The psychobilly jacket is an important accessory necessary to complete the overall look of practitioners and followers of the psychobilly music style. The retro jackets are customized to fit the individual wearer's taste and fashion sense, and are often made to reflect the owner's preference for a specific band or psychobilly singer.
Psychobilly Music
Psychobilly music is an outgrowth of the rockabilly genre. Psychobilly musical stylings combine the diverse influences of outlaw country western, punk rock, surf rock and hillbilly boogie woogie. The psychobilly sound contains overtones of heavy metal sub-genres, including death metal, thrash metal and goth metal. The names punkabilly, honky punk, cowpunk, slacker swing, hard twang and alterna-country have been used to describe the psychobilly style. The Cramps popularized the movement in the early 1970s, taking the name psychobilly from the Johnny Cash song "One Piece at a Time."
Psychobilly Fashion
The psychobilly look, including custom-made jackets, is a throwback style, with origins in American 1950s rockabilly and rock 'n' roll fashion. The rockabilly clothing style derives from the British Teddy Boy, Mods, Rockers and skiffle band subcultures. Black leather motorcycle jackets, and blue denim biker jean jackets provide the basis for the customized psychobilly jacket. The jackets style is modernized by skinhead, punk and outlaw motorcycle gang influences.
Leather
The leather psychobilly jacket starts with a basic black leather motorcycle jacket like the one worn by Marlon Brando in the 1953 movie "The Wild One." Embellish the jacket with custom painted touches influenced by 1950s tattoo art. Use skulls, dice, playing cards or Harley Davidson emblems. Paint your favorite band name or logo on the back of the jacket. Add traditional country-western motifs such as red roses, treble clefs and musical notes.
Denim
Start with a traditional Levi's or Wrangler blue-jean jacket. Cut or rip off the sleeves to make a vest type jacket popular with biker gangs and heavy metal fans. Hem the sleeves or leave them frayed. Heavily wash or bleach the fabric. Slice, rip or tear the denim. Adorn the jacket with appropriate psychobilly patches, badges and painted decoration. Include tour dates and portraits of your favorite psychobilly singers and band members.
Measuring a man for a suit jacket is not difficult, but it's important to measure the two key sizing factors so that you get a good fit. Typically, the two basic measurements that need to be taken are the chest and the actual height of the man. If these measurements are taken properly, you can ensure a great fitting suit jacket. A few additional measurements may include sleeve length and a shoulder measurement.
Instructions
- Wrap a tape measure loosely around the man's chest. The tape measure should go around the widest part of the torso, which is directly under the arms and across the chest, just above the nipples. This measurement is the chest measurement.
- Measure the height of the man while he stands up straight against a wall. This will determine whether he needs a short, medium or long suit.
- Measure across the back, directly above the shoulder blades but under the neck, from shoulder to shoulder. Some online suit companies require this measurement to ensure the suit fits across the back.
- Measure from the top of the arm to the wrist to gain an accurate sleeve measurement. The length of the suit jacket sleeve should allow the shirt peek out about a half inch to an inch.
Since 1865, the varsity jacket has been an indefatigable symbol of sportsmanship, athletics and vigorously talented youth. While it continues to serve as a badge of honor for school-age youths, the varsity jacket has shifted into mainstream men’s fashion. You may not have worn a letterman since high school, but it might be time for you to go old school and pair this modernized jacket with a variety of modern ensembles. Of course, you'll want to keep in mind that while the varsity jacket is stylistically versatile, it is strictly an athletic and collegiate look; it's never appropriate for business professional or business casual.
Summer
Although most men stray from wearing jackets in warm summer months, the varsity jacket can make an impressively stylish statement when paired with typical summer clothing, like shorts and tee shirts. For example, designer Micah Cohen's 2013 summer and spring collections included varsity jackets coordinated with colorful, low-neck tank tops, dark shorts and slip-on shoes. Men's magazine FHM recommends a polo shirt, chino shorts and espadrilles for a no-fuss casual look.
