Enter Geoffrey and Benoit of Bonnegueule…

17^th-century French writer François De La Rochefoucault once said that even the most epic journey begins with a first step. We want to tell you about the first steps of Benoit and Geoffrey, founders of French men’s fashion blog BonneGueule, into the world of footwear design. The venture? An ambitious collaboration with luxury French sneaker brand National Standard. The goal? To create a stylish, timeless, high-end sneaker.

Gentlemen, meet the BGNS-01.

The BGNS-01:  the sneaker that goes with every parquet floor.

About National Standard

Founded in 2010, National Standard has set themselves apart from other brands from the beginning by offering high-quality sneakers at an affordable price, a combination virtually unheard of in a market that offers nothing in between sports suppliers (Adidas, Nike) and luxury designers (Raf Simons, Pierre Hardy, Common Project). Despite a limited marketing budget, National Standard has gained a strong (and well-deserved) following since its creation.

The design and build of National Standard’s sneakers are clearly of high-end quality. The shoes are made from premium materials: soles by Margom (we’ll talk more about those later…) and zippers by YKK (historically a luxury zipper manufacturer).

Not forgetting a stitched sole and leather interior, as well as details and finishes executed in Portugal, renowned for its luxury shoes and home to some beautiful sneaker factories.

We’re not surprised that BonneGueule chose National Standard to help them bring to life their very first sneaker…

The BGNS-01 in detail

Benoit and Geoffrey wanted to create a sneaker that would work with any outfit, featuring neutral colors, and a natural rubber sole for an authentic, vintage feel.

They wanted a sneaker that would look good with plain denim jeans, but also with gray jeans, faded jeans, and chinos in a whole range of colors, including the obvious beige.

Basically, they wanted to create a no-fuss sneaker that you could just throw on, without spending hours deliberating over your choice of footwear.

Early sketches of the BGNS-01

The BGNS-01 does up with a zipper that goes down the outer side of each shoe – a practical feature, especially on high-tops. You can imagine how much faster it is to put these sneakers on compared with your average pair. Plus, because they don’t have to be tied and untied, the laces will keep their waxed finish for longer.

The BGNS-01’s zipper is made of metal, not plastic, in keeping with the authentic feel of the sneaker. The color is gunmetal gray, which goes nicely with the charcoal gray leather band behind it.

The zipper down the side allows you to put on and take off the BGNS-01 faster. And it’s made of metal, which means it will last longer.

The BGNS-01’s sole is made by the famous Italian brand Margom, recognizable by their iconic, discreet logo. You’re definitely acquainted with Margom’s soles, which feature on the majority of luxury sneakers (Lanvin, Balenciaga, YSL (at one stage), and a whole load of other designers).

Margom has mastered the art of vulcanizing natural rubber (= turning it into a more durable material using heat, pressure and chemical elements). Their soles are therefore more hard-wearing than average, with a timeless design and perfect proportions.

More importantly, the sole is glued and stitched. This makes for a much more solid build than if the sole was just glued.

The natural color of the Margom sole plays on the design of GAT’s famous sneakers. Nice extra touch: the leather on the BGNS-01 is varied in texture.

The BGNS-01 is a high-top design, which means you can show off these sneakers by tucking the hems of your pants loosely into the top of each shoe.

But, because not everyone likes tucking their pants into their sneakers, the BGNS-01’s ankle is slim enough for you to also wear your jeans over the top, for a more understated, elegant look.

How do I wear the BGNS-01?

With jeans

The BGNS-01 can be teamed with slim fit jeans for a classic, casual vibe. Opt for blue, gray or black denim – the sneakers’ charcoal gray tongue will create a pleasing continuity between the shoes and your jeans. A faded wash will go well with the BGNS-01’s multi-colored/textured leather, and add warmth to an otherwise cool, neutral outfit (especially if you throw a laid-back camo shirt into the mix – see photo).

With cargo pants

For a summer ensemble that exudes effortless style, wear the BGNS-01 with a fine pair of beige cargo pants. Choose a cut with a slightly tapered leg so you can tuck the bottom hems of your pants into the tops of the sneakers. Don’t tuck too neatly – just the front section of each hem, leaving some stacking around the ankles to make your legs look longer (see photo). The large pockets on your pants will give this chic outfit a rugged edge. Swap your cargos for chinos for a smarter flair.

How does the BGNS-01 fit?

True to size.

Those of you who already own a pair of National Standards should order BGNS-01s in the same size. If you’re a 43 in other brands, order a 43. If you’re a 40, order a 40. Easy!

Where can I get my pair? 

The BGNS-01 is available now from the BonneGueule site. Click here to shop :

http://www.bonnegueule.fr/sneakers-bgns-01-commandes-ouvertes/

Questions? You can email the designers directly at geoffrey@bonnegueule.fr to learn more about these gorgeous, limited supply sneakers and pick a pair up for yourself before they sell out. 

The polo shirt is one of the most versatile men’s wardrobe options out there, so if you don’t have one in your closet you’re missing out on a lot of easy style points. If you thought they offered little more than a preppy look, you should check out what is actually on offer these days – you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Before we go into any of that, however, there are a few things we should clear up first. The versatility of the polo shirt comes from its ability to pair with jeans, trousers, a hoody or blazer, allowing you to jump from smart to casual and back again without a second thought.

However, there are some things you need to know about how to wear the humble polo…

Tuck-ins

Unless you’re super-slim and dressing super-smart, don’t. Even then it’s not a guaranteed winner. And never tuck a polo shirt into jeans – it’s a look which has Dad-at-a-picnic written all over it.

Button-up

The buttoned-up look is not to be shied away from, but it is if the neck is too tight. A strained top button and bulging neck veins are not the way to impress (and invariably lead to shortness of breath).

Popped collars

One of the grey areas; it can work with smaller collars – but not if there’s a big old crease in it. As rule, steer clear.

Doubling up

Who thought wearing two polo shirts at the same time was a good idea? It’s a bad look that reeks of trying far too hard; don’t be one of them.

If you think you can live with these basic principles, welcome to the world of the polo.

The preppy look is typically found in offerings from Ralph Lauren and Lacoste: simple, block-colour styles in subtle shades. This simplicity means you can pair it with chinos, jeans or trousers, but it also means fit is important – too much material and you’ll look like you’re wearing a tent.

For something a little bolder and more edgy go for the British classic: Fred Perry. You can afford to be more bold with your colour choices, as the iconic double banding on the sleeves and collar will offset it just enough.

If the Mod look is just not retro enough, however, look at the polo shirt offerings from Original Penguin. The three-button placket has contrast trim for that classic 1950s look, while you can also mix it up with patterned prints on the torso. Lyle & Scott also has an interesting range of pattern-print polos, again playing on the retro theme.

Just remember that whatever you choose, keep it ironed – crinkly polos are definite no-nos!

This is a partner guest post by designer brand Hackett.

In summertime the thought of wearing a suit to a formal event may not be the most thrilling prospect, especially to those unaccustomed to the thickness and layering of a good three-piece. However, once winter kicks in the suit takes on a whole new appeal: that structured cut becomes a hug against the seasonal chill, the obligatory waistcoat just visible beneath the jacket becomes an irreplaceable part of a man’s cold defence. So with a new-found love for the suit in his heart, how can the modern man pull off the look in style?

Wear classic, with a modern twist

The right suit will of course be timeless – it’s a style staple that is not subject to the whims and wild ideas of fashion, but men should open their eyes to the many different cuts that are around today. A quick click through the styles at Hackett is the perfect introduction to the shapes and fabrics out there.

The style of a suit is judged by the silhouette it creates, so a quick ponder over the desired shape will narrow down the field. As The Black Tie Guide explains, the classic American cut suit has little shape thanks to the soft shoulders, rumpled chest and indefinite waist, but the jackets of the “Updated American” suit features a smaller chest, higher armholes and more defined waist; the chosen look can really reflect a move with the times towards more sharply-fitted pieces.

Wear with an overcoat

This is the perfect finishing touch to your Bond-esque winter look, and will be the final nail in the winter’s freezing coffin. Choose one in a coordinating shade – grey is always a winner, but a black version can be softened with a knitted grey scarf, as demonstrated here.

Wear with confidence

The suit is a powerful look, and while that can bring a man confidence, without the right attitude he could also be completely overpowered. Small changes can be made to help him feel more at home in the attire; a pocket square in a favourite colour, perhaps, or a cut that flatters a particular body shape. This classic guide from GQ should prove useful.

Lookbook: A/W Paul Smith style

The combination of black and navy used to be an ultimate fashion no-no. Thankfully, this is no longer, with many catwalks flouting the former golden rule of good taste this season. Paul Smith is one such designer embracing the now happy union of black and navy in its A/W 2012 collection, which draws inspiration from the deep sea with classic maritime styles given a modern makeover. Check out our lookbook below which highlights the best of the collection to see you through the winter months.

Black leather biker jacket

A black leather biker jacket is a man’s wardrobe staple that is also perfect to keep out the harshest of winter chills. This slim-fit example from Paul Smith features navy sleeve trims – reaffirming the black-navy harmony – along with an off-centre zip fastening and a luxurious shark-tooth print fabric lining that won’t detract from the jacket’s badass vibes.

Navy broken-twill smock

Sitting somewhere between a shirt and a jumper, this navy broken-twill smock is a perfect layering garment for the colder seasons. With a slim fit, cowl neck and a pair of pouch pockets, this smock can be worn over the top of a traditional black jumper for a look that will really make you stand out from the crowd.

Dark damson trousers

Ok, they may not be quite black but they are almost there, and this pair of dark-damson wool trousers perfectly complements the top half of this look. While still slim fit, the stretchiness of the wool fabric means they will be forgiving even on those who usually wear a wider fit trouser.

Black ‘Missouri’ boots

Offering the perfect combination of style and functionality, these black ‘Missouri’ boots from the mainline collection are the perfect shoe to finish off your look. Cut to just above the ankle like a high version of the traditional Chelsea boot, the Missouri’s are perfect for keeping your feet warm and dry this winter – and are stylish to boot. Also, the crepe sole will provide you with the necessary grip on slippery surfaces. This is a timeless boot which, with a bit of love and care, should last you for years to come.

Happy Black Friday!

This year, we’re thanking all of our readers with 50% off sale of all of our styling programs for Black Friday Weekend, Nov 23 – 26.

What does this mean? Sign up between Nov 23rd and Nov 26th and get the following discounts:

• $690  $345 for a full day styling session with Jay in New York City
• $195  $97.50 for a 2-hour Skype styling session with Jay

Don’t wait. If you’ve been wanting to sign up for a style consultation with Jay, this is the time.

Also until November 26th, I convinced our Style For Modern Men e-book team to drop the e-book price from $37 to $27 for our Black Friday weekend sale! Click here to get your copy today while this sale lasts.

Questions? Shoot Jay an email at Jay@kinowear.com

The Way I Dress: Mr Joshua Kissi via MRPORTER.com.

Interested in finding and building your own uniquely attractive style? Click on the Style for Modern Man link below!

This inspired us: the menswear elite together in one place for The Sartorialist Dinner in Florence.

(via The Sartorialist)

Here’s a great outfit to put together and wear during one of your adventurous nights…

What you’ll need to put together a similar look:

1. Casual Blazer

2. Red V-neck T-shirt

3. White Shorts

4. Webbed Belt

5. Brown Loafers

I love the red v-neck here because it has confidence built into it while also holding a relaxed vibe. Pair this with white shorts – which are a must have for the summer. Nothing says “fresh” like the color white when it’s muggy out. It also has the power to turn heads amidst the sea of blue and khaki combinations in the streets.

The webbed belt you see here is perfect to go with the bold but relaxed vibe – visually appealing when put between two solid pieces.

The brown suede loafers are a staple that works not just for this look but every summer look. They’ll make you look effortlessly stylish and may also be the most comfortable pair of shoes you’ve ever worn.

During the summer, use a lightweight blazer for those last minute hangouts, dates, or dinner plans when the nights are cool or you’re inside an air-conditioned venue. All it takes is a blazer to transform a casual look into party or dinner attire – and when you’re walking your date home on that chilly summer night, you can offer her your jacket. 

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Summer is here and it’s time to upgrade your wardrobe for the season and turn some heads out there.

After almost 4 years of feedback from all the clients we’ve worked with, we’ve finally put together the best program to take your style to celebrity level in record time.

Jay has been working very closely with celebrity stylists for the past year to fine-tune his personal styling program to match the same results.

Reserve a date between July 2 and August 31, and get a special summer rate of only $690 (originally $990), for a full day of transformative shopping with Jay.

Summer dates are filling up, so don’t wait until the summer is over!

Reserve your spot right now:

http://www.kinoimageconsulting.com/reserve

Photo credit: Tommy Ton / GQ

What some clients are saying: 

“Hiring Jay to help me build a new wardrobe was one of the best decisions I made this year.  It was time to shed the mish-mash of outfits I had accumulated post-college and invest in a wardrobe to fit my adult life, both professionally and personally.  Jay honed my style and showed me the classic pieces every man needs in his closet.  We then added additional pieces that projected the image I wanted.  Most importantly, we stayed within my budget the entire time.  People have definitely noticed the change and I can’t count the compliments I’ve received since I began working with Jay.  I cannot recommend his services enough.”  Chad S.  

“As for the results, every new outfit I’ve worn has gotten tons of compliments from men and women. I wish I had known about this a long time ago, I could have saved a ton of money on clothes that don’t work for me, and been looking great the whole time!” – John B.

“I liked the fact that Jay was always trying to build my skillset in recognizing what worked for me and why, instead of just telling me what he liked or didn’t like. I felt like he was trying to develop my own ability so that I would be able to develop my own style/fashion sense for the future. That is so much more valuable than having him just tell me what to wear/buy. I would certainly recommend these consultations to anyone, regardless of their “fashion level.” He certainly challenged me to experiment with things that were beyond my comfort zone… the value for the level of service is phenomenal.” – Michael A.

Learn how to fold a pocket square like Don Draper from the hit television show Mad Men: