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

I know, it’s still August. But I hate to break it to you: that calendar is going to flip to September next week. It seems unbelievable that another summer has pretty much come and gone already. If there’s a silver lining, it’s that fall is one of the best seasons for style. (Unless, of course, you hate the summer and the season change is the silver lining.) Fall fabrics are richer and more textured. The colors are both vibrant and earthy. Patterns are truly at home. Layering. Scarves. Coats. The list goes on and on. Summer people, am I getting you at least a bit more excited about saying goodbye yet?

There is that all-important seasonal transition time, however, when it’s not quite the end of summer and not quite the beginning of fall. Choosing the right clothing can be a bit tricky, but here are a few key items you’ll want to have.

| WEARING | Dockers jacket, shirt, and chinos, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Tateossian and L. Jonas bracelets, This Is Ground organizer, Jack Erwin boots | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Lydia Hudgens

Lightweight jacket. You know I’m a big fan of denim jackets for fall style. Wear them as a standalone piece early in the season and layer them up over a waistcoat or under and topcoat into October/November when it starts to get chillier. Denim jackets add a flavor of classic cool to casual outfits and are also a great way dress down office attire and give it a bit of an edge. Make sure it fits snugly around your torso when buttoned.

Classic chinos. One of the things I’m going to miss most about summer are my linen trousers. Time to trade them in for a classic pair of cotton chinos. I wrote an article a couple years ago about pants for guys with athletic legs – larger thighs make it hard to wear slim fitting pants that are sold off the rack. In the discussion that ensued, the general wisdom was that the Dockers Alpha Khaki is the best option for guys with athletic legs who still wanted a slim look.

Chelsea boots. Fall is boot season. And as much as I’m saddened by having to pack my linen clothing away for a year, that sadness is tempered by the knowledge that I can start breaking out the boots. Chelsea boots are must haves. They’re the loafers of the boot world and instantly dress up even more casually leaning looks.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

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

The post Let’s Think About That Fall Transition 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

Damn right I’m going to light up that Montecristo No. 2! After six months of starts, stops and setbacks we’re excited to unveil our new look!

What’s there to love about the New HSS? I can think of at least 10 things.

1. Improved UX. The redesign was as much about improving user experience as it was about growing up and providing a professional look, feel and performance to match the quality of the content we offer.

2. More Photos. We’ve always been very deliberate about the number of photos we publish in each post. I feel very strongly about only including a limited quantity of quality shots as opposed to cramming 10-20 similar-looking photos into every post. There’s a line between having an article provide a focused and practical look at each outfit and being a “look at me!” kind of thing. We are most definitely not the latter, which I hope many find refreshing.

Having said that, Rob is an amazing artist behind the lens and there are many fantastic shots that never get published due to my editorial stance. The new slideshow feature for style editorial will allow us to showcase many of those shots – as well as a healthy dose of personality – without disrupting the focus and flow you’ve become accustomed to over the past two and half years. See it in action on one of our most popular articles.

3. Enhanced and Mobile Style Guide! Hands down the most popular HSS feature – we’ve got data to back up this claim – the Style Guide has received a serious upgrade. More importantly, it’s now viewable and searchable on mobile. This is a huge leap forward for us and we truly hope you enjoy.

4. Glossary. From the start, I have wanted HSS to serve as a resource for both style novices and enthusiasts – I’ve always viewed it as a combination of information and inspiration. Well, we’re getting back to basics with the Style Glossary, a searchable dictionary of important style terms and definitions.

Working in tandem with the Style Glossary, is a new weekly series we’re calling Style Defined, which will provide a more in-depth history and illustration of each term. We’re very excited about this and its role in making HSS a more comprehensive online style destination.

5. Your Questions Answered. And cataloged! Reader questions are one of my favorite parts of this gig. And now, all questions will be archived in an easily searchable Men’s Style Advice section. Check it out – it’s really cool.

6. HSS Shop. Get a bigger taste of what we’re liking (and seriously coveting) in the new boutique.

7. Easy Access to Important & Timeless Articles. As we’ve continued to pump out the original content over the past two and a half years, many of our most popular and helpful articles have gotten lost in the mix. The Required Reading category provides the fix. New visitors to the site will even have access to these articles in the main content feed.

8. Expanded Brand Voice & Content. I firmly believe that “style” encompasses much more than the clothes you wear. Having style is about how you live your life, your interests, your pursuits and your passions. You’re going to begin seeing content that focuses on these sorts of lifestyle elements more regularly.

You’ve already gotten a small glimpse of this with our series of cocktail recipes and whiskey reviews. Expect to see cigars, music, travel and food making regular appearances. Our brand is growing – it’s all part of the evolution of HSS and our desire to tell a bigger, broader and more complete style story.

9. Embedded Art Gallery. I made it a New Year’s resolution to reimagine how we used our Instagram channel, transforming it into more of an HSS art gallery than a mirror of our site content. We were rewarded for that leap of faith recently, as many of you know, by being featured for two weeks as an Instagram Suggested User. While we certainly encourage you to follow on us on the app, you can now see all the photos right here on the InStyleGram page.

10. That Sticky Sidebar. Isn’t it the best? I could play with it all day.

With any relaunch, there are bound to be small kinks to work out, but we’re fairly certain that the experience upon roll-out will be pretty freaking solid.

As always, your feedback is most welcome. Take a look around, try out all the new stuff and let us know what you like – as well as what you don’t. Is there something that’s not working quite right? Another feature you’d like to see in the future? Chime in with your thoughts (and bug fix requests) in the comments.

