I'm Sorry, I'm Sorry, I'm Sorry.

A handful of apologies for the lack of posting in the past two months. Anyone, in my world knows of the demotion promotion....which has put me in a role that keeps me incredibly busy. Finally. I will make an effort to post more regularly....so check back.

On my iPod- Solid Gold

Last week, I heard a few songs by Solid Gold on the Current and instantly started lusting after their sound. Sounding a bit like MGMT, check out "Who you gonna run to?" and "Get over it." All songs are available on iTunes and the band will be playing January 28th at the Uptown. See you there.

Hair raising.

[photo: the sartorialist]

The French have always had a level of style that is hard to compete with, never fussy and always cool. Although I have taken to back-combing my hair for a little extra volume, I have never seen it executed on a man so well (or at all for that matter.)

So would you, could you? Or is that one to leave to the French?

On my iPod.

New EP out from Coldplay today.  In my opinion, these guys are brilliant and continue to evolve each release.  Plus, I am still on a cloud after their concert last weekend!  

Perfection.

Scott Schuman always hits the nail right on the head.  What a perfect transitional outfit from fall to winter.  Bonus, you can find the Irish Setter boots (by Red Wing) at Nokomis Shoe here in the Twin Cities.  

Scuff them up...let the laces loose....like I said, perfection.

Man of Style: a follow up.

This week, Men's Style.com featured Paul Newman in their Week In Style.  For a slideshow of Paul's signature style moments, visit men.style.com.

Sole searching.

I am not going to make a point of drawing attention to poor choices (or lack of knowledge) when it comes to a man dressing himself.  I would rather affirm, or suggest ways to improve a look.  

That said, I have noticed this type of shoe on too many men not to say anything.

Unless you are in the service industry (which this gentleman was not) these shoes do nothing but look heavy and rather blah!  Instead, opt for something a sleeker and minus the padded ankle surrounds.  

Just sayin'.

Man of Style: Paul Newman (1925-2008)

With a career that spanned the better half of a century, there is no doubt that Paul Newman's style has evolved throughout.  Newman's on-screen signature was a tight undershirt and slacks, along with Steve McQueen and other 60's stars, typically accessorized with a cigarette and a glass of bourbon.  Paul was the type that tuxedos were made for, even if he preferred a simple pair of trousers and classic buttondown.  

After winning the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 1993, Newman burned the tuxedo, stating that he would never wear black tie again. Leading Newman to give the remainder of his wardrobe away, claiming that a simpler life is a happier life.  This proving best that true style doesn't need to be of the moment, trendy or even expensive, it should represent the wearer.  In Paul's case, a wardrobe of selflessness, compassion and humility.

Note:  Months ago, when reading GQ's 50 Most Stylist Men issue, I jotted down Paul Newman's name as inspiration for a future posting.  Not only a true man of style, but an individual who gave selflessly for so many years.   I have had the opportunity to meet Paul, and be a part of the camps that were his brainchild.  I know I don't speak only for myself when I say thank you, for the life that you lead has changed mine.  I could not think of a better time to honor him.

On my iPod.

Oracular Spectacular by MGMT. Pure Fun

About face.

When it comes to facial hair on a man, I never really cared for it.  That is until recently.  I am unsure if previously I was just exposed to pubecent boys that couldn't grow in a full beard, or TV screens smattered with Spencer Pratt's flesh tone beard,  or even Ashton Kutcher's spotty beard that never seemed to fill out, that lead to my previous dislike-- but something has caused a drastic change of heart.

Through out history, facial hair has represented a sign or maturity and has been the show horse for those of high social status, or even been a matter of necessity in keeping the face warm during harsh winters. That said, its no wonder that when the first signs of puberty hit, boys start growing in their peach fuzz, even if it looks terrible.

When I recently asked a friend of mine what inspired his new beard, he told me that GQ told him that it was the new "in" thing and judging by the amount of young men jumping on the bearded bandwagon, I would say that said friend is right on track.  

 So..."in" thing or not, a few rules are necessary.

1.  If you facial hair is the same color as your skin, facial hair is not for you.  Try accessorizing your face with glasses, or even a hat.

2. Never, and by never...i mean never, shave along your jawline to "clean up" your beard.  By "cleaning up", you also just fattened up- drawing attention to your double chin.  Rather, trim it..leaving some scruff to cover up that baby weight.

3.  Be adventurous.  If you have mastered the beard....venture off to the Fu Man Choo, or the handlebar mustache.  Use this as a platform for individual expression, it is a guaranteed conversation piece.

4. If your facial hair growing in resembles a flea circus more than a beard, mustache, whatever....it may come in with time, but the growing in process can be distracting, and look lazy.

Just sayin'