When most people think about jewelry, they initially think about women.

However, men’s jewelry sales comprise 10% of all worldwide jewelry sales - and that figure is
expected to greatly increase over the next several years. This is because more and more
men are deciding to wear rings, bracelets, chain necklaces, and other pieces of jewelry.

Let's check the classic silver aka sterling silver or 925 sterling silver vs the modern stainless
steel:

Sterling Silver

What is sterling silver? Silver, in its natural form is much too soft to be able to be used for
jewelry (or much of anything, for that matter). So, the silver is alloyed with other metals to
make it stronger—thereby creating ‘sterling silver.’ It contains no more than 7.5% of the other
metals, meaning that it is at least 92.5% pure. This is why you can find ‘925’ stamped or
engraved on every sterling silver piece.

Advantages of sterling silver:

* This metal is quite easy for jewelry-makers to work with; therefore, it is simpler for them to
create more intricate types of pieces with sterling silver.

* The tarnish that can develop on sterling silver is well-liked by some people.

Disadvantages of sterling silver:

* The aforementioned tarnish is not so well-liked by other people; some people dislike how
sterling silver looks as it ages.

* Because this material is so soft, it is susceptible to dings, dents, and scratches.

Stainless Steel

What is stainless steel? It is a steel alloy made up of a certain percentage of chromium.
There are actually about 150 different types of stainless steel—the type used for jewelry is not
the same as the stainless steel used for your travel coffee mug or for your kitchen appliances.
Each type has a different chemical make-up.

Advantages of stainless steel:

* Stainless steel pieces will not oxidize or tarnish at all.

* Many people find it to be shinier than sterling silver because it offers great light reflection
when it is polished to look like chrome.

* Stainless steel can also be brushed to look like pewter, too.

* Stainless steel is extremely durable and will resist dents, scratches, and chips better than
most any other jewelry material.

* The cost of stainless steel is quite affordable - much more so than jewelry pieces made from
other materials.

Disadvantages of stainless steel:

* People may know that you have not spent a lot of money on a piece of jewelry (this may or
may not be an issue for some jewelry wearers).

Looking over these characteristics, it is pretty easy to see why most men are turning
toward stainless steel for jewelry pieces more often nowadays. Perhaps you should
give it a try?

Spring is here, and summer is following too, so time now to pack up all the woolens and
jackets.

It’s a thing of past that men’s fashion never changed for decades, now the age is of metro and
retro sexual men thus resulting in continuous evolution of men’s apparel and suits.

The key fabric this year and for many more years to come is cotton and natural fibre.

Renowned fashion houses like Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton and DKNY added cotton suits to
their collections. This could be a trend we will see for years to come.

Suit Trends in the Year 2009:

This year one will notice a striking change in the field of men’s suiting.

The classics are the biggest influence and inspiration visible in the fashion circuit and it has
undoubtedly affected the formal wear as well.

The slim look suits are out this season but as the inspiration is classic then one cannot ignore
the fact that the best example of a classic suit is the English one, and the best English suit
has always had a slim, military cut to them.

The suits this season is a blending of classic looks and tailoring with masculine shape. The
dominant pattern includes broad shoulders, slim waist and slim trousers.

Double Breasted Suits - This season the emphasis is on highlighting the perfect masculine
silhouette i.e. the V- shaped well worked body. Slim cut is what one must look for in a double
breasted suit in 2009. “Kent” cut is the most famous cut this season which will convey height
and if cut correctly, a slimmer waist.

Three-Piece Suits – In 2009 we will witness the return of the three-piece suit. especially the
waistcoat is back but it is more subtle and classic.

The three-piece in 2009 is all about unity; this means that the waistcoat has to be
conservative and, thus, in the same fabric as the suit's other two pieces. If one do wants to
venture outside the realm of three matching pieces, a similar color palette should be
utilized and any pattern except for stripes must be avoided; one can pair a pinstripe black suit with a
pinstripe charcoal waistcoat.

If we're returning to the classics with double breasted and three-piece suits in 2009, then it
stands to reason that we're also returning to classic cloth patterns.

Moreover, the coupling of the classics with the current men's fashion revitalization means this
is the perfect time to reintroduce patterns into your wardrobe.

Accessories, quite unlike its literal meaning are no longer just an ornamental part of a man’s
ensemble. These are items that one wears for main two reasons:

For performing some sort of practical function, like a watch to check the time, and for
boosting your outfit stylistically, like cool shades or designer cufflinks.

