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How to look good dating: fashion tips for single guys

Going on a date is probably one of the most stressful positions you can put yourself in. There’s such a pressure to impress, particularly if it’s a first date, a blind date or with someone you’re particularly fond of. Indeed, in the latter scenario you’ll have to deal with the extra anxiety of lurve pumping you with heaps of unwanted adrenaline and leading to all those annoying symptoms such as sweaty palms, stuttering and blushing.

Amid all this stress, it would be a shame to ruin your chances with something stupid – like choosing the wrong outfit for example. Here are a few fashion dating tips for guys so no matter if you meet singles online or at the local pub that will be one less thing to worry about.

Smart but casual

The most important thing for a guy to get right on a date is the balance between smart and casual. Go for a top/trouser contrast to make sure you’re getting this right. If you wear jeans, go for a shirt. If you wear a T-shirt or polo shirt, go for smart trousers.

How to look good dating: fashion tips for single guys

Choosing shoes

A bad choice of shoes is a sure way to make an immediate bad impression. Make sure they’re given the proper amount of attention – when it comes to picking them out and any polishing that may be required. Go for smart shoes and avoid all trainers and open-toed footwear.

 

Close shave

Facial hair is another key element to consider – make sure you’re looking neat and tidy, preferably giving yourself a close shave before a date. Unkempt facial hair is guaranteed to put someone off.

How to look good dating

A personal touch

It is important to be yourself when dating and also to be comfortable – so bear this in mind too when picking out your outfit. Go for splashes of personality– neckties, cufflinks, brightly coloured socks. You want to flaunt your personality in what you wear as well as sticking to some key dating rules.


Things to avoid

Here are a few things to steer clear of at all costs when choosing an outfit:

Cologne

Steer clear of pongy aftershaves – if you go for a scent, make sure it’s a subtle hint, not a dominating presence your date is likely to choke on.

Sports wear

Football tops, rugby shirts – all of these are a no-go zone for dating. They’re simply not appropriate for a date and, because of the bad reputation attached to many sports fans, will do you more harm then good in most cases.

How to look good dating

Whether you’re free dating in London or speed dating in Manchester, don’t let your outfit mess up what could be a great relationship!

 

Resource box

Polyvore

Create your own outfits online

 

GQ

The hub of male fashion in the UK

 

How to Look Good Naked

Fashion tips for both sexes with Gok Wan

A guide to the classic bowtie: get tied up!

You have the noticed the comeback of the bowtie in recent years. A few years ago there was only one man that got away with wearing a bowtie and that was James Bond. But the bowtie has shaken off its nerdy image and is an accessory that needs to be part of any (fashionable) man’s wardrobe.

The bowtie comes in different sizes, shapes, colours and fabrics.  When it comes to wearing the right bowtie for the right occasion it is important to keep one thing in mind: the occasion and the material. When it comes to ties it is all about the fabric and the level of patterns. The more casual the fabric looks, the more casual the outfit will look and the same goes for patterns.

Luckily for you, there are a few ancient rules when it comes to ties and if you stick to those you can’t go wrong. So here is a little guide to help you out of the woods.


Silk


A black silk bowtie is a safe option for any formal occasion. If you are wearing a black suit and you would like to add an element of colour to the outfit you could do this by picking out a colour that suits your skin type.


Patterns  


A paisley pattern is suitable for most formal and business occasions.  The bright colours and the beautiful material will compliment any outfit. If it is a formal party you are attending and you are bringing a plus one, than adjust the colour of your bowtie to her dress.


Plaid


The most common mistake when picking out a tie for a casual event is the choice of material. If you want to combine a bowtie with a casual outfit than keep the material of the tie very plain. Choose a tie with print or bright colours to match the shirt you are wearing. A plaid bowtie is the most common type to be used for casual events so if you want to stay on the safe side, a plaid tie in the colours of your outfit would be the one to choose.


Stripes


You usually see striped ties in the business environment. Stripes go down very well with suits and they help exude confidence and power according to many advisers on the subject. Other than that stripes make it easier to compliment an outfit without being too frivolous.


