Calculatus Eliminatus: A Men's Fashion Blog

A Different Look: A Girl’s Guide to Men’s Denim Done Right

2010-07-30T12:08:00.000-07:00

Guest post by Alessia

We are living in a material world, and I am a material girl (yes, I’m quoting Madonna, let’s move on). To deny it would be to lie. It’s the reason so many movies exist with the same premise: a popular girl taking a helplessly nerdy guy, dressing him like a popular guy and the two eventually fall in love ‘cause his new-found popularity brought them together. It’s the reason an ordinary guy would never try to pick up Lady Gaga, because her Kermit the Frog dresses, hair bows and general S&M attire make her terribly unapproachable and intimidating.

So what's the reason? Simply put, clothes matter.

Left: Rock Revival Mick 15 Boot Cut Denim Right: Rock Revival Paul 14 Straight Leg Denim

If you haven’t already noticed, it’s kind of the focus of this whole little blog. Now I’m not saying that Gaga would ever want to be approached by any putz off the streets, ‘cause, let’s face it, she’s Gaga. However, when it comes to the ordinary men of the world who do not want to appear to women as the male equivalents of Gaga (i.e. aesthetically off-putting), carefully chosen, lady-approved outfits must be implemented.

This is where denim comes in- more specifically, denim by Rock Revival. Most men turn to a pair of jeans as their go-to outfit, mostly because they’re an easy and low-maintenance outfit. This is true, but only if denim is done right. A bad fit, a tacky wash or unnecessary, awkward designs can make for denim disasters. Enter Rock Revival. This is denim that can be considered both exclusively casual and more formal. Boasting superior fits and premium fabrics, good-looking jeans have never felt better on you. What makes the brand special, however, truly is their signature designs, which are featured heavily enough to make your jeans special, but are understated enough to ensure that the jeans aren’t wearing you.

Take it from a girl- Rock Revival is a sure-fire way to make you not look like a fool. Visit Luello.com to view denim by Rock Revival.

What's Wrong With This Picture?: Zac Efron

2010-07-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

Good hair, good sunglasses, good watch, good...wait, what's going on upstairs, Zac? Are you wearing a wifebeater over a short-sleeve nightshirt, or is all that one piece? Oh, it totally is all one shirt. The union of low class and sleepwear - how chic.

Lesson #113: Summer shorts

2010-07-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

Shorts are a staple piece in a summertime wardrobe - and that's a good thing for those of us with sweaty legs. Though thoroughly casual, shorts still have the potential to make or break your ensemble for park or beach excursions.

Nike Crested Plaid Men's Shorts

INFEASIBLE: Plaid shorts

Regardless of the colors involved, plaid is a difficult to work with on upper garments - let alone pants. I can't think of what one would wear to match any checkered design below the waist, besides something so boring as a white polo shirt. Frankly, this particular pair makes me think of the henchmen uniforms from some bad space opera, so no dice.

Vineyard Vines Men`s Seersucker Club Shorts

Feasible: Seersucker shorts

Like I said earlier in "Seersucker and You", seersucker is a great cloth to don during the summertime. Better yet, I bet you can instantly imagine how the example above would match a whole spectrum of flowery or seasonally colored shirts. They're also comfy as what.

What's Wrong With This Picture?: Andy Cohen

2010-07-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the most frustrating ensembles are the ones that ALMOST perfect. At first glance, Andy Cohen definitely comes off as dashing with his grey British cut suit and fancy chester-brown shoes - and then you notice his shirt and pocket square. Teal on a square? Especially paired with a light blue shirt featuring red stripes? My god man: so close, yet so far from the mark.

By the way, Matthew, I think you need new loafers.

And the winners are...

2010-07-20T08:51:00.000-07:00

...Pamela S and scarter305! Who each get a Every Man Jack Grooming Kit for submitting:

I think Don Cheadle is always clean and dapper.

and

Hmmm....I'd say Hugh Jackman. He's usually looking good! Thanks so much!

Here, here! Thanks to all our participants and stay tuned for our next contest!!

Musings on Men's Fashion - Review of 191Unlimited shirt

2010-07-19T08:31:00.000-07:00

The loose, white button-down is an essential summertime piece for anyone looking to be casual yet also chic. 191Unlimited recent sent me a white shirt from their summer collection - let's see how it fairs.

To its merit, the shirt is fun in that it plays with a lot of curious design elements. For one, note the the double flap pockets, which could be conducive to some interested pin-button arrangements (if you decide to go a little punkish). It also comes with shoulder straps, which are largely useless but nevertheless add to its uniqueness. My favorite change in detail, though, are the rectangular buttons on the shirt as well as the cuffs. Who would have thought to square the traditional circle? The shirt also fits well and rarely clings when I'm sweating from being outside

However, I do take issue with the sowing for this particular piece. As you can very well tell, threading has already occurred around the cuff buttons and this is with under a month's worth of wearing. It's so bad in fact that I need to struggle to undo the fastening, at times breaking threads themselves in order to release the buttons. There are also loose threads around the button holes of the placket. Shoddy work, to say the least.

Musings on Men's Fashion - Be the Boss. Orange.

2010-07-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

Boss orange are making a comeback on the streets of London. The boss orange brand was founded in 1923 and looking at their shirts and pants it would seem nothing much has changed since then. Their shirts are all very vintage looking, the type that would look good at any occasion.

The Boss Orange brand has a certain air about it – their shirts have a tailored look and to touch them you would know they are made with a higher quality than other leading names in men’s fashion. Their new Spring/Summer range is out, Id advise you to take a look and see what’s hot in London. Check it out on the Boss Orange Website.

What's Wrong With This Picture?: Ashton Kutcher

2010-07-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

Ashton, Ashton: again with the wasted potential. Mr. Kutcher mustn't take environmental debates too seriously, because he threw a mess on himself for one. Dude, comb your hair - better yet, get it cut - and start wearing t-shirts that aren't faded rags. Also, I know the West coast's experiencing some cool temperatures these days, but a cardigan in July? Please come to your senses.

Musings on Men's Fashion: Chew on this old boot - Nicholas Deakins

2010-07-11T08:58:00.000-07:00

From the depths of the Nicholas Deakins design house comes this wonderful pair of old brogues. The design has a retro quality to them, sort of like the boots I used to wear to school. The leather is soft and flexible – unlike many other boots and their ultra comfortable to wear. I love everything about these boots, from the black and yellow laces to the ‘nut fashioned’ lace holes. It seems Nicholas Deakins was proving that they could produce a shoe other than the ‘normal formals’ they are famous for. Check out this boot and many more on the Nicholas Deakins site. Treat yourself to these boots and treat your girl to a pair of these Ash Shoes – they go great together!

CONTEST: Win an Every Man Jack Grooming Kit!!

2010-07-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

Ring that contest bell, for it's the winning time again! This week we're giving away grooming kits care of Every Man Jack, who specialize in providing affordable, high-quality men’s grooming products.

Two lucky winners get the Signature Six Pack Kit from Every Man Jack, which includes the Signature Pomade and Shaving Cream. Quality stuff. There's only one way to try and claim one of the two kits: Post a comment to this very post telling us which male celebrity these days grooms himself the best. I know who certainly isn't, so please don't suggest fools like him. We'll select the winning entries at random. Limited to US residents only, 18 years old and above.

The deadline's Friday, July 16th, 2010 at 6 p.m. EST. Mark your calendars, and don't forget to include your email address in your submission! Good luck gents!

Every Man Jack's also hosting their own contest called WANTED. The deadline for submissions is July 16th, after which the first round of voting, which runs July 19-30, will begin, narrowing entries to just ten. The four finalists will each receive a trip for two to Vegas where they will party and attend a photo shoot where their images could end up in the upcoming Every Man Jack ad campaign. Check out the Every Man Jack WANTED Contest for details!

What's Wrong With This Picture?: Landon Donovan

2010-07-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

Landon Donovan's got a nice suit on there, no doubt. But notice the state of his pants, particularly the left leg: looks like a botched hem job to me. I feel like the cut wouldn't look so jarring had he decided to go with dress shoes other than white tennis shoes. Don't listen to anyone who says otherwise: the paradigmatic items of formalwear and streetwear operate towards separate ends and not even soccer superstars can make them work together. Landon, go with a nice pair of derbies next time.

Musings on Men's Fashion: Lacoste bites back

2010-07-05T11:07:00.000-07:00

The Lacoste Crocodile may have been back at bay over the past few decades but he’s back on nearly every polo shirt. The iconic crocodile brand is back in fashion and has a huge range of shirts, tees and polo shirts to keep him entertained. I took this logo off my new Lacoste Polo Shirt – the plain green one struck me as pretty retro.

Lacoste started making polo shirts in 1933, their range of clothing was designed solely for the tennis court but has since became a leading high street fashion icon. The Lascoste Polo Shirt is probably their best selling item - have a look at the Lacoste Polo Shirts website and pick your color.

And the winners are...

2010-07-03T08:32:00.000-07:00

...~*~lilshuga2001~*~ and FDP 4 Life! Who win free 500 business cards each for submitting:

BEST ONE WAS - brewed awakening - cOFFEE sHOP!!! :)
and
smack down lawn service, who's layin it down in your town?

Thanks to all our participants and stay tuned for our next contest!!

What's Wrong With This Picture?: Matt LeBlanc

2010-07-01T05:45:00.000-07:00

I see that Matt LeBlanc has taken to dressing like The Joker in his time away from the set of Friends. And, apparently, he's also developed a taste for the bottle along with the hairdos of disheveled, old drunks. Gents, being a sloppy boozer is never in fashion; someone let Matt in on this bit of wisdom, please.

Gents, remember to check out our contest for 500 free business cards!!!

Musings on Men's Fashion - Toy watches... sort of

2010-06-30T08:22:00.000-07:00

Consider the watch which isn’t a watch. You may have seen them on the TV, in glossy magazines or on celebs – what am I talking about? Toy Watches of course! I always understood toy watches to be watches with toys in them – perhaps a little metal ball and maze game, but apparently not. Toy watches are a very highly respected piece of designer fashion, worn only by those who can afford them. The Toy Watch Brand has built itself up into a world-wide recognized designer brand, their watches come in hundreds of designs and you really can personalize them to your own style. I’ve seen bright yellow toy watches, pink toy watches, toy watches with flags in them and loads more. Whatever your style you’re sure to find a Toywatch to match.

Like all good watches, Toy Watches are Italian made. They ooze a quality and style unique to Italian products, with one on your wrist you’ll know you wearing quality.

They really have taken off since they first came on the fashion scene in 2005, the Toy Watch brand have given Swatch a run for their money, questioning their dominance in the quality watches market. There are just over 300 places to buy the famous Toy Watch, the best of which is the Toy Watch website. That’s where I got mine from. I keep checking back to see the latest designs, these watches really are an attractive piece of kit. I was Just a little bit disappointed when mine arrived and I realized there was no ball and maze in them! Bummer.

Musings on Men's Fashion - Review of Simple Shoes Tuba Sneakers

2010-06-29T06:59:00.000-07:00

Green is undeniably in fashion these days - and, no, I'm not talking about the color. And while being environmentally responsible is always a wise way of living, it is a relatively gree-I mean, new approach when it comes to garmenting. Simples Shoes is one such innovator and pride themselves on producing sneakers from recycled and organic materials. But does following the three-R philosophy promise quality footwear?

There are a lot of things to like about these "Tuba" shoes. For one, they're really comfy with and without socks. I trekked around the Back Bay of Boston this past weekend and, boy, were my dogs mostly silent. I think we can attribute the softness of their step to the polyurethane foam and recycled rubber making up the pedbed. As for the inside, the seams are padded well with super-soft cotton and the sides of the shoes allow for air circulation, so no dreaded feet swampiness here despite the summertime humidity.

Another selling point on these shoes is their thick and strong laces. Made from organic cotton as well, the laces stood up to yanking and exposure to water without widening or getting overly fuzzy. They also match the rest of the shoes' design very nicely.

Of note, I found some of the fabric at the upper edge threading and pealing slightly , which makes me worry a little about the general construction of the shoe. It's too early to say how they will stand the test of time, but for the time being they're sharp-looking and, again, very comfortable. Feel free to check out the Simple Shoes facebook page for more information about the brand and their other products.

CONTEST: Win quality business cards!

2010-06-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

Time again for another contest! The fine people of Uprinting, who specialize in top-notch business card printing, want us to help you get professional and sophisticated about one of the most important tool of self-promotion.

Two lucky winners get 500 premium business cards from the Printing Company, full color on both sides, and variety of options for sizes (2 x 3.5", 2 x 2" or 1.75 x 3.5") and cardstock (14 pt gloss, 14 pt matte or 13 pt recycled uncoated). There's only one way to try and claim one of the two packages: Post a comment to this very post telling us the coolest name you've ever seen on business card. Mine would have to be "Benjamin Scales" who is a music producer. But please, refrain from saying "Patrick Bateman" or "Gordon Gecko". We'll select the winning entries at random. Limited to US residents only, 18 years old and above.

The deadline's Friday, July 2nd, 2010 at 6 p.m. EST. Mark your calendars, and don't forget to include your email address in your submission! Good luck gents!

Lesson #112: Soccer Jerseys

2010-06-22T16:34:00.000-07:00

The World Cup's well underway and plenty of folks got the right idea of showing support for their country's team by sporting a jersey. Sure, it's a little contrived, but ultimately forgivable - as long as you put them away in the closet after the last whistle's blown. But as with all things appareled, you should be careful and know what exactly you're getting when you go searching for your fútbol fanwear.

International Soccer Jersey Shirts - Portugal World Cup Jersey T-Shirt

INFEASIBLE: Jerseys with prints

Screen-printing might work for t-shirt graphics, but they come off as tacky and flat on jerseys. This is simply because most jerseys, like the one above, are made from polyester and therefore give everything on them an extra dose of gloss. Fake fake FAKE.

Adidas 2010 Argentina Home Youth World Cup Soccer Jersey

Feasible: Embroidered jerseys

Embroidered insignias looks ten times better, don't they? They give the piece some dimensionality and texture, even a look of uniqueness. Of course anything with embroidery is going to be more expensive than what comes with prints, but come on now, do you want to look the mook at the sport bars? Didn't think so.

What's Wrong With This Picture?: Xavier Samuel

2010-06-21T14:47:00.000-07:00

Ah yes, Xavier Samuel of Twilight fame (though I first read his name five minutes ago) decided on the James Dean look for the Much Music Awards. With his black leather jacket, white undershirt, and dark sunglasses, it's hard to distinguish him from the iconic young American actor. Except, you know, James Dean pretty much popularized this youth-in-revolt approach to fashion over sixty years ago; Xavier probably got the idea from a Calvin Klein commercial. Way to copy a copy of a dead man's image, Xav - try to be original next time.

Musings on Men's Fashion - Protecting your fancy electronics

2010-06-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

The electronics you carry around give people an insight into who you are - not just about how well you keep yourself connected to the ever-shifting world around you, but also how little or how much you care about your appearance as a busy and sophisticated person. Yes, it’s all so materialistic and fleeting – oh well.

The funny thing about your electronics is that, while they may make you look versatile and effortlessly aware, the devices themselves are easily bothered and less than resilient. So how do you keep your expensive phone acting and looking sleek? Power Support has a classy solution.

Power Support gained acclaim within the accessories market with its revolutionary protective screen films that use a patented “static-cling adhesive technology” – sounds sexy, right? Fortunately, they have films for all kinds of handheld electronics, from iPhone to MacBook. Worry no longer about finding a jagged little crack on your iPad screen after a slippery night downtown – Power Support will have you covered (pun intended).

And with their recently launched e-commerce platform, it’s easier than ever to search for, learn about and buy their protective technology. The site promises swift navigation, clear and clean shop options, ease in search and use. Ambitiously, the site also offers complete customer service at the click of a mouse, as well as videos sharing options of behind-the-scenes information on favorite brand collaborations. Go check it out and find the electronic accessories fit for your needs.

And the winner is...

2010-06-17T11:05:00.000-07:00

...Soccerajk! Who wins the diamond cufflinks from G3 Jewelry for this entertaining anecdote:

When I was 8 years old I gave my father a "cane" which was basically a stick that I had made into a walking stick. I spent hours looking for a good size, sturdy, straight stick. I used my Cub Scout knife that I got when I earned my Whittlin' Chip and carved it down. I told him he could use it when he got old. When he gave it a test run he got multiple splinters in his hand. I was devastated and cried for ruining Father's Day. Later that day he showed me sanding.

Aww, who doesn't love a happy ending? Thanks to all our participants and stay tuned for our next contest!!

What's Wrong With This Picture?: Nick Nolte

2010-06-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

Mr. Nolte knows one or two things about the pursuit of a slovenly career of b-acting and drug abuse, but who knew he could also look the part of an infernal mess? With a cabbie hat as stiff as wood dunked in Scotchgard and wispy less-than-golden locks dangling out the back, it's no wonder this possessed mind could commit of something so diabolical as wearing a collared shirt and only bothering to fasten a single, bottom button. God help us all.

Gents, remember to check out our contest for a $3,000 diamond cufflinks!!!

Musings on Men's Fashion - Review of Naturally Active Men's Skincare Kit

2010-06-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Like I've said a million times before, fashion is about more than the clothes you wear. Neglect your face the proper attention, whether by using inferior skincare products or shaving materials, and you'll regret the rough skin and splotchy complexion. I recently received a kit of shaving cream, face scrub lotion, and moisturizer from the Liz Earle Naturally Active line and, as you can tell, I was more than willing to scrutinize.

I was overall very impressed by what Liz Earle delivered. For one, the shaving cream was very silky and therefore easy to apply to my four-day stubble, which isn't the case with more foamy creams. As for how well it came off, I got most of each patch of hair with a single swipe. Golden.

I massaged in the face scrub after finishing with my razor and waited to see if it helped with the unavoidable razor burn and irritation. Happily, my cheeks ended up feeling smoother than usual and, more importantly, the redness disappeared a little. It also breathed some new life into the underside of my bottom lip, a haven for chapness - who would've thought?

I got around to trying the moisturizer a couple of days later; this was the only part of the kit that didn't leave me in awe. Though it certainly prevented my skin from dryness, the cream just didn't conduct that coolness I'm so grateful for from my Ahava. But, hey, two out of three ain't bad at all. Go to the Naturally Active Men's Skincare website and give their quality applications a gander.

Gents, remember to check out our contest for a $3,000 diamond cufflinks!!!

What's Wrong With This Picture?: Johnny Weir

2010-06-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

I can't help but laugh aloud. Johnny, please let us know where we too can get a shiny, papier-mâché inspired blazer fitted oh-so-cleverly with a single button. Also, are you that starved for attention that you went a lacy tulle bow tie? Who did you borrow it from? Madonna? And that shit-eating grin...

Cool shoes though.

Musings on Men's Fashion - Review of Bowie Jeans by Kasil Workshop

2010-06-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

Every so often, I am awarded the chance to review merchandise that leaves me awe-struck and wanting more. The Bowie jeans from the renowned denim brand Kasil Workshop are one such piece. Let me explain my enamor to you now so you can start saving up for a pair of your own, 'cause you need one.

First, although these jeans are pretty damn slim, they aren't constrictive on the legs or the pelvis, which is my quintessential beef with skinny denim at large. Praise form-fitting! On top of that, the denim itself is super-soft and almost pliable, which not only helps them be more comfortable, but also makes the process of cuffing that much easier.

Secondly, despite being slim, Bowie's pockets accommodate for all my carrying needs. The front pockets are deep, roomy, and sown with plum-colored cotton fabric - gotta say I love that last little detail. The right one also comes with a cute key pocket, perfect for storing a couple of quarters or a stick of gum. The back pockets are spacious too and come with a simple yet noticeable design, no studs or crazy patterns. Additionally, none of the pockets bulge when occupied, which I find a bit magical.

Thirdly, and this goes without saying, the stitching is top notch and the waist perfectly matches my waistline. Again, I'm head-over-heels in love with these jeans and I think you'd fall for them as well. Be sure to give their newest collection a gander at the Kasiljean Official Shop.

Did I mention that the interior of the cuffs match my Chucks?! SWOOOOoonnn....

Gents, remember to check out our contest for a $3,000 diamond cufflinks!!!