Spring
Spring weather, in many parts of the U.S., can be unpredictable; fortunately, this will allow you to pair your varsity jacket with a variety of weather-appropriate outfits. On warm days, slip on a pair of khaki or tan corduroy shorts, boat shoes and a brightly colored t-shirt for a modern yet comfortable look. Cool days call for a little extra warmth. Go casual prep with a vintage polo or your favorite plaid shirt, casual slacks and penny loafers.
Autumn
You'll have plenty of opportunities to wear your varsity jacket as the autumn days grow shorter and weather begins to cool. Use your varsity jacket to kick a little spirit into an otherwise drab outfit by wearing it with an oxford cloth button-up, khaki pants and a pair of lace-up sneakers. Switch out the khakis and sneakers for a pair of chino pants and colorful suede driving shoes to shake up your style routine.
Winter
Jackets were made for winter. This is your chance to really make your varsity jacket shine. Add a little old-school Harvard to your look by accessorizing with neutral colored wool scarves and your most comfortable cardigan. When the winter days reach their coldest, don't sacrifice comfort by wearing light materials. Wear denim jeans for an athletic look or corduroy pants for an old-fashioned Ivy League style. Keep your shoes simple and warm for winter by wearing high-top sneakers, ankle boots or leather loafers. As you work your way through the next year, keep in mind that personal style trumps fashion trends. Make sure that your look reflects your personality, comfort and tastes.
The beauty of a blue suit is it's a classic color that's chic, super fashionable and looks superb on both men and women. Fashion trends have broadened the array of blue hues on the style scene. From cobalt to cerulean, the specific color of blue blazer you choose should set the tone for the shirt you wear under it.
Dark Blue Jackets
A classic-cut, navy blue suit is the most frequented shade of blue. It's a safe choice, perfect for the office or any event requiring a professional polish. Guys, add a fresh style to the classic navy jacket with a blue-and-white bengal-striped shirt with a pale-gray sock and caramel-colored wingtip brogues. Women should try a navy blue button-down with white polka dots. Indigo is an excellent choice for a blue suit in the new brighter, more saturated hues. This vibrant color, traditionally used for coloring denim, works well with white shirts. Indigo is also a fantastic color to experiment with spring colors such as cerulean -- a fancy name for sky blue -- for a more fashion-forward style.
Light Blue Jackets
The light blue suit that used to hide in the shadows until summer is on-trend all year round now that designers are producing suits and jackets in rich blue colors such as cerulean. Wear a pale blue blazer with a light neutral button-down such as white, ivory or heather gray. For a bolder style, wear a shirt that has a dark purple-blue stripe or check. Same rules apply to both men and women. Avoid dark shirts under a soft blue jacket or it will throw off the balance of the outfit.
Plaid Jackets
A blue plaid jacket is more style sensitive than it's solid counterparts. If you're wearing a dark blue jacket with a lighter plaid pattern, work with the lightest color in the jacket. The safe choice is a solid shirt in that color or lighter. If you're confident in your fashion sense, try something highly fashionable and wear a white shirt with a blue check that's in between the two shades of your jacket. Women can accomplish this pattern-on-pattern trend with a bow-tie blouse in a similar color scheme.
Pinstripes
Few suits can hold their own against the navy blue pinstripe suit. A navy pinstripe jacket has a classic sophistication not to be messed with -- keep the accessories simple with a crisp white button-down. Women, wear a matching pinstripe vest with no button-down for a sexy look that balances the masculinity of this jacket.
Denim Shirts
For a chic, fashion-forward style statement, go tone-on-tone and wear any blue blazer with a denim dress shirt. The new take on the traditionally western-wear style of button-downs is more fitted, woven in finer fabrics and sits neatly under a jacket. Guys should add a bow tie or a graphic-print tie for a preppy-cool look. Women, keep your shirt unbuttoned and add a gold statement necklace for a stunning mix of refined, rugged and polished elements.
