Celebrity Saturday: James Brown

The 70's saw a plethora of music figures that pushed the envelope in terms of style, from hair rockers to funk masters; and of all of them, a man named James Brown is at the top of the list. Most of us remember the most recent James Brown, a man with long hair and flashy style, but that look didn't just spring up out of nowhere. Even in his early years, Mr. Brown was bringing the heat, wearing classic style pieces in new ways and combinations; a peacoat by itself with a ascot people! He may no longer be with us, but his style should provide you some direction with the spring being so 70's centric. He was the King after all.

Check in tomorrow for a recap of the week's topics and next Saturday for another stylish celebrity influence!

Threads for Though/Friday Faux Pas: Boots and Shorts

Today is going to be a bit of a tandem post, seeing as this topic is a major grey area in the men's fashion world. As the snow thaws and makes way for sunny, but still chilly spring weather, styles begin to blend together, and a little guidance never hurt anyone.

Not so much a fan here.

Boots are the workhorses of the winter, keeping feet cozy and dry, no matter what the conditions are. The style options abound and all with their own character and panache, but not all are so easily or possibly blended into your spring wardrobe. Chances are a pair of 9 inch duck boots or wingtips sit in the closet, waiting to be broken out for the spring, but neither of these would jive with a pair of shorts. High-rise boots require a pant to cover up the shaft of the shoe, presenting it as almost a dress shoe in disguise; shorts just appear to look like boxers to a certain extent.

We're getting somewhere.

Mid-rise boots such as the chukka or boat shoe are both very versatile options that can be worn during the coldest days of winter and just as easily function with a pair of white tailored shorts for a sunny, spring day.The important thing to note is that flirting with the idea of boots and shorts is a dangerous proposition unless it's carefully executed. Experimentation is everything in menswear, so combine different boots with different looks and see how far the rabbit hole can take you.

Now we're talking.

Check in tomorrow for a stylish celebrity influence and next Friday for another installment of my fashion faux pas!

Wardrobe Essential: Transitional Sport Coats

It may seem as though the winter is about to be a permanent resident, but as with every year, it will subside. But between spring and now, a time may come when wearing a puff jacket or heavy wool sport coat may be overkill but a lighter cotton blazer option will leave you freezing your tits off.

When this day comes, don't be the uncomfortable individual that's either sweating or shivering, and make sure to get a perfect transitional piece. Last Spring saw the introduction of the unstructured sport coat, featuring a minimal design that makes it feel almost like a heavy second shirt. These coats carried through the fall and winter with heavier, warmer fabrics while still maintaining a relaxed and movable fit, and guess which item is going to be your best friend come transition.

However, some of these jackets may not make the cut as pieces that will make the jump from winter to spring; a deep grey, wool jacket is not going to fit in too well as a spring item. The bright blues and edgy chalk stripe suits and sport coats that became popular in the past few months are perfect for just this occasion, providing a bold hit of color while still keeping you somewhat cozy. Layering appropriately will also aid in the effort to have a light and airy look synonymous with spring but with the sturdiness of winter still in tact.

Ralph Lauren: $1295

Boglioli: $1095

Patrick James: $417

Check in tomorrow for a fashion piece that deserves your consideration and next Wednesday for another essential style piece!