October 4, 2011
- The Sophisticated Man

One of the most appealing looks for men are those that exude sophistication. Having sophisticated pieces is an important part of any man's wardrobe. Sophisticated fashion comes from classic and timeless pieces.

The Suit

A sophisticated suit is essential in a man’s wardrobe. There are many suit options out there but no matter the style, the most important factor is that it fits the individual impeccably. Get suits tailored to ensure the fit is appropriate. Dark colors show refinement, sophistication and power and a wool suit with broad shoulders and one or two buttons will keep the look modern. Opt for rich, dark colors to create the most sophisticated effect.

Casual Sophistication

Getting that sophisticated look does not mean one has to dress in a three piece suit (although this is a great look!). Incorporate tailored pieces, such as a black blazer into everyday looks. Dark jeans are great with a dress shirt or sweater, a blazer and a great pair of shoes.

Details

Narrow ties will give a sophisticated look a fashion forward twist. A high quality belt, polished shoes and a timeless watch are classics that make every outfit appear more put together and stylish. For the more daring man, cufflinks or a sleek metal bracelet are fashionably sophisticated and add instant edge.

Phoebe

Phoebe@milenaconsulting.com

October 4, 2011
- Sophisticated Style

Whether one is just entering the workforce or simply looking to update their current look, adding a touch of sophistication is a must for every wardrobe! Sophisticated styles are classic and timeless.

Color and Pattern

Patterned clothing appears less sophisticated than solid colors, specifically richer, darker hues. Dark colors will exude sophistication. Black should be a go to color in creating a sophisticated, refined and polished look.

Fabric

Silks and wools are more sophisticated fabric choices than cotton or jersey. When shopping be sure to touch the fabric. Higher quality fabrics will not only feel softer to the touch and last longer than lower quality fabrics but also appear more sophisticated. I recommend a silk blouse or a fitted dress in a rich color. Look for details such as interesting necklines or polished closures to keep your look unique and fashion forward.

Fit

How a garment fits is the most important factor for any look. Sophisticated pieces should fit impeccably. Garments should have clean, crisp lines and should be tailored for the individuals’ body. Make sure clothing is not too loose to avoid appearing sloppy and lengthen hemlines to the just above or below the knees. A tailored jacket or a pencil skirt will instantly add refinement and sophistication. Alterations can play a huge role in creating a sophisticated look so I recommend finding a great tailor to ensure each piece fits perfectly.

Phoebe

Phoebe@milenaconsulting.com

September 28, 2011
- Patterns with Panache

It's time to step away from the typical blue, gray and black solid pieces you're used to wearing. Enhance your style with traditional patterns that have a bold twist.

Plaid. Edgy color combinations offer a modern spin to this classic pattern. Whether you choose a funky bowtie or collared shirt, add a pop of plaid to make your outfit appear unique and stylish.

Harris Tweed. This is both pattern and fabric, with its fabric being a tweed and its pattern a mixture of herringbone and twill. It has made a major comeback in the past couple of years and it's the perfect look for fall and winter due to the heavier nature of the fabric. Wear it as a suit or as a sportscoat with designer denim.

Pinstripe. Another traditional print, pinstripe offers a sophisticated, timeless feel to any outfit. The best benefit of wearing pinstripes is the visual trick of making the wearer look taller. Don't be afraid to mix a pinstripe shirt with something bolder such as plaid or gingham.

Blair

blair@milenaconsulting.com

September 27, 2011
- Playful Patterns

Pattern instantly adds pizzazz and style to any outfit. Enhance your current wardrobe by adding the season's most sought after prints in either small or large doses. In this instance, you almost can't have too much pattern! Mix and match a small scale print with a large scale print to express your creativity.

Floral. The most feminine print, floral comes in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. From sheer blouses in muted colors to bold dresses, the sky is the limit when it comes to florals. Try pairing these prints with an edgy leather jacket to create an unexpected look.

Animal. Animal prints never go out of style, but sometimes they are more "in" than others. This fall, they were spotted all over the runways. Leopard and snakeskin prints were the most prevalent, but zebra is another great option. Perhaps an animal print clutch will do the trick by adding a pop of interest while staying neutral enough to go with any outfit.

Abstract. Colorblocking is one of the most popular abstract styles. You can obtain an elegant appearance by pairing neutral colors together such as gray, black and brown. Spin the other direction and mix plum and deep teal, two of the hottest fall colors.

Blair

blair@milenaconsulting.com

September 22, 2011
- Boots to Fit Everyman's Style

Fall means it's time to expand your shoe wardrobe beyond flip flops. While a pair of black dress shoes or even your tennis shoes can be considered a staple, so can a pair of this season's trendiest boots. Boots work with everything from a t-shirt to a suit so there is a pair of boots to fit every man's style!

Try a pair of sleek, smooth leather for dressier occasions and a distressed pair for your favorite jeans. Suede chukkas are even more prevalent this year than they were last year. We love them in grey for a great alternative to basic black. Boat shoes have also transitioned to fall in suede ankle length styles. Lastly, if you want a more solid boot, go for a comfortable and casual lace-up work boot.

September 22, 2011
- Bootie-licious

We couldn't imagine having just one shoe...but if we did, this fall it would be a bootie! They are the must-have boot of the season. While most trends to fade out, this trend keeps getting hotter. If you already have a bootie from last year, remember: you can never have too many shoes!

This season's booties are funked out with details. Almost all the booties we've spotted have a platform, but that's wear the similarities stop. Embellishments like buckles, laces and grommets add personality. Materials range from suede to leather to fur. And you'll be able to choose the heal that gives you the right attitude from a sexy spike to a comfy wedge.

Wear your booties with leggings, skinny jeans or dresses and tights. They work with your classic boot cuts too, although you'll lose some of the edgy detail.

September 14, 2011
- Mens Color Trends For Fall

men's fall

As the weather changes so do the seasons hottest colors. This fall a variety of color trends have hit stores. Everything from rich shades of plum, burgundy and midnight blue to subdued hues of blue and green. Neutrals are always a must! This year wear camel, charcoal grey and espresso.

Rich plum, burgundy and midnight blue.

Rich tones are a great way to add color to any look. They are modern and sophisticated. Wear solid ties in plum, burgundy and midnight blue with a charcoal or black suit or blazer. You can also pair button up shirts and sweaters in these shades with jeans for a casual and up to date look. Wearing these deep colors will definitely make eyes pop.

Subdued hues of blue and green.

These are great colors to incorporate into any fall wardrobe. Blues and greens are appearing duller and more subdued this fall. Mix and match with textured pieces such as tweeds and suede.

Neutrals.

This fall incorporate charcoal grey, camel and espresso into your fall wardrobe. These neutrals are great for outerwear because they will look great with most ensembles. Substitute a black suit for one that is a deep charcoal grey or keep warm in a chunky camel or espresso sweater or scarf.

Phoebe

phoebe@milenaconsulting.com

September 13, 2011
- Color Trends For Fall

Each season runways and stores are full of the season’s hottest colors. This fall we are seeing a variety of color trends from the rich shades of plum, burgundy and midnight blue to bright hues of magenta, orange and jade. Neutrals are a fashion staple but this fall they are definitely on trend.

Rich plum, burgundy and midnight blue.

Rich colors add sophistication. Plum's and burgundy's pair great with black for your everyday work wear or for a night out on the town. Midnight blue is a great alternative to black. These rich shades are sure to make eyes pop!

Brights.

Wear bright magenta, orange and jade alone or wear bright colors by color blocking. Color block by combining two or more blocks of color in one ensemble.

Neutrals.

This fall try combining similar tone neutrals from head to toe for a polished look. If you are tired of neutral shades of black, beige and tan try wearing deep charcoal, camel and olive as fall neutrals.

Phoebe

phoebe@milenaconsulting.com

September 7, 2011
- Use Belts to Enhance Your Shape

Belts can be used to flatter your figure, add texture to an outfit and even disguise problem areas. Most women tend to avoid belts in fear of drawing attention to extra tummy weight. The truth is, when worn the right way, belts can make you appear thinner and more styled.

Metallic. Opt for a thin metallic belt to enhance your fall sweaters. A long cardigan tends to look boxy on its own, but adding a belt at the narrowest point between your shoulders and hips will offer a more flattering shape. Remember that metallics are neutral so you can wear them with any other color.

Woven. Add some texture to a printed dress or skirt by wearing a woven belt. A wider woven belt can help break up an all over print while enhancing your waistline. This is a great way to achieve balance between dressy and casual.

Thin vs. Wide. There are no set rules on how wide your belt can or cannot be. However, as a general guideline, girls with a larger bust will look best with thinner belts. If you have a straight tom-boy figure, go ahead and try a wider belt to give the illusion of curves.

Blair

blair@milenaconsulting.com

September 7, 2011
- Use Belts to Enhance Your Look

Because men have few accessory options, belts become an important factor in creating your unique style. We know guys are all about function, but a belt should not literally be holding your pants up. In fact, join us at the Blues Jean Bar for Denim Wednesdays if you face the problem of ill-fitting, saggy bottom pants.

Why. Think of your belt as an accessory, a way to make your look one-of-a-kind and memorable. Play with color, texture and width to give yourself a variety of options for different occasions.

How. Insert the belt through the left-side loops first, so that when buckled, the spare end is on your left as well. Ideally your belt should be buckled in the middle hole if possible. You'll want to wear a heftier belt with jeans in a casual texture such as suede, leather or nubuck. For the office, go for a sleek, dark belt with a buckle in the same color family as your watch (i.e. stainless steel, platinum, gunmetal).

When. If your belt loops are showing, wear a belt. If your belt loops are not showing, however, skip the belt as it will add bulk where you don't want it.

Blair

blair@milenaconsulting.com