Detroit Gentleman

Lethal Preppin'

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 16:48:00 +0000

Donald Glover is a pretty funny dude. His character on "The Community" is one of my favs on t.v. in a long time (probably because I don't watch much anymore), but when it comes to style, this kid is no joke. GQ does a great spread on him which you can check out here. I've placed a few of my fav pix here on the blog, but you can enjoy the whole write-up on him in this month's mag. Take it from a prep like me: this guy's got "it."

+8!3

"Platforms Are Dead"

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 20:16:00 +0000

Manolo Blahnik said WHAT?!?! Yup...."platforms are dead." Just watch this vid from the upcoming shoe documentary "God Save My Shoes" for more "jewels" of wisdom from the cobbling guru. For the original post, click here.

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Persol - Steve McQueen's American Dream

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 15:27:00 +0000

Steve McQueen: American action star, fashion icon, and true anti-hero. His life and legacy were all tumultuous, but his iconic status remains steadfast. No item is more iconic than the Persol 714 frames worn by Mr. McQueen in the original "Thomas Crowne Affair" in 1968. Persol has reissued a version of those famed frames and yours truly has the awesome pleasure of owning a pair for his 30th b-day. 30 feels pretty darn good....thank you, Sir McQueen (and to my lovely girlfriend). Something about fellas with the last name of "McQueen" that makes you feel good in the fashion world.

--+8!3

**For more info on "The King of Cool" himself, check out the official fansite.

The Strait[s] - "Controlled Chaos " Fashion Show/Art Exhibit

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 01:55:00 +0000

I'm having a fashion show and I want you all to come!!! Saturday, July 16, 2011, my dude Sam Donald and I will be putting on a show like none other in Harmonie Park, Downtown Detroit (located just behind Comerica Park and Greektown)....and it's FREE. Yes - FREE!!! Did I mention it's f-r-e-e?

Great artwork, including live creations on-the-spot, a fashion show walking the pavement, food, musical performances, and the beautiful people of Detroit - what more could you ask for???

For more information, check out the invite on Facebook or you can contact us at 313-585-2525.

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In Case You Missed It

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 02:20:00 +0000

So unless you were in a coma during and after the Superbowl, you should've heard the buzz (and backlash) of this commercial. Just figured I'd share for those finally awakening. From one Detroiter to another... :-)

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You Decide

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 08:01:00 +0000

Ok...so I thought about posting my latest speech for class here on the blog, but I've decided against it because it may bore you to tears. However, my outfit is definitely better in this video...so I leave the choice to you. My pic here doesn't do it justice (mostly because it's 3am and I should be asleep right now), so you can take it or leave it. Well, if you're here, you kinda have to take it anyway. LOL

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p.s. Shoutout to Charity: Water!!! I don't have a real profile started yet, but it's coming!

IFB - Blogger's Conference NYFW 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 19:40:00 +0000

Watch live streaming video from ifbconference at livestream.com

Check out the livestream here on February 10th! Keynote speakers are Jack McCollough and Larazo Hernandez of Proenza Schouler. Thanks to Independent Fashion Bloggers, MAC and Milk Studios for providing the stream.

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Walkie Talkie

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:53:00 +0000

1st post of the new year!!! Oh snap!!!

...OK. Now that the excitement is over, I just wanted to post something since this is my first time shooting a video on YouTube (& it's not even for something fashion-related). It's just me doing a presentation for my Speech class, which is online (isn't technology great?!). Check it out, critique, comment, whatever. It's all good. I'll do my best to be more sartorially-sumptuous & wear a better outfit next time :-)

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What - It's Over Already?!

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 19:22:00 +0000

Hey!!!