Stylish men keen on making a statement ought to have a checkered sports coat stashed away in their wardrobe arsenal. With styling capabilities ranging from trendy to sophisticated, a checkered sports coat is your ticket to looking both masculine and chic. Whether heading to the office, a business dinner or a Saturday picnic, a checkered sports coat is your ticket to looking cool and put together with minimal effort.
Slacks
Slacks are the perfect pairing with a sleek and chic sports coat. When attending a dress-to-impress occasion, a checkered sports coat with a pair of slacks in a neutral shade is a safe bet. But, if you're a fashion risk taker, pair your sports coat with slacks in a bright, bold shade such as cobalt blue. Whether rocking neutral shades or vivid hues, a pair of well-fitting slacks is a stylish choice indeed.
Denim
A pair of dark denim jeans is a great match for the sports coat. Relaxed yet sophisticated, a pair of jeans tones down the seriousness of a sports coat, while still making it appropriate for casual yet dressy occasions. Once more, the fashion-forward male can incorporate a bright shade of denim to make a fashion statement with a checkered sports coat. Confidence is key to pulling off this hip and trendy look.
Neutrals
V-necks in neutral shades are a cool yet sophisticated pairing for gentleman hoping to put a modern spin on the sports coat. A black, white or tan button-down shirt will work well with most checkered jackets. A great combination for jeans or slacks, neutrals are a chic and safe bet for keeping the sports coat stylishly appropriate for a ton of occasions.
Brights
Opt for a pop of color underneath a sports coat for an outfit that's awesomely on trend. For a cohesive look, choose a shade that appears in your coat, or go off the grid and choose a contrasting shade that's just as chic. A brightly colored shirt under your sports coat can look great when paired with either jeans or slacks, so experiment with different combinations before you hit the town.
Sports coats, blazers and suit jackets can pull your whole look together -- if they are the right size. Keeping up your dapper appearance requires that jackets fit your personal dimensions. Although using a professional tailor is the most common way to ascertain your dimensions, learning to take your own measurements will enable you to make informed purchases both online and in person with minimal assistance from a tailor.
Instructions
Taking Measurements
1 Measure the length of your jacket by holding the end of your measuring tape at the front base of your neck and allowing it to roll down your chest. With your arms and shoulders relaxed, ask your assistant to read the measurement that is parallel to your knuckles at the base of your fingers. Make a note of the measurement with a pencil and paper.
2 Have your assistant measure your shoulder width. With one end of the tape pressed on the furthest point of your left shoulder, have your assistant extend the tape to the furthest point on your right shoulder and read the measurement aloud. Make a note of the measurement with a pencil and paper.
3 Determine the sleeve lengths by placing the end of your tape measure at the edge of your shoulder, where your arm and shoulder meet. Allow the tape to roll down along the length of your arm. The appropriate length for a tailored suit will be at your first thumb knuckle, where the joint meets the palm; the appropriate length for an off-the-rack suit will be parallel to your wrist. Write down both measurements and repeat the process on your other arm.
4 Place the end of the tape measure at your navel and run it all the way around your waist; mark the measurement. Place the end of the tape measure on the widest part of hip and run the tape around your entire hip; mark the measurement. Place the end of the tape at the center of your chest and run it under your arms, all the way around your body; mark the measurement.
5 Have your assistant measure the breadth of your chest (across the nipples) from the left armpit to the right armpit; mark the measurement. Have your assistant run the measuring tape all the way around your relaxed bicep; mark the measurement. Have your assistant measure the widest part of your back, over the shoulder blades; mark the measurement.
The main distinction between toggle coats and duffel coats is that duffel styles are traditionally made of heavy fabrics intended to withstand chilling winds and moisture, and they are equipped with large hoods. Duffel coats were originally mass produced for military purposes. On the other hand, any coat that fastens by virtue of a rigid piece of material that passes through a loop of leather, fabric or elastic qualifies as a toggle coat.
Button Up
A coat toggle is, by definition, a form of closure involving a short, stiff object that connects one frontal flap to another by being passed through a loop. Toggle-button coats are believed to have been worn since the mid-1700s, but the mechanism of fabric closure probably dates back much further. Toggles are considered to be decorative as well as functional forms of closure on coats. The loops can be made of eye-appealing fabrics, and the "rods" can be fashioned from bones, metals, ceramics or wood.