Enjoy! And thanks, as always, for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa & The HSS Team

The post Welcome to the New HSS 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

It’s fitting that the very first style editorial we’re presenting on the new site is a collaboration with Luisaviaroma. One of the things that most impressed me with LVR when we were over in Florence with them back in June, was their commitment and desire to go beyond the “outfit post” and tell a story. It’s evident in their impeccably curated collections – from streetwise to gentlemanly – and one of the reasons we’re thrilled to be a part of their ambassador program.

| WEARING | Daniele Alessandrini Grey coat, Barena wool vest, Cantini MC Firenze bracelet, Watch c/o Uniform Wares, Bonastre leather document sleeve, Boots c/o Gordon Rush | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Storytelling is something I’ve talked about often as HSS has continued to evolve. Of course, we’re constantly telling a story about style but every now and then Rob and I feel the need to scratch a creative itch and make a particular post tell a standalone story, like we’ve done here. And now that we’ve got the ability to add to our classic post structure via the gallery there are all sorts of ways for us to get creative.

So what’s going on here? Well, that’s for you to decide. Stories don’t need words to come to life, though the feeling I was interested in conveying was something clandestine, mysterious, and possibly even sinister.

As we mention on the updated About page, style is about more than the clothes you wear. However, the clothes you choose to wear do tell a story – a story about who you are (or who you want to be).

This coat spoke to me in a certain way. It makes me feel different when I put it on. The dark onyx of the bracelet stands in sharp contrast to the message sent by the Buddha bead – would a skull be more appropriate? And a nondescript, labelless leather document holder invites speculation.

Highly encouraged in the comments: make up a story for this post!

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

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

The post Your Clothing Tells a Story: What Is It? 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 of my summer staples, the Panama Hat is a true example of the cultural heritage present in Central and South America. Both functional and stylish, its white coloring acts as a reflective surface for the tropical, summer sun keeping the head cool and shady, while pairing perfectly with lightweight summer clothing.

The Panama hat originated in Ecuador

Despite the name, the origin of the hat is actually Ecuadorian, not Panamanian. Some of the first hats to come out of Ecuador in this style and quality were shipped internationally through the ports of Panama. This led people to think incorrectly that the hats were a product of the shipping port, and so the name was born.

Authentic Panama Hats are made from the leaves of the Carludovica palmata plant. The hats are all hand woven in the same manner – an art that is passed down from generation to generation. The construction of the hats is not just considered an art form to connoisseurs, but to those who can truly be called masters of the craft. In fact, the art of weaving the Ecuadorian toquilla hat was included on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists on December 6, 2012.

Panama hats saw an increase in popularity in the middle of the 19th century during the California Gold Rush as miners traveled to California via Panama. And when President Theodore Roosevelt was photographed in one during a trip to the Panama Canal construction site in 1904, its popularity only grew more.

A true Montecristi Superfino can be turned over and filled with water

Today’s Panama hats are made all over the world, though those made in Ecuador have specific ranking systems in order to control the quality and craftsmanship. The highest ranking hats are given the title Montecristi superfinos – named for the town in which they are produced. A true Montecristi Superfino can be turned over and filled with water and, as legend has it, passed through a wedding ring when rolled up.

There are only about 10 remaining craftsman in the world that can make hats that live up to this standard, which is reflected in the premium you’ll have to pay for one. Some top superfinos sell for upwards of $20,000!

Thanks for reading.

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Style Defined: The Panama Hat 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

Labor Day, the unofficial end of summer, is almost here! And as summer comes to a close, it’s not only time to start thinking about the summer/fall transition, but also time to soak up as many rays as possible and savor all the great memories made over the past few months. Thinking back on the all the wonderful moments of my summer has me wishing it could be summer all year long.

| WEARING | Shirt and swimsuit c/o Vilebrequin, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Goorin Bros hat, Dee Berkeley bead bracelet | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

A quick scroll through my Instagram feed is the quickest way for me to recall everything that happened. Trips to the beach, a weekend in Florence, being a part of the inaugural New York Men’s Fashion Week, a much-needed vacation in Tulum, a couple new things in my closet, lots of exploring in NYC, and many fantastic brunches (and coffees). It was also about spending time with friends and loved ones (brunch with my parents in NYC was a highlight) and making many, many new friends along the way.

This was also a summer of milestones and exciting new developments. First and foremost, as I’d talked about for so long now, we relaunched the website. We were up in NYC earlier this week shooting the first three episodes of a brand new YouTube series. And we made it onto the Instagram suggested user list.

A few years ago, my summers were completely different. I was a Category 1 bicycle racer, which was more or less a full time “job.” Everything I did revolved around the bike. Training, eating (a LOT), sleeping (a LOT), racing, driving 200+ miles on weekends for races, NOT drinking. There’s no way to adequately compare this summer to all of those previous summers – they’re two different kinds of fun – but I can say that finally I’ve learned to relax a bit and enjoy the ride.

Vilebrequin classic linen Bermuda shorts & cap

This summer was definitely one for the books and I will truly miss it when it’s gone. If you need me, I’ll be down at the pool listening to my Summer All Year Long playlist below. Be sure to follow on Spotify as I’m going to start sharing playlists more regularly.

What were your most memorable moments this summer? Share them with me in the comments and with Vilebrequin on social with #SummerAllYearLong.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

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

The post Summer All Year Long 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

Labor Day. A Monday that’s meant to feel like a Sunday. And the unofficial end of summer. I’m going to emphasize the “unofficial” part of that because my pool is staying open for three more weekends and the weather better make it worth my while!

