Ok

Just to let all of you know... I will be shutting down this blog. You can catch me on my new blog, Rakish Dishevelment. www.rakishdishevelment.blogspot.com

You Should Want These.

Men, you should want these... The rich color basically makes any outfit and they stand out nicely from beneath your slim dark jeans. Who needs statement socks when your shoes can do all the talking for you?


And then you should want to buy these for her...


I mean, what doesn't say I love you like a pair of new sexy 150mm heels? Plus, the tortoise shell look is dark enough for winter, but could easily be paired with a breezy dress for a hot summer night out... of course then you might want to get her some tortoise shell sunglasses to match.

Final Verdict: Try something different this fall in your shoe department... you might be surprised at all the compliments you get.

Checkmate.

Plaids. Unless you are living under a rock you have most likely noticed that plaids are everywhere. Everyone from Jason Wu to Forever 21 is sporting the checks of the season. I can just imagine the offices of Ralph Lauren, Burberry, and Brooks Brothers whispering "I told you so" while cranking out variations that they have been doing for years.


One of the most noticeable types this season is actually the buffalo check. This could be due to the resurgence in the old war horse manufactures like Pendleton, Woolrich, and the like. While this red and black fabric (yes it does not always have to be red and black... it just happens to be the most recognizable form of it) is enjoying the limelight, I caution you from picking up every piece that catches your eye. I can easily see this distinct print becoming a "is" that is relegated to a "was" by the season end. However, plaids in general, I think, are a good investment... they remind me of the spring ginghams but for fall. No matter how crazy fashion gets, it often comes back to the classic pieces and "plaid" is totally in the folds of that staple love blanket. When shopping around I encourage you to find pieces that fit your body... and then that flatter your skin tone. Newsflash... bright, bold checks may not look as amazing on you as they do on the 21 year old model you see wearing it.


Final verdict: keep your eyes out for pieces that may be made out of the plaid fabric but remember that you aren't limited to just a button-down shirt.

Back Like Bedbugs in NYC!

After a break from all writing, I am back and boy-OH-boy do I have a lot of things on my mind. We will be discussing all of the current trends... and a few that I was conversationally absent for their infant steps, but are still alive and kicking today. I will also be giving you my thinking on some upcoming themes, and more than likely tear some to pieces with my razor sharp wit and vicious rhetoric. Final Verdict: You'll like it.

On a side note: If you notice that a lot of my former post pics aren't working, it is because my old revamp blog was shut down along with the pics were linked to that site. Fear not for I will have all kinds of new sexiness for you to see.

Wrap it, Stuff it, Wear it

As most of you have probably started to notice (except maybe you southerners), the air is getting colder and colder. The t-shirt evolved into the sweater which then, in turn, brought along his friend, the coat. I'm sure everyone wishes that they could purchase a new coat each season (or several coats for that matter) but, if you are like me, you can't afford to indulge that urge. "How can I spice up my fall/winter outerwear get-up without going broke?" you may ask. Well, my loyal reader, let me tell you: with a well-picked scarf.

As noted by comedic writer, Christian Lander, the scarf is an important part of any wardrobe. There are many options and fabrics and styles for this neck accoutrement. Generally, the scarf is an easy way to add a splash of color to your wardrobe, and you shouldn't be afraid to go with bright reds or bold rugby stripes. Even if you are a seasoned adult, you can return to your prime by picking one up with embroidered collegiate styling. This trend is a favorite of mine and makes a perfect gift for that natty dresser on your Christmas list.

In order to get a fantastic scarf, you don't need to spend a lot of money. I have several fashionable styles that were purchased for under $20. Recently, my wife purchased me a collegiate cable-knit angora and wool scarf from Forever 21 that is just fabulous. Angora, as you may know, is a soft hair that comes from the Angora rabbit or goat. One thing to keep in mind when purchasing angora is that it has a tendency to shed. Because of this, I would recommend staying away from 100% angora unless it is from a well-respected brand (higher quality does reduce shedding). Another fabric that you want to watch (as far as quality goes) is wool. Since scarves are worn around the neck and against soft skin, you don't want this wrap to consist of coarse or itchy fibers. Giving your loved one a wool scarf is like giving them a carnation to say “I love you”. If you really want to mean it, you should splurge for the red rose of the scarf world: cashmere. Cashmere is just like the perfect girlfriend: beautiful, elegant, makes all your friends envious, looks great dressed up or down, and not too clingy.

