Light Gray is The Gray

After Returning from the MAGIC fashion this season, visiting seminars, booths and textile companies, there a few colors that are going to make a big impact the the upcoming 2011 Spring and seasons to come. One of those colors is Light Gray! Different from what we have seen in the past few seasons, of the darker charcoal color gray, the gray we now see from the major textile manufactures and style houses has a blast of white in it making it very light. Take a look at some of the shades of gray we will see in the up coming seasons.

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Can you wear Jeans as Business Casual

No!

Well okay, Maybe!

While jeans have become very stylish and dressy, it is often asked: can you wear jeans as business casual? And the answers is: it depends! The etiquette and proper answer is that there is not a real definition of "business casual." And, if an event calls for business casual, it never calls for jeans to be worn in the given setting. However, Americans often choose to go against the grain for one reason or another so it is important to be aware of what to do in this situation.

To answer this question further I will offer a few things to consider and scenarios that could call for business casual attire. By considering these things when dressing business casual will allow you to always be appropriately dressed.

1. Know your industry. If you're in an industry that calls for you to wear a suit & tie more often than not, jeans are a No. 
2. If jeans are apart of your profession such as denim design or fabric manufacturing, jeans may be Okay.
3. If the business casual event is held in an office or meeting space, jeans are a No.
4. If the business casual event is held in lounge or bar, jeans may be Okay.
5. If the business casual event is held  in hotel lobby or space, jeans are a No.
6. If the business casual event is at a someone's home, jeans may be Okay.
7. If your business casual event is held in a golf club house or private club jeans are a No. 
8. If the person your are attending with or who invited you is not wearing jeans, then No.
9. If you choose to wear jeans as business casual, always wear dark jeans with little or no washes. Darker than traditional blue jeans would be considered dark denim.
10. If you do choose to wear jeans as business casual, also wear a blazer and dress shoes so not to be considered casual.

The next time you or someone you know considers wearing jeans as business casual, consider the 10 tips above first and choose accordingly. Appropriate attire is much more valuable than stylish attire. 

"Life...With Style"

Yours Truly,

Michael Ferrera

The Look

Button Collar Shirts: In Style or Not

Ferrera Fresh Tip: Style is a personal preference that should make you feel good!

With all the feedback & questions on the post "How to Choose a Collar Spread," I believe now the button down collar shirt deserves it's own mention! Before we go in to style tips, lets make it clear that there is no right or wrong in regards to button down collar shirts. The button down collar is a personal preference. If you like it wear it; if you don't, then don't.

When deciding on a button collar shirt or not, here are a few things to remember:

• The purpose of button down collar shirts are to hold your collar in place. 
• When you are wearing a jacket, the lapel of the jacket should hold your shirt collar in place anyway.
• Button collar shirts are better fit for casual business attire and when you are not wearing a tie.
• Collar dress shirts without a button do give off a cleaner and more crisp image. Buttons distract from your stylish tie.
• If your concern is that your collar slides under your jacket lapel, try using very heavy or even metal collar stays. If your shirt does not have collar stay pockets, you can have them added in by your cleaners.
• Rumor: Button down shirts are better for guys with large necks. Not true, the bulk of the button just makes the neck look larger.
• Rumor: Button down collar shirts are for old guys. Not true, a button down shirt serves a purpose and can be use by either gent when appropriate.
• Finally, if you do wear a button collar shirt always button the buttons! You just look sloppy if they are undone.

Form the mind of yours truly Michael Ferrera, I feel that a NO button collar is the better option when wearing a suit & tie. In a more casual environment the button collar shirt is more appropriate. Keep in mind gentlemen, & ladies who dress them, a variety of collar styles are nice to have in your wardrobe as you complete your Life...With Style!

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

 

Classic Button Down Collar

 

Hidden Button Down Collar

 Stylish Button Down Collar

Michael Ferrera Wins Project Style Top Trendsetter

 

As head PR representative a Michael Ferrera Custom Clothing, I'm am not surprised that Mr. Ferrera is the champion of the Project Style competition at Victoria Gardens!

This past Friday October 29, 2010 The Victoria Gardens Mall hosted the final round of their style competition. Earlier this year through the months of June and September contestants styled off head-to-head to create the most stylish outfit and users of @Shoptopia voted for the winners. Designer & stylist Michael Ferrera won the 2nd round that placed him in the finals with five other contestants who also won their rounds with unique style.

When talking to Michael Ferrera about his style idea for the finals he said, "...I really wanted something that would make my outfit stand out drastically, since I know the other contestants have nice style!...The rules were that I had to incorporate my style, add a current trend, and stay within the budget allowed so I thought in my mind about the outfit before I even started shopping. I really wanted to stay true to my style and not just go for the win with a bunch of trends...and (While nodding his head) I definitely feel like I did that in what I call an "Elegant Swaggeristic" outfit! (Michael chuckles)

Congrats to Mr. Ferrera and check out Victoria Gardens Project Style! Thank you all for the continued support, blog views, and comments! It is always a pleasure to blog about the exciting things happening in fashion & style.

Finally, as you know, you are welcome to ask Michael Ferrera questions on Twitter or Ask@MichaelFerrera.com for any style tips that will enhance you "Life...With Style!"

Stay Fresh,
PR for
Michael Ferrera

 

How to Choose A Collar Spread

Dress shirt Fashion & dress shirt Style are not one in the same. You may have seen in a recent Ferrera Fresh Tip: Fashion is what you wear, Style is how you wear it!

I've recently been getting a ton of emails on shirt styles. What type to wear? What collar styles to choose? Whats "in"? Among others.

This timeless question will always remain but the most important thing when choosing shirts off-the-rack or custom made is a good fit. Find a brand that fits your body type and stick with it. The new hot brand won't work for you if it doesn't design to your body type. Remember that just as your suits can be tailored to your body, so can your dress shirts. Take your over sized, box shaped dress shirts to a good tailor that can have them cut and shaped to your body. The shirt will feel better and not look like you're just wearing a puffy pillow case with a collar on it. Try tailoring your shirts, it works!

When choosing collar styles for men's dress shirts, rather than going with whats "in", use the collar to compliment the shape of your face and body type. The wider spread collar has recently become more popular at the time of this print, but it doesn't work for every guy. For slim gentleman it may be better to go with a wider spread collar. This allows your shoulders and face to look a bit broader, giving a nice even appearance to your slim body. Just the opposite, for larger gentleman a medium spread or more narrow spread collar may be a better fit. It allows for a more narrow sharp image in round shoulders and facial features. When in doubt on what to choose its best to ask a professional for tips or go with a medium spread collar which is about 3'' apart from point-to-point. (See image to the right)

As for style of shirt such as french cuffs, plaids or stripes we'll save that for another post. But choose your fit and collar styles wisely to compliment your "Life...With Style!"

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

For specific questions send them to ask@MichaelFerrera.com
or connect on Twitter @MichaelFerrera

MENSWEAR FALL FASHION TRENDS 2010

Ferrera Fresh Tip: Just because it's "in style" doesn't mean it's your style! Stay true to your style by picking and choosing which fashion trends to wear this season...

It's in! After the season's showings at MAGIC, MRket and a tons of other fashion shows this Summer in Las Vegas we now know the items and trends that will be in the stores and boutiques for Autumn/Winter 2010. To save you time on looking into countless magazines, watching senseless sitcoms & movies to find the latest fashion trends, just stay close to "Life...With Style" by Michael Ferrera and we'll keep you covered.

Recently GQ online posted over 200 snapshots of the top trends in male fashion for the upcoming 2010 Fall season. Many of which were seen at MAGIC, Project, Pool, and MRket trade shows in August '10 by yours truly. A full view of the shots are below for you to look at, grab ideas, or take tips when you're ready but here's the "Ferrera Fresh" rundown of the notable trends to consider or not consider

1. For your suits gents, the slimmer suit lapel is still holding its ground as one of the looks to go for when choosing your suits.

2. The plaid neckties are still in as well. Not really the coolest thing to be wearing now since everyone is doing it, but nonetheless it's still a popular trend. Try not to wear this look more than twice a month.

3. Surprisingly the boat shoe that we talked about (in this post here) is continuing to be worn in the fall! Now it is like a mid-high boot style boat shoe in navy, green or tan that's worn dressed casual with tailored jeans and a blazer. A very cool look try it!

 
4. Flannel! Oooh, yes, I like! From full over coats, to simple blazers, ties, socks and other accessories, flannel is definitely a Fall trend 2010 to be used in your wardrobe this Fall gents.

5. Lace-up boots are another notable mention and I'm not complete with this look. It's cool for some gents but it looks very ol'-school-vintage-military. Not the coolest look if a girl will think you're leaving for the military next week.

6. The toggle coat is in and is Certified "Ferrera Fresh!" Although we may not get that cold on the west coast, it is for sure a piece for east coast gents to have and others to travel with.

7. Whoaaa! Graphic knit sweaters are in? Didn't see too much of this coming for the season. It looks kind of 'kid-ish' for a grown man to be wearing in 2010 but if you do wear this just wear confidence. I may try a few out and let you all know the response from the ladies.

8. The plaid suit or what GQ calls: shadow plaid....(Whatever) It's cool, try it! I have a nice amount of these styles in the Michael Ferrera Collection this season as well. It's Hot!

Other notables are wide knit scarves, beanies, leather gloves and oh leather wristbands on watches rather than metal links among the other usual accessories for the Fall season. Take a look at the picture and choose what looks you like and remember just because it's 'in' doesn't mean you have to do it. That's a "Life...With Style"

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Check the article HERE

HINT: If you click the print button on the slide show you can see all the pics by scrolling down 

rather than clicking the next button hundreds of time!

Here's the Looks!

Ferrera Fresh Answers

Ferrera Fresh Tip: When you don't know, not sure, or just want a second opinion, ask an expert...

Quiet often question come into the inbox at ask@michaelferrera.com, Facebook, & Twitter for answers to quick fashion & style questions. Ferrera Fresh Tips with the ladies, date ideas, nice restaurants to visit, among others. Which means, if one person is asking then there are others out there too with the same questions. Here are a few of this weeks top questions, use as you wish and share with others.

Questioner: When traditionally is it best to wear a two button suit versus a three button suit? -Gentleman | Oakland, CA

Ferrera Fresh Answer: There is no "traditionally" best. The number of buttons on a suit are completely for style, so you can choose based on personal preference! The 3 button is the classic-cant-really-go-wrong, but currently the 2 button is a little more fresh since it's lighter, simple, chic and professional all in one...

Questioner: What color shirt would you recommend with a white linen suit for a wedding? Very casual, I'm wearing sandals. - Gentleman | Santa Monica, CA

Ferrera Fresh Answer: Color shirt! Something bright like teal, bright pink, or royal blue dress shirt. If the sandals have brown in it, a shirt with tan or brown is fresh too.

Questioner: What is "corporate casual?" -Gentleman | Rancho, CA

Ferrera Fresh Answer: "Technically" there's no such thing! This was started as a way to just dress casual, but it depends on the event. Polo's, slacks or slacks, shirt and a blazer often work. The main thing is you can ditch the neck tie.

Remain fresh you all and live Life with Style!

Yours truly,

Michael Ferrera

How to Wash Dress Shirts: Cleaners or Laundry

Ferrera Fresh Tip: You invest in your dress shirts, so invest in taking care of them as well...

Since we all have busy schedules, many of us love the convenience of dropping clothes off at the local cleaners to be washed, dried and pressed! Then we pick them up or have them delivered in a day, or even a few hours. Convenient for gentlemen and ladies a like!

A client asked, after receiving his first order of Michael Ferrera custom shirts, "How should I wash and take care on my shirts?" That question prompted a blog! As a wardrobe consultant and fabric connoisseur, as you've read in the post Care for my Sheep,  I will share one of the best ways that will make your dress shirts, last longer & look better!

I start by saying that taking your shirts to the cleaners is not completely wrong. In fact, the convenience of having someone do your laundry for you is almost priceless! However, when washing dress shirts, try to wash & dry them at home and then take them to the cleaners just to be professionally pressed. The advantages of doing this are:

1. You control the chemicals or detergent that goes on your dress shirts! The chemicals and washes that the cleaners uses are extremely powerful and can be more harmful to cotton. By washing dress shirts at home will allow your dress shirts to last longer because of using a more delicate detergent.

2. You control 'how' your clothes are washed! In your machine at home you can choose a normal or delicate cycle and adjust accordingly to your liking. Most of the time a normal cycle is fine for home machines, but at the cleaners only uses one cycle for all clothes washed at the same time, which can be harmful to your fancy cotton dress shirts.

3. You control the drying as well! Just as when washing, drying at the cleaners is done in bunches. At home you control how your clothes are dried and can even choose to air dry which will also cause less shrinkage over time.

4. Your clothes don't have that awkward cleaners smell! You know what I'm taking about. The smell that doesn't really smell like laundry. Yes, your clothes look clean but imagine the types of chemicals they used to get them that way, which gives off that awkward cleaners smell.

5. You could save time! If your cleaners does all work on site, which is a good thing, the longest part is the washing and drying. When your shirts are already washed and dry you can sometimes drop in with your shirts and simply wait for 10 or so minutes at a local shopping center while your shirts a being professionally pressed!

Now that you've considered these things on how to wash dress shirts, apply the tips and see if you like. Your dress shirts will look better, smell better, feel softer, and last longer, which so appropriate when living your "Life...With Style!"

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Cuff Links

Cuff Links! The gentleman's simple metal jewelry that is used to close and hold the sleeves of a French cuff shirt closed. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and can be a collectors item if you choose!

In your life with style gentlemen, please have a handful of nice cuff links that you can use periodically. And, if you choose to, wear them regularly.

If you're not a cuff link fan, I suggest in the words of Dr. Suess in Green Eggs and Ham "Try them, try them..." you might like them! By the way, ladies love to see a nice pair of cuff links on a man as well. Ladies say "It's a polished look!" "It says he gives attention to detail!" and "It's just a clean look!" Just don't take my word for it; try them, and the ladies may like them on you too!

Cuff links! Plain and simple, Life...With Style!

Yours truly,

Michael Ferrera

Top 5 Ferrera Fresh Father's Day Gifts

As Father's day soon approaches, some have procrastinated on gift purchases and wondering what to buy. Yeah, we all know that neckties are the last minute resort and can always work, but think about the countless ties dad has already received as gifts. Here are some good idea to kick your Father's Day gift giving up a notch from the "Ferrera Fresh" mind of Michael Ferrera. Lets start with number 5...

5. Toys! (i.e. Technology) - Why? Because most guys have always loved toys, so as we get older toys don't get lost, they just get a bit more expensive! With the iPad often sold out, the release of the first ever 4G phone in the HTC Evo, and the soon to be released the 4th generation iPhone try to get your hands on one of these gifts and dad will be in for a treat! If not, gift certificates for these gadgets are great ideas as well!

4. Custom Photo and Frame - Why? Because if you're a daddy's girl or one of dad's many boys, father's take great pride in their children, young or old. If you can find a memorable photo of you and dad, try having it blown up and mounted into a custom fame or canvas wrapped. With technology these days you can have it in a few days or even hours and can possibly have names engraved on the frame! Try Aaron Brothers locations for this item.

3. Custom Shirt Gift Certificate - Why? Because if he already wears custom shirts he'll love it, and if he's never had a custom shirt he'll love it! The personal fitting, monogram, and experience of a custom shirt will make dad feel like the important man he is. Of course it would be our pleasure to provide the certificate by visiting MichaelFerrera.com, but if you're outside of California please give us a call and we can direct you to some other fine clothiers.

2. Personalized Jewelry Cuff Links - Why? Because they are just flat out cool! Cuff links hold their our prestige, but when they are personalized with dad's initials, his chest will poke out a little more with swagger. Even if he's over 50 and doesn't know what "swagger" means! Or better yet, think about adding your name on the cuff links if your his daughter. Try Neiman Marcus for these.

1. Customized Ink Pen - Why? Because when dad has on that beautiful tie, power suit, and that sleek watch, it's only appropriate for him to reach in the coat pocket for a personalized pen with his name on it! Try the pen out in store to make sure it writes smoothly and your set. Try Things Remembered for this item.

The main thing you may notice in "Life...With Style" is to make it personal! Dad will feel like you took the time to think of him and that he is important, which he is!

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Fashion & Style

Wikipedia defines Fashion as "a general term for the style and custom prevalent at a given time, in its most common usage refers to costume or clothing style." Yet when you seek style via Wikipedia, it links you back to fashion as stated above. Hmmm, not very helpful...but Ill let you be the judge!

Let's keep it Ferrera Fresh and simple!

Fashion: is what you wear.
i.e. A shirt, a tie, a jacket.

Style: is how you wear it!
i.e. White spread collar shirt, with a Windsor knot tie, cashmere coat with the collar turned up.

As you shop off-the-rack or if you choose to go custom. Make sure to create your own style! If you're slim on styling ideas, ask a professional for tips and ideas. Just because your girlfriend or spouse says something is "hot" doesn't mean it's right for you. (Shhh, don't tell her I said that) Nonetheless, as stated before in a previous post, be original! Many gents are wearing similar brands and fashion but how you wear it what makes your style cool!

"Live Life (pause)...With Style!"

Yours truly,
Michael Ferrera

Euro-Fit suit, medium spread collar shirt,
half Windsor knot tie & classic cashmere top coat

Flat front pants, loose collar and loose tie, no coat,
but with vest for the after work "corporate cool"

Three piece with a wide spread long collar,
contrast paisley tie & stripe shirt, with solid silk handkerchief