But all kidding aside, although it has been a fantastic summer, I’m quite ready for fall and all of the style-related spoils the change of season brings – like suede jackets and leather bombers.

If you’ve been a hard worker this year, enjoy your day off! And if you haven’t worked that hard, well, you too should enjoy your day off, but not quite as much as the hard workers. Wherever and whyever you’re lounging today, here’s some stuff to help you waste away under the sun.

• Skin fade, undercut, gentleman’s haircut? Well, it turns out my haircut has a new name.

• Are you guilty of any of these footwear faux pas?

• I’d like to think that, in a former life, I was a stylish Italian man of leisure. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be? If you have similar aspirations, here’s a starting point for what to keep in your closet.

• While we lamented the passing of Brooks Brothers Black Fleece, Thom Browne was waxing poetic about imperfection.

• Is this the future of men’s style?

• I remember when Jon Caramanica worked the music beat at The New York Times. We often saw eye to eye on musical matters, but on the perennial summer style question, I’m not sure we’re on the same page.

• I’m all about dressing down a suit (see: tomorrow’s post), but to me, only a couple of these ways to do it seem “completely respectable.”

• If you’re excited about the prospect of Cuba reopening for retro style reasons, you may have missed the boat.

• Summer may almost be over, but I’m going to go out on a limb and say that these swimwear styles are here to stay.

• A long holiday weekend in NYC means that nobody is around. The perfect time to sample some of the best brunch spots the Big Apple has to offer.

• I’m not a huge beer guy, but I’ll take a draft cocktail any day of the week.

• Want to show up to work in style after the long weekend? Well, here are some must haves.

• Finally! A 3D printer that can help you furnish your modernist doll house.

Thanks for reading and enjoy your long weekend!

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Summer: Get It While You Can 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

Summer may have unofficially ended yesterday, but it doesn’t “legally” end until September 23. So that means we’ve got at least a couple good weeks to squeeze a little more out of our favorite summer pieces before transitioning to fall in earnest.

A cotton khaki suit should be one of your go-to summer suits. Breathable and lightweight for the heat and versatile enough to be worn to the office as well as out and about. At the tail end of summer, the khaki color is a great way to start transitioning to fall’s earthier tones.

| WEARING | Brooks Brothers suit and pocket square, Reiss shirt, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Cantini MC Firenze bracelet, Watch c/o Uniform Wares, Common Projects sneakers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Since it occupies a position squarely between formal and casual, a khaki cotton suit is a perfect canvas for trying out some styling options you’d probably never consider for your run-of-the-mill four season workhorse suit. A printed shirt keeps it casual, fun and seasonably appropriate.

The sneakers with a suit debate is one that will rage for eternity – or as long as people on the internet want to fight about such things, which, let’s face it, will be forever. Though I’ve been firmly on the don’t do it ever side of the argument, my tastes continue to evolve.

Sneakers with a suit won’t work with every suit or with every pair of sneakers. If you’re going to attempt it, a cotton suit is a natural fit. Just the right amount of casual. And simple white leather sneakers are the right amount of elegant to match.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Khaki Suit, White Sneakers 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 story of the tie clip (or tie bar) is one of function. Since the dawn of decorative neckwear, keeping a tie or cravat in place and not blowing in the wind has been a key concern. Aside from a waistcoat, there have been three methods of securing a tie: tie pins, tie chains and tie clips/tie bars.

Tie clips and tie bars serve a practical purpose: to hold one’s tie in place.

Tie pins offered more control over the position of the tie, as a pin would go through the fabric and fasten it to the shirt. This method was most popular in the time when men regularly wore cravats.

Tie chains are one of the flashier and more decorative methods for securing one’s tie. Similar to the chain of a pocket watch, this accessory hangs loosely around the tie to keep it in place.

Over time, the tie clip became the preferred method to fasten one’s tie to a shirt. The tie clip offered the same tight positioning as the tie pin, but did not ruin expensive fabrics such as silk by creating holes in the material.

Anatomy of a tie clip

The tie clip is made up of a small strip of metal folded into a tight U-shape. The metal tips press together to hold the material firmly. Early clips ranged from simple steel to more precious metals such as gold, silver and platinum.

When the waistcoat began to fade from everyday attire, the tie clip became a small sign of the wearer’s class, status and affiliation. Some clips worn by groups such as the Stonemasons, had special emblems or markings on them to denote rank and membership in the secret societies. Similarly, clubs and businesses created tie clips with their own logos so members and employees could display their affiliation.

What’s the difference between a tie clip and a tie bar?

The question of how a tie clip differs from a tie bar is largely one of semantics. Both can be considered a “tie clasp.” If you want to split hairs, a tie bar would be a a single strip of metal as described above, while a tie clip would be two separate pieces held together by a spring mechanism.

What is the proper way to wear a tie clip?

Knowing all history in the world doesn’t mean a thing if you don’t understand the proper etiquette or rules for wearing a tie bar. Luckily, we’ve got a guide for that.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Style Defined: The Tie Clip 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

“To arrive” means to reach a place at the end of a journey or a stage in a journey. When traveling, you arrive at your destination. We also use the term to designate a feeling of contentment after achieving some measure of success. For example, I spent 10 years in college and graduate school studying like a madman and landed my dream job after I graduated – it feels like I’ve arrived.