Final verdict: try some new styles this season and look for new ways to tie it around your neck.

One, Two, Three, Four...

Over the last several years, the interest in dance has erupted. Each week, millions of viewers tune in to see if their favorite celebrity or no-name hero will make the cut and continue on to the next week. Not only has this blossomed in the television industry, but it has increased in the movie world as well. Movies like Take the Lead, Shall We Dance, and even Step Up 2: The Streets have further fanned this explosive social need.

Having had formal dance instruction (and instructed), I would full-heartedly encourage each and every one of you to get out and get some dance training. Why, you may ask? I shall give you several reasons:

• Not only does dance teach one to move with the rhythm, but it also teaches many things that are applicable in your day-to-day routine; things like grace, poise, and a mental confidence that you can dance better than most people you pass on the street.
• Have you ever been to a wedding/party and watched a couple that turns the head of everyone and makes them turn green with envy at the same time? Imagine if that was you.
• As a male, the ability to lead is SO key. Not only does that help with dancing, but it will allow you to command the dance floor and sweep any woman off her feet... even if that woman is your wife. Dancing casts an amazing spell when it comes to attraction. Even the ho-hum wallflowers become Alpha-Male if they can spin the dance floor in their favor.

Now there are many different kinds of dance to take and they all are wonderful, but I would encourage each of you to try ballroom. Even after your joints have started to tell you that you can't sprint a 40 in under 4.6 seconds, you will be able to utilize this skill. I am a firm believer that every woman (deep down) wishes for her Prince Charming... and if you just happen to be able to do that coveted Viennese Waltz, then it puts you that much closer.

Final Verdict: If you are already in a relationship, nothing spices up the romance like taking a class together... you end up with bruised knees and sore toes, but also a renewed passion that chocolates and flowers can't buy. If you are single... there is nothing that a woman would love more than for you to ask her to take dance classes... think about it.

Snowblindness

As the autumnal air rolls in and the leaves turn to brown you may be tempted to pack away an important accessory until the thaw of spring. What accessory is that, you may ask? The sandal? Ummm no. The cutoff jean mini-skirt? Wrong again. How about I just tell you? The correct answer is none other than sunglasses.

An often overlooked fall/winter accessory is the perfect pair of sunglasses. The important thing to remember when selecting your cold-weather shades is that the frames should be plastic. Your standard metal aviators need to take a back seat because you don't want them freezing to your face. Have you ever put your tongue on a cold piece of metal? Same idea, but picture that metal stuck to your face. The plastic frames will maintain a pleasant temperature while still shielding your eyes from the sun... bright daylight on fresh snow can be quite blinding. Final verdict: if you don't own a pair of plastic-framed sun-shields, look into getting them. Designer sunglasses are great, but if you're like me and lose/break sunglasses just look for a knockoff pair. My favorite pair are from American Eagle.

Sleek and Sexy

A common complaint that I’ve had over the years has been that any dress shirt I bought seemed to be baggy. There were few things I hated more than seeing my shirt “blouse-out” around my waist and give me the appearance of weighing 20 pounds more than I did. I would look at the designer shirts, but was just discouraged to find that a slim-cut designer shirt started at the $200 mark… and even then it would still be “off the rack”. Then, about 15 months ago, I discovered the Brooks Brothers made-to-measure and my world changed forever. Hands down, it is the best deal out on the market.

To begin the process, check out the closest retail Brooks Brothers store (factory stores do not have M2M). Unless they are having a slow day, you may have to set up an appointment to get your initial fitting. The measurements take about 45 minutes while you fine-tune the fit that you want. If you are like me, explain to the specialist that you want a very slim waistline to minimize blousing. The more you explain what you are looking for, the more accurately he can tweak the numbers. Once you have the measurements, you can begin the shopping portion. They have a broad variety of fabrics ranging from the opening-price-point of $150 clear up to over $390 for rare sea-island cotton. After the fabric has been selected, you chose every styling detail possible… cuff, collar (over 10 styles available), placket, and pleating. At the end of the process you have a shirt that is completely customized to your body and tastes… down to even one cuff being larger than the other to account for your watch. Then, in just a few short weeks, you will receive a call to come and pick up your glorious shirt.

