Sock-Less For Summer

Going sock-less this summer? I can give you some tips on how to do it right. It takes a little training. 
The Europeans have been going sock-less since shoes were invented, however here in America we tend to be a little less daring. Going sock-less can be not only comfortable but a very sexy look. There are those who think that a bit of ankle showing in a man can be very sexy.

Here are some basic tips that will make it a better experience for you:

Wash your feet: The reason why your shoes stink when you don’t wear socks is because a bacteria called brevibacterium that eats the dead skin that sheds off your feet. This is what creates that awful smell. So wash your feet well with an anti-bacterial soap - most soaps are - scrub your feet with a terry cloth and make sure to scrub well between your toes. This will get rid of all the dead skin.

Make sure you do the basics: Use cedar shoe trees and don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. Sweat will soak into the leather of your shoes, and if you don’t give them time to dry out, you’ll not only wear down the leather faster, but you’ll also stink up your feet more.

 Know when you can go sock-less: You can go sock-less for any occasion except formal business affairs, For the most part, avoid wearing socks with shorts unless they are ankle socks or you are one trendy-hip-cool-cat who wears knee socks. Also know what types of shoes go best with a sock-less look: boat shoes, loafers, moccasins, saddle shoes, bucks, chukkas, tennis shoes and even Oxford shoes. Boots are the only shoes I would not wear sock-less.

Put something in your shoe: Unless you are one of those people whose feet don't sweat, you need to put something in your shoe. Talcum powder. I use Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder. Sprinkle freely inside the shoe before putting it on. The powder will absorb the sweat and any smells associated with it. Terry cloth insoles. Kiwi makes a good one and you can buy them at any Rite-Aid, or CVS type stores. No show socks. These are those short little feet wrap - my name for them - that go up to just below the ankles.
 Know how to get rid of odors: You can always throw sneakers or any canvas shoe in your washing machine - but leave the room cause it is quite a noisy experience. You can also do the ancient remedy of stuffing the shoes with newspapers and leave them out in the sun. But my favorite is Odor-Eater Sneaker Spray, which is fast efficient and a very easy process.

I hope by now you have all the information you need to go out there wearing sock-less shoes and feeling empowered and sexy. If you have never done this give it a shot, see how you feel, then come back and tell me all about it. I'm curious to hear how it goes for you! 

The Electrifying Energy of NY City

What is it about NY city that is so stimulating and vibrant?
I guess the obvious answer would be; its electrifying energy.
Yes of course it is, but what creates that energy?

I can not think of another place I have visited in my lifetime - and I have traveled my fair share - that includes in its demographic a more diverse group of ethnicity and nationalities. Segregation is completely absent in NYC. Is as if NYC is color blind.

At any given moment - in a cab, riding the subway, buying the newspaper, attending the theater, walking in Central Park, sweating at Equinox, eating at a restaurant anywhere in the city, on the Starbucks line, etc - you are surrounded by at least three to four different age, ethnicity and socioeconomic demographics. All converging at the same place at the same time for a common goal. Everyone gets along and if they don't....well, then they are quick to express it and move on. And when I say "not get along" I'm not talking about any sort of prejudice; I am referring to somebody budding in line, or getting shoved due to overcrowding, or a taxi driver driving too slow along the busy city streets - this perhaps the worst crime of all. Every day people having every day experiences.

Rich, poor, young or old, everyone in NYC gets to do the same thing. No one is spared because of any social distinction. To get from point A to point B in the city you must either, have your chauffeur drive you, take a taxi, ride the subway, take a bus, ride a bike or walk, but everyone gets to experience the city in one way or another. Is as if there are no special privileges for the residents of NYC. Yes if you are part of the more affluent crowd, you may have a doorman in your building that opens the door for you and is ready with an umbrella to protect you from the rain, but everyone gets to step in the puddle and walk on their own two feet at some point.

There's also a real sense of honesty about the way New Yorkers interact with one another which makes for a genuine experience no matter where you are in the city. What you see is what you get.

After many years in NYC I have relocated to Los Angeles - a decision I am very happy with and my love for LA grows every day. Upon my arrival in LA I remember being astonished about two very obvious issues.

First of all, after being in LA for a week, I asked my then roommate Tim;
Where are the black people?
I could have included any ethnicity to that question since all I kept seeing everywhere I went were white people. In order to find any diversity I had to go outside of LA. It was extremely segregated and divisive. Unfortunately everyone had their own designated community and the various lifestyles were not meant to be mixed. This was very shocking to me.

