There is nothing better than putting on your favourite pair of well-worn jeans with a comfortable t-shirt on your down time- be it on the weekend, Casual Friday or after work hours. Especially for those who must wear a suit, silk tie and cufflinks to work, dressing casual is a welcomed idea- it’s comfortable, relaxed, and doesn’t take a lot of planning.
Some guys even prefer to just grab whatever is on top of the laundry pile! While we don’t recommend this method of wardrobe planning in men’s fashion, we realize that at some point or another, most men usually fall into the jeans/t shirt rut and need some ideas to freshen up their casual look.
Here are some simple and easy to achieve casual looks that can breathe new life into your wardrobe. All of the key items can be purchased at American Apparel and matched with pieces that are already in your closet- perfect for the man who hates to shop!
Casual Look 1 : The Raglan Shirt
A welcomed addition to any man’s wardrobe is a two-tone raglan shirt. This classic, sporty shirt usually comes in a ¾ sleeve for something that is a bit more formal than a t shirt, but still retains that laid back look. Try something bright and bold and complete the outfit with distressed denim and matching Converse.
Casual Look 2: The Lightweight Jacket
Hooded jumpers are great for an everyday casual look, but why not try a lightweight jacket in a bright colour like red instead? It will instantly add visual interest to an otherwise plain outfit, creating a stylishly understated look. Wear over a plain crew neck t shirt in white, grey, black or navy and pair with a dark rinse jean for best results.
Casual Look 3: The Hoodie
If you’re not a fan of jackets and prefer to chill out in a hooded jumper instead, choose carefully in order to avoid the “just finished at the gym” look. Hoodies can get worn very easily and start to resemble workout wear, so choose one that is fitted, high quality and rich in colour. These sweatshirts are best paired with crew or v-neck t shirts, and can even be worn with a golf shirt for a preppy look.
Casual Look 4: The Classic White T Shirt
Dressing down never looked so good! There is something eternally cool about wearing a crisp white crew neck t shirt with a great pair of jeans. Faded, dark rinse, black or blue, anything goes with the classic white t shirt. This outfit is an excellent way to show off a new pair of shoes, and works perfectly for men who have a great belt or watch to flaunt.
Don’t be tempted to go too casual and wear track bottoms anywhere other than the gym. Instead, invest in a good pair of jeans that can be worn for any occasion. What works for one man may not work for another, so when selecting a pair of jeans try every style and rinse you can until you find the perfect fit.
And don’t forget, an outfit can only look amazing if you’ve got great skin and hair to match. Need help on these areas? Read about men’s skin care and hair trends to find out more.
Hair styles are a critical component of mens fashion and can make a huge difference to your look. Is your hair desperately in need of an update? If you’ve let your hair grow out into a style-less mess or you are guilty of keeping the same haircut for years on end, then make 2010 the year to try something new. Not only will a new hairstyle make you feel better about yourself, but changing your hairstyle can transform your entire look. A good stylist will know how to bring out your best features and give you a cut that flatters your face, but if you are stuck for ideas on what style you want, check out these popular hair trends for 2010:
Hair Trend 1: Texture, Texture, Texture!
Texture is the “must have” look for any haircut this year. Whether you sport a super-short cropped do or a longer layered style, invest in some matte wax or pomade to finger through your hair every morning. The goal is to give your hair definition, direction and volume—only a small amount is needed for maximum results.
Hair Trend 2: The Way Is Forward
Since texture is so important this year, you may be wondering how to style your hair to achieve a modern look. The “rocker” look is right on trend this year, with messy hair being styled forward towards the face. Schwarzkopf Professional demonstrates the texture and forward direction perfectly with their “New Rebel” look:
If you have short to medium layered hair, use pomade to create a messy, forward swept look to get a rebellious, edgy look in minutes.
Hair Trend 3: Side Swept Fringes
Men’s hair as of late has taken a more romantic turn, with longer, layered styles becoming more popular. In 2009, the “Emo” look was hugely popular and men everywhere were letting their hair grow into poetic styles. This year, this look is still popular but with a more refined twist. The focus is on maintaining style and form with longer hair rather than let it grow out into a shapeless mass. One way to create a polished longer look is to cut a side swept fringe that ends at eye level. Create a deep side part and use wax or pomade to coax the fringe towards the side of your face. Use a small amount of wax to add definition to the rest of your ends for a refined longer hairstyle.
For men with short to medium length hair, you can still work the side swept fringe trend by letting the top layers grow out so you can achieve this look:
If texturized hair isn’t your thing, then fear not. This year another hot trend is a throwback to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Perfectly-styled hair (think Ralph Lauren model) that is parted and brushed to the side is one of the most popular hairstyles for men being seen on the catwalk and the red carpet. Men with straight or wavy medium hair can achieve this look easily by using a comb and styling gel. If you have shorter hair, grow the top layers out longer so you have more to work with.
However you choose to update your hairstyle this year, remember not to ignore your face either. Invest in a men’s facial grooming kit for a great complexion that compliments your hair. Try the Italian made Riana Almond and Olive face care pack from malebox. It’s the perfect men’s gift.
Keeping your skin and hair looking great doesn’t involve a great investment of time or money and the results can be truly transformative. Spending that extra 5-10 minutes a day on a proper hairstyling and skin care regime will instantly make you more attractive, confident and stylish.
