Clarks SS14: The Styles to Look Out For

A few months back, I popped by the Clarks SS14 presentation to have a look at the new propositions from the British brand for the upcoming season. Before I rave about my favourite styles, you must know that I am a shoe-junkie, more specifically, I am hooked to desert boots – you can't simply have enough. And it's precisely desert boots that Clarks have mastered through the years. My personal choices from the SS14 line are the brown Beeswax leather (1) and the suede Sand Multi (2), which will look great with your Spring light blue jeans, and the Wolf Suede (3) and the Denim suede (4) models – perfect with your beige, camel and khaki chinos.

I am also loving their Desert London Beeswax (5), which is the perfect hybrid of dress and casual with an aged effect great for the new season. Something similar happens with the Fulham Limit (9), which combines a casual scalloped sole with the smart brogue detailing injecting a bit of fun with the contrast laces.

From their sportswear propositions my favourite is the Tanner Surf (7), which combines embroidered leather, suede and a cork sole to keep it comfortable and light.
And finally, my absolute favourite style of the season – the Grimsby Craft (6 and 8) in tan leather and black. It has this vintage flair that reminds me of the Italian coast (think Jude Law in The Talented Mr Ripley). As the proud owner of a pair, I can say they are as well made as they are light and comfortable, which makes them the perfect multi-ocassion Spring shoe.

Frank's SS14 Picks: Carhartt Michigan Coat in Camo Island & Metro Blue

Three posts in three days, something must be wrong with me! I have had a very very busy return to work after Christmas and only just caught up with everything. Now I need a huge Fashion, Frankly catch-up as SS14 is slowly but surely approaching and there are so many brilliant pieces already coming out.
Today, to kick off my list of the new season's picks, I want to rave about the new Carhartt Michigan Coat. The brand has been at the top of their (camo) game for the last couple of seasons and they are still going at full steam. The new style comes in the shape of their iconic work jacket – 100% cotton, unlined – featuring an injection of blue to their staple camouflage design. It is the perfect transitional jacket as it looks just as cool layered under your winter coat as it does worn with a plain Oxford shirt in the spring. Get it here.

Winter is Coming: Get Your Camo On with Tod's

This weekend I visited the Tod's store on Old Bond Street to pick up some goods for an exciting upcoming project with the brand. While I looked around the new season collection I spotted two new models from their signature gomini range. I instantly fell in love with the classic khaki camouflage model, which also comes in a combination of deep blues. I can't think of a better way to introduce the trendy pattern into a classic dressed-up outfit. The camo loafers are also perfect to upgrade a weekend look keeping it comfortable and cool yet relaxed.
They are available at Tod's stores and also at the brand's online shop here.

How to Wear a Camo Blazer, by Eric Daman

Clockwise from top left: Minimum Camo Blazer @ ASOS, UNIQLO Slim Fit Chinos,

Vito Camo Blazer @ ASOS, UNIQLO Oxford Slim Fit Shirt.

This past weekend Eric Daman appeared as a guest judge on the latest episode of Project Runway. If his name doesn't ring any bells, his work will. Daman is the talented stylist and costume designer behind Gossip Girl – the genius behind Chuck Bass' wardrobe.
He is known for his eccentric style - particularly the Jack Sparrow-esque accessorising. But if you look past the extravagance, you will find really on-point looks like the one he wore on the TV show. This is possibly the best way to wear a camouflage blazer. Paired with a classic blue oxford shirt you add a preppy classic touch, which translates the camo print from street-wear territory to tailoring refinement. Worn with a pair of also muted navy chinos and perhaps a pair of beige suede brogues it becomes the perfect look for a cool night out if what you're looking for is to make a statement without being loud.

Ready for the Summer: BEAMS x Herschel Supply Co.

It probably had been about 10 years since I last wore a backpack until I recently got my Herschel Settlement Backpack for my birthday in March – which you can still get here. Ever since then I have been using it non-stop to go to work, travel, as an overnight bag and to go to the park. It is cool, practical and it adds a fun note to any outfit.
Now, Herschel have collaborated with Japanese brand BEAMS to create a Spring/Summer 2013 collection of bags. Not unlike my own, the BEAMS x Herschel Supply Co. line offers their classic backpacks in orange, khaki and camo print with a contrasting front zip pocket in suede. They're all available online at ZOZOTOWN for about £90.

The Jimmy Choo SS14 Collection

I could have easily spent my whole afternoon at the Jimmy Choo SS14 presentation during the latest LC:M. The brand had taken over a space on King Street in Covent Garden, which they had turned into a chic cabana full of colour, green foliage and, of course, shoes.
All the different lines stood out from the crowd thanks to the super cool stalls, which had been decorated according to their style. What tied them all together was the inspiration drawn from the 'Sapeurs' – a group of dandies from Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo. These gentlemen, who are treated as celebrities in their home town, are known for their bold sartorial choices. They admire the classic Parisian tailoring, which they wear in the most garish ways using striking colours and patterns.
Sandra Choi, Jimmy Choo's creative director, has translated these daring spirit into a collection that mixes dashes of bright colours on the soles, laces and stitching of otherwise classic sneakers and dessert boots. Degradé snakeskin or leather contrasting with python and camouflage do it for the smarter pieces.
Their signature 'Belgravia' models adopt this style for SS14 but the brand continues their start-studded offering in powder shades of pink, beige and black for next summer.
I loved some of the new introductions like the slip-on shoe, which comes in a modern velvet leopard print. And the new take on their chic urban espadrilles in soft suedes and classic hues.
From among the smart options I loved the monk strap shoes both in classic monotones and in contrasting two-tone options like the super cool camouflage-detailed or the python skin ones.
Whatever you end up going for during SS14 it is clear that, like the 'Sapeurs', classic shapes are a must but so is individuality and that's why every single Jimmy Choo piece has a character that will make you stand out from the crowd.

Fashion, Frankly and Courtesy of Jimmy Choo

My Highlights from the Surgery PR Press Day

This week I stopped by the Surgery PR showroom in London to check out what's in store for FW13 from their brands.
One of my favourites was Farah Vintage – an American brand founded in the 1920's and who first specialised in chambray shirts and, a decade later, in blue denim. The brand continue to grow overtime until opening their first store in London and the 70's, when it became the denim brand to wear and, consequently, the uniform for 'the casuals' of the 80's. Since then the brand has become a fixture in stylish men's wardrobes – it obviously has to do with their excellent quality and vintage-feeling preppy designs. You can check out their website here and shop key items from their SS13 collections over at ASOS.



Another of the collections that caught my eye was Peter Werth, which I recently posted about for the launch of their N1 Project. The designer, is one of my favourites for the London scene. The FW13 collection is full of classics with a Mod vibe, which interprets the 50's/60's inspiration in a very contemporary way. I fell in love with the stunning tailoring – double-chested coats, four-button blazers, sharp trousers – but I must admit it was the shoes that I haven't been able to stop thinking about. These gems below have such a sophisticated and luxe finish and they're all around the £100 markup, which means I will be ordering one of each! Shop their current collection at ASOS.









Talking about shoes... I loved the the range Lacoste is introducing for FW13. I used to wear their canvas sneakers when I was a kid and now I can continue wearing the brand with their awesome desert boots – needless to say, the green ones will be becoming park of my wardrobe. You can shop this season's Lacoste collection at ASOS here.
My other pick in the footwear department were the H by Hudson slippers, particularly the suede camouflage ones. They're a perfect to add an interest touch to an evening look or worn with jeans during the day! Take a look at their current collection over at ASOS.

Fashion, Frankly

(Porno) Camouflage for the Summer

Courtesy of Jimmy Choo

Almost a year ago I expressed my surprise at the longevity of the camouflage trend and at the unique and modern way in which Jimmy Choo had reinterpreted for SS12 with their 'Porno Camo' print. Two seasons later, camo seems to be here to stay and not just that, but to be a key print for SS13. And so Jimmy Choo is introducing the 'Percy' lace-up espadrille as a relaxed option to last summer's collection. They also introduce the 'Porno Camo' print in a new colour palette of beige, mustard, brown and black, which I find to be terribly chic.
Both models are already available online at JimmyChoo.com – Get the Percy in green here and in beige here.

Just in: Herschel Settlement Backpack

When I posted my 25th Birthday wishlist little over a month ago I never expected anyone (but me) to take it seriously. It looks like some of my friends really do pay attention to what I do on the blog and so they decided to get me the Herschel Settlement Backpack I wanted in the camo, red and blue.
Funnily enough, I had been thinking about buying it from ASOS for the last two weeks because I am tired of carrying my laptop bag to work everyday. The Herschel bag has not only a cool red micro-striped lining but it comes with a built-in laptop sleeve pocket, so it's the perfect bag for travelling, going to work or just to the gym (if I ever do go, this is where I'll carry my stuff).
Belated birthday presents do make the best surprises. And I can't wait to wear this one to work this week!

You can get the Herschel Settlement Backpack in camouflage at ASOS here. For a wider Herschel range, click here.

Frank Loves: Dries Van Noten S/S13

If I could only choose a Spring/Summer 2013 collection to wear for the next three months I would doubtless choose Dries Van Noten's. The Belgian designer has been my number one ever since I discovered it many years ago when I was still learning about fashion. Every season he manages to create desirable timeless clothing yet full of a contemporary almost trendy feel.
The SS13 line's unlikely focus point was camouflage, one of the trends we have been seeing the most of during the past three seasons and one that doesn't seem to be going away anytime soon. I'm quite happy about this because, even though I don't intend to overdose on camo I can appreciate how it adds something interesting to an outfit – proof here.
In this post I've put together some of the highlights of the runway show together with some of my favourite items that made it from the catwalk and some of the commercial pieces.

Above: 'Blade' Camouflage printed cotton-twill jacket.

Above: 'Radcliff' reversible camouflage jacket, 'Hailstone' quilted knitted sweatpants (here in brown).

Above: 'Pendell' camouflage denim jeans.

Above: Textured cotton suit.

Style.com

25 Things I'd like for my 25th Birthday

1. Stubbs & Wootton vekvet slippers, 2. ASOS paisley embroidered short suit, 3. Justin Timberlake's The 20/20 Experience album,

4. Saint Laurent denim shirt, 5. Herschel Settlement backpack, 6. House of Hackney 'Flights of Fancy' satin cushion,

7. Mulberry 'Freddie' croc-print suede bag, 8. Church's Beijing Chelsea boots, 9. Carven honeycomb-knit jumper, 10. AMI contrast suede jacket, 11. The Perks of Being a Wallflower DVD, 12. All Saints Kushiro leather biker jacket, 13. Christopher Kane floral print jumper,

14. Thorocraft camo Mercer shoe, 15. House of Hackney 'Palmeral Luxury' cushion.

I promise this is (one of) the last post where I mention anything about the upcoming celebration of my 25th birthday on March 21st. As I mentioned recently, every year I put together a list of presents – more for personal fantasy purposes than for realistic use – and this time I've made it extra special. You must obviously add to the list the pair of sneakers I posted about recently. You can, in fact, still vote for the pair you think I should buy next month.

What do you think of the selection? Any favourites?

16. A villa in Tuscany, 17. Zegna camel blazer, 18. Saint Laurent double monk-strap shoes, 19. Thom Browne striped tie clip,

20. Cutler and Gross transparent acetate sunglasses, 21. Rotonde de Cartier Perpetual Calendar Watch, 22. Missoni knitted blazer,

23. Beams Plus camouflage pocket square, 24. Louis Vuitton Keepall Bandoulière 55, 25. Cutler and Gross mustard acetate sunglasses.

The Birthday Dilemma: Vol. 2

As you might know already – how could you not when I've mentioned it on almost every post – I am turning 25 in little over a month, the 21st of March to be exact. As I do every year, I start putting together a wish list of items I would like to get (or be given). And I feel like turning a quarter of a century not only justifies this obsessive habit but it calls for a special selection.
I have blogged about the Valentino camo sneakers quite a few times over the last few months and they are finally available online here and here. After much thinking I had decided to go for this chicer darker model. It's subtle and timeless and, hell, I can ever wear them to the gym. However, I made the mistake of checking out the rest of the SS13 arrivals at Matches driven, mostly, by the fact that I recently bought two new pairs of sneakers. And I found the most amazing pair of Bottega Veneta intrecciato suede trainers in a beige colour perfect for spring. This has put me in the same situation I was last year, when I couldn't decide which pair to go for.

And so I have decided to ask you, fellow style seekers, to help me make up my mind. Please vote on the box below for the pair you think I should get.

Most Stylish of the Week: Eddie Redmayne's Double Hit

JustJared, Getty

This week we only have the international premieres of 'Les Miserables' to thank for the greatest moments of menswear style. Eddie Redmayne, who is no stranger to Fashion, Frankly,  had two major hits this week. The first, in a deep electric blue suit by Alexander McQueen paired with a statement pocket square and a brown checked tie and the second, in a black Thom Browne suit – you can buy the blazer here – worn with the perfect bowtie. Even though I would normally gravitate towards the statement colour of the first I'd say the second look is the winner. The slim silhouette of the suit suits Eddie's tall and slim build and feels a lot more contemporary.
I'm happy to include Aaron Paul again this week because I love his cool take on the bowtie but also because I recently started watching 'Breaking Bad' and even though he kills it with his performance his rapper style drives me crazy. So it's nice to see him looking fly.
My last favourite this week is Pharrell Williams, one of the few men who can pull off a shot camo tux without even trying. His Moncler Gamme Bleu number would have been out of season in most scenarios but he was in Miami for Art Basel, so it works. I particularly loved the touch the green suede shoes and their golden details added to the look.

A closer look at Valentino SS13

I've been raving about the Valentino SS13 collection for months now. I first fell in love with the genius game of khakis and raw denims back in the summer when the brand presented their line during Pitti Uomo. And a few weeks ago style icon Simone Marchetti proved that a total Valentino look is the way to go next season. He also reaffirmed my conviction to buy a pair of the amazing camouflage sneakers, which will drop in shops this December – perfect Christmas gift, hello?
This week I had the chance to have a look at the collection first hand at the Karla Otto press day in London. I was amazed by the exquisite finish of the sophisticated and modern collection, talk about luxury sportswear... As well as the sneakers, which are surprisingly light, I fell in love with the rest of the camouflage accessories. Especially the lace-up shoes and the luggage. I also loved the high tech varsity jackets. I would happily exchange a vital organ for any of these.

Fashion, Frankly

Jimmy Choo presents 'Porno Camo'

Courtesy of Jimmy Choo

Even knowing that the camouflage trend has made it to its third consecutive season I am surprise that fashion has welcomed it so keenly and consistently. It took me a while to warm up to it but once I dared to wear the first camo pieces I realised how versatile it is. It is also perfect for me because as a green lover – can you tell? – it helps create a very interesting colour palette in my outfits.
We have seen quite a few spins on it over the last couple of months and now Jimmy Choo has introduced their own twist for FW12. Quickly glancing at their camouflage print you wouldn't realise that they have actually subtly used pin-up silhouettes to create the print – hence the name. What I love about it is the fact that the shapes are not only classics from the brand but actual timeless pieces – the Sloane evening slipper, the Vigo iPad case, the Archer belt, the Hanover bag and the Belgravia sneaker.
My personal favourites are the belt and the high tops. The first because, like my YSL leopard belt, it adds an interesting touch to a polished tailored look and the latter because who wants a plain sneaker when you can wear something cool and interesting?

The range is available at Jimmy Choo's 14 Burlington Arcade store and online at JimmyChoo.com with prices starting from £265.

Most Stylish of the Week: Olympic torches, camo & tuxedos

Getty, JustJared, usanetwork.com

I never thought I would be posting about any Olympic-related fashions but Mark Ronson had to show up yesterday at Hyde Park to prove me wrong. He wore a multicolour tee from Jil Sander's SS11 collection, one of my favourite ever. He paired it with white skinny suit trousers, red socks and white lace-ups. I'm not a fan of white leather shoes but they somehow work. Though, I must say, what makes the whole look work is the sharp haircut. I'm glad Ronson has put his gel quiff days behind him.
Kevin McHale's Glee character is so dorky and unstylish that he always overcompensates on his public appearances. This time he rocked a daring combination that wouldn't have worked on many people. The geometric lines of the black and white colour block shirt contrasted with the sinuous lines of his camo trousers and the modern brogues tied the look together. I am seriously impressed but I still think he needs a good trim more suited to his age.
This week's episode of 'Suits' was such a treat. Gabriel Macht and Patrick J. Adams dressed up in the slickest tuxedos. I very much enjoyed the fact that they were perfectly suited to their characters – a broad-lapelled jacket, muted shirt buttons and conservative bow tie for Harvey and a skinny lapel, black buttons and textured statement bow tie for Mike. This show never disappoints.

JustJared, Youtube

And we also had two big grooming hits. The first from Gabriel Mann. After two seasons of dreadful hairstyles on 'Revenge' he's gone for a stylish slightly wavy and more trendy cut that suits him much better. He's also proving he knows how to highlight his guns with perfect-fitting tops.
Brandon Flowers is finally back with The Killers and their new single 'Runaways' is out. For the song's new video he's sporting an edgy new trim – tightly shaved sides and quite longer on top. Once again, a killer look (ha!) that no one else will be able to pull off.

Just in: ASOS camo jacket & shorts

ASOS

Camouflage is one of those trends I would have never seen myself wearing. It seems like it doesn't take much to make me change my mind. Over a year and many pictures of Nick Wooster, Jeremy Langmead and Josh Peskowitz after I am a new man.
It took me quite a while to find the right camo print because I didn't think the traditional one would suit me. I needed something more modern and, if possible, a little more subtle. Beams Plus lead the way with their modernised print and Acne reinterpreted it but we had to wait for YMC to hit the right note. However, I still wasn't sure. And then I found the ones at ASOS.
I first bought the ASOS camo jacket over a month ago. It took me about a week or two to gather the courage to actually wear it out but it was quite a hit, which gave me confidence. I combined it with a white and pink striped shirt, light blue Cheap Monday jeans and my new pair of Vans x Kenzo.
Then, I bought the ASOS camo shorts. I decided to go for a different palette because otherwise I knew I would end up wearing them together with the jacket as a sort of suit and, really, no one wants to see that. These ones haven't been worn yet because 1. the weather has been shit in London and 2. I am saving them for fashion week in Milan. I am not 100% decided yet but I might wear them with a beige blazer, a white Oxford shirt and my tan leather Grenson brogues.

Fashion Week essential #1: THE jacket

Fashion Month officially starts today in New York, which means us Londoners have to start prepping for London Fashion Week. It's merely days away so it's about time to start putting outfits together and buying last-minute items to complete our looks. My first essential is a good jacket with character. I have been becoming fonder of camouflage (well styled) and this option from Miharayasuhiro perfectly combines the trend with a romantic flowery twist. I might seem a little risqué but, were I able to afford it, it'd most definitely be part of my SS11 wardrobe. Take a closer look at the jacket at the Browns website, where you can also buy it.

[Pictures: Brownsfashion.com]