When accessories are worn with the intention of standing out in a crowd, they can really make
one’s outfit a class apart.

If you want to make an individual style statement, then accessories in the form of a scarf or a
simple necktie can create a dramatic impact.

The modern man is fast realizing the importance of accessories in his wardrobe. A good one
can transform even the most mundane outfit and rather than discarding those outfits worn nth
number of times why not enhance it and give a new look by adding some trendy accessories .

Eyewear - Increasingly, eyeglasses are being taken up as fashion accessories for men of all
ages. Adding eyeglasses to one’s outfit can have the effect of making you look more
sophisticated and classy. Non prescription lenses are mainly used in eyeglasses used as
accessories so as not to deform the vision of those wearing them. Sunglasses on the other
hand can impart both a trendy as well as stylish look, but one must select the frame with
utmost care as it can make or mar one’s fashion statement.

Neckties and Scarves - It was in ancient time that a tie signified social status. Now it is
sported as a fashion accessory .It can be further stylized by a fine tie-bar although this will
give a more formal look but nevertheless leave an impact.

Slim narrow ties can also add a trendy, fashionable touch to your outfit.

Watches – It is no longer a timepiece used mainly to know the time but becoming a style
statement in itself. A designer watch on your wrist can draw attention to it for many years to
come. While choosing a watch you must take into consideration your lifestyle. Casual
watches don’t blend in office or formal situations it can create a negative style statement.

Belts – The general rule is matching your belt with your shoes which gives a formal look -
Black shoes, black belt. But for a rocker look, team a metal studded belt or a big buckle, with
some dark skinny jeans.

Shoes - A perfect outfit is nothing without the right pair of shoes. It can make or break an
entire ensemble. Five pairs one must have are: ankle boot, brown and black dress shoes,
sneakers and casual shoes.

Hit the pavement in style this summer with these few tips in mind.

Decades ago the relationship between men and jewelry were only to the extent to what they
bought for their wife, fiancés and girlfriends, but that is the things of past, now jewelry for men
are becoming an integral part, be it a fashion show or a jewelry design course you will find
them showcased simultaneously with women’s jewelry.

Men’s jewelry are more in the stainless steel, tungsten, titanium, silver, or white gold range,
although yellow gold is also available in the market but less preferred by men, only the more
adventurous one’s go for it.

Here are some hot favorites in the arena of men’s jewelry:

Rings: It’s no longer an indication of your marital status the one worn on the ring finger, but a
ring these days is being sported on any finger even the thumb you only have to know how to
carry it off.

Simple steel rings, platinum, or the current favorite tungsten bands look elegant and
sophisticated but for a subtle dramatic look one can place a gem on it.

Bracelets and links: This piece of jewelry is also fast becoming a craze; again the most
commonly used metals are stainless steel, silver and gold.

Leather, beaded and woven wristbands are also very popular and suits the daily look and
informal occasions.

Necklaces: The mantra to look elegant and classy in a neckpiece is to sport a metallic one
that is neither too thin to create a feminine look nor to too bulky to represent a cowboy or
fraudster appearance. For a more trendy look you can go for a beaded or wooden one, but
make sure that it matches your outfit, otherwise it can look tacky.

Watches: Last but not the least a watch is also considered as a piece of jewelry. A good one
is a symbol of prestige and reflects your taste. A stainless steel or leather band watch goes
with all outfits and suits all occasions.

All the conventional thinkers who raised eyebrows at the mention of men’s jewelry - its time to
change your perspective.

If you are a woman then dazzle that someone special in your life: your father, son, brother,
husband, fiancé or your boyfriend with an artistic piece of jewelry which they will cherish for life.

If you are a man and don’t yet have a single jewelry to boast about then don’t wait for
Christmas and just venture out and get yourself a piece or two.

Color can seem to be such a mystery when it comes to clothing.

There are some people out there who seem to have it all together, who seem to be dressed
perfectly all of the time - and then there are the rest of the people, the ones who can’t seem to
figure out what shirt goes with what pair of pants.

It doesn’t help that adult clothing is much more complicated than children’s clothing.
Remember how the entire Garanimals clothing line for kids contained nothing but color-
coordinated pieces - and how any pair of pants would match literally any shirt? This certainly
isn’t the case for men’s clothing…

So, to help out with that, to make color-coordinating easier for men’s clothing - here are some
suggestions on how best to match colors when putting outfits together.

Now, these aren’t ‘rules,’ as there can be many variations on how color is put together;
however, following these suggestions can at least get you out the door without looking like a clown:

Avoid colored pants -

Colored pants really don’t look good on men. Keep your pants a basic, neutral color—black,
or some shade of grey, tan, khaki, or brown will do nicely and will be simple to match. Or, if
you are dressing for a casual day, jeans would be great!

Since you have chosen neutrally-colored pants (or jeans), the rest of your outfit will not be
difficult to choose as far as colors go.

If your pants are black or grey, stay away from shirts that have any shade of brown in them as
these will not pair well. Pants that are tan, khaki or brown or jeans can be paired with just about any color of shirt.

Choosing a shirt -

When choosing a shirt color, though, it is wise to avoid choosing a shirt that is very close to
the exact color of your pants or jeans. When you wear a shirt and pant of the same color, it
looks like a uniform.

Opting for a pattern on a shirt is fine, just keep to a minimal pattern and make sure that
everything else that you choose is neutral.

Socks -

Socks should be close to the color of your pants. As for shoes, avoid brown shoes unless
you are dressing casually; business work attire should be accompanied by black shoes.

Here are a few common color pairings that can assist you in putting outfits together:

Use these in conjunction with the suggestions above and you will have no trouble with your
color-coordination:

Light colors (pastels) should be paired with dark grey or black pants. Wearing a pastel shirt
with, say, tan pants might just make you look like an Easter egg.

Two bright, vivid colors should not be worn at the same time - choose only one. Otherwise,
your outfit could induce headaches in passersby.

Wearing different shades of one color from head to toe is a good idea. For example, wearing
a pair of navy pants, a light blue button shirt, and a dark blue cardigan would look quite nice.

Trying to find a color that works for your skin tone isnt the easiest thing in the
world.Here are some quick tips to help you choose:

1. Fair Skin - If you are a blond or a redhead, you need to stick with dark colors.
Your pale skin looks even worse when paired with white. Go with navy, blues, basic black
or a sage green.

2. Sallow Skin - If you look a bit yellow or green, you definitely need to avoid wearing these colors.
A yellow shirt will just make you look like a giant banana. Go with whites, blues and black.

3. Darker Skin - You have it made. Pretty much all colors work for you. Stay away from dark browns
or dull colors that dont highlight your gorgeous color.

Now, lets move onto eye color and what will highlight your features:

4. Blue Eyes - If you want to bring out your baby blues, youve got to wear blue. Look for shirts that match the color of
your eyes.This will really make them more noticeable.

5. Brown Eyes with Red Tones - If you have dark brown eyes that have flecks or stripes of red, you need to go with warm
tones to highlight them. Stick with oranges, reds or yellows.

6. Brown Eyes with Green Tones - If you have a hint of green in your eyes, youll want to bring it out. Purple, especially
plum,is the ideal color to do this. Youll be amazed at how green your eyes look.

7. Green or Hazel Eyes - These eyes can get lost in a color shuffle. If they are green, wear similar green colors to
draw attentionto them. Hazel is a little more difficult. Pick the color you want to draw out the most for blue, wear blue,
for green, wear green.

So, thats out the way.

Lets move onto what season you are. Yes, this will actually help you find the right colors for you.
First, look at the underside of your arm. Do the veins appear blue or green? If they are blue, you are a cool tone.
If they are green, you are a warm tone.

8. Cool Tones - Winter/Spring These skin colors look best in primary colors. Look for bright shirts in teal,
purple or Kelly green.You can get away with bold color choices. What colors do you associate with Winter and Spring?
This is your jumping off point for color choices.

9. Warm Tones - Summer/Autumn These skin colors need earth tones. Neutral colors or pale primary colors work
best for you.Think of the season to help you pick the right colors.

10. Stuck in the Middle - If you have a skin tone thats really neither pale nor sallow, you can get away with mixing up
your warmand cool tones. Pair bright bold colors with a more subtle earth tone to capitalize on your versatility. For example,
a bright blue shirt will work well with a pair of drab khakis.

If you want to avoid the inevitable what do I wear crisis, its important to have
ten key pieces in your closet.

You may need to spend a little extra on a few of these items, but youll always be prepared for
that surprise event. Here are the ten key pieces no man can do without.

1. Designed jeans - Every man should have at least one pair of designed jeans.
They dont have to be trendy or strange, just nice pair of good looking jeans that make you look good.

2. Button down shirt - This is an essential wardrobe piece that can be dressed up or down. Pick a color that will give you
the most options, such as white or light blue. Remember,a dressier fabric is easier to dress down than a rumpled cotton
shirt is to dress up.

