It Suits You – Part 2: Custom Suit Designers

Ozwald Boetang

                                                                                                                                                          Ghanaian born designer Ozwald Boetang has been called the “peacock of Saville Row,” a shopping street in central London famous for a traditional style of tailoring called “bespoke,” which is a suit said to be spoken for by the individual customer.  Boetang is known for the exuberant fabric colors used in his ready-to-wear collections and line of custom suits, he started his career as a tailor and since has made a name for himself and has been tagged as on of London’s freshest creative fashion forces.

Boetang has customized suits for such well known names as Will Smith, Jamie Fox, Jude Law, Lenny Kravitz, and many more. In 2007 he was also invited by the President of the Republic of Ghana to design and orchestrate a show in which some of the most prominent individuals of African decent presented what could be done if we all stood together, this by far being one of his greatest achievements.

Ozwald Boetang prides himself on creating well structured classic one of a kind customized suits. The nature of his service is based not only on the skills and physicality of creating a hand-made suit, but also on the need for each suit to reflect the personality, lifestyle and aspirations of the owner.

For more information about Ozwald Boetang visit his site at http://www.ozwaldboateng.co.uk/.

 Wole Taiwo: Tulé Custom Suits

 Wole Taiwo is the creator of Tulé Custom Suits. Wole believes that “A Custom made garment, though more expensive than most off the rack items, is a direct representation of the wearer. It speaks volumes about your sense of style.”  The goal at Tulé is to not only help the wearer create their unique style, but to create a garment that represents the wearer and makes the statement for them. Another reason to consider buying custom is for the overall fit. No matter the adjustments made to an item purchased off the rack, the overall fit pales in comparison to that of a custom. A custom suit is cut and sewn to your body measurements, from the prototype to the sewing of the last stitch.  Every aspect of the garment is made for the wearer to accentuate/ compliment their body type.

What is offered is a range of custom suits and shirts, ties, and topcoats. Each item is carefully hand picked from a selection of over one thousand swatches and for personalization the suit is embroidered with your name on the inside of the jacket and your shirt cuff monogrammed with your initials.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For more information about Tulé Custom Suits visit http://www.tulesuits.com/index.html.

It Suits You – Part 1: 2009 Men’s Suits Style and Fashion

By popular demand I had to do a piece for the men, but no fear ladies, this one is for you too because what is more attractive on a man than a well tailored suit, and I did say “well tailored.” A properly fitted suit is for a man the equivalent to that perfect little black dress for a woman.  It should be a staple in a man’s wardrobe and if the right color, style, and cut are chosen it will carry through many seasons.

SUIT TRENDS 2009

For men’s suiting, 2009 brings with it some noticeable changes. Many designers are going back to the basics and revitalizing the classics which has been the influence and inspiration for fashion this year and has had an affect on formal wear too.  For suits this means that the slim look is out, but keeping with the classics the cuts will have a tailored, military look to them.  The suits this season will blend classic looks and tailoring with a masculine shape; the key focus being broad shoulders, fitted waist and trousers.

The Cut

Ozwald Boetang fitting Brian McKnight's suit

 Even though there’s a move away from the “skinny boy” suit, it’s not to say that a more fitted suit is out, classic suiting derives from the English and the English suit has always been slim and well tailored.  Suits in 2009/2010 and beyond will be the perfect pairing between classic tailoring,  classic looks, and the masculine silhouette.

1. The Double Breasted Suit– The slim cut is what you should be looking for in a double-breasted suit in 2009. Broad shoulders with a slim waist, 2009’s double-breasted suits trump most that current generations will be familiar with; they’re no longer about hiding a plump figure but are now tailored to highlight that strong masculine V shape.

When selecting a double-breasted suit look for the “Kent” cut, where a longer lapel line extends into the waist. This will convey height and, if cut correctly, a slimmer waist.

2. Three Piece Suits– The Three Piece is making a return in 2009 and it’s all about cohesion this season, no mix-matching of colors and textures. The waistcoat should be conservative and in the same fabric as the suit’s other two pieces.  If you do want to venture outside the realm of three matching pieces, stick to a similar colour palette and avoid any pattern except for stripes; you may want to pair a pinstripe black suit with a pinstripe charcoal waistcoat.

Justin Timberlack incorporates the waistcoat into his style

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Classic Patterns for 2009

 

Since the cut and style of suits is returning to the classics, then you would expect the same with classic cloth pattens. The coupling of the classics with the current men’s fashion revitalisation means this is the perfect time to reintroduce patterns into your wardrobe (if you haven’t done so already). The following are classic suit patterns perfect for 2009 and beyond. 

