Shades for the Win

When the idea for this post first emerged, I thought of it as irrelevant, considering that we're currently experiencing winter. Then I stepped back, and decided to do a little experiment to prove the relevance (or otherwise) of this topic. For a week, I marked down all the time in which a pair of sunglasses where part of an #OOTD. Considering that I usually shoot in advance and do multiple looks daily, my final result was 7 times.

At that point, things got a little dipper, I decided to ask myself or understand, why do we mostly associate shades with summer. Ohhhh wait, let me guess... SUNglasses -duh! So considering that I live in a place with endless summer sunshine, and taking into consideration that because is winter doesn't mean there's no sun; I decided to put together a list of the favorite shades I own.

I like adding a sprinkle of style to my looks with a pair of sunglasses even if i'm wearing a coat -I know I'm not the only one. After analyzing what works for each of us, in terms of what shape the frame should be, what color works best with our skin complexion, and even how comfortable they fit, we can construct a broad understanding of what and where to buy our eyewear. If you're on the opposite side of the spectrum and simply purchase what captivates your attention, I don't blame you - I'm just as guilty.

Since I'm always reminding you that in order be trendy or to achieve a particular sense of style, you don't have to break the bank, this won't be the exception. The following sunglasses are all from a wide variety of brands, from luxury fashion houses to the trendiest and casual brands there's always something for every pocket 🙂 Don't forget to check out the shopping suggestion at the end of the post!

Until next time,


 

1- 7x Retro Sunglasses 

2- Solid Biker Prada Sunglasses

3- Polaroid Retro Classics (In drank coffee)

4- Classic White Dolce & Gabbana Aviators

5- Marble Effect Retro Shades

SHOPPING SUGGESTIONS


Are Berets a Returning Trend?

First of all, allow me to accept my ignorant and stereotypical idea that berets are exclusively part of a feminine trend. While doing my almost mandatory online black Friday shopping, I came across numerous male berets, which instantly increased my interest. Considering that berets are a head accessory piece and accentuates your face more than normal hats or other similar accessories, I was a very skeptical of the outcome.

My extreme lack of knowledge of such piece indicated that a beret s is a French piece, which designated for winter season and may come in very distinct fabrics. While doing a little research, I also learned that berets once represented authority, excellence, and power. They were first adopted by the French Chasseurs and after it’s slow commercialization, were associated with the working class of France and Spain. I don’t mean to bore you with these maybe not-so-fun facts, but it will be disgraceful not to mention the beret’s revolutionary affiliation with the legendary Che Guevara and the Chicano Revolution.

Back to fashion – I remember spotting berets in magazines and prestigious fashion shows, such as Channel’s cruise show in Cuba, but I never thought it was going to become so accessible and trendy. After showering myself with historical knowledge about this fashion piece, I was fully convinced to try them out. I figured that with the right combination I could maybe successfully rock it! Well, you be the judge : ) Let me know how what you guys think; will you give them a try?

Until next time,


 

 

SHOPPING SUGGESTIONS

Is All About The Rings

When it comes to accessories, I feel that rings are often underestimated or not taken under consideration, especially when it comes to men’s fashion. When shopping, I mostly thought of sunglasses, watches, and shoes regarding accessories. I finally decided to step out of comfort zone and try other things besides the two simple rings I owned. I clearly didn’t want to spend a ton of money on rings; I wasn’t looking for anything fancy our expensive, especially because I’m one of those who lose everything!

After browsing online for a few hours I came to the conclusion that asos.com and topman.com are the two popular brands that carry the biggest selection of affordable and stylish rings for men. I was looking for a few statement pieces to complement my accessory squat, and thanks to these two brands, I found it! Of course, if looking for more precious choices, Gucci, Prada, Pandora, and similar brands, carry great selections. After adding a few rings to my cart, I decided to separate my shopping selection into two categories; Statement rings and base rings. I figured this form of categorizing was going to be an effective way of organizing my “shopping list.” I wanted to make sure I was purchasing what I was most likely to wear.

Statement rings are those that have a more artistic approach. Beautiful stones, carving, dry brushing effect, engraved design, etc.

Base rings refer to those finger accessories that are complemented by a simple design. A plain/solid metal band with limited or no design that may come in different sizes, shapes, or dimensions.

Combining these two “types” of rings will help you create a more balance style and will add great character to your looks. When attempting to wear a formal attire, I suggest wearing no more than two rings. You still want to keep the harmony and formality to your clothing pieces. Always think of what kind of event you’ll be attending and be creative! I would love to know how do you style your rings and what are you favorite places to shop. Let’s go! Share your tips 🙂

Until next time,


SHOPPING SUGGESTIONS

 

Can We Talk About The Coat?

Coming from the Caribbean, I was never aware of all the clothing possibilities fashion awakens. I had a “shorts and sandals” kind of childhood, knowing very little about clothing. It wasn’t until I moved to New York, during my teenage years, that I learned about pieces of clothing actually thicker than a hoodie –The coat, for instance. This might sound very silly to most people, but when you grow up in a Latin American country, with great tropical climate, and where things are not as commercialized as in other countries, not knowing about these things is completely normal.

I’m definitely not a fashion guru or anything of such nature, I simply wear what captivates my attention and what I think will look good on me. After being faced with the snow and the extreme cold winters of New York, I learned to layer my clothing pieces and loved to show off a nice stylish coat/jacket in school. I remember this square cut orange coat that my mom bought me at a thrift store, it was my first nice solid coat and I was completely obsessed with it!

Now that I’ve developed a different sense of style, I tend to gravitate more towards trendy pieces. I try to get a sense of what’s being projected by the “name” brands and aim to follow their pattern. For instance, the grey coat I’m wearing in these pictures combined with the hoodie, is not a new fashion statement, but I never thought of such casual look until I saw the same combination in a GQ magazine ad. I found both pieces, at a great price, while browsing through asos.com and felt like I had to give it a try. Well, this was the final result! What do you guys think?

Until next time,


SHOP THE POST

Dear Turtleneck,

Okay now... Is really not a secret how much of a turtleneck aficinado I am, but with this @pointzeroclothing piece things were a tittle more special. First of all, I'm a strong believer that turtlenecks along with an accent blazer are, and will always be, in style. I personally feel more classy and fashionable with the combination of these two pieces. However, when I came across this white turtleneck, I was a little skeptical about wearing it (I was actually more concern whether my belly was going to bit in it or not) I've certainly heard great thing about smart fabric and how comfortable and breathable they can be, but looking like a sausage wasn't part of my plan.

After contemplating the turtleneck for weeks, I grew confidence to try it on, and this was the final result! I came to understand that it was all part of my insecurities and fears. Sometimes I do opt to play it save, simply because of fearing the possibility of being disappointed or ashamed of my own self. Looking around and highlighting everything that was "wrong" with me was something I did for years. I was fortunate enough to recognize on my own that it wasn't a healthy way of living and I notice this behavior was retaining me for accomplishing certain goals. At this point, all I want to do is remind you to love every inch of yourself and unfold your beauty. We all have it in us, is just a matter of pushing your boundaries and allowing yourself to see your spark 🙂

Until next time,


SHOP THE POST

Turtleneck Ready X Point Zero

Turtleneck? When I think of this piece of clothing I immediately remember my winter days back in New York City. Turtlenecks have been a staple piece for a very long time, and as part of the new generation fashion aficionados, I decided to embrace such style. While going through my closet, I found this old J. Crew solid black turtle neck and immediately decided to try it on with one of my new Point Zero Clothing's bomber jackets - What better combination for this black piece than a neutral camouflage bomber? ... Exactly!

I always aim to project confidence, security, and comfort through my looks. This combination of pieces not only projected all that, but made me feel accordingly. Point Zero Clothing offers a selection of bomber jackets (outwear in general), denim, dry tech clothing, etc; Which made it extremely difficult to decide what pieces to get. I feel like I definitely made the right decision selecting a few of their bomber jackets. The fit is perfect, the material is durable, and the pieces are very - very- comfortable! I can't wait to show you how I style the other items 🙂

Until next time,


SHOP THE POST

In partnership with Point Zero Clothing

Coffee Date With JORD

I've been in NYC enjoying the company of my family for few days now, and I'm totally loving it! What I'm not loving so much is the extremely cold weather - Sorry! Not a fan. I took advantage of yesterday's weather which was fairly "good" and went out for some coffee and fresh (cold) air. Because I'm spending winter in the big apple, it seemed mandatory for me to wear black and hit the streets like a local. I felt like I had to complement my not-so-fun coffee look with a nice accessory - BOOM! - it was the perfect time to take my JORD Wood Watch out for a spin.

I'm really in love with this wooden time piece simply because of the care and attention that goes into making one of these. You can truly appreciate the art that is incorporated in an accessory piece; Quality that is very hard to find in most pieces of its kind. This has become the watch that I always get complemented on and the one accessory I feel like I truly need! Now that you know how to give any of your looks a pop of art, head over to JORD Wood Watches to find your new favorite piece!

Until next time,


SHOP THE POST

In partnership with JORD Wood Watches

Fav Leather Piece + Weird Ape Watches

I personally don't own many leather made clothing, but when it comes to having an emblematic piece, you cannot go wrong with the classic biker jacket. Never goes out of style, works great with other pieces, and I'm going to risk it by saying it looks great on anyone. It got my leather jacket at a really great price at H&M and I'm loving it!

I wasn't so sure about wearing anything leather simply because I wasn't sure about how they'll look on me. I order to feel more comfortable and secure, I took some accessories and other clothing pieces that I really love and put this whole look together. To complement my all-black look I decided to throw on some black and gold accessories in order to add a pop of style. My favorite accessory has always been the vintage watch from Weird Ape Watches and I can't believe this is actually the first time I feature it in a post!

  Don't be afraid to take out of your drawers those pieces that you're not so sure about- Risk It! I definitely encourage you to give leather a chance and bring out your inner fashion. I'll be more than happy to see what you guys come up with, use #FashionWithLouis 🙂

Until next time,


SHOP THE POST

New York Fashion Week

As a commemoration of this year's #NYFWM I think is time for me to reveal my latest obsession; over the shoulder coats/jackets. I think whoever started this trend - I guess- was mostly intending to feel comfortable and project an one-the-go scenario. I'm no expert, but according to my fashion knowledge this not anything new. For many, many years, people (specially famous females) have been throwing their jackets over their shoulder for unknown fashionable reasons.

Through the progression of time and the development of fashion, men have adopted this trend very nicely. We've seen artists like Kanye West and Ne-Yo rock this style in many different ways. Well, today is my turn! I had this vintage jacket in my closet and, with a black foundation of pants and a long sleeve shirt, it was the perfect moment to take it out. I also DIYed a neck bandana (choker) from an old cotton shirt and hit the streets of NYC on the first day of Fashion Week.

As many of us know, this is one of the few emblematic weeks (during an entire years) for the world of fashion. I chose to represent what fashion means to me by wearing what I like and what I feel comfortable in. After all, I guess is not a bad idea to revisit my close once in a while 🙂 Why don't you find a few pieces in your closet and show me what you got? Use my hashtag #FashionWithLouis to express your fashion!

Until next time,


SHOP THE POST

Casual Spring Look

For the past few seasons, I've been trying to follow and keep up with the newest trends in order to create "better" content, but is almost impossible. Well, I've given up! I decided to simply throw on what I like and what I think looks good on me. I'm so exhausted of trying to fit into something and I'm done with accepting the parameters the so call "experts" have implemented in fashion.

I will simply share with you all my genuine likes and dislikes as well as the looks I put together on a regular basis. For today's look, I selected a casual spring combination of pieces I wore for a school day. Plain stretchy jeans and a long line black t-shirt seem like the perfect base to throw on a colorful royal blue duster jacket 🙂 This combination really makes me feel like I'm killing it! Every time I wear what I like, instead of what's in, I feel an enormous sense of confidence. 

This is the kind of clothing I wear as part of my day; I would love to see you inner fashion sense. Use my hashtag #FashionWithLouis to share your simple daily looks and let me know why they're perfect for you! Fashion is not so much to meet a certain criteria, but to wear what you like and what makes you feel empowered.

Until next time,


SHOP THE POST