6 STYLE MUST HAVES

It's no surprise that fashion has always been "progressive", meaning that it's always moving "forward", growing, changing, taking risks. 

And it has to be that way, bold and extreme. Over-simplified and over exaggerated. So that it can set the foundation and give inspiration.

But style is something different, it's what you do with the elements of fashion and how you present them, tailored to your own aesthetic. It's not buying an outfit from a mannequin, it's putting together pieces that in your mind, work together to make a complete package.

For today though, I'll be pointing out, what I feel, are some great additions to complete anyone's fashion forward wardrobe.

1. Tubular/Boost Sneaker: These will be the most comfortable pair of shoes that you own. Not only that, but for some reason Tubular shoes, (referring to the tube-like design of the sole. Ex. Adidas Tubular Shadow) and shoes using Boost tech,(Ex. Yeezy Boost, Adidas NMD), which is a new cushioning system, for the most part look very good. Available in sneakers, chukkas, and boots, the cushion technology is great. You can dress them up with a pair of chinos or let your #sneakergame show with a pair of crop pants.

    2.   Souvenir Jackets: By now if you don't have one, you're officially behind the trend, but fret not. I am here to shed light. Souvenir jackets which became popular when war veterans would bring home "souvenirs" with pictures and phrases embroidered from Eastern Asia. Now sometimes called "Bomber Jackets", these have became an American favorite. Due to the popularity I would advise doing a little research to make sure that you're not only getting quality, but you're opting in for the unique buy. With so many people on the bandwagon, it can be easy to see the same jacket on 10 different people. Which there is nothing wrong with, I though, appreciate the fact that most of what I own, I usually never see on someone else, it gives a sense of exclusivity.

   3.  Tortoise Shell Frames: Do you love being complimented? Having something that matches with 98% of what you own? Then you need  tortoise frames. Whether you use them for corrective purposes or fashion, they are a solid addition to any wardrobe and adds a sense of sophistication to your demeanor. I must admit I used to associate the multi colored frames for those that only old people wore. I quickly realized though when I found a pair that had just come out, by Ray Ban, that I was wrong. Any design, when used right, can become a solid part of your apparel. Match your clothing with any colors you see in your frames and be amazed at how something so small, can have such a big difference.

           4.   Selvedge denim- Prized today mainly for its quality and always so for its more sturdy weave, Selvedge (meaning "self-edge", the denim is so tightly woven thag the edge doesn't come undone on it's own) denim is a must have in your wardrobe. Dated back to early 1900s, the use of older loom technologies are still used, giving the denim little defects and variations, which people now like due to their uniqueness. Roll your pants cuff up to show off your shoes and feel accomplished and sturdy as you take on the day.

          5.  Bleach Stained/Distressed- And they said Punk Rock was dead. Well it probably is but aspects of the "80-90s Punk" have survived and are thriving throughout the fashion industry. Ripped jeans never fell out of style, but I think there's something to be said about the bleach stained garments that are now solid pieces of a lot of looks. You can find Gucci, Kanye, and even Diamond District Steetwear, a brand hosted on this site, using distressed and stained designs on their clothing. It's a great compliment to gold, and other elements of your outfit that may be neat or solid. You can wear all solid, neutral colors, and then pair with a bleached/distressed jean jacket for a effortlessly dope look. Throw on something shiny and stand out even more. It's like wearing bright colors with camo, except you'll pull this off much better.

    6. Crop pants:   Look, I know we made fun of, and got made fun of for wearing highwaters in the past. That was the 90s. I think that if something looks good, let's roll with it. That being said, this instant classic is a literal must have. When was the last time Pharrell wasn't wearing a pair, and I think he knows something about fashion. They're comfortable, you get to show off your socks AND shoes at the same time. Not only that but most are meant to be worn below the hip, so that gives you your freedom to sag a bit. Pure comfort, pure style.

Can you be super stylish and fly without these pieces and accessories? Yes. Would it make your look even more complete by using elements and styles from these examples? DEFINITELY. Fashion is a revolving door with ideas flying in and out all the time. Some stick around for years, some don't and some come back after time. These I feel though, will be timeless classics that will always be just a small part of every fashion head's wardrobe. Until next time, #staysharp and #staygold