Houndstooth

Herringbone

Glenurquhart / Prince of Wales check

Pinstripe

Rope

So when looking for a suit, pick one that goes with your style, suits your personality, is well fitted, and fits perfect within an occasion. If you can have a suit customized which will be a bit more pricy, go for it because it will be worth the investment. Either way, a man in a well fitted suit has swag and that confidence shows on the outside.

😉

Color is the New Black: Summer Color Trends

Summer fashion for 2009 is going to bring with it an explosion of color, but don’t get me wrong, black is and will always be a classic color good for any season. But let’s face it  “a little color never hurts”. In fact, you’ll be surprised at how choosing the right colors can accent your current wardrobe, compliment your skin tone and totally uplift your fashion personality.

Black and White

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The black and white color combination is one that was really hot in 2008. This year the color combimation is still just as popular and sophisticated for summer.  What we will see is that the prints for the season will be more stylized and less floral.  If you’re not into prints and like the black and white color block syle, just be sure to wear the colors strategically. Remember black minimizes and white inhances.  So dress according to your body proportions.  If you are an inverted triangle (smaller on top and larger on bottom) wear black on the bottom and white on top. You can add a splash of color by adding accessories, the great thing about this color combination is that you really can’t go wrong when adding color. Whether it be a handbag, shoes, or jewlery, a touch of color can accent your style.  So don’t get rid of last years items, black and white is classic and it will remain for seasons to come.

Pale Neutrals

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Neutrals will be seen in 2009 as light tones with a touch of color added; light tints of cream and sand can be nicely paired with pastels for a clean, sleek and sophisticated look. These pieces are also very versitle you can combine them with darker shades of brown or even pair with khakis to mix things up a bit.

Hues of Blue and Tourquoise

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turquoise and marine blues as perfect for both warm summer days and nights and because turquoise flatters all skin tones, turquoise clothing and accessories are good additions to any wardrobe. The best neutrals to wear with turquoise are brown for an earthy, sunny look, black for a more sophisticated palette, and white for a cool feeling on a hot summer day.

Color pops that look good with turquoise and work well for accessorizing include lime green, red, purple, and yellow. By changing your accessory colors, you can create many very different looks when you wear turquoise clothing.

Hello Yellow

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yellow is a classic summer time color and this year is the third consecutive year it has become a trendy color. Unlike blue and turquoise, yellow is not flattering on all skin tones, but if it works for you take advantage of it. Otherwise, the color can add spice to an outfit as a bold accessory, such as shoes, or a handbag. So if you’ve never dared to wear yellow, don’t be afraid to add it into your wardrobe as clothing or an accessory.

StyleWatch: Statement Jewelry Spring/Summer 2009

 

Accessories are going to be big this year… literally! Statement jewelry is taking inspiration from geometric shapes, exotic design and bold rich colors. The main difference from what was done in the previous season and what we will see in 2009 is the way the jewelry will be styled.  2008 was about playing down the clothes and letting the jewelry be the center of attention and steal the show, this year wildly bold and colorful clothing will be paired with over the top accessories.  This is a great way to show off your personal style and make a statement.  Choose pieces that are interesting and experiment with color.  If you’re really bold, try designing your own… How’s that for interesting?!?!

Statement jewelry is great because you always have the option to pair them with a little black dress, incorporate into your ware-to-work outfits, or better yet wear with jeans and a tee. Bottomline in 2009, the bigger and more exotic the better.  Select pieces that keep true to your personal style and they will carry through many seasons.

Be Bold: Ragamuffin Clothing

  

Ragamuffin (Rag.ga.muf.fin) noun. A person who wears ragged or shabby clothing.

Despite the definition of the word, people who wear Ragamuffin Clothing are people who are not afraid to make a statement. If a picture says a thousand words, then the images on the line’s stylish tees convey messages that are as strong and beautiful as the people who wear them.

Ragamuffin Clothing was created on the campus of UC Berkeley as a social experiment with the purpose of inspiring students to vote. The line’s first t-shirt, “Why I Vote” boldly conveyed both a visual and written message that reminded students of the sacrifices made by many during the Civil Rights Movement. Within the first week, 125 t-shirts sold and more importantly, the message and the desired action was spread.

“Why I Vote”

“To give voice to 1.4 million disenfranchised African American men due to prior felony convictions; Because the 61.3% of African Americans that make up the District of Columbia are not privileged to have their votes heard in both Congress and Senate; Because of the blood, sweat, and tears of the many civil rights demonstrators beaten by police, bitten by police dogs, and sprayed by high power water hoses; to honor the legacy of the civil rights activist like this man pictured above, who willingly gave their blood, sweat, and tears….THIS IS WHY I VOTE!!”

Ragamuffin uses t-shirts as a catalyst to spread the message of social responsibility to the forefront through “provocative”, “controversial,” and “empowering” designs. Take for example the t-shirt design entitled, “I Got Next”.  The design is empowering and illustrates that anyone who aspires to be, can be a great leader. Images of powerful African-American leaders are motivating and inspiring.  The t-shirt line is available in select retail stores in cities such as Oakland, San Francisco, and Arizona, but is also available at www.ragamuffinclothing.com.

My Choice:

One of my favorite designs has an image of Muhammad Ali outlined in gold on a black tee. Beneath it is the word Versatility with a definition of “Float like butterfly…. sting like a bee.” What does the message on this tee say to me? It reminds me that in order to succeed, sometimes we have to be versatile and have the ability to adapt in any given situation. What does it say to you!?!

Versatility

Barack the Vote

No matter what your political affiliation we should all be registered to vote for this historic political race. If you havent registered yet, there is still time. You can do so by going to www.rockthevote.com it is simple and only takes a few minutes to complete the form online and mail it out.

If you are looking to make a statement, T-Shirsts are one way to do so. Granted Obama maina is at a fever pitch, but many people including myself, are very passionate about the importance of this political race for many reasons.

Here a few of my T-Shirt picks that are sure to make a statement at the polls.

Barack Obama Arcade T-Shirt $16.50

Barack Obama Arcade (black) - T-Shirt $16.50

Barack Obama (retro green)

Soccer Jersey Swag

     TrendSpotting: Soccer Jerseys

Diddy & Snoop are Fans of Manchester United

 

  

 

 

 

 There is an unexploited frontier in the world of sports jerseys and that is the world of soccer uniforms or “football kits,” to be more precise. All over the world, “football has ingrained itself into a national culture, and many parts of life revolve around it.”

Snoop Dogg and Diddy have a football fetish and are hard core fans of Manchester United and are a part of the 330 million supporters worldwide.  In a recent interview Diddy stated “I’ve got a lot of love for Man U and Arsenal. I respect all footballers. But if Man U win the treble I’ll throw a big party for sure – they will definitely deserve it.”

Show Your Favorite Football Club Some Love:

So a few of my friends who are major fans of soccer have asked me where they can find soccer jerseys so they can represent their team(s). I suggest checking out www.worldsoccershop.com. On this site you can shop by Team, Country, Player and League. There are also many other items available outside of the jerseys themselves. Here a few examples of what you can find there.

Nigerian National Soccer Team

Nigerian Soccer Jersey $55.99

Manchester United Football Club

Manchester United Soccer Jersey $69.99

Sistas With Style: The Jumpsuit

 

Strapless Stretch Wool Jumpsuit

Nia Long Shorts Jumpsuit

Fashion continues to flashback to the 80’s—a decade that even while it was happening, struck most as a particularly bad idea—so it was perhaps inevitable that jumpsuits were next up for a revival, and sure enough they were everywhere during fashion week. Two decades back, jumpsuits were those one-piece outfits with full-length legs and tended to be snug with bright vibrant colors. The good news is that today’s jumpsuits, with some exceptions, are largely reinventions of the 80’s versions, not copies.

Most women—while not opposed to the jumpsuit in theory have expressed doubt that the trend was really for them. As my friend Tisha said, “It’s a really cute look, casual yet stylish, but you really have to have the right body type. I would wear a jumpsuit if I wasn’t so short.” However, if you take inspiration from Nia Long who is a shorter woman, a shorts jumpsuit can be just as stylish and sophisticated.

 The jumpsuit that Sanaa is wearing is from Intermix and can be found at www.intermixonline.com if you like this style be sure that the jumpsuit is snug in the right places. For example, Sanaa’s jumpsuit is nipped in at the waist, but there is fullness at the hip giving a flattering shape. This fall, many of us will probably watch the jumpsuit trend from the sidelines, waiting to see how it pans out before we dip our toes in the water of a black zip-front one-piece. But will they hang around long enough to convert us?  Designers have suggested they might be here to stay: “They could become a staple, Just another option, like a dress or pants.

                                                        Get Sanaa’s Look

Strapless Stretch Wool Jumpsuit

 Now Style It!

Anne Marie Enamel Hoops

Textured Bangles Silver&Gold

Jessica McClintock Glitz

Report Hearst

Glitz Polished Cuff

The Lumberjack is Making a Comeback

Kelly Rowland and Rihanna make appearances in Lumberjack shirts and dark jeans.

The lumberjack shirt is one of those trends you should definitely proceed with caution before applying to your body. I have seen some lumberjack shirts in stores that look as if they came right off a Lumberjack’s back, however, there are some options that offer an updated style with the addition of feminine details such as ruffles, bows and frill. This look can be very stylish if executed correctly, always pair with a dark denim and choose a style that best suits you but remember, never sacrafice style to follow a trend.

Left to right: Midwest Plaid Shirt , $22.90, http://www.forever21.com; Tartan Silk Blouse, $34.80, http://www.forever21.com; Victoria Check Shirt, $79.99, http://www.fcusbuymail.com; Plaid Vest, $18.99, http://www.charlotte-russe.com

Make-Up Tips: What’s Hot and What You Must Have

Make-Up is just as important to your style as the perfect pair of shoes or accessory. Your make-up should not distract, but accentuate your features and put the finishing touch on your outfit. What’s hot now with make-up is glamor, it is “sexy and sophisticated” two of my favorite combinations and is universal to ALL women. The key to making the look work as in all things is confidence. The 4 must haves to achieving the look are:

1. Liquid Eyeliner

2. Red or wine shades of lipstick

3. The new grey eye shadow hues

4. Well manicured brows.

   

Red Lipstick Is Back! 

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Will you be one that will dare to wear Red? Which are you?

I will dare to wear red. I love red lipstick…

No — I would not wear red lipstick – even on a dare…

I may give it a go…

Old Navy Woman: Fall Preview

Yellow Silk Ruffel Top $29.50; Denim Pencil Skirt $32.50; Quilted Satchel $34.50

Old Navy’s fall woman’s collections offers figure flattering styles while keeping with season’s hottest trends. The collection is offered exclusively on-line at www.oldnavy.com/plus and offers a selection that will take you from work to play to a night out. When you order on-line there is a flat fee for shipping of $7 and a free return policy.

Old Navy has stylish casual dresses and denim. The dresses are figure flattering and can go from dressy to casual by adding a tailored or denim jacket. The denim pencil skirt  accentuates the silhouette and is a great addition to any wardrobe. The Quilted Satchel is also very stylish and functional and comes in a variety of colors.

S.O.S I Need a Luau Party Dress

The Occasion: Hawaiian Themed Luau Party.

Finding the right outfit for a party can be time consuming, but when the party is themed, an added element of difficulty makes your choices that much more difficult. Recently, a friend needed to find an outfit to wear to a Luau party. After days of looking for an outfit that suited her style and personality, I came across a dress at www.forever21.com that we both agreed not only suited the occasion, but her feminine, fun, and youthful style too.

The Beaded Crossover Dress accentuates the neck and shoulders.  The beaded neckline acts as its own accessory so there is really no need for add much extra. The flower pin not only adds a feminie touch, but keeps with the theme of the party. The dress is short in length (approx 32″ from shoulder to hem) so black fashion leggings were worn. The dress crosses over in the back, for a backless look.  

Beaded Crossover Dress

http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=dress%5Fcasual&product%5Fid=2050933338&Page=all 

Global Chic by Iman

 

City Tote Handbag

I have said it before and I will say it again. Style is the basic foundation to any wardrobe and accessories are a great way to add and showcase your own personal style. Handbags can be an accessory, they are a great way add color and uniqueness to your wardrobe. No matter what it is your wearing whether it be jeans and a t-shirt, or a black cocktail dress, a great bag can elevate your outfit.

I am crazy about bags and I recently came across a “must have.”  The bag is designed by Iman and comes from her Global Chic collection. The City Tote is an over-sized tote and comes in a variety of colors. I recommend the patent black or plum. Plum is going to be the “it” color for fall and the black patent bag will carry you through any season and is a classic.  Animal prints are also a staple in a stylish wardrobe, so the python print bags offered in the collection are a great addition as well. The totes are not only very stylish, but are functional too. In comparison to other designers this tote is a great buy at $129. From business women to students, no matter who you are, you are sure to arrive in style with this bag. And remember, find a style that works for you, works with your budget and says something about your personal style!

Other Picks You May Like!

Bisou Bisou® Patent Satchel $29.99

Patent Tote w/ Front Pockets $85.90