Second of all, I was floored by the fact that everyone would smile and wish me a nice day or ask how my day was. Who were these freaks? And why did they care about my well being? I soon realized that it was - and is - just a way of exercising politeness but to a New Yorker like myself it took months to get to that place of acceptance.

So I guess what creates that electrifying energy that is NY city is its people.
This hotchpotch of ethnicity and walks of life all coming together for a common purpose; to thrive in the city that never sleeps. 

So is NY city the prototype for the perfect world? A world where everyone is welcomed, differences are respected and honest expressions of self abound without the fear of being ostracised ? Hmmm, something to think about!

I visit NY city a couple of times a year for many reasons but the main reason is its electrifying energy. When I am in NY city is as if I am getting a lifeblood transfusion. Energy, inspiration, drive and confidence rush through my veins when I'm here and so I take that with me wherever I go.

Perhaps in my heart, I will always be a New Yorker.

I Look Just Like My Dad

The older I get the more I look like my dad. Sometimes when I catch my reflection in a mirror as I am walking down the street I see him and not me.

The high forehead. The pronounced and not very hairy eyebrows. The deep set eyes that could so easily be surrounded by dark circles at the slightest absence of sunlight on my face. The big imperfect nose. The big ears that suddenly feel like they continue to grow at a time when the rest of my body has stopped that process. Even the tone of my voice has started to remind me of my old man.

Dad passed away in 92 as I was sitting by his hospital bedside holding his hand. Best gift I have ever received. His passing forever changed the course of my life.

I was/am an only son of a seamstress/party girl mother and big band singer/barber father. Growing up in with these two characters was so many different things, some of which were not great but some were absolutely magical.

It was my dad whom as soon as I was able to stand on my own two feet, would have me stand on his shoes and grab on to his legs while he summoned my mom to come join him as they partner danced to the most rhythmic of sounds that was emanating from the cheap record player in the living-room of our one bedroom apartment in Havana. Orquesta Aragon was playing and the vibe was good. I remember laughing and bopping up and down as they danced with me in the middle. I knew how to dance before I could even walk.

It was my dad who would whistle everyday as he entered the house so as to announce - just for me - his arrival. To this day whenever I hear that very specific puckered-lips soft whistle I can envision my dad coming through the front door of our home in Vedado, Havana Cuba.

It was my dad who taught me how to always be well dressed. He taught me how to maintain the center pleats on my pants. Always fold or hang your clothes when you take them off. He taught me that a comb should always live in my front shirt or coat pocket so as to stay perfectly combed at all time.

Dad taught me multiplication tables the year that he walked me to and from kindergarten every day.

He taught me how to play the bongos, el guiro, las maracas and las claves.

He introduced me - through old films - to the great Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Yvette Mimieux, Gina Lollobrigida, Burt Lancaster and Tony Curtis and taught me respect for the artists and their work.

It was my dad whom with tears in is eyes after my first ballet dance recital in Miami at the age of 16, told me that I had talent and that I must never give up. He also told me that opportunity would always knock and my job is to always be ready.

He made me my first drink - rum and coke - and I had my first drink with him.

He showed me with his actions that we are all equal in life and that no one deserves to be treated with anything less that kindness compassion and acceptance.

My dad suffered with Lou Gehrig's disease for many years. Lou Gehrig's disease - or ALS - is a disorder that slowly destroys all motor function, leaving the intellect and rational intact. Think of it as sort of a human cell. Quite ironic for a man who had lived his entire life free as a bird.

I knew I was gay at an early age and as for my mother's urging I was never to tell my dad. "It will kill him " she said. Keep in mind hat we are Cubans after all and drama is the fire that fuels our way of life.

By the time I mustered enough courage to come out to my dad, he had lost his ability to speak in words. However words were not necessary for me to see how he felt about my big secret.

As I started to reveal my truth to him, he began to smile. As I continue my confession, tears started to roll down his cheeks. By the end all he could do was lift his arms up, signaling with his hands for me to come in for a hug. As he held me tighter than he ever had in his fatherly embrace he struggled to uttered these words:

"Te quiero mi hijo"

These were not exactly enunciated words but a collection of beautiful distorted sounds that I will forever cherish.

I think of my dad every day. Lately I have been really wanting to sit down and talk to him. On this particular Father's Day, I not only want to honor him, but I feel the need to share him with you. If you know me, you now know me a little bit more intimately. If you don't know me, I want you to know my dad cause he was a man worth knowing and if you ever meet me, try and picture him through me.

In the years since my fathers passing, I have gone through a profound transformation that has absolutely revolutionized the person I was and allow me to start to become the man I am today. I continue to grow with complete confidence and trust that though I may not be able to sit down and talk to my dad in person, in my heart my old man and I will forever be in constant dialogue. I am who am I am because of my dad. 

Feliz dia de los padres mi viejo. Te quiero siempre. Gracias por todo!

NeriumAD Magic in a Bottle.

Who needs Botox or preventive plastic surgery when you have NeriumAD?

I know that sounds like a total headline, and in some way it is.

I was approached recently by my friend Cody Montarbo who shared with me about this product called NeriumAD. Cody has his own line of skin products -Montarbo Skin Care - which I have used in the past and I still recommend. He had been using NeriumAD himself and his skin was flawless. Now Cody is significantly younger than me so I was not overwhelmingly impressed by his pitch. However since I value and respect his opinion, he got my attention and I was intrigued. I asked to use NeriumAD for a month as he suggested so I could see for myself.

Here is the result:

I decided to document the process in the hopes of sharing it with all of you, IF indeed this NeriumAD product proved to be effective. I enlisted the talents of my dear friend and photographer David Arenas to take the before and after pictures. 

You can see for yourself the kind of results I obtained from using NeriumAD for 30 days.

Notice how the creases between my eyes diminished.

The lines on my forehead are almost unnoticeable. 

The age spots on the side of my forehead decreased significantly.

The bags under my eyes smooth out enough to create the illusion of my eye being lifted. 

But the most exciting result for me was that my skin started to become as taut as it was years ago, which at the end of the day is what allows for a more youthful appearance.

Now I didn't alter my face, nor did I lose movement or elasticity on my skin. There was no poking or cutting, no injections or swelling. No recovery period to endure and absolutely no pain whatsoever.

My goal was not to alter my appearance. My goal was to look fresh and rejuvenated which in turn allows me to look better not just to you, but also to myself when I look in the mirror every morning.

You know my philosophy by now. The act of putting ourselves together at he beginning of the day, every day, is the most important part of our day. Once we like what we see in the mirror, it will inevitably inform how we go through the rest of our day.

NeriumAD has helped that morning process tremendously. 

What is Nerium?
During advanced research on the uses of the Nerium oleander plant, an accidental discovery was made: the unique properties of Nerium oleander provided remarkable age-defying results when applied to the skin. This finding led to the creation of the NeriumAD skincare line.

Nerium scientists developed a breakthrough process, NBio-PL2, to extract from the Nerium oleander plant in a way that preserves its unique and beneficial properties. This patent-pending extraction process yields the NAE-8 extract used to formulate this first-of-its-kind age-defying product line.

For more information regarding NeriumAD please contact Cody Montarbo at:

montarboskincare@gmail.com or by phone at 1 (619) 621-1658

I know you will be happy you did!

 

Men On The Golden Globes Red Carpet

Once again we made it through the Golden Globes red carpet. I am so thankful women's fashion is not my thing cause I would be at a loss for words right now. However when it comes to men I always have a POV and plenty to say; except this year.

I can't say that I was surprised by the lack of creativity and individual flair from the men this year at Golden Globes, because quite frankly, there never really is much of either. Usually we see a parade of penguins - term for tuxedo and not meant to put down the actual species - that seem more run of the mill bore fest than anything else.

So I'm left to point out a few highlights and some real misses.

Photo Source: Getty Images

Best dressed goes to Ryan Seacrest. Is that really possible? He's not even an actor. Yes of course it is possible. Ryan Seacrest is always well dressed and well groomed. For years I have noticed how most times at awards show red carpets, Ryan is actually looking better than most of the male stars he is interviewing - except for George Clooney - and this year was no exception. Staying current without being trendy and knowing what works for him allows him to have a very definitive style which never disappoints. Not a single flaw on Mr. Seacrest. 

Photo Source: Schabe/ LA Times

George Clooney! I really have nothing to say except; bravo Mr. Clooney. You keep the Hollywood mystique alive. You never disappoint when it comes to red carpet perfection! 