Now you may say that $150 is a lot of money and I would totally agree, but it is well worth it. First, I would recommend getting your shirt(s) during one of the Friends & Family or Made-to-Measure sales. That way you will save upwards of 25% off your entire order… which brings the price down to $112.50 a shirt. Secondly, if you pick a regular-finish fabric (anything but non-iron) and take care of the shirt, you can get a solid 10 years out of the shirt. That’s only $12 a year, or 3 cents a day! It’ll be more likely that you’ll outgrow the shirt before it runs out. Thirdly, a perfectly tailored shirt makes an amazing impression. I can’t count the number of compliments or comments I’ve gotten from wearing my made-to-measures. You even carry yourself better because you just know that the shirt looks great. Finally, the cost is only a fraction of what it would be to get an off-the-rack shirt from a designer like Ralph Lauren Black Label (which runs about $230)… just think if we started talking Armani or Tom Ford.

Final verdict: get out and try just one and I promise you’ll never look back. On a side note: stay away from the non-iron fabric just for the simple fact that it doesn’t breathe well and with the shirt being so fitted, you may overheat.

Lucky Charm: not the cereal.

How many times have you gone out and seen someone that was perfectly dressed but then have your initial opinions of them shattered when they talk? While being well-dressed is great, the most important accessory that you can bring to the table is your personality... and more specifically, your charm. Remember to always be on your best behavior, and it never hurts to brush up on the habits of a modern-day gentleman. Your clothes may catch the crowd's eye initially, but your bewitching allure will keep them interested late into the night. Final verdict: always remember to treat women like royalty and treat other men like your friends, even if they are incorrigible. You want your charm to linger after you've left... like the last bite of a perfect dessert.

The Rabbit Goes Around the Tree and then What?

As I was riding the subway home today I was wondering what else I could write about. I thought that maybe writer's block was going to take over, but all I needed was the poorly dressed pedestrians standing around me to give me motivation. The topic this time: tie length and knot style.

If you are a normal male that wears a tie, chances are that you know one knot. And that knot was most likely the one that your father (or other adult figure... or college roommate) taught you to tie when you finally needed to learn. There are, actually, several styles of knots to tie depending on the look you are going for and the collar style on the dress shirt. Here are some general tie rules and guidelines.

• Learn at least the 3 basic knots (The four-in-hand, the half-windsor and the windsor) These knots can be learned from a variety of websites or books.
• The bigger the knot, the wider the collar on the shirt should be (i.e. don't wear a windsor knot with a button-down collar).
• Keep in mind the material and thickness of the tie that you are using. A thin vintage tie creates a much smaller knot than a 7-fold silk tie. You may have to change tactics after a couple tries if you can't get it to work.
• Please, please, please take into consideration the dimple of the tie. The single dimple is the most classic but remember to keep it centered. The key is to start the dimple before you cinch the knot closed. In my opinion, the only other acceptable dimple variation is the double dimple... or what the Italians refer to as "la sorchetta." Once again, remember to center.
• While your girlfriend or wife might think it's fun to tie your tie for you, don't let her do it. It just makes you look childlike. If she's offended, tell her that they are much more fun to take off.

Having just given more rules than you thought possible, let's not forget the second part of this post: tie length. If I see someone with a tie that is too long or too short I immediately assume that they are lazy. Lazy, you say? Why lazy? Well, my reader, a perfectly tied tie takes a few tries... so if they didn't bother to keep trying then they are just lazy. The key is to get the tip of the tie within the "perfect zone". Ideally, the left and right corners of the tie should just brush the top of the belt when you are standing straight with your shoulders back.

The only other acceptable way is to have the center tip touch the top part of the belt buckle.... thus making the tie a little shorter. On a final note, if wearing a sweater or vest, you may tie your tie shorter so that it doesn't peek out from under the top garment. Final verdict: these little tweaks may not seem like much, but they can instantly supercharge your style. It's the subtle things that set the truly fashionable apart from the aspiring.

P.S. - for the love of all that is good, do NOT tie neckwear and then leave it tied just so you can slip it on and off over your head. This damages the construction and will eventually leave permanent creases.

The Dark Night

Night. Darkness. There is just something enticing about the late evening. Why has the night scene always been so seductive and why does it seem that some places "come to life" at night? My guess: evening allows one to become somebody that they can't be during the day. Think about all those co-workers you work with that seem to be dull and lifeless but if seen late evening are like an entirely different person. One reason for this change may be that we can step back and allow the shadows to envelope us, thus allowing our personality to shine. During the daytime many of us are self-conscious, but slipping into the night's embrace emboldens us with new confidence. The little voice in our head that says "they'd like you if they only got to know you" gains new strength and suddenly you are able to enjoy yourself free from the eyes of the world.