When you find yourself in a place like that, it’s important to sit back, take a second to reflect on what it took to get there and feel good about yourself. Too often, especially these days, I think we move right past, downplay or even overlook important milestones for one reason or another. We don’t want to seem self-satisfied or, worse, complacent. But anybody who gets to a point where they can feel as they’ve arrived truly deserves that small moment of pleasure.

| WEARING | Suit c/o Knot Standard, Al Bazar shirt, Leather duffel bag c/o Ghurka, Drake’s tie and pocket square, Cantini MC Firenze bracelet, Shoes c/o Allen Edmonds | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

It’s important to note, that inherent in the concept of arrival is a journey. And an arrival doesn’t necessarily mean the end of a journey. Life is a journey and so is personal style. I feel strongly that if personal style is something you explore, invest in and place a premium on superior craftsmanship and design, that all the pieces matter. If you’re building a quality wardrobe, your accessories should match.

One of the ultimate gentleman’s travel accessories is a leather duffel bag. It’s not only practical, but exudes a timeless and classic style. In a medium size, like my Ghurka Cavalier II, it’s perfect for the guy on the go – large enough for a weekend getaway to the city yet small enough to qualify as a carry-on for an international adventure.

A quality leather duffel is a true investment piece and should be treated as an heirloom that can be handed down. Look for one with quality leather and finishing, a durable lining, brass features and from a brand that has been around “knows the business.” A Ghurka leather duffel has always been on my personal style bucket list. Its quality is unmatched and one of the coolest things, for my money, is that each piece receives its own registration number, making each bag truly unique.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

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

The post Arrive in 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

While there are plenty of best men’s style Instagram round-ups out there, I think “best” can be as subjective taste in music or personal style, for that matter. And too often, some of these best men’s style Instagram articles quite wrongly confuse “best” with “most popular.” It’s an important distinction.

Personal style is certainly subjective, but here at HSS, we place a premium on well-tailored looks, elegance, effortlessness and authenticity.

So, if you’re looking for style inspiration on Instagram, here are the HSS-approved 10 best men’s style Instagram accounts.

1. Fabio Attanasio

Fabio Attanasio is a law school grad-turned menswear blogger and founder of a handsome line of handcrafted eyewear. He’s got classic tailoring and old-world Italian elegance nailed but also does a great job of showcasing his casual and relaxed – yet equally put together – style.

Follow: @fabioattanasio

2. Alessandro Squarzi

Most Americans will know Alessandro Squarzi as an Italian street style star. Which he is – sometimes I think Scott Schuman and Tommy Ton might have chipped him somehow since they photograph him so often. But beyond that, he also owns a series of prominent and extremely well-curated showrooms in Milan, Florence, Bologna and Ancona. Alessandro is proof that men can age better than gracefully.

Follow: @alessandrosquarzi

3. Max Poglia

Knife maker, leather goods manufacturer, branding expert – Max Poglia has a 360-degree/renaissance man approach to style and owns an eponymous company that embodies old-world traditions in the modern era.

Follow: @maxpoglia

4. Giampaolo Alliata

When I grow up, I want to be Giampaolo Alliata. And I don’t mean that want to be like Giampaolo; I want to be Giampaolo. After befriending him at Al Bazar in Milan, I decided that he was pretty much the world’s coolest guy. He can point you to the best restaurants, the nicest boutiques and eyeball your measurements to within about one centimeter. He wears jewelry like a boss and takes photos in his bathtub, wearing a suit and smoking a Montecristo No. 2. Come on.

Follow: @giampaolo_alliata

5. Sarah Ann Murray

A woman in a men’s style Instagram roundup? Absolutely. Especially when that woman is the International Editor of The Rake magazine. Sarah Ann Murray wears menswear better than most men.

Follow: @sarah_ann_murray

6. Mr. Raro

Mr. Raro owns the Mararo boutique in Milan – word is they’re expanding to NYC and London soon – and can always be seen in sharply tailored suits, generally with a healthy dose of flair. When I stopped by last fall, he wasn’t around, but his girlfriend was as gracious as she is lovely.

Follow: @mararomrraro

7. Frank Muytjens

Frank Muytjens is the J.Crew menswear director and, you might say, personally responsible for codifying a very singular and recognizable brand aesthetic based on quality, comfort and well-tailored pieces.

Follow: @fmuytjens

8. Jeremy Mitchell

Jeremy Mitchell is a NYC-based photographer, blogger and good friend to my man Dapper Lou. His style is classic, elegant and effortless. And his Instagram is a sight to behold.

Follow: @xxjmitch

9. Lino Ieluzzi

Lino Ieluzzi is a legend. He owns the Al Bazar menswear boutique in Milan and, to my knowledge, doesn’t speak a lick of English. He favors slim-fitting double-breasted jackets, kilties and two signature accessories – the No. 7 tie and a beautiful dog. When you achieve his status, you’ve earned the right to add “official” to your Instagram handle.

Follow: @linoieluzziofficial

10. Domenico Gianfrate

Domenico Gianfrate runs one of the biggest fashion showrooms in southern Italy. He has a highly polished personal style and isn’t afraid to throw in an absolutely killer statement piece every now and then.

Follow: @gianfrateshowroom

Who did I leave out?

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

The post Men’s Style Instagram Accounts to Follow Now 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 attaché case was named for the case’s carrier – in France an attaché is an assistant to an ambassador.