The Break Up

I am no stranger to relationships coming to an end. I have had my fair share of good-byes through the years, but nothing could have prepared me for the extreme discomfort and the emotional upheaval, this break-up would cause me. I never anticipated the depth of feelings I would experience.

Ours had been THE most beautiful and complete relationship I ever had. There was a level of trust and comfort that existed between us, unlike anything I'd ever experienced before. I always felt safe and protected in our times together. I felt nurtured and cared for beyond what my Mom and Dad were able to give me as a little boy. 

My source for comfort during the sad times. My reason to celebrate during the best of times. My constant companion for life. THE love of my life.

But something was not right anymore. My friends were alarmed, they were telling me I was not looking good. I had lost my mojo. They were serious and insisting I'd change. I had to go through with the break up in spite of how I was feeling. There was no turning back this time.

The Three Categories of Dressing For Men

There are three categories of dressing for men. None of them is better than the other. Each one is based on a man's level of comfort, how well he knows his body and his sense of style and adventure. It is also worth noting that the same man can achieve all three levels of dressing at any given time.
First, there is the guy for whom dressing is just a basic need. Not a lot of thought goes into it. I will call him the Basic Man.
Then there is the gentleman who, though he’s not necessarily a fashion connoisseur, does enjoy staying current in his look. Let’s call him the Current Man.
Finally we have the gentleman who enjoys fashion, has an adventurous sense of style and is not afraid to take chances. This guy is called the Daring Man.
To illustrate my point I will choose one garment, the navy sport coat, which is one of the primary items in every men's wardrobe.

 

Basic Man

This is the guy whose wardrobe is primarily comprised of the fundamentals. In his closet you will find the classic two button navy sport coat with traditional medium width lapel and a lose fit. This guy will feel most natural wearing it with a white dress shirt and a simple solid or striped tie, pairing the coat with gray flannel slacks and black shoes. His look is simple, elegant, and safe.

Not Just A Plain White Tee Shirt Anymore!

Not just an undergarment anymore, the tee shirt has been re-invented over and over and it's still going strong. But nobody really talks about it!

According to the highly resourceful and mostly accurate Wikipedia, the T-shirt evolved from undergarments used in the 19th century, through cutting the one-piece union suit underwear into separate top and bottom garments, with the top long enough to tuck under the waistband of the bottoms.

What About If You're Over 50?

Recently on my Facebook "Fashion Tip of the Day" I posted this photograph as an option for a Fall look that is at the same time contemporary, relaxed and easy to achieve. I even went as far as calling it the new All-American look. The posting was well received  but then I also received several responses with the question: 

What about if you're over 50?

This got my attention since it never really occurred to me that this outfit was inappropriate for someone over 50 - I'm 50 and I feel very comfortable wearing this as a matter of fact, jeans and a blazer are a big part of how I dress most days - so I knew there was a bigger question to answer here.

What does turning 50 mean?

The Men of the 2011 EMMY Awards

Once again the Emmy awards are handed out and the obligatory red carpet is walked by the faces that fill our flat-screen TVs night after night through-out the year. 

Yippee! Exciting? Well when it comes to men's fashion......... not so much!

As with every red carpet, a lot of attention is given to what the women are wearing and the men then become a bit of an after thought. There was no innovation or creativity from the stylist's part this year when it came to dressing the men. Though a couple of really well tailored and perfectly groomed gentlemen made the cut, unfortunately there was a lot more not-so-good than good!

I know that there's a lot more room for taking fashion chances and creating extravagant ensembles when it comes to the ladies. And of course you have accessories and hair and make up to add to the various looks, but that does not mean that the men can at the very least be current and well tailored. It could be as easy as getting a new tuxedo for the occasion and making sure that it fits properly.

Here are some of the men's best and not-so-best of this year's Emmy's red carpet.

Classic: Ed Helms

I Don't Want To See That! - The Women Speak

When it comes to men's fashion, women have some very strong pet-peeves. For this article I surveyed 50 women and was surprised by their number one pet-peeve.

I am surrounded by strong, powerful, gorgeous women with very strong opinions about everything. I polled 50 of them to find out what their pet-peeves for men were. 

What was the one thing they would hate to see their men wearing this summer? 