3. Leather belt - Even if you despise belts, they can really pull a whole outfit together. Look for one with simple hardware
thats not too flashy. Pick a color that matches your dressiest shoes or that will go with most of your wardrobe. Black is
always an excellent choice.

4. A nice suit - Even if you dont think youll ever need to wear a suit, it doesnt hurt to have one on hand.Whether its a
surprise wedding reception or a fancy date, youll be all ready to go. Expect to pay $1500 to $2000 for a nice suit,
but it should last you at least ten years. Go for a classic cut in either navy or black to get more wear out of it.

5. Dress slacks - There are times when jeans are too little and a suit is too much. A classic pair of dress slacks always
solvesthis problem. Whether you want to look nice for a date or you need to impress the boss, dress slacks are essential.
Get a pair in a neutral color that will go with everything.

6. Dress shoes - Theres no point in getting all these dressy items if you have a lousy pair of boots to go with them.
Get at least onepair of nice dress shoes, preferably in black. Stay away from wingtips and stick with a classic shoe that
will give you the most wear.

7. Leather bomber jacket - There is nothing like a bomber jacket. Dressed up or dressed down, they always work.

8. Nice overcoat - For the times when you just cant get by with a bomber jacket, youll need a nice dress coat.
For colder climates,get one is a nice wool. You can get away with a nice fabric trench coat if you live in warmer areas.

9. Designed t-shirt - You should have at least one solid color designer t-shirt in your wardrobe. This is the shirt that can go
with jeans, slacks and everything in between. The fabric should be very high quality and it should be fitted in shape.

10. Sunglasses - The right pair of sunglasses will complete an outfit. Look for a classic aviator style that will go well with everything.

There are going to be occasions when you must wear a tie.

If you have never tied your own tie before, now is the time to learn how. Dont think that
a clip-on tie is acceptable - it isnt.

If you are going on a job interview or meeting with prospective new clients at an important
business conference, chances are someone will notice that you are wearing a clip-on tie.
You need to know how to tie your own tie.

There are actually a few different ways in which a tie can be knotted.
The most common is called the Windsor Knot.

This is the thick, wide triangular-shaped knot that you have seen on nearly everyone wearing a tie.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to tie a Windsor Knot:

1. Stand in front of a mirror in a button-down shirt. Place the tie around your neck with one end hanging on each side of
your neck.The wide end of the tie needs to hang about 12 inches longer than the narrow end of the tie, so adjust the tie
as necessary until thisis the case.Place the wide end of the tie on top of the narrow end, forming an X on your chest.

2. Next, take the wide end of the tie in your hand and bring it up under the X and through the loop between the collar of
your shirt and the tie. (This loop is the top of the X.) Let the wide end of the tie come back down to where it was previously.

3. Pull the wide end of the tie behind the X (under the narrow end of the tie) to the right. Take it back through the loop and
to the right again so that the wide end of the tie is now showing inside-out.

4. Now bring the wide end of the tie across the front of the X from right to left.

5. Bring the wide end of the tie back up behind the X and through the loop between the collar of your shirt and the
tie (the same loop at the top of the X again).

6.Take the wide end of the tie and pull it down through the loop that now exists in the front of the tie.

7. Finally, use both of your hands and tighten the knot very carefully as you adjust the tie so that it is snug at the neck.

Of course, the very first time you tie your own tie, it probably wont look very good.You may even mess up a few times,
making mistakes on the steps or misinterpreting the steps.However, any many can tell you that learning to expertly tie a
tie takes a great deal of practiceno one can perfectly tie a tie his first time trying. So, you need to keep trying and
keep practicing - over and over again.Soon enough, you will be able to tie a tie with your eyes closed!

Your dads old stuff can actually be a gold mine for retro and vintage styles,
Here are some tips on what to look for when you raid his closet:

1. Classic, bulky watches - These watches always last the test of time.
The battery might be dead, but thats it. Find a classic watch and give it some new life.
If the band is a little worn, look for a similar one or find a band made of alligator leather
to give it a touch of vintage.

2. Denim - Retro denim is still hot today.
These pieces were made with real care and chances are, youll still get years of wear out of them.
Look for classic brands of the time period like Levis for that put together look. If you can find an old denim jacket,
you are truly in luck. This was really the time period when denim began to take over the fashion world and the designs
and styles are truly unique.

3. Anything in Argyle - Argyle used to be all the rage and if you want a true vintage look, you should have at least one
piece with this pattern. Look for vintage argyle socks or the ever popular sweater vest.

4. Speaking of Sweater Vests - This is an old standard that is the epitome of retro looks. They usually came in classic
simple colors like navy, but every now and again you can find a bright one. This really completes the whole retro look.

5. Papas Got a Really Old Bag - Vintage bags are fabulous finds. Typically, they were made out of really good leather
so they will still have a lot of use left in them. Whether its an old bowling bag or a briefcase, give it a quick clean with
leather conditioner and youll be set.

6. Classic Wallets - There was a time when all wallets looked alike. They were basically square and served one purpose,
doing it very well. Typically, theyll be made out of alligator like leather or classic pebbled leather. Again, these will still have
years of use left in them.

7. Old Jewelry - Whether its a classic class ring or love beads, your dad probably still has memorabilia running around
from his youth. Complete your retro look with these jewelry pieces after a quick clean.

8. Old Belts - You probably remember having your hide tanned by one of these. Put it to good use and reuse your dads old
leather belts. The bigger the buckle the better. If they have a little wear, take them to a leather shop for some reconditioning.

9. Old Chinos - The staple of the average Joe in the 50s. Jeans werent quite popular back then but nearly everyone
had a pair of classic chinos. The material may still be a little rough, but thats why theyre still around after all these years.

10. Old Bowling Gear - Most dads used to bowl and chances are, they had a special shirt. Look for an old shirt that
has your dads name embroidered on it or the name of his bowling league. These are great vintage finds that look great
no matter what time you live in.

Several new trends are becoming very hot for 2008. Mens accessories are usually overlooked,
but men are quickly catching on. Heres what is hot right now:

Scarves - With just a few cold months left in the year,
there is still time to pick up a great scarf. Look for the comfortable Kashmir or cotton woo
l scarves in neutral tones. Gray has made a huge comeback as well and works with several
colors. If you have one main coat, look for a scarf that will coordinate with it. Otherwise,
feel free to get a little bold and daring if you want to show your wild side. Scarves should be
about 60 to 70 inches in length. Make sure you avoid ones that are too long or too short.

Leather Accessories - A nice leather neck rope or bracelet is very popular right now.
Combining leather with stainless steel is also quite hot and presents a nicely polished finish.
For necklaces, go with a thinner style to avoid having it look like a dog collar. For bracelets,
look for multi-strand leather bands that incorporate tribal or other interesting designs. Black is
the most popular color, but you can mix it up with cream or brown to keep it interesting.

Stainless Steel Jewelry - These are incredibly popular this year. Look for a nice stainless steel cuff bracelet or a pendant
that can be worn in several different ways. These are signature pieces that you can wear everyday and are even suitable
for most workplaces.

Bold Pendants - Bold silver pendants are definitely hot items right now. Pair them with a nice chain or a leather cord for
a polished look. Cross and spear pendants are particularly hot right now, but any bold shape that incorporates an interesting
design will work as well.

Cuffs and Armbands - Bold cuff like bracelets and armbands are very big this year. Look for metals or if you are feeling
really bold, go with a nice big leather cuff. Armbands are a bit smaller and should be worn on the upper arms. This is a great
way to really define your upper arm muscles.

Hats - Trucker hats are dead and gone, but a simple ball cap is still very in, look for ripped edges and embroidered.Camo and
washed colors are very hot right now. Try to avoid a hat that is too flashy or strange and stick with neutral colors that will coordinate
with just about everything. Make sure you have enough hats to wear to avoid the dreaded dirty hat look.

Messenger Bags - This is a continuing trend, but we are seeing more use of leathers and other bold fabrics. Look for the
hand crafted and vintage. Popular designs include faded or distressed brown leather or suede.

One of the best things about fashion is that sooner or later, trends will come back
around. Retro really never left and in fact, its hotter than ever. Here are some tips
on how to score some great retro gear.

1. Check out yard sales - This is the absolute paradise for a retro bargain hunter.
Look for sales that include a variety of mens clothing and accessories. You should be
able to score some authentic vintage pieces that will have years of wear left in them.

2. Visit Vintage Second-Hand Stores - Second hand stores are a literal gold mine for retro
styles. From old bowling shirts to classic logo tees, youll be able to find some rare trips down memory lane.

3. Find a Flea Market - One mans forgotten trash could be your treasure. Flea markets are chock full of vintage clothing,
accessories, and memorabilia from yesteryear. From your Hopalong Cassidy plate to your retro Hawaiian shirt, youll be
decked out from head to toe to kitchen.

4. Estate Auctions - If youre lucky enough to find a pack rats auction, you can really score some great old shirts that will
have you looking like you stepped out of the 50s in no time.

5. Look New - Old clothes really not your bag? New designers are constantly revisiting the past. Look for new retro styles
in your local department stores. Find which brands consistently put out retro clothing and stick with them.

6. Raid Your Old Mans Closet - Chances are your dad still has that old favorite shirt of his lying around somewhere.
See what you can find in there or look in the basement for treasures long packed away.

7. Go Boutiquing - Designers that may not be able to make into the larger department stores usually have great retro
styles in their boutiques. Sure, you may feel a little odd in a trendy boutique, but you can find some great new gear there.

8. Will Travel for Clothes - Running out of resources in your local area? Look for small town vintage shops. These are gold
mines for retro apparel,especially if you can find a great second hand shop in an out-of-the-way hole in the wall.

9. Spread some Goodwill - Yes, Goodwill is still the best place to find vintage retro apparel and accessories.
Even better? The prices are usually dirt cheap. Take some time to go through each rack, hidden treasures are usually
the last thing you find.

10. Get on eBay - We saved the best one for last. You can find just about anything in the world on eBay.This is a
fantastic place to get some truly retro gear. Whether you want classic bowling shirts, snappy tees or vintage accessories
this is the best place to start.

Fashion is no longer just for women. There are many ways that men can stay
as fashionable and as up to date as their female counterparts.

Here are some great tips to help you look your best:.

1. Stick with styles that suit you - Sometimes the trendiest clothing is not the right choice
for you. If you have a personal style, stick with it. Otherwise, youll just look uncomfortable and
thats not the impression you want to give. Thats not to say you cant change things up a little,
but dont try to become an entirely different person.

2. Invest in a few good pieces - Its easy to waste your money on designer clothes, but not everyone can afford to that.
Instead, focus on three key designer items that are necessary for every mans closet. First, a nice pair of designer jeans.
Get a classic cut that will never go out of style. Second, a nice designer button-down shirt. Youll get a lot of wear out of this one.
Third, a designer suit. These three pieces can get you through just about anything.

3. Dont forget outerwear - A lot of people tend to focus only on their clothes, forgetting coats. You should have at least
one nice coat that can transition from casual to business easily.

4. Dont forget underwear - On the same token, you dont want to skimp on what lies beneath. Invest in some high quality
underwear in the style that suits you. These will last much longer than the cheap kind and they are a lot more comfortable.
When youre comfortable down there, youre comfortable everywhere.

5. Get some great tees - T-shirts are versatile and a necessary part of everyones wardrobe. Look for a few high quality tees
made of expensive cotton that look like a million bucks. Throw in a few vintage tees for good measure, but dont go too overboard.

6. Dont forget the slacks - While everyone loves to wear jeans, sometimes they just arent appropriate. If you dont have
a need to wear a suit, you should at least have one pair of nice dress slacks. Whether you need them for a date or you just
want a change, its nice to have a pair on hand.

7. Invest in nice shoes - Shoes really complete a polished picture, if they are done right. You should have at least one
pair of the following shoes on hand: running shoes, dress shoes, casual shoes, hiking boots, and a pair of dressy boots.
Keep them clean and polished at all times.

8. Remember to accessorize - All men need at least one dress watch and one casual watch, as well as an assortment
of nice neck chains and/or bracelets. Dont go overboard with the jewelry, but a nice chain can really complete an outfit.

9. Tie it all together- Ties can actually be a lot of fun. If you dont own a tie right now, go out and buy at least one
classic tie. Stick with solids if you are afraid of matching them with shirts, or get funky with some cool patterns if you
want to change it up a bit.

10. Keep them looking good - No matter how much you spend on clothes; if you throw them on the floor, theyre going
to look awful. Take care of your clothes and make sure you follow the care instructions properly. Dry cleaning is expensive,
but well worth it sometimes.

Whether it is brand spanking new or crumpled up in the back of your dad's closet,
Retro fashion is still hot. Here are some tips on what to get if you want to look like
a classic hipster:

1. The Old Bowling Shirt - Did this one ever really go out of style? Well, yes,
but only for a little while. The classic bowling shirt is a rare retro find that will have you
looking for a strike in no time. Look for bowling shirts with team names still embroidered
on them or classic designs on the back.

2. Funky Shoes - Retro shoes that look like they were stolen off of a bandleader's
feet are still very hot. Look for classic saddle shoes or spectators. The best material is
of course alligator if you really want that retro feel. When worse comes to worse, an old pair
of bowling shoes will still work.

3. Ringneck Tees - These are still old standards in any retro closet. Ringneck tees, whether they are long sleeve or short,
are a quick way to feel retro the minute you slip them on. Look for tees with a little wear on them if you are going for that
true vintage look.

4. The Hawaiian Shirt - If you're looking for an old Hawaiian shirt, remember, louder is better. Look for bright and
bold prints that scream "I'm retro!" You can really have a lot of fun with these.

5. Chains and Jewelry - This was the era of the fraternity pins, class rings and awesome chains. Look for unique pieces
of jewelry that will complete your whole retro look.

6. Classic Denim - Jeans were just starting to take off during this period and they were made so well, chances are they'll
still be good for plenty of years to come. The designs of this time period were simple, but the workmanship and pocket details
will still stand the test of time.

7. Wide Ties - The 50's were the era of the really wide tie. Look for some classic models with 50's prints but don't go overboard.
If you don't want to go quite that retro, skinny ties were all the rage in the 60's and may work better with modern shirts.

8. Work Shirts - Even if your name isn't Bob and you never worked at a gas station, these work shirts can go to work
for you. Nothing says retro quite like someone else's old work shirt.

9. Old Forgotten Brands - The best shirts are the ones that advertise for company's that have long been extinct.
Look for strange shirts with even stranger slogans on them. This will give you a truly retro look and feel. Classic tshirts
for retro brands are still very hip. Look for an old Coca-Cola tee or even shirts for bands back in the day.
The crazier the better with these shirts.

10. Don't forget your hair - If you really want to go retro, don't forget to include your head. Study classic styles from the 50's and
go to an old fashioned barber. You'll look like you just stepped out of a time capsule.

If you want success, you have to dress for it!

Most everyone is familiar with the saying, Dont judge a book by its cover.
However, hardly anyone seems to follow that advice. People do judge other
people by how they look and by what clothing they are wearing.

Quite often, it seems as if the cover of the book or our clothing is much more
important than the books contents. This isnt fair, of course; however, thats just the way life is.

The reality is that you are going to be judged based upon what you are wearing.
Your boss, your colleagues, your clients and sometimes even your family and friends - all of
these people and more will be looking at what you are wearing and making decisions about you based upon what they see.

Here are some suggestions on how to make sure that your clothing makes a great impression upon everyone
who matters:

1. Dont just buy clothes off the racks at the store

Often, those dont fit everyones body types. Instead, purchase the clothing that fits you best; If you want to go the
extra mile here, head to a tailor who can customize the shirts, pants, and jackets to your exact measurements.
While youre at it, have the tailor put cuffs on the pants. This makes the pants hang nicely and keeps them from
climbing up your legs as you walk.

2. Wear mostly neutral or dark colors  

The main parts of your outfit should be comprised of neutrals or darks; However, you can have a less common accent
color as a small part of your outfit. For example: your tie or pocket square (if you wear one) could be an accent color.

3. No "super" flashy patterned ties  

Yes, you can wear an accent color on your tie, perhaps with a mild, understated pattern; but, cutesy cartoon ties or loud
patterns are not acceptable.

4. Wear dark socks and dark (preferably black) shoes

Brown shoes are acceptable as well with the right outfit, but make sure your socks match it. Your belt should match your
shoes - and, yes, always wear a beltno suspenders, ever.

5. Dress shirts should be white, off-white, or light blue  

If you choose any other color, you will find it difficult to find a tie to match; therefore, you will typically wear the same tie
every time you wear that shirt. People will notice after awhile, and it will become like a set uniform - youll become the
Thursday - light-green -shirt-with-the-green-and-brown-tie guy. Stripes and squares patterns are ok as well, but it should
match your outfit and shouldnt be too dominant.

6. If it's not "Causal Tuesday" - avoid the Short-sleeved shirts

You dont want to take off your sports or suit coat and be wearing a short-sleeved shirt. You arent going to get too
hot in a long sleeved dress shirt - nearly everywhere has air-conditioning these days. However, even if you do get hot,
rolled-up sleeves look better than a short-sleeved dress shirt.

7. All of your clothing needs to be neat, clean, and wrinkle-free

You could be wearing a high-end, expensive suit that has been custom-tailored - but, you wont impress anyone if it
has a stain on the pant leg or if the suit jacket looks as if it were slept in. Dry cleaning might be a little expensive
sometimes but it well worth it!

The metro look is one of the hottest around and its not hard to emulate.
If you want to be a metro man, youll be well on your way if you follow these steps:

1. Grooming - Before you get to the clothes, youve got to start with grooming.
Metro men have impeccable hair cuts and they wax or shave any unnecessary hair.
Painful, yes, but the overall effect makes it worth it.

2. Textures - The texture of the clothing you wear is very important. You want to go with the most
opulent fabrics you can find. Look for cashmere sweaters and tee shirts, or high quality cotton.
Your shirts should be soft and well tailored.

3. Cut - Metro men are tailored and always look sharp. Look for classic suits that present a professional and polished impression.
For regular clothes, look for tight tees and expensive designer jeans.

4. Style - Metro men wear the latest fashions. Subscribe to a few mens fashion magazines so you can stay on top of
all the latest trends.

5. Cologne - No metro man is complete without a dash of expensive cologne. Try to find a scent that fits your particular personality.
If youre going for sensual, an oriental or musky scent is right for you. More of an outdoorsy type?
Look for cologne with a fresh and clean scent.

6. Accessories - Youll need plenty of accessories to get started. First, a very nice expensive watch. Silver or gold are a
good place to start, but a leather band always look nice too. Next, youll need a fine chain for your neck in the color that
suits your complexion the best. A tasteful ring isnt out of the question either, or a few bracelets to complete the look.

7. Shoes - Never overlook this important part of your outfit. Shoes can be classic or trendy, but they have to look good.
Keep them polished and clean at all times. No metro man would be caught dead in a pair of scuffed and ratty shoes.

8. Go Digital - Metro men typically have a variety of digital accessories, including a cell phone,
Blackberry, Laptop and an iPod.

9. Leather Goods - Youll need a nice leather bag to keep all your stuff together. Look for a high quality bag that
will withstand the rigors of every day use. Make sure it has a padded portion for your laptop and other essentials.

10. Maintenance - Once youve got your look pulled together, you need to keep it up. Invest in some male facial cleansers,
toners and moisturizers. Dont be afraid to get a manicure to keep your hands looking neat and clean.

Put all of these hints together and you can see just how easy it is to go metro.

There is nothing wrong with a well-groomed, well-dressed man. Just remember to keep everything up and stay on top
of all the latest fashion trends to make sure you dont fall behind.

A great number of men really like leather accessories - they can definitely add style
and substance to an outfit.

Leather belts, leather shoes, and leather bags (such as laptop bags) are all quite common.
However, when you get some leather gear, it is absolutely essential that you take care of it.
Nothing looks worse than dry, cracked, old-and-not-taken-care-of leather accessories.

Here are some great tips on how to take care of your leather gear:

1. Right after you buy a new leather product (or right after someone gives you one as a gift)
apply a high-quality leather cream/conditioner. These can be found at any leather goods store
or search online. Reapply about two or three times per year to maintain the leather and to help
provide water resistance.

The way to apply cream/conditioner is to use a gentle, lint-free cloth. Apply a very small amount of the cream/conditioner to
the cloth and then rub onto the leather product in small circles (remember that Karate Kid movie and how he had to wax on,
wax off?). You need to use a very small amount and then rub and buff it in as gently as possible. If you use too much,
the leather will not absorb it, so simply wipe off any excess.

2. If any leather product gets wet, allow it to air-dry naturally, away from any source of heat. Do not lay your leather gloves
on a radiator to speed the drying; do not use a hair dryer to accelerate the drying of your leather shoes. When the leather is
almost dry, apply a bit of leather cream/conditioner to restore flexibility.

3. Never use mink oil or other animal fats on your leather, despite what anyone else tells youthis will darken your leather.
Besides that, it can turn your leather rancid, making the stitching and the leather rot.

4. Leather bags should be stored empty, but stuffed with tissue paper. This will help them to retain their shape.

5. Leather shoes and boots should be stored with the use of shoe trees. If you dont have shoe trees, stuff tissue paper
inside to maintain the shape of the shoes or boots.

6. To clean smooth leather surfaces, use a soft, damp sponge or cloth. Do not use anything containing alcohol.
If your leather product is too dirty for just water,try Neutrogena Facial Soap (yes, the same type found in the facial
care aisle at the drugstorenot the exfoliating type, though).This is very mild on the face; therefore,many leather
aficionados recommend it for use with leather. It is important to know that the cream/conditioner that you use with
your leather goods as well as any shoe polish or other leather products can be toxic.Use them in a well-ventilated
area and keep them out of the reach of children.Do not allow your children to assist you with these parts of leather care.

Follow these, and your leather accessories will be looking great for many years!