision.

Why Use a Shaving Brush?

Three reasons:

1. It creates a thick and rich lather.

2. It helps to soften and lift the beard hair.

3. It gently exfoliates the skin.

Actually, here’s a fourth reason: to slow down and enjoy the process of shaving. While the first three points have a very practical benefit to the actual shave you get and the health of your skin, the fourth is my personal favorite.

DON’T MISS: How To Shave With A Safety Razor

Does it take longer to shave this way? Yes, it does. But isn’t it nice to slow down a bit at least once a day?

Types of Shaving Brush Bristles

Boar. Firm and coarse. These qualities make it a little uncomfortable on the skin, but also make it easy to get a good lather out of a shaving soap puck. Omega makes one of the most popular boar hair shaving brushes.

Horsehair. Softer than boar, though not as soft as badger. You don’t see horsehair brushes that often.

Synthetic. Synthetic brushes have advanced a great deal. In some cases, you’d be hard-pressed to feel the difference between a synthetic brush and a quality badger brush. If you’re a vegan and/or passionate about animal rights, consider a synthetic.

Badger. One of the most classic and most-used hairs for shaving brushes. You will find them in four different gradations, listed here in ascending order of quality, softness and price: pure badger, best badger, super badger and silver tip.

Types of Shaving Brush Handles

Shaving brush handles can be made from one of these four materials: metal, wood, horn or synthetics. Each has a very specific look and feel. Choose based on what you like the look and feel of best.

Knot Size and Loft Height

The knot size will usually – though not all the time – determine the width of the handle. I say not all the time, because different handles can be thicker because of the materials and not necessarily the size of the knot.

The loft height refers to the entire length of the brush, from base to tip.

Both are matters of personal preference.

Which Should You Choose?

If you’ve just started considering using a shaving brush, first buy an inexpensive one to see if you even like the process of using it. Shaving with a shaving brush is definitely more time consuming than not using one, but anyone who uses one regularly enjoys that process.

I’ve known many guys who like the idea, but not the process. They eventually give up and go back to their electric shavers.

If and when you do decide a shaving brush is for you, buy one that:

1. You can afford, and;

2. that feels good in your hand.

Both points are important, but how it feels is a key factor. If you don’t like how the brush feels in your hand, you are less likely to use it on a daily basis.

Go to a reputable barber shop and get a feel of several different sizes and materials. Choose with what you like best.

Our recommendation: Parker Super Badger Shaving Brush, $39

Travel Shaving Brushes

One note about travel brushes. Some brushes marketed specifically as travel shave brushes have bristles that can be unscrewed and stored in the handle – usually made of metal – to form a nice, sleek little tube.

I used to own one of these. It was an Edwin Jagger. I would link to the one I had, but it seems they’ve updated the design slightly since I had one. Which is good because hopefully there have been some improvements.

The problem I had with mine was that the bristles were so close together that it never dried out sufficiently, even when left out for an extended period of time. This led to mildew on the brush, a bad smell and some rusting on the handle.

I find it easier to travel with my regular brush. Keeping the bristles in good condition is easily achieved by placing the brush in a cardboard toilet paper tube, which has the dual effect of wicking moisture if the brush happens to be a little wet.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Photography by Rob McIver Photo

The post How To Choose a Shaving Brush 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

Comfort, style and nautical appeal… What’s not to love about boat shoes?

Boat shoes have long been a men’s summer shoe staple. They’re part loafer, part sneaker, part beast of their own – and proven over the years to be nothing short of a crowd pleaser.

Also called ‘deck shoes,’ boat shoes are usually constructed with canvas or leather moccasin-style uppers. By far the most popular iteration is a classic mid-brown leather upper with a contrasting white sole.

Beyond that, as you look further into the physical makeup of the shoe, the purpose and functionality becomes clear.

First, the characteristic rubber sole is unique from the soles of sneakers or other casual shoes. The most important and defining aspect of these soles is that they are non-marking.

