passion before function

Style is something that you have, and fashion is something that you follow.
All I can think about this week Is Spring. We have had a rough winter so far , and I am seeing shorts and bare feet in the future. This year, I want to grab a pair of casual sneakers that have a little bit of a punch. Comfort and fashion can merge under the correct circumstances, and as long as I choose a classic color, I will be safe. As will you. I would say that if you want to get in on this trend, choose a sneaker that isn’t too flashy. You want to look stylish, not crazy. Get something with more of a flat, classic look. Make sure you don’t try and fashionably wear a trainer - it just isn’t going to happen. You want to be able to wear it with shorts, with a cuffed pant, and ideally  they can go from work to play. I like the “retro” look of some of the New Balance Classics. They are a reasonable price point, and from what I have heard and researched for myself, quite good quality. Get some new Spring kicks!

All I can think about this week Is Spring. We have had a rough winter so far , and I am seeing shorts and bare feet in the future.

This year, I want to grab a pair of casual sneakers that have a little bit of a punch. Comfort and fashion can merge under the correct circumstances, and as long as I choose a classic color, I will be safe. As will you.

I would say that if you want to get in on this trend, choose a sneaker that isn’t too flashy. You want to look stylish, not crazy. Get something with more of a flat, classic look. Make sure you don’t try and fashionably wear a trainer - it just isn’t going to happen. You want to be able to wear it with shorts, with a cuffed pant, and ideally  they can go from work to play. I like the “retro” look of some of the New Balance Classics. They are a reasonable price point, and from what I have heard and researched for myself, quite good quality.

Get some new Spring kicks!

Lately I have been inspired both visually and mentally by several things, one of which being model Ricki Hall.

@RickiFuckinHall, as he would be titled in the Twitter world, is a male model and general bad ass, that is brining acceptance and demand to modified individuals around the world.

Ricki is monumental in merging two things that I love - fashion and body modification. The fashion industry can obviously be a pretentious world of judgement and doubt, and I think it is inspiring that Ricki, and other models of similar appearance, are currently in high demand for all aspects of the modelling industry. Seeing a shift in the visual of a runway show or ad campaign comes at a time when change has never been so necessary.

Ricki is a bad ass, and does it for himself. Even though a model, he doesn’t care about what people think, and goes into everything with a “fuck it” attitude. He is dapper and well dressed, and cares a lot about style and image without looking overworked. We could all learn a lesson from Mr.Hall.

Check out his portfolio of work for Boom Models:

http://www.boomtheagency.it/Models/0-427/ricki-hall.html

Enjoy, and feel bad ass.

A Good Knit


One of my favourite clothing articles is easily anything that is a knit. I love a good knit. Whether it be a hat, sock, scarf, or my preference, sweater. I own several sweaters, but I firmly believe that they are a wardrobe staple, and if purchased wisely, can transition into several different seasons well.

If you live somewhere that has the traditional ” 4 seasons” like I do, it is a great investment. I throw them on under a jacket on an extra cold day, wear it solo on a chilly fall evening, over a button up for a semi-formal look, over a tee for a casual look, and around the house just simply because I love a knit that much.

You may not need several in different colours and patterns, but I would recommend you grad a few. Possibly 2 cardigans (one heavier knit, one lighter weight) both in solid colours, 2 pullovers (one solid and one on-trend pattern such as gingham or aztec), and at least one zip up hoodie with small branding for casual days/errands/etc.  

Above are some of my current personal favourites. Here is the info on where to find them, and what they may run you!

J Crew Double Breasted Cardigan - $129

Joe Fresh Striped Pullover - $29

Obey Desert Knit Cardigan - $90 (Currently on sale for $42 at Karmaloop.com)

Alexander McQueen Diamond Fair Isle Asymmetric Cardigan - $1,195. (My pipe dream sweater of the moment. Obviously anyone can feel free to make my dreams come true)

Zara Leather Knit Pullover - $59

Grab a Sweater. Get comfortable. Get your knit on!