So...I'd like to start this post off first by apologizing. Neglect is never a good thing (you should see my room, for example). I've been extremely busy with everything else going on my life, but that is no excuse to neglect you! So, as a year-end post, I'd like to let you in on what I've been doing since Oct: SCHOOL. This past term has been a doozy and I'm just glad it's over. I will be right back at it in January, too, so pray for ya boy. Here are some pix of the projects that I've worked on (my grades have come up, too :-) and also a special thanks to all of you have continued to check out the blog, read thru old post, comment and share links. You're love has been invaluable and most graciously appreciated. I hope to be more consistent with the post and content in 2011, but we'll see what the Lord has in store. Never forget that YOU MATTER, people. Each and every one of you. There is a plan and a purpose for everything that goes on in your life...no matter how overwhelming or nonsensical it may seem {Jer. 29:11}. I've had a LOT of hardship and loss this year with my dad and grandma (mom's mom) this year...but there has also been perseverance and triumph. Just gotta keep going til I reach the end and I hope to have all of you stylish folks with me when I get there!

Special shoutout to all of my fav bloggers...you know who you are (cuz I mention you on Twitter like every week, LOL). Thanks again folks...and although I did not celebrate my first full year of blogging, I will be sure to start some new stuff for year #2!

May the Lord bless you and keep you in 2011!!!

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My Croqouises before being rendered....

Board starting to come together...

When it's all said and done....

A closer look at the fabric choices

My inspiration (credit to WGSN)

Trend - 360[degrees] * I tried to stay as close to this color story as possible

Fabric - Checks, wool, plaids, felt

Pringle A/W 2010 - WGSN

Rag & Bone A/W 2010 - WGSN

Fashion in Detroit 2010 | Motor City Denim Co.

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 21:11:00 +0000

I am a native Detroiter and a huge fan of fashion and nothing warms my heart more than seeing my two loves come together this week through Fashion in Detroit. Headed up by Joe Faris of Project Runway Season 5 fame, and Leslie Ann Pilling of Presence II Inc a nationally recognized design and production specialist, Fashion in Detroit is in its 2nd annual interation and looking to transform Detroit from the "Motor City into Fashion City."

The event takes place Friday, Oct. 22 and Saturday, Oct 23 with shows starting on both days at 12:30. For more information please go here.

Below is an interview with Joe Faris and his new line Motor City Denim Co. by Joe Faris designed, manufactured and housed entirely here in Detroit. I feel the winds of change o'coming!

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RxFresh - Lime Green Everything | An Interview with Janelle Nicole

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:02:00 +0000

Good Day Ladies & Gents...

Here's a repost of an interview I had the pleasure of conducting with an awesome stylist (and quite the looker, too), Janelle Nicole on RxFresh:

Special thanks to Carla Vernell of Rock.Paper.Dolls. for helping with the questions!

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M.I.A.

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 05:12:00 +0000

Ok...so I apologize. I didn't realize my last post was in July!?!?! I thought I had at least one post for my b-day month (August - hence the "813/8!3" signature)....my bad. Welp, this isn't an official fashion-related post, but you can read some of my stuff here. I'll be back before month's end...I promise!

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Levi's x Brooks Brothers = Must Have

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:51:00 +0000

Just checked out WWD for my daily updates and what do I see? Levi's and Brooks Brothers have jumped into bed together to make something beautiful - classic menswear. These jeans are featured on the Brooks Brothers' website and are in 501, 505, 514 styles - two rinses choices per type. Thank You, Lord!

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Photo via Newscom

Photos via Brooks Brothers

Wrinkle-Free Wednesdays

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:48:00 +0000

Jacket: Perry Ellis / Shirt: Ben Sherman / Pants: Perini / Shoes: Clavin Klein

Good Day Ladies and Gents,

Linen is hard to keep crisp, but not for my client, Tony (pictured above). He had on such a great combo today, I had to capture it. Enjoy!

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Fashion in Perspective Pt 2 - Model

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 21:39:00 +0000

IMAGINE 2010 - Fox Theatre, Detroit, MI

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Ok, sorry it took so long, but I'm finally finishing my post on "Fashion in Perspective." This one is about me being a model. Yes. Me. A model. I said it. Had the awesome opportunity to participate in my institute of higher learning's fashion show: original designs by students judged in a competition with the grand prize of bragging rights, resume fodder, and some other junk I'm probably unaware of. Anywho, the show is a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their work. You can see some of my personal favorites here....there were too many pix to add on the blog.

Props to my girl Cynthyah Beamon for being the only one brave enough to take a stab at menswear. The pix don't do her work justice.