Another reason, I think, why midnight's siren call awakens a stirring in us is because at times it can seem as if the world has stopped just for us. Think about the crazy speed and pace of your day-to-day life... and how different it can seem in the wee hours of the morning (provided you aren't tossing and turning in bed). Throughout my life I have loved staying up until the world begins to go to bed. A late night walk can be so relaxing and you can hear yourself think without worrying about being interrupted (unless of course you have friends in other time zones... like say you lived in NYC and you had friends in ummm Oregon). Final verdict: if you aren't the type to usually stay up, try it with a friend or spouse and you might be surprised how much you enjoy it.

The Glorified Scruff

If you've watched any show on tv recently or have seen pretty much any fashion ad with a male model you may have noticed that "scruff" is back in fashion. If you haven't noticed that, there might be a chance that you live under a rock. But Grant, you say, I can't grow a beard... in fact I can probably go a week without shaving and only begin to look like a baby peach. If that's your problem then this post probably isn't for you.

Being somewhat of a "babyface" myself, I can only envy those that are able to pull off this uber-manly look. It has a rugged rawness that screams "I am man" but at the same time "I can still take care of myself." This has become a blessing for all those men that work in offices and daydream about surviving off the land somewhere in Montana. Final Verdict: Tom Ford, the sensual demigod of fashion himself, has been sporting this look for quite some time... and that should be reason enough to give it a shot. Pick a long weekend and just try it out and see what you think.

Chunky not always a bad thing.

Well duh, Grant. What about soup? Ok, you make a valid point. But either you're new, or just really dense. This is a fashion blog: key word being "fashion." Man, some peoples' kids I tell ya. Now where was I?

The chucky sweater has returned from the brink of fashion oblivion and, like the Prodigal Son, has been welcomed back with open arms. Contrary to other areas, the only stipulation for something to be lumped into this category is that it has to be,... well... chunky. Usually done in a wider gauge knit, these sweaters/cardigans/vests harken of a lost era brimming with a rustic charm. Unlike their vintage relatives, these variants opt for a variety of choices instead of the previously favored crewneck. The shawl, cowl, and oversized collars have become the "belles of the ball" this time around, and the new necklines allow for a plethora of layering options. With this in mind, you should add some life to your wardrobe. Break free from your normal routine. What about a long sleeve polo under a shawl neck cardigan, or a graphic long sleeved tee under a v-neck cable sweater vest? A key style fact to remember when incorporating this item, though, is that your other pieces should be fitted. A bulky sweater with baggy pants just makes you look like a hobo.

Not only do these bulky relatives come in a surfiet of neck options, but they also are swimming in old-world color palates. For some reason a lot of these colors are female in gender, and love to go by the name "Heather." No wait! As it turns out, heather is a yarn or fabric color that is subtly flecked or mottled. Heathered gray seems to be the most popular color this year with every designer from Alice & Olivia to Zegna using it. Final verdict: when looking for this garment, try to find one in a cable knit. It looks great, and adds a little more texture to the ensemble.

Not Just Your Father's Coat

This trendy piece isn't the newest of items, but it is back "in vogue" again. I know you are waiting with bated breath, so I'll just tell you. It's the duffel coat. This coat is made from none other than duffel; a coarse, thick, woollen material. As with many other styles this season, this item originated in Europe and is a traditional British garment. One key defining feature of a duffel coat is that the front must be closed (at least in some part) by front toggle-fastenings which are commonly called "walrus teeth." These toggles were originally used to make the coat easy to fasten and unfasten while wearing gloves... sort of like fashionable velcro. Traditionally these coats were boxy, but the newer variants have a tailored feel and are easier to find for avant-garde women shoppers. Even the high fashion houses, like Dolce & Gabbana, have a rendition of this classic garment. Final verdict: if these coats are properly cared for, they can last many many years and be passed down from generation to generation. Think of it as a several-cycle fashion investment.

P.S. - If you can't figure it out, the female model is the one wearing the duffel coat.

Improve your Image NOW in 2 minutes or less!

Grant, what's an easy way to instantly improve my look without breaking the bank? Well, avid reader, I have an answer for you. Interestingly enough, your question has stumbled us into one of my top pet peeves: people that dress their body type incorrectly. Wait, that wasn't what I wanted to talk about. Now what did I... OH, Right! What I wanted to talk about was another one of my top irritations: poor posture.

Walking the streets of NYC, I've found that a person with good posture instantly catches my eye. In a society where women slouch their shoulders and men hunch in their chairs, it's no wonder that everyday poise is deteriorating. When I was younger, I used to hunch all the time. Every time I went to my grandparents' house, my grandfather would correct this youthful folly. He constantly told me that the way to instantly impress a lady was to carry yourself in a self-assured manner. This was best conveyed by keeping a straight back and owning a stride that was as graceful as it was commanding. If the idea of propper posture is foreign to you, I suggest watching fashion runway videos. While the models' steps are often overly emphasized, they have the basic concept down. After some practice you may find that the muscles in the middle of your back are sore. This pain is probably earned by the simple act of keeping your shoulders back. Think of this as your body slapping you in the head for letting it get to this point. Final verdict: with a little practice, you can start turning heads with little more than your gait.

The Ivy

Imagine the afternoon sun peeking out from behind the embrace of a downy white cloud crawling across the sky. The air is crisp and the occasional breeze dances across your exposed skin as you idly stroll down a back country road. The sound of your thoughts mix with the crunching of fallen leaves underneath your feet creating an organic, poetic melody.

Sounds wonderful, right? Of course it does; but not all of us can escape out into the spacious countryside. And when you can't escape, how can you pretend? Well, by wearing an ivy. Now some of you may be wondering what an ivy is, or why you would be wearing an English climbing plant. The ivy also goes by the common name of the "newsie cap". Ringing any bells? This flat cap originated as the headwarmer for the working class, but over the years has gained more of an upper class image. The wonderful thing about this versatile cap is that it creates a casual image while maintaining that sophisticated oneness. The ivy comes in many different fabrics and makes a great addition to any autumnal ensemble. Thrown with jeans, a vest, and an oxford it says, "I'm into relaxing, so let's meet at the pub for merriment and unique music." Combined with an overcoat and silk scarf it speaks volumes in a different direction. Final verdict: this English isle accessory should be a "must" for your closet... and like the Swiss Army knife, the possibilites are endless.

Sweet Prepster Batman!

Fair Isle is a traditional knitting technique to create patterns with multiple colors. When you see attire done in this style you may instantly think of the 1970s and shag carpet. While this may be correct, it's about that time for things like this to make a comeback. BAM! Enter the Fair Isle sweater, vest, dress... you name it. This style is certainly not for everyone and you have to really own this look. A pair of horn-rimmed or dark-rimmed glasses certainly helps to complete this wearable flair. The fair isle, when worn correctly creates and air of sartorial confidence and quirky humor best garnished with bright smile. Remember that the pattern tend to be very busy, so the other pieces of your "get-up" should let the Fair Isle shine instead of battling for spotlight. I recommend prepping it up with a button-down shirt and some sort of a club tie. One other thing to remember is that it's best to stick to lighter weight fabrics and leave the thick, chunky sweaters for the fishermen. Keep it to the slim-cuts please. Final verdict: you may be able to find some wonderful vintage pieces at thrift stores, but if you're lazy there's always Ralph Lauren.

Layering

According to Dictionary.com, Layering is defined as "the wearing of lightweight or unconstructed garments one upon the other, as to create a fashionable ensemble or to provide warmth without undue bulkiness or heaviness." Exactly. Basically all you are doing is putting on more than necessary for the sake of fashion, and you know what? I love it.

The key to good layering is to think about the necklines of what you are wearing. If you alter the necklines of what you are wearing you will be able to see the most of what you have on underneath. Most often, the dress shirt is the bottom layer (with the exception of a t-shirt if you want to show a crew neck collar). This creates the height around the neck area and with a dress shirt being buttoned up the middle it will fall to either side if not fastened. This then works wonders when worn under a v-neck sweater or a vest of some sort. To top it all off you can throw a blazer or jacket over it all and complete the rule of 3. This is a little rule I follow when layering during the Autumn/Winter fashion season. The rule basically states that a properly layered outfit must be at least 3 layers deep (and a tie can count as a layer).

The wonderful part about layering is that the last layer doesn't HAVE to be the longest or most visible. Let's take Mr. Model up on the right... I want to call him Ian. As you can see, Ian used the "puffer vest" as the last item but still creates that wonderful "bundled" look. Another thing you may notice in the pictures I have supplied is the glorious use of cold-weather accessories. While not a layering item, they dovetail perfectly with the look we are creating. Hats, gloves, and scarves can help to flush out the total ensemble or add a much needed splash of color to a drab outfit. This being said, keep in mind where your color "pops" are going to draw the human eye. Model number 1 (with her entire styling team) has done a perfect job of drawing your eyes instantly to the neckline and then secondly down to the hands. You wouldn't want someone to be staring at your shoes and then your belt-line, now would you? Final verdict: go to the closet and try stacking up your pieces in new and fresh ways to get that extra mile out of your "last season" gear.

Wish you went to Oxford? Yeah, me too.

Harvard, Oxford, Yale... what do all these have in common? Yep! I couldn't afford them. Oh wait, that wasn't the point I was trying to make. What was my point again?... Right! Collegiate style! You're so smart.

Trends come and go, but the style of the uber elite "old money" families seems to stay the same. Basically everything comes from the aristocratic style of the English countryside with the earth tones and bow ties all thrown together with a haphazard air of going out for a "quick jaunt." Honestly, who plays a friendly game of touch football in a bow tie, sweater vest, and $800 blazer? Oh, right... the uber elite.

Lately, this gorgeous style of sophistication and leisure has begun to creep into the trends of the season. You can see more and more items with crest patches and ornate stitching which bring you back to that "old world charm". If you had to pick one designer that seems to hit the nail on the head, who would you say? No silly, not Gucci... the correct answer is none other than the mastermind himself, Ralph Lauren. Recently, Ralph has started to open free-standing shops for their Ivy League casual line, Rugby. I absolutely love this line. It has the refinement of aristocracy with that half-cocked-tie casualness. It says, "Hey, I'm all about business and the finer things in life, but I dress for comfort and I'd love to sit outside and chat with you over hot cider." Ok, maybe it doesn't say all that, but it makes a distinct statement about the wearer. Final Verdict: start out with an item or two paired with structured pieces; it'll give you a whole new way to pull together your existing wardrobe.

Trim and Roll

Once again, here I come bringing my take on some up and coming styles with some frank and honest opinions. I'd like to take this opportunity to talk about 2 fall (and spring) trends that are sure to give your wardrobe that extra little "umph".

The first trend/fashion statement that I'd like to delve into is the re-emergence of "braces" (or for the lay person: "suspenders"). These come in many different colors, widths, and modes to fasten them to your clothing. As a general rule, braces that fasten with buttons are for more formal attire and ones that clip on are for your every day outfits. While getting buttons sewn into your favorite jeans may make you "original"... it'll also make you wonder what in the heck you were doing when you fast forward 2 years. A black thin pair of clip-on braces would make a great addition to any casual outfit (and that goes for you too ladies). For you fashion mavens out there, the Rag & Bone Spring '09 show was littered with these little trim accessories for both sexes and looked classic yet edgy. Fans of the tv show House M.D. may remember that the gorgeous "thirteen" (played by actress Olivia Wilde) sports these pant holder-uppers in several of the episodes. Final verdict: for a couple extra bucks you can add a million dollar bump to an already almost perfect outfit.

Secondly, lets tackle the ever-popular love of the shawl collar. Now the shawl collar has been around for quite some time, but lately it seems to be the cranberry of the fashion world... it gets with everything. The thing that I love about this neckline is that it tends to work with almost any build, so there's a pretty good chance that you'd look good in it. Lately my real interest in this collar is in the formal and cardigan departments. There have been some amazing tuxes out this season with the noble roll. The soft curve of the fabric around the neck is not as sharp as a peak or notch lapel and the height around the back helps to frame the shoulders. It also makes for a slightly different look that is still just as stunning. In the cardigan world it helps to add some flair for those that think a cardigan is too "old man". The heavier top section makes it chuncky enough to wear alone or you could just as easily throw it under a blazer for a "Harvard Athletic Club" look if you're into that kind of thing. Which I am. Just kidding. But seriously, I love it. A shawl collar is great for the guy (or girl) that is looking to minimize the size of their neck without appearing to do so. Final verdict: try one out... you might be surprised at how much you like it.