I've had a few emails from gentlemen readers inquiring as to whether or not the denim shirt is really making a comeback for this Spring, and if so, should they be investing in this piece for their seasonal wardrobe.
The answer is simple: Yes, and yes.
While I've never been a huge fan of the denim shirt, or closely following every trend in every season, I will admit that there is something about a worn-in oxford shirt in that blue cotton that is kind of... ruggedly handsome.
I'm especially loving J.Crew's nailhead oxford utility shirt, designed with workwear from the 1900s in mind. A thicker blend of cotton, this shirt features classic camp pockets, a bit more of a tailored fit than you gents may be used to, annnd it looks great on.
At 98 dollars, it's reasonably priced, and probably a piece you'll keep for at least a couple of seasons.
Nailhead oxford utility shirt, $98, J.Crew
Hope: I'm looking for a casual pair of shoes I can wear this Spring. My girlfriend bought me a few pairs of jeans with a straight leg that are tighter than what I'm used to, and they don't look right with my sneakers.
Really, sneakers don't look right with much excepting maybe warm-up pants. And anyone wearing warm-up pants, well...
You should really purchase a pair - or two - of J.Crew's MacAlister boots. Soft suede and crepe-soled, these boots are the perfect answer for transitioning from winter to spring.
Available in dark khaki, chestnut, stone, and anchor grey (shown above), J.Crew's MacAlister was inspired by boots worn by British officers in WWII. They're made in Italy so you know these shoes will last for years.
Suede MacAlister boots, $135, J.Crew
Love the look of leather on the runway during Paris Fashion Week.
Albert Kriemier kept things classic for Akris's Fall 2010 collection (L). While his sheared astrakhan was definitely a stand-out, I found I couldn't take my eyes off the double-breasted, sleeveless leather dress in deepest red. Worn with opaque tights and calf-high boots? Quintessentially minimalist.
Costume National - the label where leather is a season-after-season staple - featured some form-fitting leather pants (C) paired with cinch-waisted fur vests. Ennio Capasa used mostly muted browns and greys for this collection, and rightfully so. Earthy tones work best for leather pants. That and confidence (shy girls take note).
Annnd, the best for last. I found Phoebe Philo's interpretation of women's workwear (R) to be especially chic. How perfect is that almost-patent black leather wrap skirt? Paired with a feminine, frilly blouse and semi-sheer black tights - this is a super stylish look for Fall.
Molded neon Louise Brooks bobs? Check.
Eye-popping colour and art deco-ish design? Check.
Sockette platform booties? Check.
Sci-fi LED earphone/headresses/hair accessories? Check.
Manish Arora's Fall 2010 RTW collection at Paris Fashion Week? Totally bizarre.
Remember the Eames chair from Frasier?
Sit back in your own and have a read through Charles & Ray Eames: Pioneers of Mid-Century Modernism. It covers the lives of the dynamic design duo from their earliest designs through to their contribution to film.
What I love about Charles and Ray wasn't just their tale of true love. I also love the fact that this power couple had such an intense, explosive spark for architecture and design - these two made MAGIC together! From the Eames house and the Eames chair, to their work in such films as Banana Leaf and Powers of Ten, Charles and Ray Eames were two gifted individuals.
The book includes a detailed history as well as drawings and exclusive photos.
A worthy read.
Charles & Ray Eames: 1907-1978, 1912-1988 Pioneers of Mid-Century Modernism