Sailor Style
Defining features of a duffel coat are a spacious, detachable or fixed hood and a roomy silhouette that extends to the knee or lower. Duffel coats date back to the late 1600s, and they were popularized during World War I when they were manufactured to protect sailors in the British Royal Navy from the icy winds of the North Atlantic Ocean. Early duffel coats were constructed with oversized pockets that gloved hands could be stuffed into, and easy-open toggle closures that gloved hands could manipulate easier than buttons or zippers. The coats' spacious hoods were designed to fit over sailors' caps, and their thick woolen fabrication is attributed to sturdy woven material that came from Duffel, Belgium.
Dashing Duffel Coats
Duffel coats grew in popularity after World War II, when they became widely available in military surplus stores. Prestigious European labels regularly produce updated versions of Duffel coats that stress form as well as function, as do esteemed American labels known for luxury as well as performance. A modernized duffel style was saluted by "Esquire" magazine as a "best winter coat" for 2010 by virtue of its refined wool-and-synthetic blend fabrication, shapely contours and elaborate metallic fasteners.
Trendy Toggles
The decorative and form-flattering possibilities of toggle coats makes them popular among women. Yankee traditionalist labels treat toggle coats as staples in their outerwear collections, but edgier labels are known for infusing toggles into their assortments as well. Star entertainer Jennifer Lopez managed to cause an Internet frenzy of speculation just by stepping out in late spring of 2013 in London wearing an orange, fur-trimmed and leather-piped toggle coat that made the world's fashion mavens wonder who designed it.
The world of men’s fashion often seems secondary to the vastness of women’s fashion. There have been numerous changes to men’s fashion throughout the years, but only a few styles have stood the test of time. The styles that are the most popular have become so prevalent that new styles merely make a minor alteration to the popular style’s basic look. This includes men's shirt styles.
Polo Shirt
One of the most traditional and classy shirt styles is the polo style. It has stood the test of time, having been around since 1929. It’s been heavily associated with 20th-century America and continues into the 21st century. Originally invented by René Lacoste, it’s a traditional T-shirt with a collar. Normally there are two to three buttons on the front and occasionally a pocket. Polo shirts are generally made of knitted cotton and occasionally other materials, such as wool or synthetic fibers. The shirt took off in popularity during the '60s, when Ralph Lauren developed a line of clothing specifically for polos.
Button-Down Shirt
The button-down shirt was originally associated with formality in men's wear. It is thought to have originated in England, but others claim its origins were in America. Throughout the years, the manner of wear has become more relaxed for these shirts. They are often seen worn with shorts and jeans as well as business suits. Much like polo shirts, button-down shirts can be found with a variety of designs, including pinstripes, cross stripes and various images.
T-Shirts
The most traditional type of shirt for men and boys alike is the T-shirt. Considered the workhorse of shirts, it is the most commonly worn shirt among men around the world. Traditionally cotton, it has thousands of varieties, especially in terms of its designs and the images on them.
Granddad Shirt
Although more popular on the Asian continent today, the granddad shirt is still worn to stay cool in many areas in the world. The shirt is collarless and originated from the Indian kurta. The granddad shirt normally has no buttons and can come in a variety of designs or solid colors. It was popularized by the Beatles in the 1960s.
Style and high-tech have overtaken what once was the simple wristwatch -- a leather band with two hands and a sweep second hand with maybe a date indicator.
The current state of instant access and digital data has changed that and now there is a wealth of performance technology atop your wrist as you bike, ski, hike, run, scuba dive or power walk.
Exact yardage to the back of the green? No worries. Need to count calories or calculate the distance you’ve walked during your round of golf? Done. All encased in a package that aims to be both functional and stylish.
If the late Timex spokesman John Cameron Swayze could update his popular ”take a licking but keep on ticking,” he’d be stunned by the range of capabilities, durability and styles.
Combining the aesthetics and functionality of watches with sport-specific computers to help athletes improve performance is big business. And consumer demand for this technology is driving watch manufacturers to innovate.
In the world of recreation and fitness timepieces, options range from simple to complex and this applies equally to design and features that measure activity.
This goes well beyond dates, alarm reminders and leather bands. It could be an “ABC” watch that includes an altimeter, barometer and compass or one for a diver that requires waterproof illumination 100 meters down in a dark sea.
There are plenty of options in fitness watches, with one of the most popular functions being a measure of heart rate during exercise. Traditionally, that has required chest straps (which is still the most accurate way to monitor the heart), but manufacturers such as Sportline are looking beyond the strap.
Sportline’s Any-Touch Technology, for example, uses sensors that detect and read the electrical signals your heart emits. A touch of the finger displays EKG-accurate readings in seconds. It also allows you to count your steps and calories burned and records lap/split times and distances with a built-in accelerometer-based pedometer.
GPS technology, as in many applications, has opened a new frontier for fitness. It has been incorporated in some fitness watches and has freed up the more adventurous athlete to go off the beaten track.
“One of the beauties of the GPS is that it allows us to run on a larger track. In the past, we’ve been restricted to workouts limited to a stopwatch or chrono watch. Distances had to be premeasured or known in advance," said Jason Tillinghast, a design manager of the Timex Run Trainer watch. "With GPS, you can customize any workout for pretty much anywhere you wish to go, as it marks off the distance as you proceed.“
While about the same weight as a regular watch, fitness watches have opened new doors for athletes. An athlete can record a performance, download the data for instant feedback and create a custom program for specific workout goals.
These online tracking programs -- complimentary services of some watch manufacturers -- store fitness data and allow you to interact with fellow participants.
Given these watches are not cheap, manufacturers look to present a product that is both functional and stylish. It's not just for running.
“We started the company with the presumption that these tools were more than just special purpose, but indeed, would be worn all day as part of a lifestyle and to make a statement,” said Liz Dickinson, founder and CEO of Mio.
Appealing to both the technical geek and the grab ‘n' go consumer who prefers to start small has presented a range of challenges for manufacturers.
“The most important thing we take into consideration when designing a product is how it will fit into the target consumer's lifestyle. If they are an outdoor enthusiast, what does the product say about him/her? Or, if they prefer to wear it all day, does it satisfy their lifestyle needs? This question impacts all sorts of design questions," Dickinson said. "Some customers are prepared to read a manual; others just want to put it on and have it work right away. We really focus on understanding our target consumer and that consumer varies by product.”
You've opened your closet and realized it's all shades of blue, black and white, but you're totally bored with them. If new colors seem intimidating, but the notion of wearing new prints and colors appeals to you, take a cue from celebrities who've mastered the art of color coding on the red carpet. Keep in mind that pairing outfits isn't always second nature to some; many of these celebs have stylists behind the scenes who know which colors and textiles look best together.
Mad for Plaid
11Actor Ryan Reynolds keeps things casual and low-key with a grey plaid shirt and tie. You can do the same with any variety of plaid in either a long or short sleeve. For an especially stylish look, wear plaid in green, blue or yellow and pair it with jeans or under a blazer for a more polished look.
Pumped for Pink
2Don't make any color off limits, be bold in unconventional shades like pink. Actor Michael McMillian looks sharp in his pale pink shirt with a gray blazer. To minimize the "pink effect," pair your shirt with darker colors and accessories.
Play Up Purple
3If you've worn lilac or a grayish purple, kick things up a notch with a bright purple, as seen on actor Nick Cannon. Wear purple shades with navy, black or grey to create a similar look. Don't be afraid to mix dark and bright shades for a masculine, yet colorful outfit.
Green With Envy?
1Amp up a green button-down like NFL player Colin Kaepernick does in this shirt and vest combo. The fitted vest and tie dress up the overall look while his jeans keep things casual. Create the same look and add a belt, hat or funky shoe for extra flair to this fresh pop of color.