Any other

Any other material or pattern is great for a causal occasion with friends or family. Whether it is cotton, wool or spandex as long as you make sure you match the colour to your outfit it doesn’t really matter.

As the bowtie has seen its comeback, you buy the majority of them as a clip-on or attached to a small belt that is adjustable to the size of your neck. But for the true romantics out there, here is a guide that tells you how to tie them:

Visit Ibiza in style this year

A large chunk of the atmosphere on Ibiza is due to the fact that the island used to be a travel haven for hippies. In the 1960’s the island was mostly visited by Europeans who were looking for peace, love and freedom. Although the type of tourism on the island has completely changed, the atmosphere has not. It is still all about love, peace and freedom on Ibiza. To commemorate the great hippies in Ibiza, dress in style whilst visiting the island. Because the dress sense of the hippies back in the 1960’s is still very accurate and more importantly very comfortable.


Shoes

Forget about those killer heels or platforms. Okay, maybe pack one pair for a night out. But other than that, just score yourself a nice pair of strappy sandals. The original hippies might have been barefoot a lot of the times but that might be pushing it. So have a score yourself a nice pear of leather sandals or flip-flops. Buy them in a tan colour so they are easy to combine with all sort s of clothing and easy to clean.


Hairstyle

The hippie hairstyle does not require much attention. Just let it down and only accessorise with tiny braids or flowers tucked behind your ear. A thin scarf worn around the head can be useful in hot weather to protect yourself from the sun. 


Sunglasses

Who does not like sunglasses? You can never own enough sunglasses and they can never be too big. The hippies are famous for wearing large round spectacles in bright colours. Find yourself a great pair on the high street and make sure you combine it with the colours of your outfits.

A floaty dress

The maxi dress is still a hot item this summer. They are available in all sizes, colours and patterns so you can choose which ever one suits you best. The maxi dress is a comfortable piece of garment because it cools you down in hot weather and protects you from the harsh sunlight. Next to that, they are very light so you can pack as many as you like. During the day, combine them with natural jewellery such as wooden bracelets and necklaces. At night you can heat things up with shiny jewellery and a nice purse. If that’s just not for you, a floaty cute like the on below dress will do just fine as well.


Satchel bags

You want a big, sturdy bag that you can use at the beach. It needs to be spacious so you can pack everything you need: sunscreen, magazines, beach towel, bottle of water and anything else you might want to take with you. Make sure you buy a bag that is easy to clean and can be closed securely.   


Travel around in a minivan

Hire a minivan and drive around the island. Ibiza is far more than a party island alone. It has high cliffs with amazing views, hidden towns and crystalline beaches. Go around and discover why the hippies loved this island so much. Do all of this in style of course.

Attack of the Chinos

Just over a year ago, there would only be one option when it came to trousers for most men I know; the safest bet would be a pair of jeans – probably Levi’s – but now the time has come for a whole new leg-wear trend: the chinos.

Men’s chinos are most common in the beige, creamy tones, although they can now be found in a variety of different colours in most stores. The prices would range from roughly £20-£80 (although the occasional designer pair could cost a lot more).

A comeback for chinos was long overdue. In 2011 the mustard-coloured, skinny legged chino was Topman’s best-selling item- and even outsold their denim. Those men that were all up for committing to the chino image would make sure they had a pair of espadrilles to go with them; these were the best seller of 2011 at ASOS.


2011 was definitely the ‘year of the chinos’, which led to huge sales in skinny chinos and then for the summer- what else? Chino shorts, of course!

They’re quickly dominating men’s leg-wear, with most men now owning at least 1 pair in the UK. There’s lots of varieties with chinos; they could be long, short, skinny, baggy, elastic ankles, button or zip flies, a variety of colours etc. So although they may be common, there’s still a platform to be a bit different and self-expressive when wearing a pair of pair.

So what’s your opinion? Would you go for a man in chinos? Are you male and own a pair? Let me know with a comment!

How Unique Are Your Feet?

For both men and women, the most important item of clothing can be what’s on their feet. Footwear could complement everything you’re wearing or just ruin your outfit. As a young male, my main priorities are (in this order) comfort, then style. And for many years there has only been one main choice for me; Vans.

Vans originated in California in 1966 by making shoes in the morning and selling them directly to the public from the store later that day. Then into the 70’s, skateboarders started to wear them for the thick, sticky soles. Next came the #95 shoe, now known as the Era; these are the most popular style to this day. Now they distribute shoes across the globe! You can’t go out without seeing pairs of Vans walking around town.

Vans are very much a multi-sex shoe, with just as many women & girls wearing them nowadays. The average demographic for these shoes would be between 10-35 year olds. Although you will find 10-20 year olds wearing them a lot more, there are smarter options for the more mature. My Dad even owns a pair!


To me, fashion is about being unique and expressing yourself. I believe that Vans are worn by too many people nowadays and not as unique as they originally were which is unfortunate. I’ve had many occasions where I’ve crossed paths with somebody wearing the same pair as I am (which is sometimes rather awkward when you both notice). I’m not saying don’t ever wear them, because I still do. But remember to be unique, be you, and that will reflect from your style (or as the kid’s call it, ‘swagga’)!

Dating Fashion turn-ons and turn offs

Making the right impression is essential for the success of a first date. Chosen wisely, an outfit will give the impression that the wearer is a person of taste – something that subsequent conversation can reinforce.


Dating fashion turn-ons and turn-offs

Since moving from Spain with my two children and re-entering the UK dating game, I’ve stumbled upon a uniquely British problem: the relatively cooler climate means that fashion sense – or rather the lack of it – is more immediately apparent.

Socks with sandals, blue jeans with black denim jackets, even leg warmers with heels – I’ve seen them all. While clothes are of course secondary to personality, first impressions do count, especially on a first date.

12.5.2010 1

 A chronic lack of time in my life means that I unfortunately have to be a little judgemental.  I’m looking for a woman who is responsible, caring and fun – someone to build a stable life together with. 

With this in mind, the biggest turn-off for me is clothing that immediately suggests a woman may be irresponsible and/ or vain. The most obvious example here would be inappropriately revealing clothes. 

Sending the wrong signal

Having used a free dating site as well as other more traditional ways to meet people, I have managed to enjoy a fair few dates. What I’ve learnt from my experience is that I have a problem with visible underwear. Although a younger man might disagree, thongs with low-riding trousers, obvious bra straps and visible panty lines are all bad things. Too much make-up is also a no-no, suggesting as it does a certain shallowness of character.

vjmay09-011sm.jpg

Trying too hard

There’s nothing wrong with being stylish. There is something wrong however with slavishly following the latest trends. The best clothes are those that suit a woman’s figure and that she feels comfortable in. On-trend items that look great in the pages of the glossies can seriously back-fire in the reality of a first date.

Livia Glosikova III.

Venue

 As with most things, context is all. Clothes that are all wrong for one venue are completely apt for another. I’ll freely admit that if I’m choosing a first date, it will more than likely be one of the following: dinner, a concert (probably classical) or the theatre.

Dinner

Clothes that breathe understated elegance are perfect for dinner dates. Clothes that draw the eye away from the face can be detrimental to conversation. Dresses should be comfortable to sit down in.

Concert 

During the summer, many classical music concerts are held outside – dressing in a long skirt or trousers will make an afternoon spent sitting with a picnic much more comfortable. Outdoor concerts are the perfect opportunity to invest in a stylish sun hat.

Theatre 

Events held prior to 6pm are less formal than those held later. For a matinée showing, a knee-length (or longer) skirt is an easy option. Heels are something of a necessity for the evening, as is an elegant dress. Don’t go over the top though – there’s usually no need for a formal long evening dress or elbow-length gloves. And remember – no jewellery at all is better than jewellery that looks cheap.

Extra Tips

Dating is a minefield at the best of times, and that is true in every aspect, not just which outfit to choose (which we may see as the most important part!). There is a great community over at the eHarmony UK Facebook Page page that is full of useful tips and advice for dating and how to make the best impression on your next one.

Karl Lagerfeld and Indian inspiration in Paris

The fashion designer for Chanel, took inspiration from India for his autumn-winter 2012-2013 collection.

Although Karl has never been to India, his collection is based in the severals designs that Coco Chanel did in the Fifties and Sixties inspired by India. 

image source 

“It’s all about refinement. It’s the Paris version of the idea of India,” explained Lagerfeld to the WWD, and this is the idea he wants to transmit in this collection.

Fashion labels: from limited edition to eco friendly
Fashion labels are more than just an identifying mark on your clothing. They represent who you are. Fashion houses are especially aware of the importance of labels, collaborating with celebrities or sourcing sustainable materials to make their label the must-wear of the season. Each brand identifies its unique selling point, whether a limited edition collection or an eco-friendly approach.
Certain labels make their mark in the market-place by suiting particular body types. Whether you have an hourglass, apple, pear, boyish or top heavy figure, there’s a label that works for you!




Limited editions with special labels
Many fashion companies have taken the celebrity endorsement route to the next level by working with actors, singers and models to bring out a limited edition in their name. Holly Willoughby and Fearne Cotton have collections for Very.co.uk, while Victoria Beckham and Gwen Stefani have launched their own labels.
So where does this leave the fashion designers themselves? Creating amazing collections with high street stores, that’s where! This gives the designer greater exposure and also gives those with a more modest budget the chance to wear designer labels at a fraction of the cost.
Budget-conscious fashionistas camp out overnight to get the first look at limited edition labels. Donatella Versace recently released her collaboration with H&M, while Jil Sander worked with Uniqlo, and Giles Deacon with New Look.
Labels with a cause
It’s not all about the lure of a famous name when it comes to fashion labels.
Brands that use ethically sourced materials and fair-trade labour are becoming the must-have labels.
Eco fashion is big business, and by dressing in these labels wearers can promote their green credentials.
So which labels are serious about being green? Elena Garcia specialises in eco couture, while Tammam creates wedding gowns that are ethical, organic, sustainable and environmentally friendly. People Tree is a fair trade fashion pioneer that works on its ranges with actress Emma Watson.
Different labels for different body shapes
There are fashion labels that stand out from the crowd by tailoring their clothes to particular body types. TV presenter Gok Wan has helped thousands of women identify their shape and the kinds of styles and labels that suit their figure best.
Marilyn Monroe was a classic hourglass, and celebs like Kim Kardashian flatter their curves in figure-hugging dresses by Victoria Beckham. Models Agyness Deyn and Kate Moss compliment their boyish figures in Calvin Klein, while tall women opt for L’Wren Scott’s designs.

Fashion houses, like any other businesses, might use label manufacturers for their custom printed labels. The design, material and aesthetics of the label all help create brand identity. 
Resource Box
Versace for H&M
View the full collection from the high fashion designer at the high street store.
Vancouver Eco Fashion Week
Discover more about Vancouver’s bi-annual event celebrating responsible fashion.
Gok Wan’s Body Shape Masterclass
Read the TV presenter’s top fashion tips for every body shape.

Fashion labels: from limited edition to eco friendly

Fashion labels are more than just an identifying mark on your clothing. They represent who you are. Fashion houses are especially aware of the importance of labels, collaborating with celebrities or sourcing sustainable materials to make their label the must-wear of the season. Each brand identifies its unique selling point, whether a limited edition collection or an eco-friendly approach.

Certain labels make their mark in the market-place by suiting particular body types. Whether you have an hourglass, apple, pear, boyish or top heavy figure, there’s a label that works for you!

Vintage labels

Limited editions with special labels

Many fashion companies have taken the celebrity endorsement route to the next level by working with actors, singers and models to bring out a limited edition in their name. Holly Willoughby and Fearne Cotton have collections for Very.co.uk, while Victoria Beckham and Gwen Stefani have launched their own labels.

So where does this leave the fashion designers themselves? Creating amazing collections with high street stores, that’s where! This gives the designer greater exposure and also gives those with a more modest budget the chance to wear designer labels at a fraction of the cost.

Budget-conscious fashionistas camp out overnight to get the first look at limited edition labels. Donatella Versace recently released her collaboration with H&M, while Jil Sander worked with Uniqlo, and Giles Deacon with New Look.

Labels with a cause

Eco Fashion

It’s not all about the lure of a famous name when it comes to fashion labels.

Brands that use ethically sourced materials and fair-trade labour are becoming the must-have labels.

Eco fashion is big business, and by dressing in these labels wearers can promote their green credentials.

So which labels are serious about being green? Elena Garcia specialises in eco couture, while Tammam creates wedding gowns that are ethical, organic, sustainable and environmentally friendly. People Tree is a fair trade fashion pioneer that works on its ranges with actress Emma Watson.

Different labels for different body shapes

There are fashion labels that stand out from the crowd by tailoring their clothes to particular body types. TV presenter Gok Wan has helped thousands of women identify their shape and the kinds of styles and labels that suit their figure best.

Marilyn Monroe was a classic hourglass, and celebs like Kim Kardashian flatter their curves in figure-hugging dresses by Victoria Beckham. Models Agyness Deyn and Kate Moss compliment their boyish figures in Calvin Klein, while tall women opt for L’Wren Scott’s designs.

Marilyn Monroe

Fashion houses, like any other businesses, might use label manufacturers for their custom printed labels. The design, material and aesthetics of the label all help create brand identity. 

Resource Box

Versace for H&M

View the full collection from the high fashion designer at the high street store.

Vancouver Eco Fashion Week

Discover more about Vancouver’s bi-annual event celebrating responsible fashion.

Gok Wan’s Body Shape Masterclass

Read the TV presenter’s top fashion tips for every body shape.

My last finding is Posh Totty Designs shop. 

Posh Totty Designs is a small shop in Brighton that sells handmade jewelry.

I fell in love with the two bracelets you can see in the picture. 

Love and luck, my new bracelets.

Great Outfits for a Girls Night Out

There’s nothing better than a girl’s night out, especially if it is one involving a celebration! It’s great getting together for a party, deciding what to wear and getting ready at each other’s houses, maybe swapping clothes and sharing make up.

When dressing for a hen party, there’s a few little things to remember.

·         As a group of gorgeous girls, you will already attract plenty of attention from the male species especially any that are on a stag party. So there’s no need to feel like you need to draw attention to yourself with a skirt that’s too short or a top that’s too low if it’s going to make you feel uncomfortable,

·         Co-ordinate! Speak to the other girls who will be going to the hen party and find out what they are planning to wear. It would be a shame if you turned up in casual clothes if everyone else went for formal night time attire.

Here are some gorgeous ideas for hen party outfits.

hen party outfit

Burnt Sienna Dress from Fashion Union

This is a classy dress in a beautifully rich colour that will bring out the best in any skin tone. Just the right length to show off a little leg, perhaps with some nice hosiery

hen party clothing

The perfect Christmas Shoes from Office

These gorgeous gold shoes will have your feet all wrapped up like a Christmas gift. Add a touch of sparkle to any outfit. 

hen parties clothes

Spotted Black Jump Suit from Internaçionale

Theres nothing more comfortable to wear than a onesie! This spotted one is nicely tailored to even out curves with tapered shoulders and comes with a gold waist belt. 

hen night clothesFishScale Sequin Top from ASOS

Shimmering pretty pink top will be good from restaurant to bar to club and home again. Having a feature top in your wardrobe will let you mix and match with skinny jeans, shorts or a skirt. 

hen nights dress

Pretty Pink Dress from Matalan

This is a perfect dress for all seasons. The soft pink colour works well with silvers and golds for the winter, and could be teamed with some faux fur for an ultra cute look.