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The Vestry in HOUR Detroit Magazine!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 16:54:00 +0000

Congrats to my store - The Vestry Men's Fine Clothier - for receiving product placement in the Father's Day spread for Hour Magazine (see pg 60)! I'm so excited...due diligence really does pay off! Special thanks to Taryn Bickley of "Sage and Style" and Rebecca Powers, Senior Editor of Hour Magazine for making us a part of such an awesome publication. Go cop one if you haven't already! GO!!! Quick, quick....I mean it!

It may be a little blurb, but this is the start of something big....

**Photos by Roy Ritchie

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Everyone's Favorite Designer

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:51:00 +0000

Congrats to Ralph Lauren for winning the "Most Popular Designer" award. I wonder if this works like mock elections for high school seniors? LOL. Nonetheless, he is my favorite designer....classic, timeless, elegant: Americana. You've come a long way from making neckties. Way to go, Mr. Lauren.

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Fashion in Perspective Pt 1 - Stylist

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Mon, 31 May 2010 20:08:00 +0000

GEMS IN THE GARDEN - Sunday, April 25, 2010

Had the opportunity to help style models for a fashion show in Metro Detroit, "Gems in the Garden," put together by the lovely and talenetd Bridgette Odum of Petals & Gems jewellery. The show was a benefit program for cancer research, so it was worth missing the 2nd service at church on Sunday. We had 7 models at our disposal and they all rocked our wares well. There are also a plethora of beautiful ladies modeling in the show...didn't get to meet them all, but I will rectify that at the "appreciation/viewing party." LOL

Let me know how we did...I personally think Kevin is a sartorial genius, but I'm biased. HA!

Thanks for sticking with me through my uber-delayed postings...bloggers are the best.

+8!3

**Special thanks to photographers Ayehsa Khan and Forgive Me Not for use of their artwork

Suspendable Offense

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:09:00 +0000

Okay....

First and foremost, I just want to say a huge "thank you" for all who have been checking the blog while I have been absent. I have been dealing with a lot personally, which left me distracted and uninspired. I have, however, contributed to RxFresh on a couple of small post, but nothing major as far as fashion. Today I felt led to comment on a blasphemous conjecture I heard in school last week. A PROFESSOR (who shall remain nameless) actually made the erroneous statement that when wearing suspenders on pants with belt loops, you must wear a belt. To paraphrase their exact words, "belt loops are on your pants for a reason." Dude.....................are you frikkin' kidding me?!? NO!!! No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.....NO!!! Do not - I repeat - DO NOT wear both suspenders and a belt at the same time. This is a fashion "faux pas" of the most heinous order. You will immediately be ticketed, fined, and thrown into jail without a chance of parole if I see you.

Ladies...suspenders on women are sexy. But if I see you violating this rule, don't think you're exempt.... officers are on patrol. You have been warned....

**For tips on how to wear suspenders (known as "braces" in the UK), check out Dapper Kid.

Conquistadors

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 04:26:00 +0000

Dress shoes are an important part of any professional wardrobe. But which shoes are the best? While most prefer the craftsmanship of Italy or the skill of America's best, the shoes of Spain are on par with the world’s best. Mezlan Shoes, Magnanni, and Magrit are just a few labels to break ground on the U.S. shores, showing both style and substance. These shoes are capable of competing with the Allen Edmonds and Gucci’s of the world and at a much better price point.

MAGNANNI (my fav shoe label at the moment)

Magnanni shoes are handcrafted shoes made in Almansa, Spain. Into their third generation, Magnanni has remained a family-owned company for over 50 years. Magnanni has beautiful, classic designs with a simple principle: “a commitment to producing handcrafted footwear in an increasingly mechanized world, a rigorous process for selecting quality leathers and materials, and the application of distinctive new designs and hand finishes.” By applying a hand-finished approach using the latest technology, it allows them to move to the head of the class. Magnanni has a wide selection of oxfords, wingtips, and loafers which appeal to the conservative consumer that wants a little something more. I presently own a pair of the Velio's and they are an awesome shoe! Look forward to personal pix coming soon.

Florentino (available in mid-brown, black) - $325 USD

Velio (black) - $198 Ciro (available in brown, black) - $295 USD

MEZLAN (a close 2nd)

Mezlan Shoes, founded in 1968, is a Spanish shoe company known for their innovative styling and custom color ways. Handcrafted by artisans and shipped all over the world, Mezlan prides themselves on the fit and finish of their shoes. Most shoes are less than $400 USD and are comparable to shoes double the price. They also carry a large selection of exotic skin shoes and blends that mix leathers and textures. Their ability to take risk and do so without going over-the-top has allowed them to thrive even in a bleak economic climate. Mezlan also has a casual line of shoes under the label Bacco Bucci which has phenomenal loafers, boots, and walking/riding shoes. Mezlan and Bacco Bucci also carry belts & hosiery to help compliment any look. I currently own a pair of Rizla boots, which are one of the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned.

Cadaret (available in bone/tan, brown/cognac) - $315 USD

Burris (available in burgandy, black) - $315 USD

Giambi (available in cognac/cream suede, olive/bone) - $325 USD

Sylvestri (available in brown only...and my next shoe purchase!!!) - $335 USD

MAGRIT (something for the honeys)

Ladies’ brand Magrit shoes has a long-standing tradition of quality and style. Still owned by the same family since 1929, Magrit has also found innovative ways to integrate new technology into “Old World” craftsmanship. They currently export to over 40 countries worldwide, appealing to women across generations and shipping 200,000 pairs of shoes per year. Magrit is known for their combination of craft and creativity – mixing obscure feathers, leathers, and dyes to create an exquisite and exclusive look. The company makes everything from ballerinas to handbags and even wedding shoes, with prices ranging on average $300 USD.

I also want to thank Sugahspank! for making me King for a day...I apologize in the delay of posting/sharing such an honor.

It's So Cooooold in the D

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 22:10:00 +0000

I finally have a better camera (found the good ol' CoolPix 4200 a month ago in dad's closet)! No more cell phone pix (unless they come out really well :o)....let me know what you think good people!!! p.s. I hate pointy-toed "genie" shoes, but I'm still cleaning up my wardrobe; bare with me.

Today's Special (BOGO):

wool/acrylic scarf unknown, frames by Dolce & Gabbana, acrylic sweater by Bachrach, wool zip-up peacoat by Old Navy, courdoroy pants by Timberland, shoes by Aldo

Detroit Tigers fitted baseball cap by New Era, frames by Dolce & Gabbana, vintage v-neck sweater and polka dot necktie, shirt by Brandolini, belt by Marco Torelli, wool flat front pants by Bachrach, canvas shoes by Aldo

King of Britain

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 07:50:00 +0000

One of my favorite designers, Alexander McQueen, is now gone from among us. I hate doing back-to-back memorial post but this is all so sudden. Great artist and an inspiration to many. No need for a dissertation, I just wanted to show some love to McQ from McK.

Photo courtesy of AP Images

You can find more info about Mr. McQueen's untimely departure here.

I Miss My Dad

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:57:00 +0000

So....

I originally decided that I wasn't going to do anymore post until this one, but somehow Ralph Lauren snuck his way onto the page. Ah, well...

My father, Richard W. McKeithen, went to be with the Lord on January 22, 2010 (he really did go to be with Jesus, I'm not just putting him in heaven because I like the guy, LOL). And while he wasn't a trendsetter, he was my homie. He was a "t-shirt and jeans" kinda guy who held no punches and encouraged me every step of the way. I had a really hard time dealing with leaving Engineering school and he always found an encouraging word for me. I had a really hard time with a lot of things in my adult life, actually...and he always seemed to know what to say - even when he didn't say anything at all. I love my dad. He's still my homie. And one day, I'll make the McKeithen name a household staple.

(from L to R) my Dad, my brother Richard II, and me before my Senior Prom

June 1999

Love is in the Air

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:40:00 +0000

I just want to profess my love for the people at Ralph Lauren.... seriously.

There's No Place Like....

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan McK) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 21:08:00 +0000

Ok....saw these shoes on Prescription Fresh and HAD to post them. Don't shoot the messenger:

Dorthy's kicks ain't got nothing on these!!! Step aside, Toto....