The names FASH, GFASH. 00 STYLE.

Bond is a character every man aspires to be. Even if it is just in appearance. He is sharply dressed, wears well-cut, and sophisticated clothing, visits exotic beautiful locations and saves the world all whilst being a gentleman. When seeking dapper inspiration there is no finer example than 007.

Photographer: Irina Krupovich

With that inspiration in mind and an invite in hand to attend The Globe-Trotting PR, A Caring Experience at Hotel Plaza Athenee in Paris, I chose to unleash my own 00 style but step away from the usual traditional tuxedo. I required something a little more lavish.

Photographer: Kseniakuznetsovaphotography

Times have changed and the velvet suit is no longer the armour reserved for Austin Powers to fight Doctor Evil or for the bunny partying late Hugh Hefner. Velvet is back, in all its plush luxurious glory, assuring refinement and elegance. Hence why it continues to take over my wardrobe. Velvet is ultra luxurious with its chic polished style and adds some serious grunt to an outfit with its subtle yet commanding presence.

Photographer: Irina Krupovich

A typical suit worn for work or less-formal events such as business meetings and attending weddings would not suffice for such an event, nor would off the rack. Having researched off the rack tuxedos from a number of Australian brands, I was told the suit would require multiple alterations to have it fit my frame perfectly. As my new year resolution is to shop smarter and better, I knew that I would not be happy wearing a suit that many other gents had, yet alone the cost involved of the suit and further costs for multiple alterations. For this occasion there was no other choice than to go bespoke, made to measure. It’s what Bond would do.

With this in mind it was an ideal choice for this very special event to visit The Spectre Collection prior to departing Melbourne to discuss the event, purpose of the event, who would be in attendance, and of course of my personality and style. With anything in my wardrobe it needs to suit(see what I did there)my personality.

Photographer: Irina Krupovich

The final product was absolutely outstanding and one of my favourite outfits I wore in Paris. The tailoring is exquisite for the modern guy with its subtle details in the lapel, pockets and don’t get me started on the lining. Small details make for simple classic elegance, which is what really defines a Bond look. A traditional tuxedo would feature a satin lapel and a stripe down the side seam of the pant. As much as I enjoy military details I wanted the luxurious modern blue and black plush fabric to speak for itself. 

Photographer: Kseniakuznetsovaphotography

Complimenting the suit, I had a custom made to measure shirt created, which I believe every gent should have in his wardrobe. You would assume incorrect if you thought this would hit your wallet hard. Truth is, custom made shirts are roughly the same price as quality made shirts hanging in most department stores around the country. I opted with further customisation with double cuffs, to show off suave cuff links of course. A classic white shirt is all a man truly needs and will always be a wise investment. 

Photographer: Kseniakuznetsovaphotography

A velvet suit is not traditional black tie, but who follows the rules these days? Tick the black tie dress code boxes by adding a bow tie for a more formal look. I opted for a black velvet bow tie that has been making a strong impact on menswear thanks to designers such as Tom Ford. However this suit would look equally as good with a traditional tie. 

Photographer: Kseniakuznetsovaphotography

When wearing such a suave suit you also need the appropriate footwear. Ticking more boxes like I did by opting for a black patent lace up. Just be sure to go up a size when first purchasing as patent rarely gives and moulds to your foot like normal leather does. As much as I love my patent shoes, I binned them after a few wears trotting around Paris due to them being ridiculously uncomfortable. 

I can hear your questions now. How and where would I wear such a suit? Traditionally a suave suit such as this should only be worn only after 7pm or to private and public dinners, events, balls, and parties where dress code is enforced. In my case A Caring Experience by le Monde de GHRIBI

Once again the suit can also be worn as two seperate pieces and down graded to smart casual attire. A good pair of dark tailored trousers or even dark denim jeans, open collar shirt, or no collar, all would be a great looks for dinner, dates or heading out to a bar. Obviously velvet shouldn’t be worn in summer but is perfect for blocking out the winter chills. 

So what are you waiting for? Unleash your inner 007 by giving your evening attire a lavish spin. Take a classic and make it your own.

PINK IN PARIS

Pink has been making its mark on menswear the last few seasons with a hue called Millennial Pink. People all over the globe have been embracing this colour, including men. Heard the term “Real men wear Pink”? The same could be said for double-breasted blazers. Once reserved for the older gent, they have had a resurgence in recent years with the youth. So what happens when you combine the two?

Personally I have been wearing pink forever as I find it modern and timeless. Although for my trip to Paris Fashion Week, I needed to update my wardrobe with a statement suit that was more sartorial than safe, so what better colour than Pink!

Trotting from catwalks to trade shows at Jardin des Tuilerie, the suit definitely made me feel like I was in Parisian movie, popping perfectly against the beautiful streets of Paris (you can see more of this on my instagram). It is sophisticated, chic and modern look whilst making me feel very suave as I strutted between Fashion Week locations.

Paris in winter is beautiful. Paris in winter, in Pink….even better. If you are looking for a colour to upgrade your wardrobe, then look no further than unleashing your personality with a bit of pink. But now you are probably thinking you can only wear this brave colour to a fancy occasion like fashion week? Insert buzzer sound here. I will come back to this after I consume a croissant.

Double-breasted blazers are best suited to leaner gents, (although it can still suit a bigger or wider man) or stick insects like myself who are tall and have long limbs as they create a silhouette that emphasises broad shoulders and a narrow waist. The same as tapered trouser works for lean legs. How do I know this?

Knowing how to dress in ways that flatter your body can help you confidently strut your stuff, which is where bespoke comes into play. With bespoke you are forced to take a good hard look at your features, like leg length, width of your shoulders, torso length, all of this is taken into account to build the perfect pattern for your body shape. Building the blocks and knowing what does and does not work for you ensures you feel comfortable and brings you confidence. Every person should experience bespoke just once so they can be educated on what works on their body. Real confidence comes with excepting your personal quirks, long limbs and all.

The team at The Spectre Collection worked with my long limbs on this delightful pink suit. They understood that I required something that was going to pop, that was classic yet still showcased personality. The team knew that I was attending fashion week in Europe and required a certain uniqueness and were very encouraging of creating something outside the box. I have had bespoke menswear before but never like this. It is wonderful to create items based on your personality and needs. The Spectre Collection will do anything for you. Your desires are their wish. My wish……….chic French piiiiiiink!

So back to ways to incorporate pink and double-breasted blazers into your existing wardrobe. This whole suit can still be worn casually (think a tee and some casual canvas shoes) and the trousers could be worn separately (think just a polo or shirt and some white kicks). The easiest way to dress down the double-breasted blazer is to wear it with chinos or some denim. The effect of the blazer is accentuated by pairing it with a simple chino, maybe in a navy or a boring beige.

For the cautious man, pink combines beautifully with navy, black and almost any neutral colour whilst still being daring and vibrant. For the extrovert (me) it combines wonderfully with brash oranges, bold red, deep plums and hues of yellow. A geometric print wouldn’t hurt your ensemble either, a combination of zebra or leopard. The possibilities are endless.

 

I have noticed the French do wear strong colours but tend to pick one or two shades rather than vibrant clashes. They really are the masters of "effortless" looks. A key lesson I have learnt in a short time observing the fashion pack on the streets of Paris, is that clothes don't have to be totally form-fitting. For someone who likes his clothes skin tight, it was refreshing to wear inspired pieces that oozed this chic French style.

Add a little sartorial elegance to your wardrobe, wear pink! Better still wear Pink in Paris.

Au revoir

Photographer: Irina Krupovich

MAJESTIC IN MILAN

It is my first overseas trip in over 7 years and boy am I doing it in style. The reason for the trip? Besides escaping the office and deserving a good holiday, research! Melbourne is ranked number 28 and Sydney 34 as fashion capitals of the world and it was time to step out the boarders of Australia and see how the Europeans do fashion week. Hello fashion week Milan and Paris.

The woman collection fashion shows are the most awaited moment of the international fashion system. The "Big 4" Milan, Paris, New York and London. They are the leaders in clothing and design for both men and women. First stop Milan. Milano Moda Donna has two annual editions: September/October (spring/summer collection) and February-March (fall/winter collection)which is the one I am attending. So far it has been absolutely amazing to be a part of the action:. 

Coming from an Australian summer to the cold of a European winter had it's challenges when it came to packing but I thought I’d give you a glimpse of what’s in my suitcase to wet your appetite. Luckily there are some amazing bespoke menswear companies in Australia that bring some serious flavour to menswear and landed in my suitcase. I was lucky enough to pack some splendid winter pieces in my case to visit Duomo Di Milano and flounce past window displays that caused me to foam at the mouth at Piazza del Duomo.

I will cover off on the mind blowing experience of Milan Fashion Week in a later post(stay tuned) but for now, onto one of my favourite pieces in my case.  

I first saw this blazer on the FASHFEST runway in 2017, a bewitching purple velvet suit strutted down the catwalk and I was captivated by it. The designers are the team at Braddon Tailors BT It is super luxurious and is one of those iconic pieces that just screams style with its charismatic features. It is classic, a little sexy, opulent and completely fresh in this shade of majestic purple. This was the blazer I knew I would wear to an exclusive fashion party on the other side of the Duomo Di Milano from my hotel. I knew skipping across the pigeon flocked square would be something right out of an Italian cinematic movie. And it was. 

Every inch of this city is totally Instagram worthy.  All I can think about is photoshoots and how I would capture it if I was filming. It is somewhere between Hollywood's heyday of shooting in Italy and feeling like I you are constantly in a vogue shoot. But you cannot feel either way without having the right clothes to accompany such a magnetic backdrop. 

My love affair with double breasted has been a rocky road to say the least. Most ready-to-wear double-breasted blazers are less flattering as they are made for mass production and to fit an “ordinary” body. This is why it is the perfect excuse to shop smarter and having one made bespoke, and if you do there is no reason it shouldn’t be very flattering. Building a wardrobe that brings you confidence means saving dollars on current trends and investing in pieces that will stick by you for seasons to come. It has taken a little bit of experience with double breasted to embrace the style fully but one thing I have learnt is once you go bespoke, you wont go back!

So far I have observed that Italians wear everything from bold statement pieces to minimal silhouettes in punchy colours, and have such a unique take on personal style. It truly is inspiring and I feel energised by being surrounded by this constant smorgasbord feast for the eyes. I am so relieved to see maximalism has returned.Both men and women just throw out the rule book and have fun with clothes and how they are wearing them. Which is really the Italian culture is it not? 

Bravo Bravo

Photography by Tania Volobueva
http://fotoCALL.me/ 

SUMMER IS CALLING

Summer usually means less style with long days spent at the beach to stay cool. For men you can stay cool whilst looking good when the temperatures soar.

Shirt: James Harper

Shorts: Boohoo

Shoes: Lacoste

I am a huge fan of  the beach as I am sure so many of you are. It is relaxing, with nothing to do but read a good magazine, dips in the water and sunning yourself on the sand like a lizard. 

Swimwear: Marcuse

Shorts of course are a wardrobe necessity in the Australian sun. When I find a style that fits I purchase them in every colour possible. For my long 34 inch legs finding shorts that fit in all the right places can be significantly hard. 

Shorts: Boohoo

Shirt: YD Australia

I enjoy the preppy style, but do like to mix it up with some pastels or bright colours, it is summer after all which is the funnest season of all when it comes to lifestyle. One of the safest choices is navy shorts and a classic white shirt. There is so much class and elegance in a shirt that is multi- purpose.

Shorts: Connor 

Shirt: Oxford

Swimwear: Marcuse

Hat: David Jones

You don’t have to play it safe. Black or navy shorts can add new life to your existing wardrobe by adding a colourful solid shirt or florals. Branch out and try to work them into your wardrobe. You will look effortlessly chic for any beach encounter. 

So head to the beach in something practical yet comfortable. 

Stay tuned to Instagram and Facebook for more updates on my daily looks. There is much coming up over the next few weeks that you will want to see! Happy new year!

PHOTOSHOOT Vol.1

I have a real desire of creating different content and experimenting with various creative outlets and styles. In order to continue to develop  I like to step out of my comfort zone and shake things up by collaborating with and meetings as many creative types as possible.

Who doesn’t love meeting other creative types and endeavoring on a creative adventure together. It changes your perspective and opens what I call “art eye” more whilst stepping out of your comfort zone. I had the wonderful opportunity of spending a few hours with Jon Cordiano and Mary Tham Photography.

Jon and I discussed the concept ahead of time and luckily we were both in sync with what we were thinking and developed the style further of what we wanted to achieve by creating a mood board. Once that was done, a few props were required to pull the whole thing together and presto we were off to meet with the 

photographer.

Mary is a freelance Photographer based in Melbourne, Australia and specialises in Street and Fashion Photography. Her work has been featured in various magazines and it was wonderful to gain the experience with her and Jon. After all I am no professional model.

The good thing about this experience is that there was not one director and everyone could bounce ideas off each other, have input and bought something to the table. Fluid and authentic, it was great to have such improvisation. Check out the images below, you can find us all on Instagram at the Mary Tham Photography, Jon Cordiano and GFASHCOLLECTIVE.

 

 

Images: Mary Tham Photography

Clothing: James Harper

Jack London

Peter Werth

STRIPETASTIC

Stripes are having a rapid "comeback" and are everywhere at the moment but when have stripes ever not been in style? I think everyone has had a stripe in their wardrobe at least once in their life, purely because they are stripetastic!

Blazer, Shirt, pants & sunglasses: Oxford

I adore a good stripe. There is something about the nautical/Parisian chic elegance that makes me feel fresh and youthful. Revisiting the stripe for Spring/Summer is like visiting the beach house every summer. A MUST.

Suit: Briggins

Shirt: Iuter

There is an abundance of stripe activity on the market with block-stripe knitwear or a wide-striped t-shirt showing up in almost every store I have been in. Predominantly sticking with the safe blue and white and red and white it is great to see the fresh new ways that stripes are returning to the shelves and my wardrobe.

Blazer, Shirt, pants & sunglasses: Oxford

Fast track your way to the top of stylish pack with this easy pattern by teaming it with easy neutrals or spring/summer staples. You cannot go wrong unless you pick the wrong stripe for your body shape. Too fine will get lost in translation if you are wearing with a dominant colour or if you are of a larger build. Stripes horizontally will make you appear taller whilst horizontal, wider. The key to a good stripe is ensuring it fits well across your chest (both ladies and gents pay attention).

Blazer: Briggins

T-Shirt: Oxford

Shorts: Vintage

Shoes: Florsheim

Bag & Sunglasses: Gucci

The classic stripe is often not season-specific which means more bang for your buck whilst effortlessly keeping you ahead of the style pack. If you pick a lightweight knit you will be able to wear in winter when layering, giving you more options for your wardrobe.

Separate yourself from the crowd by trying individual bold pieces, such as blazers and strong coloured shirts and for the super brave, double up! You will be surprised at how clashing different stripes is on the forefront of men's style in Europe.

Will you be adding statement stripes to your spring/summer wardrobe this year?

PACKING 4 FASHFEST

In just a few days, Australia’s fashion lens will be directed at Canberra for FASHFEST. There will be plenty of fresh wardrobe inspiration on display both on and off the catwalk for the 3 days of festivities.

As I sit in bed sipping on my coffee, what does one pack for a fashion festival? Flying from interstate there is limitations to how much you can pack to run with the fashion pack. I would love to bring my entire wardrobe but unfortunately the plane does not have enough storage.

With a background in project management I apply the same principles to what I pack in my suitcase and plan, plan plan! Not being prepared can pose a problem. Considering weather at all times of the day to factor in coats and footwear selection, where events will be held, indoors or outdoors and of course purpose, will I be dancing the night away or sitting quietly at a stool at QT Canberra (likely dancing)

I always pack for the exact amount of days and the amount of events I will be attending. Typically two outfit changes a day and a range of items to be prepared for what may come my way without the need to over pack.

Planning looks ahead of time ensures more time is spent networking and meeting new people and keeping your eyes open for inspiration. Every look is planned in advance and with a busy schedule ahead of me at FASHFEST it is smart to do so. I tend to create inspiration boards or look book pages to easily see what pieces complement each other and how many items I will need to pack. It's a great way to see how one piece can be worn multiple times if needed, especially if you are a mood dresser like myself.

My selections dangle on the rack awaiting to be tucked into the suitcase for their hour journey north. There are some familiar pieces from some of my favourite brands that I wear constantly such as James Harper, Oxford and Jack London. Fashion is fun and freedom and I love being a little expressive or different at fashion shows. With such fantastic basics already in my wardrobe it is more a styling challenge of putting pieces together in a fresh and different way and jazzing the outfits up with some accessories.

Of course I definitely have some debut pieces in my suitcase for a fashion event. Who doesn’t love to feel extra fabulous in new things at a runway show or after party? I don’t bring any extra choices, what I pack must all work together in case I have last minute changes.

As you know I am a sucker for a pair of shoes and the hardest thing is packing a limited number of pairs and making sure I still have room for my hydrating masks, hair product and body tonics. First world problems but each piece that is packed must be worn.

I am one of those travelers who wear head-to-toe looks on planes. I always keep my airport look simple and classic. As I have said before, if the plane is going to crash I want to be in a decent outfit in the afterlife, not a pair of sweat pants. The airport look is also a great go to look for the three days. Effortlessly chic yet stylish. Perfect for dinners with new friends you meet at the catwalk if you need an outfit reserve.

My suitcase lays open on the floor haunting me with its emptiness and size whilst I apologies to the shoes I am not packing. Join me on Instagram and Facebook for up to date coverage of all the festivities that is FASHFEST and to see what I did finally pack in that 79cm case.

STATEMENT SOCKS

We’re living in the era of experimental fashion which is perfect for those who love to make a bold statement. That’s the great thing about statement socks, they pack a punk and are relatively inexpensive (depending on the sock you wish to sport).

Blazer: Oxford

Shirt & Tie: James Harper

Pants: Department 5

Shoes: Ted Baker

Socks & Ring: Paul Smith

Sunglasses: Dangerfield

Everyone practically wears socks on a daily basis and even fashion minimalists can’t argue with this easy to style accessory. For men the statement sock is the equivalent of a statement necklace, a purse or handbag for women and when spending more than a few dollars on a pair you do want people to see them.

Shoes: Ben Sherman

Socks: Gucci

Not just for women, the statement sock “trend” can easily be adapted to men’ fashion making every one of your outfits stand out! The “trend” is nothing ground-breaking and has been around for many decades, but the variety of socks now available, how you choose to style them is new. From embellishments to colours and patterns it is time for the bare ankles to move aside for this pepped up explosion of individuality.

Statement socks make every outfit stand out in the crowd. If you are more courageous and want to make a statement then this “trend” is for you.

Socks:Ted Baker

Wear them with confidence and pride by mixing them with a chunky statement shoe for a strong styling atheistic. Making your socks the focal point of your outfit is easy by wearing a minimalist ensemble. The key is to build your look from the feet up.

Socks:Ted Baker

For those a little more daring and flamboyant, you definitely want to pair your socks with a great pair of shorts that end above the knee to show off the details of your statement socks. Summer is just around the corner, so it’s only natural to want to show off your legs with this great combination. Some may argue that this look is very geeky. Have you not heard of geek chic?

Socks &: Paul Smith

As far as office attire goes, sock experimentation requires a fairly simple getup (a tonal look is always a safe bet). Utilising a pair of your favourite loafers can take your look from drab to fab and reinvent and bring focus to your shoes.

Socks: Gucci

Before settling on a pair of socks, I recommended that you know what you want the socks to do. Do you want them to be the focal point, do you want them to contrast with what you are wearing, match or compliment. I am a firm believer in fit for purpose. The statement sock trend is going nowhere, choosing correctly is important, although fortunately this accessory is relatively cheap to purchase and dispose of.

It is time to get experimental and pimp up your ankles, the options are endless that you can try this summer. Have fun with your ankles and throw in a bit of colour, pattern, or print. 

More on Instagram

3 WAYS, 3 DAYS

A blazer is a great fill-in for any occasion and every man has at least one in his wardrobe. They are perfect for situations in which a suit is too formal and you want to have a little sprinkling of your personality and individuality.

You all know how much I adore colours and fortunately this James Harper blazer has arrived just in time for Spring/Summer with its vibrant colour. The blazer is the perfect transitional wardrobe piece moving seasons from Winter to Spring. It is time to hang up those winter coats, wave goodbye to winter and don a blazer in a bright colour. This colour is sure to catch more than a few eyes on the streets, and it’s flattering shape works with just about anything I can throw at it.

 I am super excited about this colourful blazer, and it’s refreshing style that within 3 days, I wore it 3 different ways! It is perfect for summer with its slim lapel, double vents and the spot print lining is super fun when unbuttoned. Men like to purchase pieces that ensure versatility and value for money and this blazer works just as well outside the office as it does inside.

Day 1 – Blazer and Jeans

This great blazer and a humble pair of jeans created a great combination. The cut of the bright coloured blazer paired with the casual style of jeans created a sharp and chic yet relaxed vibe. Obviously the simplest of my 3 days, 3 ways, this look is totally easy for any man to achieve. By pairing the blazer with a plain shirt you will make the look more casual (remember to unbutton your top button) and your trusty white canvas kicks will make this a failsafe style that you can repeatedly rely on. If you don’t feel like being neither casual or dressy but quite neutral , opt for a polo shirt. It is another failsafe item that every gent has in their wardrobe. The great thing about this look is it is so versatile and can take you from afternoon meetings to drinks and spontaneous dancing with friends. Throw on this blazer during the day and it will keep you looking sharp through to when happy hour starts and beyond.

Day 2- Blazer Short Combo

On day 2 the sun begun to poke out of the clouds and I paired the blazer with a pair of shorts, also by James Harper, a white tee and some simple white canvas shoes, perfect look for sunnie afternoons.I opted to have the koi fish embroidery added to the jacket to customise it and make it a little special. The embroidery pattern is custom made (lovely touch) and hand stitched to the blazer. Embroidery has popped up everywhere thanks to the big fashion houses embracing embellishments and embroidery. I adore it’s unique eclectic vibe and it is wonderful to see menswear is getting in on the trend. Obviously you do not need to opt for the embroidery and the great thing is if you do, you can always remove it so you will have the blazer for seasons to come.

Day 3- Blazer for work

By day 3 I was totally mad for this blazer! The great thing about a statement blazer is you really do not need to buy a whole new wardrobe to match it. Dress to impress at the office by combining the blazer with pieces in your existing corporate wardrobe. You will be surprised how this great colour matches what you gents would already have in your wardrobe, such as navy’s and grey. The trick is to make a statement without being too over-the-top and keeping your ensemble work-friendly. When in doubt start with a light or dark base and work from there to create outfit harmony. To create a polished look for work I combined the blazer with a plain shirt with minimal details and pair of suit pants, topping it off with a pocket square. The pocket square helps break up the solidity of the blazer. If you do not know how to wear a pocket square, please revert to WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKET.

Stand out in the crowd by styling the blazer with a pair of shorts, a navy shirt and some white kicks. Totally on-point for afternoons out with friends. You could always combine them with some brown suede shoes that would convert this to a classic look for a more formal occasion, such as the polo, or nine-to-five.

My friends at James Harper have kindly offered you 10% off at their online store by using the code GFASH10.

Whether you need a blazer for work or just a fancy occasion, I hope I have inspired you to think outside the grey, navy or black box.