Out of the 50 women, 35 of them said sandals on men. It is surprising to me how overwhelming women's aversion to men wearing sandals is. I'm not sure - given the success of men's sandal business - that men are aware of this fact. In  my humble opinion, I believe that women are referring more to the lack of foot hygiene - and some of them expressed that very clearly - than the actual sandal wearing, but I could be wrong.

The women also shared many other dislikes and I thought it would be fun - and informative - to share some of them with you.

Get ready for some harsh truths!

My biggest man pet peeve is manners. Men wolfing down their food and then they wonder why they are gassy.
Alright with that said, as far as clothing, men who wear flip flops with everything, and I mean everything, lame, lazy. Sandals, please have kept toes, we don’t want to see that. None of us expect to see that, maybe a fungus doctor.
And lastly, dark dress shirts with ties and no jackets. What are we, on the High School debate team? Wait, wait, one more, we have laser now boys, please take care of that back hair. We do it for you!!
LOL! I’m such a hater this morning.
Elena - Los Angeles

Socks with flip flops or sandals; ass cracks; speedos; woolly sweaters (hairy backs); yellow and un-clipped toenails; pit stains; Hawaiian shirts. Are u grossed out yet?
Jackie - New Jersey

I'm so bored of tan khakis on men, both the full length and shorts. I know men’s options are limited to what’s available but how about some color or flare. Those pants are so dull. And besides they are not on safari in the desert.
Brenda - New York city

1. No white rim glasses. 2. Unless you look like David Beckham or have a worthy body NO MORE SPEEDOS!!! LOL! Male models are okay... But Bob on vacation from Vermont... Not so much!
Mitsouko - Miami






Moses would sometimes wear cutoff blue jean shorts, a little on the short side. I mean, I wouldn't let him go anywhere in them, but sometimes he'd try to get out the door with the dog in the morning. "I'm just walking the dog," he'd whine. And I'd say, "so what, you're not invisible." It didn't help when he'd cover the look up with his grubby old trench that I couldn't get him to throw out.
Maybe he was trying to get me to walk the dog?
I don't want to see men in muscle shirts either. But I'm not going to freak out if you wear your Tevas with socks. Anne - Los Angeles
 



....a hairless body... yes...I hate men that spend more time in the mirror than me!
Lysa - New York city

Let's see...well please no Ed Hardy baseball hats, but that's really year round, and rhinestone hats aren't good on either gender.  I'm not a huge fan of "man"dals, unless you're super chic and know how to wear them, otherwise, please stick to good old fashioned flip flops.

Leslie - Miracle Mile LA

I don't like guys in tank tops, deep v-necks, pointy shoes and seasonally inappropriate garments like wool beanies or wool scarves- I see this on people all the time in LA.
Neda - Silverlake

Tank tops and flip flops! Unless they're on you. How are you darling ?
Alex - New York city

















I never want to see pink on a guy. Total turn off!  I'm sorry if you love it. I don't like guys who dress like giant kids. I like seeing men who look like men, like they make decisions. So if they're wearing frumpy t-shirts and low-riding shorts that go below the knee, YUCK. Crocs YUCK. I mean maybe all of this is obvious. I don't know!
Cynthia - Los Angeles

Don't ever want to see Speedos on anyone but an Olympic swimmer. No cut off jean shorts (poor serial killer) and low hanging saggy pants or over-sized shorts to knees, unless you are a card carrying member of a gang.
Blaire - Los Angeles

Gym clothes, unless you're at the gym. Those swishy basketball shorts?! YUCK!!!
Hannah - Studio City

NO SANDALS!
Dani - Los Angeles

Men's Fashion Revolution

There’s a style revolution taking place in America and it can’t be stopped. I’m talking about a men’s style revolution. More and more in the past couple of years we are seeing a trend in men leaning towards taking better care of themselves, including the way they look which is directly related to the way they dress. Men are thinking about grooming, fitness and personal style in a new way.
Men care about the way they look in a way they haven’t in decades. More attention is being paid to the fit of trousers, width of lapels, length of coats. In recent years we have seen how most designers are now creating various fits in shirts to accommodate different body types.
Trends in men’s clothing seem to be gearing towards a more sophisticated and body conscious look. Even in casual wear we can see a greater selection of fits again in an effort to accommodate the various body types.
Dressing well and looking your best has nothing to do with your physical condition. Though I always encourage a healthy lifestyle and a consistent work-out routine will definitely change your physique, you can look great at any weight.
It all starts with knowing your body. You need to know what your body really looks like. What are your best assets and which are your more challenging areas.
Know your size. For the most part men do not know what their proper size is. A great majority of men tend to think – and buy – one size large than they are which is never flattering.
Know your personal style. Spending money on the latest fashion trend does not equate personal style. Personal style is determined by who you are and how you put yourself together regardless of any existing trends. Personal style surpasses the limits of current trends.