Sailors, despite their reputations for dirty mouths, keep a clean ship. Anything else is a safety hazard and an eyesore. So naturally, a sole designed for a boat will be inherently resistant to scuffing up that pristine deck.

Additionally, the soles have a built-in safety aspect – they’re designed to be slip resistant. This is an extra-important quality for folks regularly walking around on sea-spray covered surfaces.

In fact, legend has it that Paul A. Sperry got the idea to develop the signature sole after a nasty spill on his own boat. He then noticed that his dog, Prince, was trekking around just fine.

After inspecting his dog’s paws, he noticed herringbone-like grooves. Inspired, he created soles with similar siping that replicated the effect. He’d later go on to found Sperry Top-Sider, the de facto go-to boat shoe brand.

Other defining features of boat shoes include metal eyelets on either side of the shoe that help drain water and keep the footwear from becoming waterlogged.

Additionally, the laces are usually leather, which makes them easier to work with when wet, rather than cloth laces that are impossible to untie when wet.

| BRIAN WEARS | Blazer c/o Tommy Hilfiger, Brunello Cucinelli shirt, J.Crew chinos, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Rolex watch, Boat shoes c/o Jack Erwin | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Now, guys love boat shoes for a variety of reasons. One is that the soles are soft and comfy as all get-out, as they are designed for grip rather than durability.

Another is that they are easy to wear. No lace-tying required but a bit more functional than a loafer.

Yet another is that functionality itself, as men tend to be drawn towards clothing and footwear with a purpose, whether they use it for that purpose or not.

And last is simply that sometimes unexplainable, but always irresistible, nautical appeal. For the same reason we love navy and white stripes, we will always love boat shoes.

Like other nautical gear, there’s somewhat of a preppy aesthetic that goes along with them, but as years pass they’ve spread more and more into the mainstream and are now widely worn by gents of all sorts.

As for styling, it’s important to remember that they are a casual shoe. I was at an appointment the other day and my doctor walked out of his office in a full business suit, tie, and boat shoes. No way around it, it just looked wrong. Terrible, actually.

Sure, the leather versions are a bit more put together than an athletic sneaker, but not by much. That said, they’ve got a helluva lot more class than a running shoe, and are a great summer substitute for your CDB’s in your chino-and-OCBD casual uniform.

The best part is that they look better and better as they age, not unlike a good pair of raw denim. Take your pick from the requisite high-street brands like Sperry or Eastland, or go high-end with some Yuketens or Rancourts (both USA-made, FYI), and flaunt your nautical inclinations with pride.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Adam Lehman
He Spoke Style

The post Style Defined: Boat Shoes 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 Improved Whiskey Cocktail is basically an Old Fashioned with a singular spin on the sweet

You have to admit that in name alone, an Improved Whiskey Cocktail sounds a bit oxymoronic. How on earth, you may ask, could you possibly improve a whiskey cocktail? Isn’t anything with whiskey already as good as it gets?

Our answer to that question is, well, yes, especially when you’re talking about a good old fashioned Old Fashioned. But sometimes a little variation is nice, especially when it’s a classic in its own right.

The Improved Whiskey Cocktail is more or less a “riff” on an Old Fashioned. You’ve got your spirit, sweet and bitters. Except instead of getting its sweet from a sugar cube, the Improved Whiskey Cocktail’s sweet has a little more of a unique flavor thanks to a small dose of Maraschino.

Here’s how to make it.

Improved Whiskey Cocktail Recipe

2 oz. Bourbon
.25 oz. simple syrup
.25 oz. Maraschino
2 dashes Angostura bitters

Combine the bourbon, simple syrup, Maraschino and bitters in a mixing glass. Stir with ice and strain over a large ice cube into an absinthe-rinsed rocks glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

You can use any bourbon you fancy. However, we suggest choosing one of the higher proof variety to help stand up to the sweetness of the simple syrup and Maraschino. Our current Improved Whiskey Cocktail bourbon of choice? Old Weller Antique 107.