Winter Footwear Wonders In Atlantic Canada where I live, proper footwear during all seasons (especially the Winter) is a must, and I have learned this the hard way. This is probably my first year having practical, yet still stylish footwear, such as the great boots from Aldo pictured above as an example.  I have ruined many pairs of shoes from salt, slush, snow, and water, and this year I was prepared. The line between having a functional, but still appealing boot is not as slim as you would think, thankfully. Go for something in a neutral color that will match almost every outfit. Black, grey, camel, and brown are all fantastic because they match basically any color or ensemble. If you find that it gets a little boring, throw in a fun shoelace, or buy a boot with an accent detail of print, rivet, or zipper. I, personally, have a pair in each of my favorite 4 neutral colors, but that is partly because I have a shoe collecting problem to begin with and am not someone who can only have one option. In my opinion it seems wise to go for something that is above the ankle, and is a nice heavy leather. That way unless you are in an actual flood, your feet should stay dry and warm. They look great with your pants covering them, or if you want to rock a more casual look with a cuffed pant and a loose lace, you see the boot and the detail on it. If you are going to purchase an attractive piece of quality footwear, you may want to show it off sometimes. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend suede, but that is your prerogative - it is just asking to be ruined by the salty mess. Wait for desert boots and saddle shoes in the spring to bust out the soft suede. No matter what boot you choose, ALWAYS get a protective leather spray. I get an all purpose protective spray, and clean and re-spray the boots about every two weeks. It keeps them fresh looking, and adds extra protection so that you can have them for more than one season. When I clean my leather footwear, I put a tablespoon of vinegar in a spray bottle of warm water, spray and wipe the boots, and then spray them with a layer of the leather protector. A good piece of footwear should always last more than one season. Luckily, a lighter pair of boots can be transitioned into early spring, so take extra care and you will get extra wear! There are certain articles of clothing in your wardrobe that you can skimp on, and I firmly believe that footwear is not one of them. You can find great sales on footwear, which is usually what I shoot for. As I said, a good pair of shoes or boots can be with you for years if you treat them right - where as a pair of yellow jeans may just be in for one season. Allocate your big ticket purchases for items that are here to stay. Remember: Always spray. I can’t stress it enough. Crucial.

Winter Footwear Wonders

In Atlantic Canada where I live, proper footwear during all seasons (especially the Winter) is a must, and I have learned this the hard way. This is probably my first year having practical, yet still stylish footwear, such as the great boots from Aldo pictured above as an example.  I have ruined many pairs of shoes from salt, slush, snow, and water, and this year I was prepared.

The line between having a functional, but still appealing boot is not as slim as you would think, thankfully. Go for something in a neutral color that will match almost every outfit. Black, grey, camel, and brown are all fantastic because they match basically any color or ensemble. If you find that it gets a little boring, throw in a fun shoelace, or buy a boot with an accent detail of print, rivet, or zipper. I, personally, have a pair in each of my favorite 4 neutral colors, but that is partly because I have a shoe collecting problem to begin with and am not someone who can only have one option.

In my opinion it seems wise to go for something that is above the ankle, and is a nice heavy leather. That way unless you are in an actual flood, your feet should stay dry and warm. They look great with your pants covering them, or if you want to rock a more casual look with a cuffed pant and a loose lace, you see the boot and the detail on it. If you are going to purchase an attractive piece of quality footwear, you may want to show it off sometimes. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend suede, but that is your prerogative - it is just asking to be ruined by the salty mess. Wait for desert boots and saddle shoes in the spring to bust out the soft suede.

No matter what boot you choose, ALWAYS get a protective leather spray. I get an all purpose protective spray, and clean and re-spray the boots about every two weeks. It keeps them fresh looking, and adds extra protection so that you can have them for more than one season. When I clean my leather footwear, I put a tablespoon of vinegar in a spray bottle of warm water, spray and wipe the boots, and then spray them with a layer of the leather protector. A good piece of footwear should always last more than one season. Luckily, a lighter pair of boots can be transitioned into early spring, so take extra care and you will get extra wear!

There are certain articles of clothing in your wardrobe that you can skimp on, and I firmly believe that footwear is not one of them. You can find great sales on footwear, which is usually what I shoot for. As I said, a good pair of shoes or boots can be with you for years if you treat them right - where as a pair of yellow jeans may just be in for one season. Allocate your big ticket purchases for items that are here to stay.

Remember: Always spray. I can’t stress it enough. Crucial.

Affordable Spring Accessories

Lately, men being accessorized is at an all time “norm”, so I figured I would pump out a quick guide on what is easy, inexpensive, and where it all came from.

Spring/Summer accessories for men seem to be all about ease, comfort, and making a statement. If you are going to accessorize, remember to keep your ensemble fairly basic. Making too much of a statement usually looks tacky and hazardous on almost every man.

Don’t be scared to accessorize. You know yourself - so don’t over do it, either. Start at a minimum if you are new, and always have fun. Accessories are the cheapest, quickest thing to change about your wardrobe! When they are out of season, style, or if you break or lose something, it is much less of a loss. People will be impressed as they pull your whole outfit together well, and you may even enjoy owning multiple items for various occasions!

Below is a list of the exact items shown above, and where you can so easily get them for yourself! Enjoy!

Canvas Tote - Perfect for work, leisure, or just as an accessory, this bag will easily house your lunch, beach towel, and anything else you may need to drag around. ( $21, www.Forever21.com)

Diesel Watch - Having an impressive watch is an obsession of mine, so until I can afford the “You’ve made it!” watch, something like this bold purple piece by Diesel will definitely work for many seasons. ($140, www.asos.co.uk)

Tortise Wayfarers - If you are looking for this look, but don’t want to commit to the Ray Ban price, these are perfect! Get a few different colors for outfit matching! ( $5, www.Forever21.com)

Scarf - A lightweight scarf is great to throw on with a blazer for a casual look, or with a cardigan to dress it up! Easy, carefree, and looks even better when it is wrinkled. Awesome. ( $15, www.aldoshoes.com)

Necklace - A necklace is usually a man’s biggest accessorizing fear, so keep it easy. Neutral color, one piece. Throw it on with a V-Neck and you are good to go! ( $10, H&M)

Straw Bowler Fedora - Always a favorite of mine, wearing a hat of this nature can put major pizazz on even the most simple outfit. Perfect for a hot day or a chill night, get one in a neutral color that you can wear with everything. ( $35, www.gapacanada.ca)

Stacked Bracelets - Celebrities and regular men on the street have been rocking this look lately, and I am into it. Easy to slip on, and they look effortless with a basic t-shirt or blazer. ( $12, www.aldoshoes.com)

If you have any questions or comments, reach me! tmelong86@gmail.com

Have fun!

Today’s purchase #2 : Bright blue denim shorts and rose colored joggers #menstrends #mensfashion #coloreddenim #menscasualwear #denim #springfashion (Taken with instagram)

Today’s purchase #2 : Bright blue denim shorts and rose colored joggers #menstrends #mensfashion #coloreddenim #menscasualwear #denim #springfashion (Taken with instagram)

Today’s purchase : Varsity sweater and beige boat shoes. Good spring / summer finds. #mensfashion #mensfootwear #menstrends #shopping #springfashion (Taken with instagram)

Today’s purchase : Varsity sweater and beige boat shoes. Good spring / summer finds. #mensfashion #mensfootwear #menstrends #shopping #springfashion (Taken with instagram)

Some pieces I got online. A great cardigan, cardi-vest, bowler hat, striped tank, and a grey jelly watch. I got this all for around 60$, including shipping. Affordable is the key word in trending.

Some pieces I got online. A great cardigan, cardi-vest, bowler hat, striped tank, and a grey jelly watch. I got this all for around 60$, including shipping. Affordable is the key word in trending.

Today’s wears. Grey on grey on grey. With some black and pink. #mensfashion #vans #springfashion (Taken with instagram)

Today’s wears. Grey on grey on grey. With some black and pink. #mensfashion #vans #springfashion (Taken with instagram)

Spring Shoe Surplus


Regardless of what people may choose to believe, shoes are a very important part of any outfit. It doesn’t matter the season, temperature, or the time of day - your feet should always look just as sharp as you do.

I take shoes very seriously, and always have. I honestly have more pairs of shoes than I do clothing at the moment (that is a whole other entry), and it is great to know that I actually do have footwear options. Like everyone else, though, this “warmer” time of year calls for an overhaul, especially if sandals are a part of your spring/summer wear. You don’t want to look like a “D”. See previous entry for definition.

I am giving you 5 Spring and Summer footwear options. You do not need to purchase all 5, but I would recommend purchasing potentially 3. Dress, casual, and sandal. Let us proceed.

1. Boat Shoes (Photo #1)-  A great alternative to the sneaker, but not so dressy you feel out of place, the “Boat Shoe” is a staple in this season’s wardrobe, and I feel like it will be sticking around for years to come. They are classic, and are definitely not new on the footwear scene. They have been updated with striking colors, prints, and detailing such as different laces or stitching. I am an advocate for these, and I am enthused to purchase a new pair for this Spring. I think they go from work to play, from day to night, from casual to dressy very easily. Great to travel with, because you literally can just bring one pair of shoes and have unlimited outfit options. I am a huge fan of #’s 3, 5, and 10 in the first photo. For me, I would choose a pair with an interesting color block, or maybe some color in the laces. Classic, but living on the edge a little more.

2. Toms (Photo #2) - Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a huge advocate for Toms shoes. Aside from how great the cause is (www.tomsshoes.com for more details), they are honestly one of the most comfortable pieces of footwear I have ever owned. They are lightweight, and now come in several different styles. The paid pictured in photo #2 are their Classic pair. A great slip on for shorts, cuffed pants, or a slim fit pant in the spring. THey come in every color of the rainbow, and every graphic print imaginable. Am inexpensive option, you could feel good about getting more than one pair. My favourite Toms are the Classics, Cordones, and Botas. I will be getting a new pair for Spring, and will probably go with the Cordones for a change. They are just so carefree, it makes me want to have an adventurous Summer. Get on it!

3. Oxfords (Photo #3) - To begin, I am still drooling at the Oxfords in the photo above. I need a pair. If anyone would like to purchase them for me, I would not say no. Anyways, moving on. Lace up Oxfords are a great look if you are more fashion forward, and want to make a statement this season. Paired with a cuffed short and tucked in shirt, you will be the only guy anyone is looking at it. Just as the Boat Shoe, Oxfords are making a huge resurgence after being out of the fashion scene for a while. Very comfortable, and definitely a shoe that can last you a lifetime if you buy a classic color and take good care of them. Obviously, I am intrigued with the more forward color choices of the Oxford’s in the above photo, but if bold color isn’t for you, go for a tan or grey tone, both very “now” colors. Everyone needs to dress up at least once over the Spring or Summer, so don’t be the “D” who wears shorts and flip flops to a wedding. Please.

4. Lace Ups (Photos #4 & 5) - Vans are one of my personal favourites as a casual shoe options, and I have been rocking this look for years and am still all over it. Lace ups are great for any season, so they are a good investment. For days when you are just hanging out, doing the beach thing, the shopping thing, or just going on general outings, a lace up will happily get you through an entire day. They look great with a straight leg pant, cuffed or otherwise, and will always be one of my top choices during short weather. Just as Toms, you can get them in any color of the rainbow, and even in prints. If you are a shoe enthusiast, owning a classic color and a more fun color will give you unlimited options. They are very well priced, and with my experience, are of fantastic quality. 

5. Sandals (Photos #6 & 7) - Sandals are a tricky thing, and can easily make or break your outfit. If you are bumming at the beach, a pair of Old Navy flip flops will do the trick if you must. In all other situations, though, it is NOT feasible to wear a $2.99 pair of sandals with your outfit - Sorry. Right now, enclosed sandals for men are very popular (see Photo #6), as they look great, work for casual or dress, and basically match any style of trouser or half trouser (good one!), that you could wear over the Spring and Summer months. If purchased in a great camel color, or the always safe, black, you will be all set.

I enjoy a good flip flip just as much as anyone, and I rock them a lot during the summer. I am going to make a conscious effort to wear them less, and to be more fashionable even though I will be hot flashing for 4 months. Do not wear Hawaiian print flops. Do not wear Ed Hardy printed flops. You know what - do not wear any kind of print on your flip flop. I genuinely do not care that your foot goes on top of it. Every single time you lift your foot to take a step, someone will have the misfortune of being witness to that print. Stay classic with your sandals. Honestly, for men, sandals are a statement in themselves.

No matter what your budget, job, or climate, there are always fashionable, masculine options for your feet to keep you looking good. Comfort is a must during these seasons of leisure, so do not fully compromise that for a “look”. Always remember, that no matter what the season is, people still see your feet. Shoes ARE a part of your outfit, and if you look amazing up top, and like hell down closer to the ground, it basically cancels out all of the good outfit vibes. Get a few options, and keep them on hand for all of your Spring and Summer fun!

Any questions or recommendations? tmelong86@gmail.com . Don’t be shy!