I believe that film and television have a great deal of influence in what is happening in America today regarding the way men dress. It is no coincidence that with the success of the award winning television series Mad Men, the slim fit, 1960’s inspired suit came into fashion like quick lightning on a summer storm. Sales of vintage suits soared and most designers created lines of trim fitting suit. Even the traditional and always reliant Brooks Brothers has a trim suit line.
But again the real revolution - as I see it - is not about any latest trend, it goes further than that. I’m talking about the American man who is making a conscious decision to dress better and look his best. It is worth noting that this could very well be the beginning of a better state of being for the American man in general. How you dress is your visual appearance and the very first clue you give of yourself to other people. This appearance will immediately demand a specific response from others. 
When you are dressed well, you feel good, when you feel good, you go about you day in a totally different way and people will perceive you in a brighter light. That job interview, that board meeting, that lunch with a long lost friend, tonight's dinner party with your mate or even that moment at Starbucks in the morning when you're buying that first cup of coffee will all go better when you dress better.
I am excited and encouraged about this shift in the way men dress.
If you are sitting on the sidelines and feeling down on yourself, write to me at vincentspov@gmail.com and let’s have a dialogue about these matters. Let me help you find your personal style. I encourage you to do this cause in finding your own style you will find your voice which will in turn change your world. And as you know, it all starts with you.
Join the revolution today! 

Sock-less Shoes for Summer

Going sock-less this summer? I can give you some tips on how to do it right. It takes a little training. 
The Europeans have been going sock-less since shoes were invented, however here in America we tend to be a little less daring. Going sock-less can be not only comfortable but a very sexy look. There are those who think that a bit of ankle showing in a man can be very sexy.

Here are some basic tips that will make it a better experience for you:

Wash your feet: The reason why your shoes stink when you don’t wear socks is because a bacteria called brevibacterium that eats the dead skin that sheds off your feet. This is what creates that awful smell. So wash your feet well with an anti-bacterial soap - most soaps are - scrub your feet with a terry cloth and make sure to scrub well between your toes. This will get rid of all the dead skin.

Make sure you do the basics: Use cedar shoe trees and don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. Sweat will soak into the leather of your shoes, and if you don’t give them time to dry out, you’ll not only wear down the leather faster, but you’ll also stink up your feet more.

 Know when you can go sock-less: You can go sock-less for any occasion except formal business affairs, For the most part, avoid wearing socks with shorts unless they are ankle socks or you are one trendy-hip-cool-cat who wears knee socks. Also know what types of shoes go best with a sock-less look: boat shoes, loafers, moccasins, saddle shoes, bucks, chukkas, tennis shoes and even Oxford shoes. Boots are the only shoes I would not wear sock-less.

Put something in your shoe: Unless you are one of those people whose feet don't sweat, you need to put something in your shoe. Talcum powder. I use Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder. Sprinkle freely inside the shoe before putting it on. The powder will absorb the sweat and any smells associated with it. Terry cloth insoles. Kiwi makes a good one and you can buy them at any Rite-Aid, or CVS type stores. No show socks. These are those short little feet wrap - my name for them - that go up to just below the ankles.
 Know how to get rid of odors: You can always throw sneakers or any canvas shoe in your washing machine - but leave the room cause it is quite a noisy experience. You can also do the ancient remedy of stuffing the shoes with newspapers and leave them out in the sun. But my favorite is Odor-Eater Sneaker Spray, which is fast efficient and a very easy process.

I hope by now you have all the information you need to go out there wearing sock-less shoes and feeling empowered and sexy. If you have never done this give it a shot, see how you feel, then come back and tell me all about it. I'm curious to hear how it goes for you! 

External Validation aka Shopping

There are a couple of key elements to keep in mind when shopping for clothing.

First of all I'm not sure that shopping is the correct term.

Shopping is the examining of goods or services from retailers with the intent to purchase at that time. Shopping is an activity of selection and/or purchase.  - Thanks Wikipedia. It all sounds so impersonal. What are we doing, buying a refrigerator? 