STILL THIRSTY? Check out more of our favorite cocktail recipes.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

This recipe comes from Jerry Thomas’s Bartenders Guide via The PDT Cocktail Book by Jim Meehan.

The post Classic Mixology: The Improved Whiskey Cocktail 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

Style-focused gifts for the cool dad in your life

I’m not a father myself, but many of my closest friends are. And I know that the responsibility of having kids often puts matters of personal style on the back burner.

However, I’d like to think that the advice we’ve dispensed here over the years has helped make it easier for many dads to get back in touch with their inner James Bond – or suave Italian gentleman.

I mean, wouldn’t it be nice to have your kids – and their friends – think of you as that “cool dad”? And I definitely know that the wives appreciate their husbands putting a little more effort into their appearance and grooming.

So in advance of Father’s Day, we’re teaming up with Bloomingdale’s for a style-focused gift guide.

Here are a five items you might consider picking up for that cool dad in your life. (Or perhaps you are that cool dad who definitely deserves to treat himself this Father’s Day.)

Pocket Square. Forget giving a tie as a gift. If they don’t have to wear one to work, most guys only wear ties to weddings or funerals. A classic pocket square from a quality brand, on the other hand, is much more useful as it can be used pretty much any time a blazer is worn.

Date nights, brunch with friends, or parent-teacher meeting nights. A good companion gift? An email with a link to our popular guide on how to fold a pocket square.

Straw Fedora. A hat possesses the dual ability to elevate and completely transform any look. With summer right around the corner, a straw fedora is a solid choice.

Classic Sunglasses. A lot of dads I know default to sport sunglasses. And while there’s nothing wrong with a pair of Oakleys if you’re in the backyard throwing the ball around, you have to admit that a classic pair of Clubmasters is a little more apropos when it comes to date night sharp casual dress.

| WEARING | Michael Andrews Bespoke shirt, Reiss pants, Goorin Bros. hat, Drake’s pocket square, Movado watch, Ray-Ban sunglasses, Loafers c/o Allen Edmonds | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

A Versatile Timepiece. While it’s not necessary to break the bank on a new watch, a nice timepiece is going to cost a bit more than anything else on our list. But it’s always money well spent, especially if it’s a handsome watch that can be worn with any look from casual to dressed up.

The Movado Series 800 is a great-looking sport watch. With a steel case, black aluminum bezel, black dial and date window, it looks just as good with shorts and a polo in the bleachers at a Little League game as it does with a blazer, chinos and button-up.

Loafers. Don’t argue with me. I know for a fact that dads who get comfortable wearing sneakers and work boots think they can’t “pull off” loafers. Yes, you can. Especially if your kids (or wife) get you a nice pair of oxblood tassel loafers.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

This post is sponsored by Bloomingdale’s. The opinions expressed herein are mine alone and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Bloomingdale’s.

The post Father’s Day Gifts with Style 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

Getting the most out of a three-piece-suit – summer edition

It was a warm weekend here on the East Coast and that got me thinking about one of our old Ask HSS videos that dealt with how to look dapper when it’s hot out. One of my suggestions, if you recall, was to consider adding a waistcoat.

Sleeves are the last thing you want when it’s 90+ degrees outside. We’ve called a waistcoat a sleeveless summer blazer before, but today we’re showing you how to wear that most underrated of three-piece suit combos, the waistcoat and trousers.

Or, as we’re calling it today – the sleeveless summer suit.

| WEARING | QG Custom waistcoat and pants, Reiss shirt, Goorin Bros. hat, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Rolex Datejust watch, Loafers c/o GH Bass | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Much like how you feel like something’s missing if you’re wearing a blazer without a pocket square – why on earth would you do that? – I often have that same feeling during the summer going out of the apartment without a blazer.

Yes, a nice shirt and trousers look good, especially if you’ve made it more interesting, but sometimes you want to be a little more dressed/buttoned up. This is where the waistcoat comes in.

A more dressed up summer look needs the requisite footwear. You can never go wrong with a pair of leather tassel loafers.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Stay Cool: The “Sleeveless” Summer Suit 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

Ancient madder is not an antiquated way of being pissed off. Rather, it has to do with dyes and ties.