Mellow in Yellow
1Brighten up your wardrobe with a burst of color like yellow. Former NFL player Dhani Jones wears his polo with jeans and an orange belt buckle. Try yours with slacks, shorts or opt for a yellow button-down with your suit.
Fresh Squeezed Orange
1Reality TV star Tye Strickland knows how to rock a casual button-down. This orange checkered shirt looks casual and cool with jeans and a large-face watch. Take a cue from southwestern color combos to rock this citrus shade.
Mix Prints
6You may not be sold on wearing bright suits, but you can still coordinate shades in another way -- mixing shirt and tie prints. Actor Chris Pine pairs his blue-and-white striped shirt with an orange patterned tie under his navy suit. The subtle light and dark contrast, with the pop of detail in the tie makes his outfit memorable. Find separates that coordinate without clashing to mimic this sleek ensemble.
Keeping It In the (Color) Family
1Experiment with colors by taking a cue from actor Martin Freeman, who pairs a bright aqua shirt with a more demure navy suit. Pick a suit or jacket in a dark shade, then look for a corresponding shirt in a brighter hue from the same color family.
If you’re like most men, you have a closet full of wardrobe pieces picked up throughout your high school, college and early career days. From colorful cords to pastel polos, these trendy-today-gone-tomorrow items are fine to hold on to -- as long as you have all of your wardrobe basics covered. To pack as much sartorial punch into your clothes as possible, every man should own 12 wardrobe essentials -- like actor Chris Hemsworth's navy suit and blue dress shirt -- that are sure to stay in style forever.
White and Blue Dress Shirts
Colors and patterns are fun, but when it comes to style essentials that are versatile and long lasting, a set of white and blue dress shirts is the way to go. “These staple pieces provide the foundation for adding accessories and ties, pocket squares, shoes and belts that help you get more life out of those items,” said Craig Schroeder, owner of Philadelphia-based wardrobe agency Commonwealth Proper. You can even dress them down with jeans and sneakers, like actor Joshua Jackson does here at an event in Santa Monica, California.
Navy Suit
Suits are a fact of life for any professional man, but not all colors and patterns are created equally. To cover the basics, Schroeder suggested every man own a versatile navy suit, like the one actor Colin Egglesfield shows off at an event in West Hollywood, California. “You can wear it to so many different things: business interviews, weddings, funerals.” You can even wear the pieces separately, he added. Use the jacket as a blazer with denim or throw on the pants with a button-down.
Charcoal Suit
The navy suit may be versatile, but one suit option isn’t enough for the stylish working man. That's why he should have a charcoal version in his arsenal, too, like the one actor Taylor Lautner wears here at an event in Los Angeles. Pair the jacket with your favorite dark denim for a business-casual look, or wear an open-collar gingham shirt with the trousers for a relaxed-but-professional vibe. Since gray is a neutral, it goes with nearly any color, added Jimmy Au, a clothing designer based in Beverly Hills, California.
Brown Leather Loafers
Accessories really make an outfit, and the right shoes make you look sharp no matter the ensemble or occasion. Whether they’re paired with your trusty navy suit, khakis, your favorite shorts or denim, brown leather loafers -- like the pair seen here on actor and comedian Aziz Ansari at an event in New York -- add a classic touch that pulls together every outfit. To get the most bang for your buck, Schroeder suggested a slip-on version with a leather sole because they'll last longer than a rubber bottom.
Black Lace-Up Oxfords
For the occasions when brown loafers just don't cut it, a pair of black lace-up oxfords -- like those seen on actor Hugh Jackman at the 2013 Directors Guild of America Awards -- do the trick. Wear them with a charcoal or black suit or even a tuxedo to lend a bit of elegance to your look. Schroeder suggested choosing a pair that’s neither too square nor too pointed at the toe. “The more timeless style is a little bit in between. It’s more rounded than pointy or square.”
Dark Denim
Forget the acid-washed and distressed jeans of yore: Dark denim is a wardrobe staple that’s here to stay. A consistent, medium-to-dark wash -- seen here on fashion designer Joseph Altuzarra at an event in Los Angeles -- is perfect for a casual vibe when paired with a polo, button-down or sweater and can be dressed up with a suit coat and loafers for a more elegant look. Keep the color vibrant by dry-cleaning your denim when necessary because washing can cause them to fade, Schroeder noted.
Tailored Topcoat
A suit coat or fleece won't keep you warm all winter, so be sure to have a tailored topcoat in your closet to keep you both on-trend and toasty when the weather cools down. Schroeder suggested investing in a cashmere- or alpaca-blend topcoat that hits slightly above the knee, like the one actor and musician Jared Leto wears here to the 2012 Gotham Independent Film Awards. This length not only provides greater mobility for guys on the move, but also lends a youthful and modern edge to the wardrobe staple.
V-Neck Sweater
Worn solo, under a cardigan or over a button-down, a classic V-neck sweater is a must-have piece that gets you through fall and winter in style. Opting for a timeless color like gray or navy -- seen here on actor Colin Farrell at a movie screening in New York -- means you can mix and match it with any outfit. To ensure the longest wear possible, Schroeder suggested sticking with a cashmere blend rather than a 100 percent cashmere sweater, which wears more quickly.
Khaki Pants
The perfect middle ground between dress pants and denim, a sturdy pair of khakis is your wardrobe's saving grace for occasions like weekend brunch or a casual wedding. "Press them for a clean, dressier look or just keep them a little wrinkled for a more casual look," Au suggested. For fall and winter, go for a pair that's a little darker, like the version actor Zac Efron dons here at a movie premiere in Madrid. For warmer weather, stick with a pair that's lighter in fabric and color, Au said.
Watch
Make sure time and style are always on your side by rocking one of the most timeless accessories out there: a watch. Play it safe with a classy silver- or gold-linked version or express your fashion sense by opting for a brown leather or shiny black timepiece, like the one NFL player Victor Cruz shows off here at a charity event in New York. Steer clear of trendy options like jewel-encrusted faces or colored bands, especially if you'll be wearing your watch in a professional setting.
Cashmere Scarf
When winter rolls around and you’re scrambling for ways to warm up, having a cashmere scarf in your closet is key to both warmth and style. Wear it loosely around your neck with the ends hanging down -- like actor Jeremy Renner does at a movie premiere in Sydney -- or loop it through once for a more European look. To keep it professional, stick with basic colors like black or gray, Schroeder suggested, or use it as a pop of color with jewel tones like burgundy or cobalt blue.
Tuxedo
You may only wear it once every few years, but a tuxedo -- like the one seen here on actor Matt Bomer at an event in Washington -- is a wardrobe staple every man should own at some point in his life, Schroeder said. “It’s something you’ll wear the least out of anything in your wardrobe, but when you’re wearing a tuxedo, it’s probably one of the most important events of your life." Fit is key, so have your tuxedo tailored or custom made.
From the nude eye to the under eyeliner to the smoky look, there is no shortage of wink-worthy eye makeup trends. Whether you're going for the perfect girl's luncheon look or seductive date night eye, there's a makeup trend that will make your eyes award show worthy.
La Dolce Vita Eyes
1 While you may not be a queen, you can still evoke the same classic sophistication as the Queen of Pop. With a simple, thick line of black eyeliner create the same romantic look reminiscent of La Dolce Vita that Madonna dons red carpet after red carpet. To intensify the look, ditch the pencil and opt for a gel liner instead.
All About the Falsies
2 Sometime you just have to fake it. Even Kim Kardashian, who is blessed with naturally long lashes, regularly wears falsies to intensify her come-hither eyes. Wear one strip of lashes or layer them on to really bring on the drama.
Shimmery Eyes
1 Go on, get your shimmer on. This flirty eye trend can be worn day or night. Play with sparkly colors in pewter, gold, silver and bronze or opt for metallic blues or greens to add more depth to the look. The best part? The glimmer from the shadow will instantly brighten your eyes, making you look fresh and awake.