I would rather call it "external validation".

A great deal of emphasis is put on validating ourselves from the inside out. Many books have been written on the subject of "an inside job". Yoga studios and meditation centers abound in major cities. All of these practices are not only good for you, they are also necessary for a less stressful way to get through life. Knowing yourself and being comfortable with who you are is essential for personal growth............and so is the way you look!

Looking good will directly and immediately influence the way you feel. We can spend a lot of time on that subject - and we will - but today I want to talk about the basics of the external validation experience aka shopping.

The Body
1. Know your body - There's no such thing as the perfect body. We all have flaws that need to be addressed when choosing the clothes we wear. Yes sometimes a six pack stomach can create a problem when choosing the proper slacks.

2. Know your sizes - Most men do not know their sizes and tend to buy sizes bigger than they need.

3. Know your fit. - It is a myth that wearing baggier clothes make you look thinner. It is the absolute opposite. Wearing baggy clothes makes you look like you're wearing baggy clothes.

4. Know what colors work best with your skin tones. - Avoid colors that wash you out. Orange and greens are not colors that work for everyone.

The Experience
1. Always try on the clothes before buying - Trying on your clothes will save you time and money in the long run. Take a minute to go into the dressing room and try the clothes on. Look in the mirror. Remember the mirror is you friend, it will never lie to you.

2. Stop impulsive buying - It's easy to go into a fashion blackout once you feel that high from your first purchase. Before you know it you're buying anything and everything in the store. Don't do that, you'll regret it later.

3. Stay away from big department stores whenever possible - If you are new to the world of shopping or just don't like doing it, you want to stay away from big department stores or major franchise. The experience can be overwhelming. Too much of a good thing is bad. Shop in smaller shops where it is more manageable.
4. Shop with a buddy - It is always best to shop with a buddy - or someone close to you - who is not afraid to tell you the truth and/or can encourage to take chances..

5. Find a stylist you can trust - I'm not talking about a private stylist that will charge you a fee. - Although if you can afford one, it could be quite helpful. - I'm talking about finding a salesperson with experience who has your best interest at heart and is not desperate to make his numbers for the month.

6. Avoid shopping in a bad mood - If you are feeling upset or out of sorts, it may not be the proper time to go shopping.  Shopping is always better when you're in a clear state of mind.
Except for those engaging in retail therapy, which can be very effective and I will be writing about that subject very soon.

7. Set a budget for yourself - It is always best to have a realistic budget in mind when going shopping. Familiarize yourself with today's price points and know which store best suits your budget.Shopping beyond your means can be a very unpleasant experience.

There's nothing negative about shopping when done properly.  I suggest you follow these simple suggestions and you will not only have a successful experience, I guarantee you will have a fun time doing it and feel great about yourself when you're done.

For any question regarding personal shopping or styling, you can contact me at:  vincentspov@gmail.com

Basic Essentials for Spring and Summer

Before you start sprucing up your spring and summer wardrobe, let's make sure you have the basic essentials covered.

It is easy to get carried away with trendy pieces when we go shopping but the key to a complete and efficient wardrobe is to make sure that the basic essentials are covered. By basic essentials I am referring to those neutral, standard pieces that you can wear all season long and will make it possible for you to be wardrobe ready for any occasion.

AG Matchbox jean is the perfect jean this season. A dark wash is preferred when pairing with a blazer or dress shirt and a second pair in a medium wash - pictured above - will also come in very handy for a more casual look.

Gingham is it. You cannot have enough gingham this year. I suggest starting with a basic blue or navy long sleeve gingham shirt and add more colors as you go.

The desert boot. Just like 50 is the new 30 - at least in my world - the dessert boot is the new sneaker. Wear it with jeans, chinos, linen slacks, shorts or even a summer suit depending on the occasion.

The Khaki suit will forever be a spring and summer standard. Try and find a slim fitting suit with traditional lapel and this will ensure at least a couple of years of wear without having to replace it with a more current model. Pair it with a brown lace up shoe, dress shirt and tie for a more upscale look.

The navy blazer is a year-round basic essential. Choose a cotton or light weight wool for spring and summer. If you happen to live in a tropical climate state, the light weight wool could be used year-round. Pair it with your dark wash jeans and a white dress shirt and you can't go wrong. And don't forget the pocket square detail for that extra pop!

The white dress shirt. Not much to say about the white dress shirt except you need at least one for every season. This is as basic as it gets. Avoid the classic fit unless you are in need of the extra fabric.
It is also worth mentioning the flat front charcoal grey dress slack for that dressier occasion that does not require a suit. Light wool slacks will serve you year-round.

The Hartford linen shirt. For that casual night-time look the Hartford linen shirt is a total must. In an array of colors, here's your chance to add a some pop to your wardrobe. Find the color that works best with your skin tone and pair it with jeans, slacks, or shorts.

Yes to seersucker anything for spring and summer. Start off with shorts and build your way up to the whole suit.

 

The slim fit chino. As you may have noticed by now, is all about slim fit this year and chinos are no exception. Khaki is the way to go for your first one and then graduate to grey and navy as you go along.

The Black polo shirt. Smedley happens to make the best sea cotton dressy polo shirt in the market today. Though a bit pricier than most other brands, this is the polo shirt to own. I believe black has a place in our wardrobe year round and my suggestion is the black polo for spring and summer. Pair it with your khaki suit, a pair of chinos or grey slacks, and you can never go wrong.

The board short. Here is where you get to have fun and introduce a bit of whimsy to your wardrobe. Going to the beach is fun and your board shorts should be too. Keep in mind that Speedos are back this season, but I know that a board short is a basic essential and a Speedo is a risky addition for the more daring fashionista. But either is acceptable this season.

The tennis shoe. Yes I did not say sneaker, I said tennis shoe. Converse has been giving us the tennis shoe for decades but Paul Smith has designed the newer sleeker version and it is a true must-have this season.

I hope this clears up a little bit of the what the basic essentials are for this season. If you have any questions regarding designers, where to buy any of these items or personal style issues, feel free to comment on this posting or email me directly at vincentspov@gmail.com

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Live well and look fierce doing it!

John F. Kennedy's Presidential Style

John F. Kennedy was undeniably America's most stylish president to date.

When most people are asked whom they think the best US president in history is, most come to the conclusion of John Fitzgerald Kennedy - JFK - the 35th president of the United States. Few people however, comment on his sense of style, which - in my opinion - contributed to his mass appeal. Always dapper and appropriately dressed on every occasion, JFK reached the heart of many with his charm and good looks. Being the most photographed president at the time - think back to the pre-paparazzi era - his style was always captured for all to see.

As a child of wealthy parents JFK was always impeccably dressed as demonstrated in this early photo. Notice the Four-in-hand tie knot with tie bar in perfect harmony with the white dress shirt and notch lapel jacket.

For his wedding day JFK took a page from his neighbors across the pond and sported the morning suit, which was the perfect compliment to wife Jackie's stunning wedding creation.

For public occasions JFK's style called for a suit and tie, usually dark brown, black or blue - as well as pin stripes sometimes - but always tailored to create a boxy silhouette that will draw attention to the broad shoulders and face. For footwear, his style was equally conservative. JFK preferred the standard black or brown dress shoes or loafers to pull the look together. 

It's been widely reported that JFK was quite the ladies' man, and it wasn't just because he was the leader of the free world at the time; it was also his impeccable sense of style. JFK's style was the standard for men of the 1960's. 

The key to JFK's style is to have a well-tailored suit. While JFK didn't have a specific designer for his suits, he did favor the styles that were made by Brooks Brothers. 

The traditional and very chic white slacks and navy blazer was another of JFK's signature looks for the less formal occasions like Sunday mass service.

When it comes to casual wear, JFK's style can best be described as country club chic. His style was most consistent with soft linens or cotton pants and polo shirts than the jeans and T-shirts look. JFK managed to maintain a look that was casual and comfortable but still looked polished.

Even for casual affairs, his style had an air of sophistication to it.  Casual slacks with a lightweight, cotton button up shirt or a polo shirt worn open were standards for JFK.

The casual side of JFK's style can also be topped with a sweater vest or light casual jacket. 

The footwear side of casual JFK style tends to be a bit more sporty consisting of canvas deck shoes for on the boat, or leather moccasins or spike-less golf shoes.

Fashion icons or world leaders are not born everyday. On May 29th, 1917 lightning struck twice with the birth of JFK. 

The world will always be a better place because of JFK the president and fashion for men will always have a standard to uphold because of JFK the style icon.