Clothing
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What’s In Your Closet?
For slimmer men, men’s shopping is basically a pain in the rear. The cuts are wrong, the legs are too wide, and if you find something that fits, the colors or fabrics suck. I’m sure if I spent some time online, I could find things I like. Recently, a facebook friend was making the same complaint and one of his friends recommended Belk.
Much to my surprise there is a Belk store near New Braunsfels. So, of course, I hopped into the car and drove to it. When you arrive, the store looks like a fancy plumbing fixture store, certainly not the entrance I expected for a retail clothing shop, but nice nonetheless.
Blek entrance in New Bransfels It is a bit of an odd store, not too large, and filled with vignettes of major brands, bit tiny ones with a limited selection. I will give them credit for carrying varied sizes and well-stocked with the hard to find “men’s short shorts,” 7 inch inseam. So that made me happy, particularly at a $25 (on sale) price point.
The inventory sports a number of things you won’t find at Macy’s or Dillard or Nordys. I think their buyers are bit more youthful.
Intersting color combos 
A tartan blazer form the house brand. I would not say to make a mad dash down there, but if in the area, it is work a quick walk-through.
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Heart of Fashion, Houston (Recap and Photos)
DJ Booth in reception area 
Valobra pink sapphire and black diamonds necklace and accessories 
Graydon Parrish, Lori Freese, Scott Ballew 
Ralph Rucci, Carmen Dell’Orefice, Peter Cohen 
Carmen on the runway 
Models 
Model 
Models 
Recap Walk 
Carmen Dell’Orefice and Peter Martino 
Carmen and Ralph 
Dinner at The St. Regis Hotel I had the pleasure of attending Heart of Fashion, a Vivian Wise Production, in Houston, Texas earlier this week. Vivian and her staff did an incredible job creating quite the atmosphere in an airport hangar. The collections I viewed during Wednesday’s fashion show were beautifully executed articles of clothing and the presentation first-rate. I should have had a snack before attending as the cocktails were flowing! Quite the night, indeed. It concluded with a delightful group at the St. Regis Hotel.
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Topman. Bottom Line.
Dressing well can be expensive, so it is a blessing when there’s a manufacturer that produces a fashionable product at a great price point. One of my favorite finds is Topman, a line of men’s clothing available online and locally at Nordstrom. Topman fits a slimmer build very well, but know that the sizes run small so you’ll likely need to purchase a size or two larger than you typically buy, particularly if purchasing the “skinny” line of clothes. I’ve found Topman clothing holds up to dry cleaning, the fit stays true, and the fashion can last a season or two, easily.
Another alternative for fashionable finds at a lower price point is H&M, but be advised the fabrics are craftsmanship are mediocre and don’t have much longevity. Not to toss them to the wolves, but the stuff isn’t stellar craftsmanship. H&M is very affordable, so if you need something quick and easy, grab and go – but keep your expectations in line.
My latest find via Topman @ Nordstrom Baron Creek is a fantastic evening blazer. At $160, it was a steal for the quality of fit and finish.
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Fredericksburg Revisited
I had the opportunity to attend a grand birthday party in Fredericksburg and the adventure never let up. The weekend included everything from fabulous dining, to great shopping finds, to gorgeous architecture and landscapes, and a lot of fine wine time. Here are a few of my favorites from the weekend.
Dogologie Dogologie was one of the most curious pet stores I’ve visited. The inventory range was extraordinary. Best thing… You can go online and shop!
Rooster painting
The art galleries! Be sure to wander down the side streets of Fredericksburg anytime you;re there. I was quite surprised at the quality of goods on the side streets. I was completely unaware of all the art the city had to offer.
T-Shirt Kitschy clothing: there was a lot of country-themed stuff in Fredericksburg, but there was also a lot of nice clothing and housewares. While the shabby chic look was in full force, one can still find purchase worthy goods.
Last but not least, Vaudeville. One place you simply must visit. Spectacular! Food, drink, shopping… all under one umbrella.
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Don’t Be A Pocket Square!
A great idea for doing something other than a pocket square with a suit or dinner jacket.
Pocket Feathers -
Austin Monthly Magazine Must Reads
What a fantastic read this month, so much great news and info. I alway appreciate learning something new: http://luxuryeducationfoundation.org