Ancient madder accessories are something of an anomaly in the menswear world. They’re relatively unknown to the general public, yet revered by sartorial enthusiasts. They’re also classic and distinctive, but most folks can’t tell you where the name comes from or why they’re so distinguishable.

So let’s break this down from the beginning, starting with the word ‘madder.’

Turns out, it has nothing to do with being mad (ha, obviously). It’s also not a mysterious or ancient term. In fact, it’s just the name of a plant. More significantly, it’s the common name for the plant, Rubia, which is used to make dyes.

And that’s the first part of the equation – natural, madder dyes. The dyes are distinctive, both in color and physical effect.

The colors are oversaturated and dark – think mustards, forest greens and burgundies – and the shade is dusty and faded. In fact, while the ‘ancient’ part of the name is unexplained, some think it refers to the most faded end of the color spectrum.

Ancient madder ties are always printed on a twill silk fabric treated with ‘gum arabic.’ The madder dyes combined with the gum silk create a characteristic handfeel that is uniquely soft and chalky.

| BRIAN WEARS | Saks Fifth Avenue blazer, Al Bazar shirt, Yves Saint Laurent pants, Tie c/o Fort Belvedere, Rolex Datejust watch, Briefcase c/o Maxwell Scott, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Loafers c/o Tod’s | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

The second part of the ancient madder equation is the pattern.

While occasionally seen in geometric patterns, ancient madder almost always comes in paisley. The softness of the dyed colors lends subtlety to the intricate designs, giving them dignity, class, and a note of sobriety. The result is a look that is visually interesting yet still respectable in all but the most conservative of circles.

How about their place in the canon of menswear history?

Like a lot of menswear classics, ancient madder ties were born in England, but truly found their place on Ivy League campuses during the mid-20th century.

As the distinctive Ivy Style has faded over time, so has the abundance of madder ties, along with the men that appreciate them. Yet, for those that still rock the style, the classic prep connotation remains. Combine a tweed suit, oxford shirt and an ancient madder tie for an unmistakably classic Ivy look.

These days, Drake’s still makes true ancient madder pieces, as do a few of the American prep staples like J.Press and our friend Raphael at Fort Belvedere. Otherwise, finding authentic ancient madder has turned into an exercise in thrifting or combing estate sales.

Of course, you can find imitations – paisley ties in those distinct dark and dusty colors aren’t that hard to find. But if you’re a true enthusiast, you’ll hold out for the real deal.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Adam Lehman
He Spoke Style

The post Style Defined: Ancient Madder 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

Enter to win a rare experience worth over $6K with The Macallan Rare Cask and GILT

When it comes to gift giving, over the years I have become a big proponent of gifting an experience rather than an item. Unless the person you’re buying something for has told you explicitly what they want, it’s kind of a roll of the dice.

Will they like it? Will they actually use it?

An experience, on the other hand, is something you know that the recipient will put to good use and have a good time in the process. The best part is that they’ll remember that you provided that experience rather than some socks or an ugly tie.

For the past several years, I’ve gotten my parents a couple pairs of tickets to various events at a their local performing arts center. Always something for mom (like the Lion King) and something for dad (like the Golden Oldies showcase).

In advance of Father’s Day, I treated my good friend Chris Sarangoulis – the whisky guy and father of three – to an afternoon of oysters and whisky.

| PERFECT PAIRINGS | The Macallan Rare Cask is a great complement to a dozen oysters. | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo.

On the table? Oysters, of course. And in the glass? The good stuff. The Macallan Rare Cask.

We’ve actually teamed up with The Macallan and GILT to offer HSS readers the chance to win a one-of-a-kind rare experience. And I do mean one-of-a-kind. What’s on offer?

– Airfare for two to New York City and a weekend stay at the NoMad Hotel
– Custom suit fitting with the legendary Martin Greenfield
– Tickets to a Yankees game, including a Rare Cask tasting
– Golf experience at Chelsea Piers
– Dinner at the 5-star Zama Sushi complete with a Rare Cask tasting

Yeah. That’s a package in excess of $6,000. I’m sure dad would love that. Next question…

How do you enter?

Complete the Giveaway Entry Form.

Now how about the whisky?

One of the first things you’ll notice about The Macallan Rare Cask is actually what’s not on the bottle: an age statement.

In the world of whisky, older is often equated with better. That’s not always the case. And it certainly isn’t here. A whisky with no age statement (NAS), such as Rare Cask, really shows off the distiller’s skill.

What we have with The Macallan Rare Cask is a seriously flavorful, complex and well-balanced scotch. As you’d expect from The Macallan and its 100% sherry cask again, you get hit with a good blast of sherry on the nose. However, it’s anything but overpowering as you’ll notice hints of vanilla, citrus and spice as well.

We find the taste to be light and sweet, but again, complex. Though present in spades on the nose, the sherry taste is very clean, with no mustiness. It develops into subtle spice, fruit and nuttiness on the finish. Exceptionally smooth and a pleasant mouthfeel that’s neither overly oily or dry.

ENTER TO WIN: A rare experience from The Macallan and GILT.

Thanks, as always, for reading. And good luck!

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

This post is sponsored by The Macallan. The opinions expressed herein are mine alone and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of The Macallan.

RARE CASK © 2015 THE MACALLAN DISTILLERS LIMITED, THE MACALLAN® SCOTCH WHISKY, 43% ALC./VOL.,IMPORTED BY EDRINGTON AMERICAS, NEW YORK, NY. DEMONSTRATE YOUR DISCERNMENT, ENJOY RESPONSIBLY

The post A Rare Experience: The Macallan Rare Cask 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

Discussing short shorts, proper length and if shorts are a sloppy cop out

In the summer heat, shorts are inevitable. There was a period during which I really attempted to never wear shorts in the summer. Why? For me, it was about attempting to stay tailored and to use different fabrics – like cotton and linen – to their natural advantage.

However, no matter how breathable cotton and linen pants are, when it’s hot out – like, really hot out – you’re going to sweat. And if you’re like me and tend to generally run hot, you’re going to sweat a lot. And through your pants, which is definitely not stylish or attractive.

If you’re in the habit of dressing in a more tailored manner, I think there can be a feeling that a pair of shorts is a cop out. It’s what your dad wears. It’s what your friend with slightly bro-ish leanings wears.

So the idea of putting on a pair of shorts with an untucked t-shirt or button-up shirt is too easy. Lazy even.

| WEARING | Jack Threads shirt, J.Crew shorts and belt, Goorin Bros. hat, Cartier watch, Ray-Ban sunglasses, Loafers c/o Coach | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

And then there’s the question of length. What is a good length for a pair of men’s shorts?

Like everything clothing-related, this too is dependent on many factors. How tall or short are you? Do you have long legs or short legs? How would you categorize your sense of personal style? Conservative? Classic with a modern sensibility? Metro?

Generally speaking, you see three different inseams when it comes to men’s shorts: 5″, 7″ and 9″. As someone who would characterize my personal style as “classic with a modern sensibility,” a 5″ inseam is a little to short for me.

It’s the length I like my swimming trunks, but lounging by the pool and walking around the city are two completely different things.

A 7″ inseam is just about right, though the shorts I’m wearing here are actually a 9″ inseam. Depending on the shirt I wear or where I am going, a 9″ inseam will allow me to wear them longer or roll up the bottom an inch or so. I also have long legs, so 9″ is a good fit.

Shorts don’t need to be sloppy. In a crisp white or off-white with a braided leather belt and suede loafers, they’re a cool and stylish alternative to linen pants on the hottest summer days.

Where do you stand on shorts? Chime in below.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post The Case for Wearing Shorts 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

Staying neat and pressed (and on task!) with the new LG Styler

Time is something that I desperately wish I had more of. There really aren’t enough hours in the day to accomplish all that I’d like to, or to put it more accurately, all that I have to. I love keeping busy, but I often overload my schedule to the point where I begin to neglect some basic tasks.