The attaché case was created as a way to securely carry documents, valuables, or other objects. An attaché case is typically made of leather stretched over a box frame, but there are exceptions where aluminum or other materials are used. An attaché case comes with locking mechanisms to prevent opening by parties who do not have the combination or key.

| WEARING | QG Custom suit, Shirt c/o Eton, Attaché case c/o Maxwell Scott, Seaward and Stearns tie, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Shoes c/o Coach | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

As you might expect from its accented letter ‘E’, the attaché case got its name from France. It refers directly to the carrier of the case. In France, an attaché is an assistant to an ambassador. This assistant is charged with carrying personal and professional information, typically of a secret nature, for the ambassador.

What’s the difference between an attaché case and a briefcase?

Similar to the attaché case is the briefcase. The briefcase was designed for the same reason and, in most ways, is the same as the attaché case. The word “brief” comes from the legal documents that lawyers would carry to and from their offices and court. Like diplomatic papers, they needed to be protected during transport for security reasons.

There are a number of debates about the differences between the briefcase and the attaché case. Many say that they are, in fact, the same thing with two different names. Others claim that the attaché case is slimmer in appearance, but that may just be the sleek French wording that makes it sound more “fashionable.”

HSS Style Advice: For our purposes, let’s consider the attaché case to be like the one pictured in this post – boxy and leather with combination locks. Unlike a briefcase, which can be made of more casual materials such as cotton twill or canvas, an attaché case is always decidedly more professional and mature.

It should match your wardrobe – an attaché case was made to be carried when wearing a well-tailored suit – as well as your profession. Carry one if you’re in a line of work where it would be appropriate – lawyer, finance, government, business executive, or secret agent.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Stumped by a men’s style term? Get the definition and see it illustrated in the Style Glossary.

The post Style Defined: The Attaché Case 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

It’s the middle of the week and end of the day. How you position that in your mind is a classic glass half full or glass half empty sort of proposition. Personally, I’m feeling a little bit of both.

The half empty part is that I’m seriously drained. We were in NYC shooting more video content for our new video series – which, by the way, we launch tomorrow – and I arrived home super late last night while still having to get up early.

But the glass half full part is the week’s almost over and there’s some fun stuff going on this weekend. And did I mention the new video series we’re launching tomorrow? Sorry, it’s something we’re extremely excited about and is kind of game-changing for us.

So, whether you’re tired or charged up, you’re gonna need something to read tonight. Here are some links that caught my attention this week.

• Warning: serious closet envy imminent.

• Everyone’s favorite Brooks Brothers sale starts tomorrow: save 25% off everything during the Friends & Family event.

• Staple of every man’s wardrobe: the white button up. You’ve got to have a few different options. But which one is the best fit for your body type?

• This is definitely one of the keys pieces when it comes to transitional style.

• Believe it or not, Yves Saint Laurent hated fashion.

• Grooming is like the unsung hero of men’s style – hanging out behind the scenes but making a big impact. If you also believe that, these are the things you need to do to make sure you’re covering all your bases.

• Man buns are holding it down in Brooklyn. Yeah, for now. I’m glad I won’t ever look back at a photo of myself and wonder, “What was I thinking?” Kids these days.

• This is like the shaving version of The Dating Game.

• Ever wonder which apps top Instagrammers use to edit their photos? Grant Legan shares some of his favorites.

• How many of these top 75 movies have you actually seen? My Netflix queue just got a bit longer.

• The ultimate Bloody Mary? I don’t know. Sounds good, but personally, nothing comes close to the one on offer at Jeffrey’s Grocery.

• Any Key and Peele fans out there? Here are all 298 sketches ranked. I totally picked the winner.

• If you don’t feel like talking to your company, a noisy restaurant isn’t so bad, is it?

• This week’s WTF: in the 1970s, there were actually ads for cocaine.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

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

I can’t think of a better way to kick off our new video series HSS In Good Company, than with my good friend, Alex Mroz, shopkeeper at the Goorin Bros. hat shop in the West Village.

Alex was instrumental in teaching me the ins and outs of quality headwear and helping me select a few hats that were perfect for my personal style when I was just dipping my toe into the hat-wearing world. Beyond that, he’s just a really great guy with a passion for menswear and style. Here’s Alex in conversation and in his own words.

“I’m originally from Chicago, Illinois. In my late 20s I took a chance and moved to Portland, Oregon. The chance paid off because one day I wandered into a hat shop that I quickly fell in love with – not having any idea about the history of Goorin Bros. nor the timing of their growth plan. They hired me, and it worked out so well that I was quickly promoted.

Living in Portland and the West Coast was a nice change of pace, but I quickly yearned for a larger city, and it just so happened we were looking to open our first New York shops in both Brooklyn and then Manhattan, and so, of course, I applied. Four and a half years ago they relocated me and I became the first Goorin Bros. employee to live in NYC. The fairy tale continues…

One of my favorite things about Goorin Bros. is that we’re still a family-owned company with a simple mission: to bring back the neighborhood hat shop and help people find a hat that is perfect for them. There is really something about the look on someone’s face when they finally see themselves in a proper-fitting hat that suits their facial shape – their reaction is just priceless when they realize they look good in hats. At our core, that’s what we’re bringing back as a company.

Goorin Bros. has a simple mission: to bring back the neighborhood hat shop.

Hats have definitely become an integral part of my personal style. The free hats help, of course, but the exposure to so many different shapes and styles has helped broadened my taste and personal aesthetic. There are so many styles I wear now that I never thought I would be comfortable with. And believe it or not, wearing hats on a daily basis has really gotten me into the habit of making sure my overall personal style is on point.

I’d describe my personal style as tailored and layered – and by tailored I don’t mean just mean suits and button downs. Whatever I am wearing has probably been altered in some way by my tailor for the best possible fit. I was fortunate enough to learn that fit is everything. Doesn’t matter if it’s a $30 henley or a three-piece made to measure suit – if it doesn’t fit your body, it doesn’t work.

