Men’s Style Essentials
Please enjoy this video identifying the most important essentials every man should have in their wardrobe to enhance their personal style!
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How to Style Skinny Jeans
If you’ve left your house or watched television in the last, oh I’d say, three years, you are well aware of the skinny/slim jean take over. I get the disdain some may have for this cut of jean with the over production of mediocre quality and ill fitting options. If you’re into style challenges, you’ve probably taken this on in some successful (and not so successful) attempts. If you haven’t given it a shot hopefully you’ll give it some reconsideration.
For average body types the slim/skinny fit denim is the perfect way to streamline your slender build, rather than bulk you down in fabric. That is, if you’ve purchased the right fit and a great quality in your denim. When shopping for denim jeans you should be looking for certain qualities that Old Navy and Wal-Mart simply don’t offer (no offense to either of those companies, I guess). Of course fit is at the top of the list. Namely the crotch area. Always try the jeans on in the store to ensure that the denim fits where it needs to and has give where it should. If they don’t fit you perfectly but can be altered, that is always a viable option and you should definitely consider having a go to alteration shop for those issues.
The next aspect to consider when purchasing your slim or skinny fit denim is quality. Stores like Zara, TopMan, and ASOS are a great starting point for great quality denim at an affordable price. With a slimmer fit, or line, make sure the material stretches with you. Most skinny jeans will be woven with at least 2% of stretchy material such as elastic. This gives you mobility over that uncomfortable stiffness of 100% cotton denim.
You know how to buy clothes. Over all, if they feel good to the touch and don’t bunch at the crotch or thighs, go for it. Click here or the images below to view my video on ideas to style your skinny jeans and go forth my friends!
Accessories – Video!
Guys!! My first video is up for my new channel on youtube! I’m discussing some of my favorite accessories and how I like to style them. This is my first time filming and editing so please be gentle. It will only get better with time…
For the Ladies: Beauty with Alma
While I’m cooking up things on my own, I wanted to do something for the ladies that read Style & Vodka. A great make up artist, a beautiful spirit, and the wonderful mommy to my niece and nephew, my sister-in-law Alma is slaying the game with a MAC brush. While I’m working on a YouTube channel for Style & Vodka, show hers some love! 
Click the link to visit her channel – Beauty with Alma
July Favorites
It’s hard to believe that we are more than half way through the year! As we move closer to August, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite things that I’ve bought or overused throughout the month. There is no particular theme this month and the items are listed in no particular order. These are just things that I loved having close by in July. Enjoy!
Yes, Please by Amy Poehler
I bought a digital copy of this book while flying home from San Antonio this month and through the course of my travel I could not put it down. I am not usually into memoirs and autobiographies. I prefer my biographical subjects to be dead and/or of historical value. This, however, was nothing like a memoir. The best way to describe it, so far, is like a conversation. Amy Poehler, as most know, is a famed comedienne most notably of SNL and Parks and Recreation. She’s an amazing improv performer and writer for both noted shows. This book shows it! She’s full of wit, charm, character, and I think this is the first time I laughed out loud while reading a book. Literally, I cackled on the plane. She definitely gives insight to her personal life and some of her darker moments but she keeps it light and airy throughout what I’ve read so far, which is most of the damn book.
The Moscow Mule
(click image to view recipe)
Half of the site’s namesake is an ode to my favorite liquor so I’d be remiss not to include my favorite cocktail of July, the summer, and ever. The Moscow Mule is a crisp, refreshing drink that boasts bold flavors of ginger and lime. I’ve had it a few different ways at local bars and I’ve also made it at home. Your favorite vodka, ginger beer (which can be found at any gourmet market or Trader Joe’s), and lime over ice and you’ve got a pretty amazing drink. The classy copper mug is a cherry on top at any bar or restaurant but I’ve enjoyed it at home just the same in a cocktail glass. Go forth and enjoy this simple, summery cocktail my friends!
Mosson Bricke Pebbled Faux Leather Weekender
I bought this bag, on sale, at Urban Outfitters a few months ago for a trip to Texas for the winter. It was just as necessary this month as it was when I bought it. With so much space yet such a great look, it was a great replacement for the POS that I was using as carry on luggage before. For day to day use, at shoots, and even for the gym, this is a great catch all and can handle almost anything because it is faux. For a great look at a fraction of the cost of a leather bag, this is the way to go kids.
The ASOS App
This app was so clutch this month. I love online shopping. Over the past few years, wherever I am in the world, I’ve turned to online shopping for most of my needs. This app, though? ASOS shipped me a few stylish pieces, for less than $40, from London to Texas in about three days. It was perfect. My aesthetic is very hard to find in San Antonio so I decided to give them a try. Best decision, next to putting liquor in coffee, that I’ve ever made. Give it a go and tell me what you think.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Last, but certainly not least, is this beautiful creation of a facial cleanse. Dirt cheap at most department/drug stores, this little bottle of fix-it-all is everything. Gentle enough for daily use, this face wash is literally one of the only face washes you’ll need in your shower. Exfoliants and all of that are fine, but for a fresh and clean wash, this is the route. I’ve used it throughout the summer and it just gives unadulterated results. Nothing fancy or over-promised, just a good, clean feel.
And there you have it, friends. My first “Favorites” post for Style & Vodka! Expect these at the end of every month. Also, I am working on a Youtube channel for our blog! It’ll feature some of the stuff that I feel will be better shown than written. Let me know if you’d subscribe to that! Also, in the comments below, let me know what some of your favorite items are this summer. Maybe I’ll run some of them through the gauntlet!
TriBeCa Film Festival Style
This past weekend I was afforded an amazing opportunity to attend an event at the Tribeca Film Festival. We viewed the 30th anniversary reimage of Back to the Future. It was a great experience and one that I will cherish forever. Planning for the occasion, I struggled with what to wear. I assumed it wasn’t your typical “festival”; long, flowy things and lots of denim and color. I knew we’d be in a theater and possibly a red carpet situation. When planning an outfit I always consider not only the event, but time of day. It was a late afternoon event and it was fairly lax but it’s NYC… No one is caught slipping. Ever.
I opted for an all black look, focusing on small details in the look. The base is a short sleeved, cowl neck sweatshirt with a kangaroo pocket. You’ve got to have all the pockets when traveling in the city without a bag! Paired with a black chino trouser and a side-zip boot it was a clean start for some layering of detail.
It wasn’t too chilly during the day but I know what happens when the sun goes down and TriBeCa is right on the Hudson River. I went with a leather moto to cover up but not carry too much bulk. I doubled up a long necklace and light pendant, rings, and black shades and there you have it.
It was a simple, pliable look that kept me comfortable and stylish. Personally, I don’t wear a lot of jewelry but it was a great addition to the look without a lot of fuss. Because this look was so simple to pull off I didn’t even think to shoot it until we were on the train and I kept getting compliments on my look. As day turned to night I kept everything in tact, traded the shades for a faux frame and continued the night with dancing and bar hopping.
The Look.
Jacket: Kill City
Top: Rough Trade
Bottoms: H&M
Boot: Steve Madden
The Detail.
Necklace: H&M
Rings: Forever 21
Sunglasses: Buffalo Exchange
Never to be outdone with what you wear, the event you’re attending should be cherished. I’d never experienced anything like a film festival. Though I’d previously seen the movie being showcased, I’d never experienced it in such an interactive setting. I loved every minute of it. Enjoy where you are and wear your style in confidence. Fun will follow.
Men’s Skincare 101
With spring and summer comes warmer weather and the need to expose more skin. While skin care is important and should be considered year-round, why not stress the importance of it now. Here’s a contributor to Style and Vodka with a great read on healthy skin, especially for men.
Spring Look Book – Street Style
By definition, street style is not built on the runways or in the big fashion houses. It’s built by us! It is literally just a curation of what us regular folks are wearing on, you guessed it; the street. With that said, I’ve put together a sample of street-style looks that can be played up or down, left or right, using thrift store finds! This is a two in one article to inspire you to put your best style out there with some creativity while also thrifting. Here we go.
Game Day
It’s a jersey, a flannel shirt, and sneakers. What more could you ask for?! The perfect look for any game day with your favorite team’s jersey on at the house or at the bar. It’s spring so don’t be afraid of a little color, whether contrasting or complementary. Oversized jersey with a good pair of jeans and you’re comfortable and looking good. Can you guess the thrift store finds in this look?
Jersey and flannel – Thrift Stores on Long Island
Jeans – H&M
Shoe – Adidas
Day/Night
I love black. If I could wear black all the time I would. (I do, btw). I’m loving this easily changeable look. Here, we are playing with different textures and patterns. A pin-dotted v neck, a black and white flannel, and white sneakers are involved. The MVP of this look is the joggers. A variant of the sweat pant, these joggers are comfortable yet sleek and stylish. Finished with a faux leather moto jacket and you’re fresh. And what do you think is the thrifted piece here?
Jacket – Kill City via JackThreads
V-neck Tee – American Rag
Plaid Shirt – Thrifted from Buffalo Exchange in Manhattan
Joggers – Kill City via Urban Outfitters
Shoe – British Knights
Prep/Hip
It’s always fun to play with styles and looks that aren’t typically something you’d try. This is one for me. I’m all about a pop of color and a good denim so this look gives me life. This look is something I’d totally run errands in. It’s comfortable and casual, yet styled to the max. And the game continues… what piece is thrifted?
Jacket – Members Only thrifted somewhere in Kentucky
Top – Old Navy
Jeans – H&M
Shoe – American Eagle
This is just a sample of some looks you can achieve with the stuff already in your closet plus a couple of dollars at a thrift store. Take this warmer, spring weather to experiment and get comfortable with your everyday wear!
Photo Cred: Mario Martinez Editing: Jacky Lopez
Essentials You Need For Spring
So here we are. Jack Frost has released his grip, the skies have opened, and baby Jesus has allowed sweet, sweet sunlight and warmth to bless our skin. Spring has sprung. Over the coming weeks it’s safe to say that we’ll be able to pack the pea coats and stow the snow suits. Making this transition can be tough, though. Let’s face it, we’ve been layered up on the East Coast for six long, uncomfortably dressed months. Get back to basics with these spring essentials for a seamless transition into the warmer, guns-out weather and breathe easy… It’s finally spring!
Light Jacket
Maintaining a few light jackets in the closet while we transition from the brutal winter to the rainy spring is very necessary. Mornings and nights are still on the cool side, rain is ever-imminent. Keeping a trench, parka, and/or a bomber close is the best way to slide smoothly into the warmer days and cool nights while staying dry and stylish. Click the links to find some great options from Asos, Urban Outfitters, and Zara that’ll suit any style.
Chambray
A great way to look crisp and refined and yet not so stuffy is a chambray shirt. Unlike a typical denim button down, chambray is a looser weave that’s breathable, comfortable and versatile. Wear one in place of a white shirt with your suit and tie or wear it open over a printed tee, you’re going to look put together and well prepared for work or spring shenanigans.
Printed Button Down
Another replacement for the boring, wintery white button down is a printed one. If you’re the daring type, go for the bold plaid colors. Pinks, greens, blues. All in pastel and all in moderation. If you just want to keep it muted, a two toned plaid shirt is just as good. Also in the same style as the chambray, this shirt can rev up any suit and tie combo, as a stand alone, or open with a tee underneath. Also play it cool, and tie it around your waist should it get a little too warm. Give your look a crisp pop with this option with some great options from here.
Chino
Yes, we’re being released from the icy grips of a wintry hell but we are not quite in shorts season. Chill. Only a few more weeks. While you wait, though, try your hand at a pair of chinos. These breathable linen pants are a great way to supplement your urge to dust those cargo shorts off. Offering loads of colors and fits, the chino pant translates well from office to after work wear. Street wear to wedding attire.
White Sneaker
It’s the season of the boat shoe, the flip flop, and the loafer. One shoe that kills with spring street wear style, though, is a crisp, white sneaker. Personally, I’ve invested in a hi top sneaker from the old school brand British Knights (details coming in a later article). Any fresh, white sneaker will do. While I do prefer a hi top, low top sneakers will wear and tear better and transition into your summer beach looks a helluva lot smoother. There are tons of styles out there when looking for a white sneaker. Find the one suited best for you and your personal style. When paired with a tailored suit, they’ll look great at wedding receptions. If you want to wear them out a bit, they’re perfect with your poolside or beach look. A bold statement, this shoe requires you to be daring in your style.
Grab some sunnies, a few friends, and a sixer and enjoy spring in style. For information on how to adapt any of these pieces to your individual style just shoot me an email! I’m more than happy to personally guide you through any styling pointers and tips.
Author’s note: All images lead to the parent site. I do not own any of them.
Living in Style
I think it’s safe to say that the quintessential bachelor pad is burned out. There’s no need for guys in their mid to late 20’s to be hanging dead animals and old movie posters on their wall. You can transcend your style into your home without losing cash or utility. For the typical guy, you’re in one of two situations: in a small apartment, with/without another person, with/without an animal OR in a house with 6-10 other people, with/without an animal. In either situation, what little personal space you have can still exude the style and comfort of a man who has (the potential of getting) their shit together.
Living Room
If you have a designated living room, great! You’re in the money. If you live in a studio somewhere in Brooklyn or Uptown Manhattan, we can square you away as well. Let’s start with the most important piece of furniture in this room… The couch. If you’re still sitting on the couch from your first dorm room or one that you found a garage sale, I think it’s time for it to go. Also, this shouldn’t need saying but, a futon is not a couch. There are great options, one of my favorites being the Click Clack. They’re an awesome and inexpensive hybrid between a futon and a couch. Great for people who always have visitors who stay over after a night of drinking, Click Clacks are stylish sitting areas that easily turn into a bed. I have a leather one and it’s been a great addition. Here’s a great option and where you can find it. while you’re at it, lose the lawn furniture and opt for some decent seating. IKEA and Target are great resources for some cool, inexpensive chairs. Don’t forget decorative pillows. They add a pop of color and you’ll look like a grown up.
Another great addition to your living room is a bookshelf. If you can manage it, have one. Aside from books, you can stow keys and things of that nature plus other decorative pieces. It depletes clutter and losing things and looks great. Chicks dig guys who read books. There’s an Instagram page dedicated to it so it must be true.
Dining Area/Kitchen
The most important thing in this area, and to me, is to ensure that you have a set place to eat. Even better is that you have a matching dish and cup set to eat with. For everyday use, paper and plastic is great. I do it. No one’s judging. When you have guests over, be impressive and pull out your set. It’s a very classy move and your company will be pleased.
Whether you cook or eating out is your thing, there are still very important necessities you should own. A knife block with a great set of knives is imperative for any kitchen. To go along, a set of pots and pans is also a necessity. To keep your dry goods separated and, well, dry, canisters are a great way to add decor and utility to your kitchen. Of course get yourself a can opener, a wine opener, a microwave, and a coffee pot. These things are a given, right?! Pampered Chef is a great site and store for most, if not all, of your kitchen needs.
Bathroom
This will be simple. Most everything you need in a bathroom is already in there, I hope. If you lack storage space, an over the toilet etagere is a great option. A shower caddy is also a good tool to reduce clutter and keep your shower organized. The best thing you can do for your bathroom, though, is bath towels. No one likes the awkwardness of having to dry their hands on their pants because you refuse to hang a towel up for them to do so.
Bedroom
The lair, the lion’s den, your castle. Whatever you call it, this is your domain and should be the most comfortable and coziest place in your home. Because it is your sacred fortress, I will leave it alone. If I may make a suggestion thought; make your bed.
In General
Remember, when dealing with small spaces and low square footage, the best way to decorate is by going up. using tall decor will save your floor plan and make your living space look bigger. Mirrors also achieve this same look. Lighting is a very important aspect in making sure you’re living in style. Try using floor lamps with dimming capabilities, if possible, instead of relying on overhead lighting. Complete the look with a candle here and there which not only looks good but, obviously, smells good.
Your living space is just that, yours. Make it something you want to be in when you’re there and some something you can’t wait to come back to when you’re gone.
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