Sometimes taking my own advice doesn’t even work.

When there are things that need to be done, they need to get done. Often this is at the expense of cooking a proper meal or bringing the boxes that have been piling up near the front door down to the recycling bin, unloading the dryer or taking my suits or blazers to the dry cleaners. I’m human, after all, and there’s only so much I’m capable of.

Keeping my clothes clean and pressed, however, is important to me. And not just for the sake of the site and our content!

Being neat and put-together is a key component of my personal style – and living space, as you can see – and if I don’t have that kind of order in my life, I tend to get very stressed out.

So I was more than excited to have the opportunity to integrate the LG Styler into my routine.

Steaming my clothing is something I’ve done for many years. I actually prefer it to ironing. And while steaming a garment manually doesn’t take a ton of time, it does, nonetheless, take time. Plus, with a manual steamer, I’m only able to do one piece at time.

And when time is at a premium, which it usually is in our household, I often don’t have even 15 minutes to spare to get my suit and shirt ready before heading out to dinner or an event.

I love the LG Styler because it allows me to multitask and can even work quietly overnight if I’ve got an early morning ahead of me with only minutes to shower and make an espresso but still need to have my clothes ready to go. Let’s talk about some of the best features.

TrueSteam™ Technology. With a simple touch of a button, hot steam is employed to gently sanitize your clothing. This technology works to refresh and remove both wrinkles and odors from clothing as well.

Odor Removal. The LG Styler uses steam and aroma sheets to help remove unpleasant odors left behind by smoke, food and perspiration. It’s important to note that I personally don’t care for scents when it comes to detergent or dryer sheets, but I find the light scent from the Styler to be very pleasant. It smells crisp and clean and is anything but overpowering.

Quick Refresh. This is the feature I use most often. It makes my clothing look, feel and smell fresh quickly. You can set it for a couple of different duration, but the shortest cycle (20 minutes) is often enough for me. During the cycle, Moving Hanger Action gently shakes your clothes after they have been steamed and de-wrinkles them.

Easy Pants Crease Care. All I can say about this feature is that it is absolutely amazing. I’d even go so far as to call it life-changing. To be perfectly honest, I didn’t set my expectations too high when trying it for the first time, but wow.

I find ironing my pants to be a laborious process and I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve double-creased them. And while a manual steamer is great, it doesn’t allow you to produce a crisp crease.

The LG Styler includes a special compartment in the door that helps restore the crease while reducing wrinkles at the knee, waist and everywhere else your pants can wrinkle. In this respect, the LG Styler is one of the best clothing care appliances I’ve ever used.

Drying. A built-in heat-pump system generates warm air and maintains it at a low temperature to keep clothing from shrinking or being damaged while drying. I air dry my dress shirts and pants all the time. And since I often do my laundry right before going to bed, they’re not dry in the morning.

I’ve gotten into the habit of putting dress shirts – the LG Styler will fit up to three of them at once – in before going to bed so they’re dry, steamed and wrinkle-free for me in the morning.

Beyond all of its features, the LG Styler is just an all-around great looking machine. It integrates seamlessly into our bedroom though once we make the permanent move to our office, it’s going to be built in to our walk-in styling closet.

What do you think? Is the LG Styler something you could use? Chime in below!

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Photography by Rob McIver Photo

This post is sponsored by LG Electronics. The opinions expressed herein are mine alone and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of LG Electronics.

The post Life’s Good When Your Clothing is Steamed! 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

Should you be wearing white pants this summer? Survey says…

Despite all the rules and regulations governing wearing white pants, we’ve always been of the opinion that when it comes to this topic that there’s really no bad time to wear them. White pants are, in our opinion, seasonally agnostic.

For example.