I also love layering, and its potential for the mixing of colors, patterns and textures. I have fun with layering in all seasons, but fall really is the best time, especially here in NYC.

Wearing the right hat will change how people look at you and talk to you.

Though you wouldn’t know it now, hats weren’t always something I was interested in or knew a whole lot about. Like most people of our generation, I simply did not have the exposure to hats. The hat shop was not a staple of any neighborhoods I grew up in or visited. The time of the neighborhood hat shop had long since passed, but Goorin Bros. is trying to change that!

Hats are great because there is no single piece in our wardrobe that makes more of an instant statement regardless of what you are wearing. Wearing the right hat will change how people look and talk to you. It conveys confidence, culture and style without you having to say a single word.

I believe that anyone can pull off a hat – it’s just 100-percent about finding the right hat to match your personality and lifestyle. Saying you can’t pull off a hat is like saying you can’t pull off shoes.”

–as told to HSS

Want more HSS In Good Company? Well, there’s more on the way! Be sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel to be the first to see new episodes.

Video produced and edited by Corey Maloney. Photography by Rob McIver Photo. Shot on location at Goorin Bros., 337 Bleecker St., New York, NY.

The post HSS In Good Company: Alex Mroz of Goorin Bros. 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

Appreciating a premium cigar – like appreciating good whiskey – is a true gentleman’s pastime. For me, smoking a cigar is a chance to enjoy a quality product as well as being a commitment to relaxation. If you’re just getting into cigar smoking, it can be a bit overwhelming. Let’s start with the basics. Here are seven cigar smoking essentials.

1. Fire

How you light your cigar – and how much you’re willing to spend on a lighter – is a matter of personal preference. Whenever I can, I prefer to use a long, untreated match. Lighting a cigar is a ritual and isn’t about how fast you can get it done.

If you’re thinking about a first lighter, I would recommend a torch. This gets the job done indoors and outdoors – a match can be a royal pain in the arse with even the slightest bit of wind. The ST Dupont Slim 7 is my torch of choice, though if you graduate to a bona fide cigar connoisseur, you may want to consider something more investment-level, like the ST Dupont Ligne 2.

2. Cigar Cutter

You can definitely get by with the $3 cigar cutter on the counter of your local convenience store, but listen up: not all cigar cutters are created equal. If you truly come to love the ritual of smoking a cigar, invest in a high-quality stainless steel cutter. There’s nothing worse than ruining a premium cigar with a bad cut.

3. Carrying Case

Cigars are delicate and you need a safe way to transport them, whether that’s in your pocket, a briefcase or weekend bag. Choose one that has a two or three cigar capacity. My pick: the Ghurka leather cigar case.

4. Humidor

Make no mistake, building your cigar collection is addictive and it’s imperative that they’re stored properly (like fine wine). The most important aspect of any humidor is the seal – cigars need to be kept in optimum conditions. Avoid the $10 desktop humidor that companies will throw in as an add-on to a 40-cigar sampler as well as glass top humidors as they are more likely to release moisture. My pick: The Savoy Executive Series.

A quick word on humidification methods. Never, ever, use those little sponge things that come with cheap humidors. Throw that shit out. Immediately. You need something that’s going to regulate the humidity. I’ve heard that crystals can be good – though they create quite a mess if spilled.

My pick: Boveda packs 72%. They are a two-way system – if your cigars need humidity, they add it. If they’re too saturated, the Boveda packs will suck up the excess moisture.

5. Ashtray

The most important thing to consider when choosing a cigar ashtray is where are you going to be using it most often? If that’s outside, choose one that’s simple, hefty and easily cleaned, like a plain, thick glass ashtray. I made the mistake of buying a nice ceramic one with the logo of one of my favorite Cuban smokes, but in just a few months it’s taken quite a beating thanks to being unintentionally left out in the rain one too many times.

6. Cigar Aficionado

Any cigar connoisseur needs to be reading Cigar Aficionado. It’s the cigar equivalent of The Rake. Great articles, great reviews, great profiles and great advice from true masters of the game.

7. Mints

Curb cigar breath with a strong mint. Because though you may love a cigar, not everyone does.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Photography by Rob McIver Photo.

The post Cigar 101: The 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

When talking about the “best men’s hair product,” it’s important to remember that “best” is fairly subjective. It’s about your hair type – do you have dry hair, greasy hair, normal hair? – your hair style and your personal preference. However, if one thing is certain, it’s that there are a ton of options out there now. How do you choose one?

I remember growing up, there didn’t seem to be too many options out there – just the few you’d see at the grocery store. My first experience with hair product was Dep and LA Looks gel back in the 1980s and, of course, my grandmother’s Aqua Net, though that wasn’t something I ever used. Consort, on the other hand – now that was the stuff! It wasn’t that I didn’t care about styling my hair, because I did, but there were scant options back then.

Fast forward to my college years when I distinctly remember trying out several American Crew products, like the classic pomade and fiber paste, as well as more boutique brands (at least back then) like Bumble and Bumble’s Sumotech. In my personal hair styling evolution, the late-90s/early-aughts seemed to be the very beginning of the men’s hair product explosion.

When I started styling my hair as you’ve come to know it here on HSS – get my haircut and see how I style it – I started out using a product that was just as classic as the hair style: Brylcreem. It’s a fine product at a great price, but I started wanting more of a matte finish (and less grease on my pillow). Clays were a little too tough and old-style pomades a little too, well, sticky – I like to be able to run my fingers through my hair, after all.