Anniversary celebrations were held yesterday around Sydney, culminating at Olympic Park for the lighting of the cauldron. As we were having a “sparkling water” prior to the scheduled lighting, the Olympic flame mysteriously burst into life, forcing technicians to re-boot the gas fed mechanism, which delayed the official moment. The Olympic stars eventually made it to the podium where Freeman held her Sydney 2000 torch aloft as the flame was ignited remotely.
Premier Kristina Keneally said while the Olympics were a high point, the city’s greatest achievements were to come – hopefully hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Hopefully some refereeing decisions go our way by then!
As per usual, there were plenty of well-dressed athletes on hand to celebrate this event. As I mentioned last week at Vogue Fashion’s Night Out in Sydney – the skinny tie was in force… If you dont have one at the moment, you are definitely missing out on the hottest look in town.
The celebrations concluded with drinks on the sporting arena and dinner in the Millennium room to honour Australia’s Olympians and Paralympians.
Amongst many highlights, we were privileged to hear from John Coates and Lord Sebastian Coe, president of the London Games organising committee. The former legendary distance runner, who won Olympic gold in 1980 and 1984 over 1500 metres, said Australia and England had much in common in their attitude to sports.
Dimitri Kontopos and Lord Sebastian Coe at the Sydney Olympic 10 year celebrations
“Only three countries in the history of the world in the Olympic movement have been to every winter and summer Games,” Lord Coe said. ”Of course, surprise, surprise – one is Australia and one is Great Britain.”
Amongst the crowds the malebox boys were able to catch up with a number of people including John Howard, Lord Sebastian Coe and John Konrads (Australian 1500m Freestyle Swimmer – Gold Medal 1960 Rome – wearing malebox Signature Blue Shades Tie).
John Howard and Dimitri Kontopos
Dimitri Kontopos and John Konrads (wearing malebox designed Blue Shades Tie)
The night ended when chatting to James Tomkins (6 time Olympian) who recommended myself, Mark Bellofiore (Canoe Slalom Olympian) and Harry Kontopos wear less hair product and toughen up a little…. I guess when a triple Olympic Gold Medalist tells you to toughen up, you shouldnt bring up singing in TV commercials…. well I would have if I thought of it…
Last Thursday night’s official launch of Vogue Fashion’s Night Out Sydney was an indication that Sydney’s locals are willing to spend up big on hot brands.
An official opening was held on the steps of the MLC centre with a range of models including Samantha Harris, Rosemary Smith andElyse Taylor to name a few. malebox men were seen tripping over their tongues on numerous occasions…
The city was a flurry of activity with stars mixing it up with shoppers keen on new apparel and accessories. DJ’s in shopfront windows and cocktails were the norm around the CBD. Amongst the celebraties were Cate Blanchett, Ian Thorpe, Rebecca Twigley, Kirk Pengilly, Andrew Kelly, Libby Greig and Layne Beachley to name a few…
The highlight for me was the pre-Ivy drinks and DJ set at Farage in MLC. Joe and the crew put on a fantastic display and reminded me about how great their collection is, for both men and women. Hanging out with Kirk Pengilly and Layne Beachley (check out her range of Blue Kiss swimwear – it’s very cool) reminded me that Aussies who are massive on the world stage are still down to earth individuals not carried away by their success…. Good on you both…
Joe Farage, Layne Beachley, Dimitri Kontopos and Kirk Pengilly
Photo: Joe Farage (Farage), Layne Beachley (World Champion Surfer), Dimitri Kontopos (malebox’s Head Designer and Image Consultant) and Kirk Pengilly (INXS).
There we so many skinny and slim ties around. If you dont have one at the moment, you are definitely missing out on the hottest look in town. (It’s not for everyone though, so make sure your body shape is suitable!)
After Farage, we were ushered by Kerry Greig (Farage) into Ivy where guests gathered for a few drinks and mixed it up with what seemed like most of the Fashion community. I was last seen eating the Vogue sign, constructed elegantly and tastefully from Lindt Chocolate… now that’s a great ending to the night…
Up until recently, image consultants have had a reputation for working with two types of clients only – the rich and the famous. Hollywood celebrities, jet-setter executives and public figures always had a stylist on hand to ensure that their impeccable image was maintained. However, the rules have changed. People from all walks of life understand that looking good can help you be more confident and successful, and now image consultants work with everyone from company directors to stay-at-home mums. (more…)
Men are notoriously light when it comes to packing, so it’s no surprise they often overlook carrying handy essentials to make their trip more enjoyable and hassle-free. If you are a man guilty of under-packing, or you are the other half to a forgetful packer, then read below to discover the travel essentials that every man needs. For business or for pleasure, these must have accessories will be invaluable on any excursion. (more…)
As shorts, polo tees and sandals are just hitting the shops in America and Europe for the summer season, here in Australia it’s all about embracing the darker days of Autumn/Winter 2010. But just because the days are shorter and the weather is cooler, doesn’t mean that our wardrobes must suffer.
In fact, the catwalks are showing some surprisingly bright looks for the fall and winter that are sure to liven up any man’s wardrobe. Here is what the designers and retailers are showing for Autumn/Winter 2010, and how to get the look yourself: (more…)
