Wardrobe Essentials: Black Dress Loafer

Originally I thought that I would be able to provide tips on well-being every Wednesday, but it just so happens that I don't have that much advice to offer and it deviates from the core of this fashion blog. So I have decided to veer in the direction of essential items that every man needs in his closet, no matter how fashion forward or conservative they are. One thing that every man needs and the starting point for this Wednesday topic is a quality pair of black loafers.

I'm not talking about driving loafers, those you could do without; I'm referring to a pair that have the ability to be worn with a suit or jeans. The beauty of this type of shoe is that it will always be in stores in a variety of styles, although you should stick to penny or horse-bit loafers. These styles provide a classic touch to your shoe game and, if taken care of properly, will stay with you for years to come. When looking for dress loafers, you'll want a shoe with a high vamp (tongue) on the shoe which will prevent them from looking like old-timer/casual loafers.

Gucci: $670

The iconic black loafer obviously goes to Gucci who has been well known for their quality of leather and shoe construction which goes unrivaled by any other company. If you treat the leather every other week and resole them when necessary, you won't have to buy another pair ever again, which justifies the price tag. If your price point is much lower, like me, then opt for products from Johnston & Murphy or Cole Haan who provide quality and comfort for a bargain.

Johnston & Murphy: $165

Cole Haan: $198

Check in daily for more fashion advice and next Wednesday for more wardrobe essentials!

Tech Tuesday: New Glass for Google

The wearable technology revolution is upon us, and before you know it, everyone will be walking around with some smart piece of something aside from their phone. With that said, we're still pretty far off from any technology that actually is "wearable". As I mentioned in my post about Pebble Steel, the majority of product being released looks absolutely ridiculous, something you wouldn't be caught dead in.

The Split frame seems to be my favorite so far!

Google Glass, the HUD for your life, still falls into the category of "what on earth" with its outlandish slide bar mechanism, camera, and screen all atrociously located on the right side of your head. They are heading in the right direction, though, with their latest release of Google Glass Titanium done in tandem with Maui Jim. They are offering four new frames that accommodate prescription eye wear and three options for sunglasses. The frames are all under $300, but they do not include the Google Glass Hardware, so despite the fact that there will still be an ugly assembly on your ear, at least the frames it'll be on look great.

Check in daily for more fashion advice and next Tuesday for some more exciting technology!

Monday Outlook: Black & White

There seems to be a shift in the world of denim, and it stems from the growth in the start ups within the fashion industry that are looking to put their stamp on society. Companies like Naked & Famous specialize in Japanese selvedge or Mott & Bow who are looking to provide premium jeans, comparable to designer brands, for a not-so-designer price. All of these moves are giving denim giants like Lucky and True Religion a run for their money.

One of the most recent changes and looks that are coming for the beginning of Spring is the introduction of Black and White denim (no, not in the same jeans). Similar to the Fall and Winter trend of colored chinos to add some flare to your winter wardrobe, this trend is looking to take a break from the traditional blue denim.

Black denim has with it a stigma of a grungy, biker look, but we're not talking about a pair of Lee jeans in jet black. This is where the selvedge denim comes into play; it provides a cleaner look and adds the opportunity to put some contrasting color in the stitching when you cuff them up, adding some needed pop to the jeans. Obviously, the better tailored they are, the better they are going to look, just make sure they are well-fitted around the waist and tapered in the leg or else you will look like a member of Sons of Anarchy.

Rogue Territory: $210

White denim is another problematic color choice in jeans. You risk coming off a little queer or be mistaken for a polo player, either way, its not the attention you're looking for. I personally would not partake in this trend simply because I have long legs, and don't want all that white dominating my look. But for those of you brave enough, keep it simple and casual, but for the love of all things holy, do not wear a bright colored polo!

Levi's: $44

Check in daily for more fashion advice and next Monday for some more upcoming trends!