From Versace to Valentino, take a peek behind the labels that have defined men’s formalwear. Through trial, tribulation, unexpected deaths, and iconic on-screen moments, these luxury houses continue to rule the fashion roost.

Brioni
Founded in Rome, 1945

Classic cuts made for the ever-confident guy, charismatic businessman, and bona fide bad boy. Brioni is known as the official suit of James Bond (worn by actors Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig) and was made infamous by New York crime boss John Gotti of the Gambino family – who earned his nickname, “Dapper Don,” thanks to his extensive wardrobe of custom Brioni suits. These timeless pieces were also favorites of handsome Hollywood hall-of-famers Clark Gable and Cary Grant, and can be seen on today’s red carpets on the likes of Al Pacino, Kirk Douglas, and Donald Trump.

Versace
Founded in Milan, 1978

Contemporary, one-of-a-kind, stand-out-from-the-crowd pieces, these suits are for the man who likes to make an entrance. Worn famously by rap stars and musicians alike, the distinguished Versace name is associated with glamour and over-the-top chic. Elton John dons Versace duds encrusted with diamonds or crystals. Versace designs were also favorites of the late rap star Tupac Shakur and Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose.

Continue reading “Luxe to the Last Stitch: A Look Behind the Labels” »

Whether you’re single or in a relationship, dating around the holidays is unlike any other time of year. Here are some foolproof looks for any rendezvous you might have planned during this festive season.

The Nutcracker Ballet
Even if you’re not the biggest fan of ballet, seeing The Nutcracker with someone can be a really romantic and enjoyable evening. Especially when followed by champagne at intermission and a fancy dinner. Keep your look semiformal with a blazer, slacks or dark denim, a dress shirt, and maybe even a tie (possibly a red tartan one).

Blind Date with Your Mother’s Colleague’s Cousin
It’s the season for merriment and yes, blind dates. Often set up by well-meaning family members, these potentially awkward meetings call for an outfit that’s date-appropriate, but isn’t trying too hard. Try straight-leg denim, a button-front shirt, and a neutral-hued V-neck sweater to make a dapper impression.

The Holiday Party
The key is to not show up wearing a hand-knit holiday number a la Colin Firth in Bridget Jones’ Diary (bonus points if you got that reference). Keep the festive revelry subtle with a couple of nice touches, like an appropriately colored tie or sweater. The rest of your ensemble should be simple and neutral, e.g. dark pants and a white dress shirt.

Ice Skating
Whether you’re a pro or not, ice skating is a perfect date for the holiday season. It’s active, fun, and you get to treat yourself to some delicious hot chocolate afterward. Bundle up to stay warm (without looking like a snowman) with straight-leg denim, a cozy plaid button-front shirt, chunky sweater, and warm wool socks.

By Christine Mitchell, Staff Writer

What are your date-dressing tips? Share them in the comments below or tweet us at @ruelala.

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Winter brings gloomier weather, and as you look around, people tend to wear more somber colors like grey and black. This winter, don’t fall in to that habit. Instead, include a subtle yet eye-catching pattern to add some interest to your outfit.

As shown above, you can wear a solid-colored shirt and use a combination of classic fall patterns, like herringbone and plaid, which can be incorporated by use of outerwear accessories and, of course, sport coats. By adding small doses of these rich patterns, you’ll keep dismal weather from getting your style down. For more pattern (and layering) help, check out the step-by-step guide below.

Step 1. Start with a simple (and comfy) crewneck tee.
Step 2. Add a classic button-front (I recommend chambray).
Step 3. Throw on a soft v-neck sweater.
Step 4. Incorporate some texture. A herringbone sport coat will work wonders for this step.
Step 5. Look to patterned outerwear accessories. A plaid scarf in dark hues is the perfect neutral eye candy.

The season is here. Winter-coat season, that is. If you’re on the market for a new parka or wool coat, then you’re in luck. Our Grab Your Coat: The Massive Outerwear Sale has every style and color imaginable for the whole fam. So stock up, and read on for a few at-home care tips (so you don’t have to hunt for a new one every season).

At-Home Outerwear Care:
1. You can clean your down parka without deflating it. Just toss it in the washing machine on the cold cycle, then put it in the dryer with a few tennis balls. They’ll keep the feathers distributed evenly and make sure it regains its shape.
2. If your wool coat needs a full cleaning, the dry cleaner will have to take care of it. But for spot cleaning, use a damp cloth and mild soap to work out the stain. Also, invest in a lint roller to keep hair and lint at bay.
3. Use cedar hangers when hanging wool coats to keep moths away (without the smell of mothballs).
4. Keep coats in garment bags to prevent lint, hair, dust, and other particles from collecting on them. And stuff the sleeves with acid-free paper so they don’t crease up during the warmer months.

Our Grab Your Coat: The Massive Outerwear Sale Boutique opens Tuesday, December 11, at 11AM ET.

By Brianna Lapolla, Staff Writer

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Sure, they’re small details – but from the knot to the dimple, these little nuggets of neckwear knowledge will have you tying together your suit like a polished pro.

Continue reading for a little tie know-how >>

You’ve dodged hosting the holiday party in the past, but this is the year you’ve been called upon to rise to the occasion. How will you get your “bachelor pad” in tip-top shape? It’s easier than you think – follow these suggestions for an evening of guaranteed festive fun.

Delectable Nibbles
Food might just be the most important element of a party, but don’t go filling bowl upon bowl with Chex Mix® and potato chips (we’re adults now). Make some room for a few delicious gourmet cheeses, cured meats, and spreads to really impress your guests. Finger foods make a party.

Turn up the Music
Every party needs some good tunes to get everyone in the mood to enjoy themselves. Take the time to make a playlist for the occasion: start mellow, then work in the break-it-down dance numbers (you should definitely include some holiday songs, too – it’s a holiday party, after all).

Wine and Dine
Solo cups and mismatched glasses have no place at a formal holiday party. Invest in a classic decanter with matching wine glasses and have a selection of both light and darker beers on ice. A fully-stocked bar isn’t needed for a successful gathering (though having the mixings for a themed cocktail on-hand might make for a cool party trick).

Warm Up by the Fire
Don’t have a built-in fireplace? No problem. You can pick up a modern and portable stand-in for the traditional hearth. You’ll be convinced it was a wise investment when the festive vibe takes over and all your guests are gathered cozily around the fire.

By Christine Mitchell, Staff Writer

What are your party-hosting tips? Share them in the comments below or tweet us at @ruelala.

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In a sea of watches, it’s hard to hit the mark without getting totally overwhelmed. How do you know which one will suit you best? To make things easier, just consider your overall sense of style. Are you classic and refined, or edgy and a bit unconventional? Once you’ve figured it out, make it personal with colors, mixed metals, or even a touch of sparkle (and don’t forget to throw out lots of hints for the holidays).

Round-Faced Watches
The most common type of watch face is popular for its classic, traditional shape. Fasten on one of these timepieces if you’re a businessman or have a more refined taste.

Square-Faced Watches
The new kid in town, square-faced timepieces lend an avant-garde feel and eye-catching quality to any outfit. Rock one of these watches if you’re more of a risk-taker or work in a creative environment.

Our Raymond Weil Boutique opens Sunday, December 2, at 11AM ET.

By Brianna Lapolla, Staff Writer

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Yes, Thanksgiving is over and it’s time to start making a list of all the things you need (and hope to receive) this holiday season. The key to success? A balance of needs and wants. Here are four (realistic-ish) suggestions to get you started on the ultimate gift list:

Practical Picks:

The Perfect Tie
Getting a tie might sound as bad as receiving socks, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you have to wear one every day or reserve them for special occasions only, both reasons call for a great tie that makes you feel like a million bucks. So make sure you ask for one – or a few – that you really want to wear (and make sure you are specific so you don’t end up with another of the reindeer variety).

Grill It
What better way to get excited for next summer than grill gear? To double your chances of actually getting a grill this holiday season, ask for a portable one that boasts a smaller price tag and more versatility. It’s the perfect choice for the griller who likes to BBQ in the backyard, on the beach, in the woods, or on a road trip.

Want, Want, Want:

Bond, James Bond
James Bond, well, anything. Every guy has a secret desire to take after the legend, so why not take advantage of all the impeccable merchandise being released this year? For a subtle integration of your favorite spy, opt for Bond-themed cuff links or, if you’re a proud fan, request a vintage Goldeneye movie poster to add a bit of that 007 vibe to your everyday life.

Massage Chair
So, maybe not a practical choice, but it’s totally a necessary one. We’ve all spent hours in the mall relaxing in that floor-model massage chair and believe it was the best invention, ever. So add it to your list and have the convenience of its relaxing powers at your fingertips morning, noon, and night.

By Christine Mitchell, Staff Writer

What’s on your gift list this year? Share it in the comments below or tweet us @ruelala.

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Simply put – style is personal. We all have a certain fashion disposition – be it a love for the contemporary, a devotion to the classics, or an affection for all things avant-garde. To help figure out your sartorial sensibility – and dress it – check out our guide below.

For the Classicist
Your style is well-defined and eternally chic. Opt for classic staples like a crisp button-down and tailored-to-perfection trousers that will never go out of style.

For the Individualist
You experiment with an enviable fearlessness. Never shy away from bold colors or patterns (like the ombre sweater below) and always seek out avant-garde cuts.

For the Modernist
Your look is an artful curation of tradition and trends. Embrace clean lines, a monochrome palette, and contemporary pairings like a casual tee under a dressy double-breasted blazer.

Our Theory Boutique opens Thursday, November 15, at 11AM ET.

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

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Continue reading “Express Yourself: Discover Your Style Personality” »

Single

1. Timeless and relatively unchanging – aside from the narrow peak lapel, which became popular in the 2000s.
2. Wear this style (especially in versatile navy and charcoal hues) for any formal or business-casual event.
3. Without the excess fabric of the DB, the SB coat looks sharp even when unbuttoned.
4. The single line of buttons elongates the torso, giving a taller, slimmer appearance.
5. As the all-occasion coat, a tie is not always necessary. With the open V at the neckline, it works well with a scarf.
6. WWBW (What Would Bond Wear): The SB style was Connery’s first dinner jacket in Dr. No.

Double

1. Traditionally the more conservative choice, the double-breasted style was first worn by European naval officers and royal Princes.
2. Ideally a coat for the workplace, the DB cut gives an authoritative and professional feel.
3. Always wear this style buttoned to avoid looking disheveled (unless you’re this guy).
4. For slim gents, this style broadens the shoulders. On the portly side? Buy a size up for extra lengthening in the midsection.
5. As the more formal coat of the two, don it with neckwear – be it a tie, bow tie, or ascot.
6. WWBW (What Would Bond Wear): Moore made the DB famous in The Man with the Golden Gun.