Up in Smoke
3 You will definitely smolder with the smoky eye. Update this tried-and-trusted sexy eye trend by playing with other seductive colors. While Lea Michelle is alluring with a navy smoky eye and Nicole Richie wows with a taupe smoky eye, Mila Kunis takes the cake for her plum smoky look.
Bold and Beautiful Brows
7A great way to bring attention to your peepers is by creating a beautiful frame. Megan Fox's perfectly plucked and filled in eyebrows create a bold look that would even make 80s brow-bombshell, Brooke Shields, jealous.
Less is More
6Don't hide your eyes behind a ton of makeup. Sometimes the most wink-worthy look is a nude eye. All you need is concealer to hide those dark under eye circles, neutral eyeshadow and your favorite mascara. Take this trend from day to night by switching your lipstick from a pale pink to a deep cherry red.
Blue Steel
Sometimes you can have it all. Mix the smoky eye trend with the shimmer trend and the color pop trend and what do you get? Blake Lively's red carpet-worthy steel blue smoky eye. If you're unsure how you feel about this trend, start by experimenting with a budget-friendly drugstore shadow.
The Under Eyeliner
2One of the biggest trends to date is the under eyeliner. Stars like Emma Stone, Rihanna, Jessica Szohr and Corrine Bailey Rae have all rocked the under eyeliner in shades of blue, green and pink. For a more demure way to wear this look, try a thin colored line under your eyes. To make a bolder statement, opt for a thicker, smudged line.
A set of artfully arranged brushes caked with remnants of makeup will kill the aesthetic of even the most beautiful display of makeup products. Without regular cleaning, makeup brushes can become a breeding ground for bacteria and, consequently, cause nasty breakouts. "We should all thoroughly clean our brushes once a week," advised Janeena Billera, national makeup artist for glo minerals. With proper cleansing, a set of great makeup brushes can last for a lifetime of flawless, bacteria-free makeup application.
Wet Your Brushes
Gather your brushes and run them under lukewarm water with the brush head facing downward. "It is very important that the brush head is facing down so water does not get into the ferrule, the metal band that binds the bristles of a brush to the handle," said Billera. Over time, water can loosen the glue that holds the brush together.
Apply Cleanser
Once brushes are thoroughly moistened, apply a small drop of mild shampoo to the bristles on each brush. Billera recommends baby shampoo because it's gentle and doesn't have a strong fragrance.
Lather
"Create a lather by swirling the brushes against the palm of your hand," instructed Billera. Make sure you reach all the bristles, not just those on the outside. You can also use clean fingers to massage the soap into the entire brush.
Rinse
With your brush heads facing downward again, rinse the bristles thoroughly under lukewarm water. Continue rinsing until there are no traces of soap or residue left -- just as you'd wash your own hair.
Pat Dry
"After all your brushes are rinsed, use a clean towel to pat dry them," said Billera. You can gently press the bristles between a towel to soak up excess moisture. It's important to pat them dry as soon as they're completely rinsed. Never let your brushes soak in water as this will make them fall apart.
Reshape Brushes and Dry
Once you've finished patting dry, reshape the brush heads and lay them down on a clean, dry towel for six to eight hours. "Do not put brushes right-side up in a cup or blow-dry them," noted Billera. Laying them flat helps them maintain their original shape and keeps water out of the ferrules.
Daily Spray Cleansing
In addition to a weekly deep cleaning, you can perform a daily cleanse on each of your brushes with a water-free cleanser, available in cosmetic stores and online. "Just spray a couple of spritzes on a tissue and swirl the brush gently until there is no longer residue," advised MLR makeup artist Kelly Morezak. "A lot of brush cleansers are anti-bacterial, which is great if you have acne-prone skin. Talk about the easiest way to prevent pimples!"
Conditioning Synthetic Brushes
"Synthetic brushes tend to get hard over time," noted Morezak. "Every other cleaning, I use a hair conditioner on them." She recommends selecting a conditioner with as little scent as possible. Follow the same steps you use when shampooing your brushes.