Currently, I’m using two products: Uppercut Deluxe Pomade and Parlor by Jeff Chastain reworkable hold paste. I like to use a small amount of the Uppercut to add just a touch more hold the the Parlor paste. It’s been a winning combo for me. Excellent hold, malleable and natural looking.

Your turn: what do you consider to be the best men’s hair product? What do you use? And why do you like it?

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Need some more advice? Check out the Men’s Style Advice section! What’s that, you say? Your question’s not there? Send it in and we’ll get back to you!

Feature image by Rob McIver Photo

The post What’s the Best Men’s Hair Product? 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

There’s a chill in the early morning and evening air recently that’s signaling fall is right around the corner. As you prepare to shift your wardrobe, make sure you’ve got the following three key pieces for some great casual fall style.

Leather jacket. A leather jacket should be a staple of your fall outerwear rotation. Look for one that you can style a variety of different ways – casual, dressed up for a date, or even with your suit for work. The key is to choose one that’s simple – avoid unnecessary zippers and tassels – and the right length. A bomber is a classic choice, but one with a little more length has a bit more room to be dressed up.

| WEARING | Timberland leather jacket and boots, Waistcoat c/o Ted Baker, Brooks Brothers Black Fleece shirt, A.P.C. jeans, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, Watch c/o Uniform Wares | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Waistcoat. There’s no better way to give your casual looks a tailored touch than with a waistcoat. It’s the most versatile part of any three-piece suit and instantly elevates a simple casual look. Casually tailored: always a good way to be.

Boots. As much as fall is leather weather, it’s also boot season. One of my favorite pairs of casual boots for the past five years have been my Timberlands. Needless to say, after years of wear – especially since I ride with them – they’ve taken a bit of a beating. So I was happy to slip into a brand new pair recently.

Speaking of Timberland, they’re currently being featured on HauteLook, a website that features tons of luxury and heritage brands at up to 75% discounts. If you’re in need of stepping up your fall boot game, this is the time to check it out.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

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

The post Casual Fall Style: 3 Key Pieces 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

Since we’ve been talking about the keys to fall style recently – though the focus has mostly been on casual fall style – I thought I’d bring out some tailored inspiration that highlights a couple more advanced style concepts: patterns and textures.

One key to great fall style, is a killer coat. You’ve got to have at least one in your wardrobe. It can be a simple, well-tailored number or something a little more adventurous. I’m digging this plaid wool one by Bob. Yes, Bob.

The black watch plaid is bold, but not overwhelming and the texture is exquisite. A coat like this you’d assume might be an investment piece, but at just over $300, you’re getting investment quality at a fair price.

| WEARING | Bob coat, Lardini waistcoat, Brooks Brothers shirt, J.Crew pants (similar), Christy’s hat, Brioni key chain, Silvano Sassetti shoes | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

A waistcoat is menswear’s unsung hero. No piece is more versatile or has quite the singular ability to instantly elevate any look, especially casual ones. As you know, I always love adding tailored elements into any look I can.

Texture can extend beyond your clothes to what you keep in your pockets. A key chain is usually an after thought, but the right one goes a long way to showing you’ve considered everything. All the details matter.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

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

The post Patterns & Textures: Advanced Fall 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

Though there is much to love about fall, some of my favorite things are the smells. Dried leaves on the ground, smoke from a chimney, a freshly baked apple or pumpkin pie. They’re all such distinct seasonal scents and a welcome relief from the disgusting garbage smell that tends to hang in the humid summer air in the city.

Other than changing up your wardrobe, one of the other great parts of a change in season, is the chance to switch up your fragrance. Just like dressing in seasonal fabrics, your fragrance should match the season as well. Fragrance is an accessory and it’s always the final detail I pay attention to after getting dressed before having my morning coffee and heading out the door.

Kenneth Cole has a new scent that’s piqued my interest: Kenneth Cole Mankind. With notes of cedar, sandalwood, oakmoss and spices, it’s got an autumnal profile if you’re looking for something new fragrance-wise this season.

From a style perspective, one thing that fall ushers with its own signature scent, is leather. Yes, fall is indeed the time to break out the leathers! Here’s a smart business casual look built around leather.

As I’ve been saying recently, you’ve got to have a great coat for fall. Preferable one wool and one leather. A black leather jacket intrinsically has more of a badass vibe than, say, a brown one. That doesn’t mean it can’t be styled in a manner that’s workwear-appropriate. Call it edgy business style.

| WEARING | Leather jacket, briefcase and boots c/o Kenneth Cole, Brooks Brothers Black Fleece shirt, 7 For All Mankind jeans, Cantini di Firenze bracelet | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Every guy should have a leather briefcase. There are many different styles to fit a variety of professions and lifestyles. The one I’m carrying is a great mix of style and function.

If you build your look around a few leather elements, be sure that they match. Black jacket, briefcase and boots. Or brown leather jacket, briefcase and boots.

Don’t forget about black denim, your in-between dress pant. Especially for an edgier business look, they can be a solid option over chinos or trousers.

You know how we feel about chelsea boots. One of the most comfortable and versatile of all of the various boot options.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

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

The post It’s Leather Weather! 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

Did you catch the super blood moon last night? I almost missed it, but was reminded to look up just in time to see the full eclipse and then a sliver of white on the lower left continue to get bigger. Pretty incredible. It was a nice way to get in a positive headspace for the coming week.

Now, get your Monday going with some of the articles we enjoyed around the internet recently.

• The Most Requested Haircut in America

Is actually my haircut. Well, almost. I keep mine a bit longer on the top and shorter on the sides. Here’s the scoop.

• Best (and Worst) Beards from the Emmys

Contrary to the wisdom contained in The Hipster Handbook, George Michael did not kill the permashadow. However, there is such a thing as a bad beard. Who was guilty of that facial hair faux pas at the recent Emmy Awards?

• A Guide to Wearing Suspenders

Suspenders, or braces as they’re known in Britain, are a gentlemanly way to keep your trousers up. How do you wear them? Until we publish our own guide here on HSS, we recommend checking this one out.

• What Was Street Style?

Used to be that street style was like this somewhat secret society documented by a few very perceptive people behind the lens. Nowadays, it’s become something of a circus – everyone’s a street style photog and everyone wants to be a street style star. How did this happen? Here’s a great history.

• The Story of the Blue Blazer (Menswear, not Cocktail)

All classics have a great story. There’s a reason they’re classics, you know? And there’s no more classic menswear piece than the blue blazer. Here is its history, in brief.

• A Gentleman’s 10 Commandments

Are you a gentleman? Oh, you think so? Well, do you do all of these things?

• World’s Best Shave: Only $300

I’m a firm believer in the maxim, you get what you pay for. However, I get a pretty darn good shave – I might even call it the world’s best shave – with my Merkur and feather blades. So, to me, $300 for a good shave seems a little steep.

• Dark Rum Fall Cocktail Recipe

Summer just ended and you may have some rum left over. If it’s dark rum, repurpose it in this fall cocktail – Amber’s Fall – from Celeste in Chicago.

• How to Drink Fernet Branca

It’s safe to say that Fernet Branca is an acquired taste. As the subway ads say, it’s “shockingly unique.” It’s also finicky if you’re trying to mix cocktails with it. Try these on for size, if you’re game.

• Serial Season 2

If, like me, you were captivated by the story of Adnan Syed as told by Sarah Koenig on the hit-podcast Serial, you’re no doubt foaming at the mouth for the podcast’s second season, which apparently focuses on the case of Army sergeant Bowe Bergdahl.

• Restaurants that Don’t Require Tipping

Hate calculating a tip at the end of a meal? Wish America was more like Europe? If so, consider dining at one of these 21 restaurants that have forsaken tipping. (And keep hoping we convert to the metric system.)

• How Good is Your Grammar?

If you’re a grammar geek, it probably didn’t slip by you that last Thursday was National Punctuation Day. I like to think that mine’s pretty good, but I learned a thing or two from this test.

• This week’s WTF: The Selfie Spoon

Though selfie sticks are now ubiquitous, some institutions have been banning the instrument of narcissism. (Good job, humanity!) Moms may want to jump on the banning bandwagon because General Mills has just taken the game to a new level with the Selfie Spoon.

Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa & The HSS Team

The post Super Blood Moonday 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

Trends aren’t all bad, but here are the fall trends we’re going to be passing on in 2015

The biannual GQ Style Guide is one of those publications I always look forward to picking up. Tons of great articles, a healthy dose of inspiration and a forecast of the top trends for the upcoming season.

Now, people of a certain mindset often use the word “trend” pejoratively. But trends aren’t always bad – think plaid suits, turtlenecks and double-breasted blazers – except when they are, of course! (I’m looking at you, Athleisure…)

Thumbing through the latest issue, I was pleasantly surprised to see many of GQ’s top fall trends to be ones I can totally get behind. And, actually, many or them we’ve been wearing and touting for the past couple of years. The layered denim jacket. Arctic parkas. A classic tweed suit. To name only a few.

On any trend list, however, there are bound to be some that just make you cringe, roll your eyes and think, “Really? Really?! How on earth could that be considered stylish?”

So in honor of the change in season – and to help keep your style classic and elevated – here are five of GQ’s fall trends that we highly recommend passing on in 2015.

1. High Fashion Hoodies

I’ve got nothing against the hoodie. It’s a fantastic casual piece for weekends, camping trips, or just lounging around the house. But trying to elevate it to a different status via a higher price tag isn’t going to change that fact that it’s, well, a hoodie.

2. Dressy Cargo Pants

Dressy cargo pants are the trouser equivalent of the bro-couture classic untucked button-up with a blazer and bootcut jeans that are faux-distressed and slightly fraying in the back of the hem because they’re too long so dude steps on them constantly. In other words, I want to dress up but I’m too cool to dress up. Make a choice – don’t go in between. It doesn’t work.

3. Retro-Graphic Sweaters

I know fashion is cyclical, but it seems as though not quite enough time has elapsed since the 1970s came back for them to come back again. If you caught the last revival, you’ve probably got a retro-graphic sweater laying around. If this is your trend, use the old one instead of paying through the nose for a newer version you’ll wear once.

4. The Urban Woodsman

The urban lumberjack is coming back! The first appearance of this individual – bearded and buffalo-plaided man carrying a bespoke axe around the mean streets of Williamsburg – was a reaction to the metrosexual. Not sure why it’s coming back this time, but it is.

5. Sneakerboots

As far as fashion mash-ups go, this is an odd one. Let’s take the utility of a hiking boot and combine it with the comfort and swagger of a sneaker for some franken-footwear. Hmmm. I feel like this is more boot than sneaker, so why not just make a more comfortable boot?

Chime in: What’s your take on the fall trends for 2015?

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Featured image by Rob McIver Photo

The post Fall Trends to Skip in 2015 first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice