On the streets we spotted blokes in cropped pants, brights, elbow patches, “Hogans” and L.A. trainers, chunky ‘brogued’ boots and [...]]]> Later in October, we headed south to Italy and enjoyed three weeks eating and shopping our way through Rome, Florence and the Amalfi. I particularly loved the posers’ parade, strolling up and down the corsos.

On the streets we spotted blokes in cropped pants, brights, elbow patches, “Hogans” and L.A. trainers, chunky ‘brogued’ boots and coloured dessert boots. A standout was a beige single-breasted suit, white shirt and bright red loafers.

Man bags were also prevalent including a red brief case, which grabbed my attention on the Corso in Rome. In the stores bow ties are massive – there’s a new designer making them set in “pasta” (not edible but ingenious all the same ), in porcelain and also silk clip-ons. The craziest trend spotted is the very short tie, just 15 cm long. Not sure how that will take off!

Dropped crotch pants were also still around with “carrot styles” prevailing. Coloured belts were slimmed down featured interesting treatments like rubber from used bicycle tyres. Some standout menswear retailers included David Mayer Naman  and Super, Paolo Pecora and Flow Store (located via dei vecchietti, 22r in Florence).

For the ladies, wedges were the footwear of choice, much like Paris. There is a lot of short masculine haircuts on girls in Italy, that I guess would be marginalised over here in Australia. The guys tend to wear their hair longer, and even in the business context, long hair and groomed beards are acceptable.

We also enjoyed incredible vintage shopping, better than anything we see here in Australia. I picked up two pre-loved D&G jackets (velvet and cord) and a cool manbag for an absolutely steal – so word of advice, make sure vintage is on your list when shopping the capitals of Europe!

Colours on the streets and in-store included: forest green, beige and raspberry, chocolate brown, grey and navy.

It’s an experience that can easily [...]]]> In May each year, Australia’s fashion industry descends on Sydney’s  Overseas Passenger Terminal for the showing of upcoming Spring/Summer collections. More than 50+ shows draw thousands in attendance from the retail, wholesale, media, design and styling industries as well as celebs, paparazzi, and an army of passionate volunteers.

It’s an experience that can easily be compared to the childhood excitement of Christmas. Put simply, the opportunity to get a glimpse of what lies ahead in fashion is much like peeking at your presents before the big day! Whilst the primary audience is definitely the highly influential buyers who stock what we see and love in the store, the opportunity for a stylist to get an insider’s look is not only incredibly inspiring, but also ensures that clients are kept abreast of what’s hot for the season ahead.

I Heart GB

Silk jersey dresses draped-to-perfection are Gary Bigeni’s signature and he didn’t let us down this year, employing incredibly strong rust through to feminine beige and aqua. Structured separates including cropped pants and leather shorts, paired back with blazers and knits. Can be worn from the office through to your favourite restaurant. Precise music changes for each textile during the show matched the feminine sophistication of this powerful collection. Make up  by M.A.C. and nails by O.P.I. Can’t wait to see this in store!

Little Joe Woman: Most Wearable

From Australian summer to European vacation, pack light, pack sexy. This incredibly wearable “gypset” (jet-setting gypsy) collection was opened by Gail Elliot’s bestie, the stunning Yasmin Le Bon. Pretty silk florals across all pieces – shorts, pants, skirts, dresses, tops – had a real 70′s flavour. These relaxed looks were accessorised with cowboy booties and flat sandals. A Rolling Stones re-mix on the catwalk captured the mood and fun of this collection. My pick of the collection is the denim jumpsuit.

Spectacular Spetic

Karla Spetic brought a luscious Granny Smith apple green to life with retro wallpaper graphics on sharp lines, double front splits and colour blocking. Prints back with blocks cut a striking tailored look for work or play. Watch this girl, she’s going places!

Above the clouds with Lo Sordo

Flowing sheer white dresses with cut out trains were a standout in Michael Lo Sordo’s breathtaking monocramatic collection. His original “smoke swirl” digital print motif added depth and character.

Other highlights included Lisa Maree’s 70′s garden of Eden inspired swimwear collection; and emerging talent Brisbane based Josh Scacheri and his menswear highlights with Subfusco.

RAFW S/S 2010

Perhaps it’s the endless summer weather we seem to be enjoying here in Sydney, but many of the hits from RAFW we could and should be wearing right now:

• Kate Sylvester (for her alternate urban country signature),
• Annah Stretton (one dress styled in ten different looks),
• Gary Bigeni (incredible palate and oozing feminine),
• Song by Tang (new age but wearable, look out for it) and
• newcomers Lucette (for bringing back Mad Max)!

Also expect to see lots of light leather, pastels and neutral colours such as peach and cream.Sexy tailored cropped pants for the ladies. Some amazing and very fashion forward swimwear concepts. Plus loads of party frocks in time for Spring racing and the Christmas party circuit.

5 looks in 5 days during RAFW 2010:

MONDAY. Black on black on black to start the week chic… Matthew Lawrence bespoke jacket, Danielle Wallace polka dot shirt, skinny jeans from Neuw, G&L bespoke shoes

TUESDAY. 1940’s paperboy mash-up… Matthew Lawrence bespoke 40’s dark blue high waisted baggy pants, thrift-shop braces purchased in Rome (hung low), check shirt from Witcheryman, dusty old flat cap purchased in NYC, Lacoste sneakers

WEDNESDAY. Alternate look… smart Kate Silvester crumple knit shirt in blue/green, G&L shoes, tailored skinny check trousers from Oxford

THURSDAY. Double denim… Dr Denim shirt and Pace jeans from Blu Bird, with Paul Smith olive coloured velvet jacket, G&L shoes

FRIDAY. “Pony boy” was the bespoke outfit day with “bespoke by Ganton” white shirt and signature Matthew Lawrence pony velvet jacket, Neuw jeans, G&L shoes

This iconic collection is designed for a refined, cultured woman; yet exudes a youthful energy with a revisitation of bold 70’s fashion colours (peacock, topaz, bronze, amber, pale pink) and stunning snake skin finishes, all very [...]]]> Mediterranean myths and legends come alive in BVLGARI’s Autumn/Winter accessories collection, adorned with Iions, serpents and antique coin embellishments.

This iconic collection is designed for a refined, cultured woman; yet exudes a youthful energy with a revisitation of bold 70’s fashion colours (peacock, topaz, bronze, amber, pale pink) and stunning snake skin finishes, all very much “of the moment”.

Isabella Rossellini

A timeless luxury piece, like its namesake, both aspirational and iconic. This season, choose from limited edition designs in patterned leather, canvas, or pony skin, characterised by elegant twist-lock closures (agate, quartz, onyx).

Serpenti (Italian for snake)

Symbol of eternity, knowledge, vitality and seduction – these sophisticated and minimalist shoulder bags make for elegant statement pieces in karung (snake) skin.

Leoni (Italian for lion)

Handcrafted in wrinkled lamb leather and karung skin, choose from champagne-gray and pink-blush tones.

The beauty of the full-flavoured bold reds and greens is that they can be paired back with so many different looks and instead of the classic “matching bags and shoes”, look to these bold pieces to compliment your outfit. Or better still – make the bag the hero and keep your outfits muted in greys or black.

Available now in-store from May/June 2011 – make an appointment with Jeff today to see the collection:

Bulgari Sydney, 64‐68 Castlereagh Street

Bulgari Melbourne, 123 Collins Street

Bulgari Brisbane, David Jones Queens Plaza

www.bulgari.com

Designed as a ‘glittering jewel box’, furnished with diamond shaped banquettes and constellations of mirrors [...]]]> DIANE von FURSTENBERG, one of the premier names in American fashion, has finally arrived down under! The first DVF flagship boutique in Australia is located in the recently opened premier shopping destination, Westfield Sydney (Pitt & Market Sts, Sydney).

Designed as a ‘glittering jewel box’, furnished with diamond shaped banquettes and constellations of mirrors that spiral across the ceiling, the store is a slice of New York glamour!

Jeff recently spoke to DVF Australia Managing Director, Geraldine Dielenberg, about the highly anticipated opening and the legend behind the brand.

What’s the brand philosophy? Empowering women, designed and manufactured for real women.

Is it all just about the Wrap Dress? Not so! We recently welcomed a new designer (ex-Gucci) Yvan Mispelaere who has brought a bold new energy that matches beautifully with DVF’s contemporary designs.

What sizes do you carry? US 2-14 (just add ‘4’ to get Aussie sizes), so 6-18.

What’s new? Bold tones contrasting block colours together so that dresses can appear as two pieces. Look out for dress shorts in the Spring collection which is due in-store now (February). There are new monthly drops so always fresh and interesting arrivals not seen before!

Founded in 1972 and headquartered in New York City, DVF Sydney will carry the full range of DVF collections, including ready-to-wear, accessories, shoes, handbags, eyewear, books and small leather goods.

In this age of super slick mass manufacturing, no other brand [...]]]> Youthful, bright and colourful… the sexy global jean brand is back yet again pushing the limits of advertising with its Spring/Summer 2010 “Sex Sells…Unfortunately We Sell Jeans” campaign, taking inspiration from flirtatious “fire” and “water” elements used in both its washes and treatments.

In this age of super slick mass manufacturing, no other brand is engineering “abrasion” denim quite like Diesel – hand abrasions, bleach, resin and spray treatments, squeezing, scrubbing, stone washing and sandblasting – delivering the highest quality of craftsmanship and expertise.

Featuring 40 styles for men (in 80 washes) and 20 women’s styles (in 40 washes) in the latest Australian collection,  “fire” denim features a “charred” and “toasted” treatment, recalling distressed jeans worn by fire fighters.

“Water” denim features hand-painted splashes and droplets in shades ranging from dark indigo to hard bleached denim.

There is also a lot of relaxed-fit 90’s style denim in the collection including “carrot” and “baggy” shapes reminiscent of street wear style from Keppers and 26Red (cue RUN DMC).

With this new collection, Diesel is back in a big way appealing to a broader audience with designer denim from just $200. Celebrity fans include Elle MacPherson, David Beckham, Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Katy Perry, and Lou Doillon to name a few.

Did you know?

Australia was the first market to carry Diesel denim back in 1975 when Diesel founder Renzo Rosso met Mark Keighery (founder of Marcs brand) at a Paris fashion show and the line was carried through Marcs stores before widening its wholesale presence.

www.diesel.com

Name: Jeff Lack Nick name: JL

Profession:  Jeff Lack is a personal stylist, media commentator and keynote speaker with over 20 years of experience in the Australian Fashion Industry. Kick-starting his career at just 17, firstly in retailing and setting up boutiques, designing surf wear as well as modelling; Jeff established his own personal styling consultancy in 2005.

Profession: Stylist, Media Commentator, Keynote speaker

Location: Sydney, Australia

Passion: Fashion, food, fine wine

I get my inspirations from:
The streets and runway, and in my experience mens fashion follows elements of womens. I look out for what may be carried over like colours, styling and cuts.

How I got my break:
What break? I just put my head down and worked my arse off! Create your unique selling point [usp] I believe this is the most effective way to build your personal brand.

My top tricks of the trade:
Tailoring, tailoring and tailoring – I believe in fit first you wont always get the perfect fit off the rack re-invent old gold by tailoring into new styles… Mantra: If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t right!

My style in a sentence:
Neo urban grunge cowboy… today. Let’s see how I feel tomorrow.

Bet you didn’t know I can:
Swim like a fish, run like a gazelle and ride like the wind.

My latest project is about:
Mens facial hair styles – what they say about you, how to create a balanced look for your face whilst staying true to who you are…Lots of fun.

My last purchase:
Womens Red belt from Trenery ‘cause I can’t get what I want in mens!

My current favourite mecho item: 
Eduardo Rivera Autumn Winter 2010-11 collection is a stand out – I would wear ALL this beautiful rich greens and purple.

Travel destination and tips:
NYC walk from the East village to Lolita and Soho, so many gems, new and pre loved and get inspired by the way locals put it together… every day.

Pssst… One time I… had 160 women in one room hanging off every word of my ‘styling for success’ talk

Original article can be found at: http://www.mecho.com.au/blog/guest-blogger/qa-jeff-lack-stylist

From personalising your business cards, to website, brochures, email signature and trade media PR – corporate shots help to bring your “at work” persona to life!

In conjunction with the launch, Schick® surveyed Aussie men and women aged 18-35 years to uncover the perceived benefits of keeping groomed facial hair. The report found [...]]]>

Rob Pattinson sports "the shadow" beard (two day growth).

During Schick’s “Man of 1,000 Faces” campaign (July – Sept 2010), Jeff features as a spokesperson for the launch of the new Quattro Freestyle Titanium 3-in-1 razor.

In conjunction with the launch, Schick® surveyed Aussie men and women aged 18-35 years to uncover the perceived benefits of keeping groomed facial hair. The report found that men with facial hair are perceived to have more sex, with 6 out of 10 women finding men with facial hair have more sex appeal than clean cut blokes. Nearly two thirds of the men surveyed agreed that having well-groomed facial hair gives them a much better success rate with the ladies. Men also confessed that sporting facial hair made them feel more attractive and gave them more personality. A further 7 out of the 10 men surveyed believe well-groomed facial hair is more masculine and nearly 75% of participating women agreed.

Check out the clip to hear Jeff chatting to Triple M’s Ugly Phil about the ins and outs of keeping groomed facial hair: Triple M interview 2 July 2010

Essential products for keeping groomed or “designer” facial hair? In every man’s designer beard toolkit they should have Body Shop’s ‘Macca Root’ shaving cream – the razor glides over nicely and moisturises your face at the same time. Apply with a bristled beard brush, then style with your Schick Quattro Titanium Freestyle razor for all your shave, edge and trim requirements. What styles keep men looking younger? Typically beards and groomed facial bring maturity to a man’s face which is not a bad thing for those climbing the corporate ladder.

That said, a finely trimmed beard will always make blokes look younger than a full bush beard, likewise goatees are not a hot look anymore so again could age or “date” you a little.

Beards are so versatile, they define your style and they also can enhance looks or hide imperfections. For blokes with a bit of a double chin I advise them to cut the neckline of the beard past the fold of the second chin to create a strong “single chin” jaw line. Plus I always get guys to shave the cheeks down fairly low to the jaw line to keep your eyes looking fresh.

Great grooming tips? When cutting your “designer” beard, shave in the direction of the hair growth and go with a style that balances the shape of your face. Remember to always trim around your lips and don’t forget to shave the back of your neck. This will complete your look and so many blokes forget this, destroying their “designer” beard efforts!

What facial hair look do you wish would make a comeback? The 1970’s mo because there is nothing more masculine than the mo of Magnum P.I.!

What facial hair look do you wish would just die already? I love groomed facial hair….so keep them all alive! If I have to single one out, it would be the goatee its been done to death in the 90’s and needs a little rest.

Check out the campaign and enter the competitions to win big!

“Robert Pattinson: sporting ‘the shadow’ aka two day growth, gives Rob the smouldering sexy look . Also adds maturity to his look”.

“Johnny Depp: classic pirate goatee often voted sexiest man this beard emphasises his high cheekbones”.

“Russell Brand: rockstar bad boy look really suits the long hair. Russell is a totally different man with no beard and short hair. This look has made his career.”

“Ryan Reynolds: widely recognised as the perfect beard. Good looking dude with good hair and a well balanced neat classic beard”.

More celeb beards explained at Men’s Health Australia online.

From the ready to wear ‘Classics’ (suits, ties, shirts), to the high performing formal ‘Collection’ and high-end ‘Custom’ made-to-measure suiting, [...]]]> Co-founder of Aussie label and international success, Herringbone, Matt Jensen has brought new thinking to young men’s “suiting” with the launch of his M.J. Bale label, recently opened in Woollahra, Sydney (106 Queen Street).

From the ready to wear ‘Classics’ (suits, ties, shirts), to the high performing formal ‘Collection’ and high-end ‘Custom’ made-to-measure suiting, M.J. Bale heralds a new chapter in Australian men’s style with supremely-tailored fashion for the discerning Aussie male – clientele he describes as “true global-roamers”.

Matt sources materials globally and locally including Australian Merino wool; Italian fabrics; Japanese sartorial manufacturing; American and Egyptian cotton, to produce masculine, timeless garments.

The new flagship store interiors were designed by Sydney architect, Kelvin Ho: “The store design is intrinsically linked to the philosophy of MJ. Bale, bridging the divide between the nostalgic and the modern. Recycled blackbutt floors, Tasmanian oak shelves, Hessian panelling with brass detailing and antiques that resonate the brand story.”

M.J. Bale’s current A/W collection channels the spirit of Italy’s great-uncrowned king of style – industrialist and playboy Gianni Agnelli. Often referred to as the most stylish man to walk the Earth, Agnelli (who died at 72 in 2003) immortalised the art of impeccable suiting.

M.J. Bale is aligned with a variety of organisations including Australian Wool Innovation, acclaimed restaurants Vue de Monde and Est., Opera Australia, and several Super 14 Rugby teams – NSW Waratahs, ACT Brumbies and the Western Force.