They’re an optimistic choice in the depressing winter doldrums. They’re as crisp as the springtime air. They can class up a run-of-the-mill fall outfit. And of course, they’re a natural fit for summer, whether that’s at the office, a casual coffee date, or a Friday night happy hour.

And for my money, nothing typifies cool and dapper tailored summer style more than a pair of white cotton pants.

| WEARING | Suitsupply blazer and pants, Al Bazar shirt, Goorin Bros. hat, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Rolex watch, To Boot New York loafers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Even worn casually (or sharp casually) there’s something refined and elegant about a pair of white cotton pants. Because they look so crisp, make sure that you’re extra detail-oriented when it comes to fit. For me, they look best with a nice taper and absolutely no break.

A cuff on the bottom is a personal preference. I have two pairs of linen pants that have no cuff. I decided to add a two-inch cuff to these to give them more of a sartorial edge and to help distinguish them from a regular pair of cotton chinos.

Remember that one of the best attributes of white pants is that they’re literally a blank canvas. Meaning, they pair well with any color. I’m all about the brown.

Thanks, as always, for reading. Have a great weekend.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Sartorial Summer: White Cotton Pants 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

Put off the glut of New York Men’s Fashion Week news just for a bit

It’s hard to find the good news after weeks like last, but here goes! Let’s start with this baby goat dressed as a flower to set the mood.

NYFWM is officially kicking off today, so stay tuned and follow Brian and yours truly as we frolic around from show to show. Brian will also be doing triple duty, taking over The Rake’s Instagram and watch-spotting for Hodinkee.

It’s 2016, but Pokemon is back and still confusing. Pikachu is still cute, though.

Dana Carvey nailed 16 celebrity impressions, including one of our favorites, “Cary Grant is dissatisfied with Tinder.”

I’m ready to give my two weeks notice so I can work at Amazon in a treehouse.

My hometown, Asbury Park, is getting a lot of (deserved) love recently. There’s a reason Bruce is never gone for long.

Or maybe NYC pools and beaches are more your thing?

Guys, are any of you wearing these under your pants? I get the meaning behind them, but if a guy took off his pants in front of me and had these on, I’d have a hard time not laughing.

No, Brian, this will never happen.

Snapchat just launched ads between friends’ stories, started allowing you to upload photos from your camera roll, and now premits your memories to be saved and searched for. Welcome to Facebook 2.0.

An Indian spice that you have in your cabinet may also be your next skincare treatment.

We’ll be heading back to Tulum on Friday to drink all the mezcal and Margaritas, so there will be no links post the next week (or two, depending on how much out of touch I am upon returning).

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Robin West
He Spoke Style

The post Let’s Get It Started 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

Can you wear a suit with a t-shirt and not look like Miami Vice-era Don Johnson?

The summer heat is here. And that poses any number of challenges when it comes to deciding what to wear if your destination isn’t the pool. For the dapper-inclined, there’s always a waistcoat. And, of course, you can always stay cooler in a cotton suit, which I can always get behind.

Wearing a long sleeve button-up under that cotton suit, however, is another story. As a result, I’ve really been embracing the extreme high/low combination of a suit and t-shirt or henley.

It’s cool, casual and – I’m gonna say it – sexy.

Here are a few tips for pulling it off.

| WEARING | Suitsupply suit and shoes, Armani Exchange t-shirt, Cartier watch, Persol sunglasses | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

A basic white t-shirt is the simplest and most classically stylish choice. Patterned shirts can get a little too busy and scream out that you’re trying too hard.

If you’re going to attempt the t-shirt with a suit look, always go with a v-neck. This look is all about being casual and a crew neck t-shirt will appear a little too “buttoned up.” Give your v-neck a gentle tug to loosen it up a little more for an edgier feel.

To tuck or not to tuck? Personally, I like to tuck. I’ve tried it untucked before, but I always feel it looks too sloppy and feels indecisive.

Finally, since the look is all about being casual, don’t even think of wearing socks with your loafers.

Can you pull off the suit and t-shirt look? Chime in below.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Ultimate High/Low: Wearing a T-Shirt With a Suit first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice