Tastehunter

Left: Peak Lapel || Right: Notch Lapel

I hate to say it because I always think George Clooney looks like a million bucks (and my image and style consulting clients often request looks reminiscent of his signature nonchalance), but I was struck watching last night’s Oscars by how much less sharp than usual he looked. Time and time again, we’ve seen him bang-on in peak and shawl lapel tuxes (which btw are the only “correct” types of lapels for a tux, according to tradition). But last night’s rule-breaking notch lapel was, I think, a mistake. Take a look at the images above where the peak lapel is on the left, and the notch is on the right. It’s a subtle difference, and of course that’s why I love menswear, but he looks sharper, taller (he needs all the help he can get next to Stacey Keibler!), and more built through his chest with the peak lapel. Not to mention, the peak draws the viewer’s eye up toward his face, highlighting his eyes, strong features and great haircut. Usually it’s the younger guys who are still figuring out their personal style that experiment with tux details (think long ties instead of bowties, etc.), but once you’ve reached a certain age/sense of style and are known for always nailing classics, there’s no reason to push the envelope. At a certain point, you’re just pushing it the wrong way.

What do you think? Do you prefer the peak to the notch on Clooney too?

I can’t believe it’s already been three weeks since my trip to Paris. I had a spectacular time wandering the city and checking out all the shops on my list. When it comes to how the men over there style themselves, I will say this — French men wear scarves like nobody’s business. Even once indoors, the jacket comes off, but the scarf stays on. It’s clearly an integral part of the outfit. Below are a couple mannequin shots I took outside Eglé Bespoke demonstrating different ways to incorporate a scarf into your look.

dressy

casual

Note in both images how the scarf doesn’t cover up the other detail at the neckline — tie knot or collars. It actually adds visual interest and dimension to the look, making it more sophisticated. Another nice thing about adding neckline detail is that it draws the eye upward making you look taller and flattering your chest. On top of that, the vertical lines created by the downward drape of the scarf are slimming…scarves for the win!

Below are a few more images from the trip:

Doorway on Rue du Mont Thabor

These button cufflinks are an easy way to add color to your wardrobe -- and a nice change from the silk knot.

Looking out the window of the Musée Carnavalet in the Marais

Surprisingly, this taxidermy ceiling at Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature did not give me bad dreams.

Patterned socks are a small detail that pack a lot of style punch (remember, only a sliver of the pattern is visible to others)

Snowy night on Pont des Arts

Caught myself in this one

What is said to be the most romantic day of the year is coming up, so on that note, below are my top five tips on how to get this Valentine’s Day thing right this year!

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1) Get her flowers. Yes, it may feel trite, and she may have even told you not to do so, but trust me, she wants them. Pass on the carnations and go with a bouquet of roses — white or purple are a nice change from the standard red.

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2) Accessorize yourself. Valentine’s Day is a fantastic time to inject your everyday look a shot of romance. Don’t worry, I’m not talking about anything strange or tacky (tuxedo’d monkey holding flowers: I’m looking at you), but rather selecting an accessory or two that shows your date you put a little extra thought into your outfit. If normally wear solid socks, this might be your day to bust through the Gold Toe barrier. Try these jammies from Paul Smith ($33). Remember, just a peek of the pattern will be showing (er, depending on how the evening goes). The dyed copper tie bar ($15) above Pauis another great option that gives a lot of style bang for minimal buck.

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3) Bear gifts. She said she doesn’t want a present? Of course she wants a present (see point #1). You can do no wrong with lingerie from Kiki De Montparnasse. Another tried and true gift is jewelry. But think outside the Tiffany box on this one; it’ll show her you put some effort into finding something unique and special for her. I am a big fan of Borgioni’s triple diamond slice necklace for its unconventional take on diamonds by the yard.

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4) Step away from the Hallmark aisle. Hand crafted greeting cards are luxurious (c’mon, it’s an $8 card) but not that luxurious (c’mon, it’s only $8). The few additional dollars you’ll spend on this card will go a long way.

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5) Quaff romantically. Staying in for the evening? Whip up a signature Valentine’s cocktail. The Riviera is about as red as you can get due to its use of blood orange juice and Dubonnet rouge.

Wishing you all a happy and stylish Valentine’s Day…

Cheers,

Julie