GUYS – LISTEN UP…people are sized up in the first 7 seconds (aka The 7-second Rule). Whether for colleagues, present or prospective employers, on-the-prowl mode or having your wife or S.O. proud to be on your arm, here’s a     5 minute read that makes a difference.

You’re home from work and going out for the evening. Change the wrinkled-smelly-worn-all day shirt?  What does it involve – a little effort and maybe $2.00 for dry cleaning?  Don’t be that guy…put your best face forward. I jumped on Bergdorf Goodman’s Style Tip.

Today’s Style Tip

A man’s shirt should always be fresh.

— Glenn O’Brien, How to be a Man

http://blog.bergdorfgoodman.com/mens-style/todays-style-tip-92

We’re gonna talk fresh in two different ways.

To get started, the  ‘get ready for evening out’ time line assumes there are no children involved. If  kids are involved AND home, add 5-10 minutes for hugs, how was   your day, how’s the homework? Even just a minute or two   to ‘touch base’ is a rewarding ritual.

Quick change artist – only 7 minutes at home before your night out: wash face, quick moisturizing, brush teeth, washcloth pit clean and privates, apply deodorant and maybe a little aftershave, comb hair AND put on a fresh shirt!

12 minutes: Change undies and socks and quick shave.

25 minutes: Add a shower. Spend a few minutes enjoying the water and wash away the stress of the day.

45 minutes: Get horizontal, close eyes and put your feet up before the aforementioned routine. Clear mind, breathe deeply. Stress adds years to your face (and wreaks havoc on the body) so let’s de-stress!

60 minutes:  Spend those extra 15 minutes with a beverage, your mail or the newspaper, or planning  for tomorrow. You’ll be more relaxed and feel ahead of the game.

Extra 5 minutes? Do 2-3 sets of push ups and sit ups. ENERGIZE!  It’ll get the blood flowing and lessen the guilt about missing the gym. If you incorporate this into your routine every other day, you’ll soon see results in your arms, shoulders and abs.

So what does this all mean?  You’ll look and feel 100% better. And whomever you’re spending the evening with will REALLY appreciate it.  Little effort for big rewards.

Now let’s really talk fresh…….

A shirt is an easy purchase to bring in a new season. Buy a few new shirts and ties. If you’re feeling especially dapper, add new socks to the mix to coordinate.  The season’s colors will give you a new look. Don’t keep dry cleaning those shirts that have seen a better day and need to move on…. there’s always those clothes you need for tinkering, hiking, home and car maintenance.  And as I always say, I can wear it to take out the trash! (in style!)

STAY TUNED FOR:  WHAT DO THE LADIES REALLY THINK (and talk about)?

If you haven’t heard, Friday Sept 10th is Fashion’s Night Out. Good idea. Why? I don’t know how it came about but I say let’s put a little energy and merriment into our lives as we begin the fall season. Lift our spirits as we remember September 11th. Check your stores for events or click on hyperlinks below. There are several chances to contribute to charities with purchase of particular merchandise. 

Have fun!

Window on 57th & 58th Street

BERGDORF GOODMAN  For events, click HERE

FOR SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, Click HERE

MACY’S  STORES

NORDSTROM EVENTS, Michigan Avenue

BLOOMINGDALE’S EVENTS

How do you feel when you tour a showcase house for breast cancer or the local symphony, or go to the car show; art museum. You’re there to enjoy the beauty of what’s presented without the  thought of actually buying what you see. This is how I feel when I look at the designer collections. I’m not in the market to purchase what’s being shown but I REALLY APPRECIATE IT. The designs and fabrics are beautiful and to me, it is artwork. Don’t be afraid to look and touch if you have the chance. You may find something something similar that fits your budget. At least while looking at the beautiful creations, it gives you the opportunity to form an opinion of what would work for you; what you like. Enjoy the beauty!

JASON WU

Belted Feather Dress

Cushnie et Ochs

Crepe and Lace One-Shoulder Gown

Armani Collezioni

Herringbone Jacket

Fashion Jeans

Oscar de la Renta           Emilio Pucci

Ruffled-Lapel Dress         Foresta Icon Dress

Milly

Link-Design Cuff Bracelet

Gals have different needs when it comes to travel and I picked out a few of my favs. If you have an unlimited budget and luggage, go for all five!

This Prada navy shoulder bag is my #1 pick for everyday activity. It will be light-weight on the shoulder, zip top, zip pocket, easy to handle. Navy is good if you don’t want to stand out in a crowd, and with Prada, it’s always a winner.

Prada Navy Shoulder Bag

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This is definitely more fun for daytime adventures. I like the fuchsia color and Dior logo charm. The wooden-silvertone handles add to the bag’s interest. It appears to have metal feet, which is always a plus for keeping the bag clean. The tote shape is conducive to carrying small trinkets you acquire along your way.

Dior Canvas Tote

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This is all about the look and luxury of Lanvin. This is artwork to me and carrying around your essentials is secondary. Beautiful!

Lanvin Satin Cabas Tote

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Valentino gives us beautiful bags. This is a good bag for lunch, shopping afterward, a fun evening out. Great color. Will dress up anything you wear.

 Valentino Lacca Nuage Hobo

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You need the evening bag that will go anywhere.  This is it in my book!  It works for a nice lunch too. And get this: A detachable chain shoulder strap that you can wear as a necklace!  Your shoulder bag becomes a necklace and clutch!  So clever, Miu Miu! 

 Miu Miu Crystal-Strap Shoulder Bag

If I could only take two bags, (it’s tough to choose),  I’d pick the Prada for daytime and casual nights; the Miu Miu for fancy day and night events.

As always, I provide Hyperlinks to take you directly to the site for further inquiry. Left Click on the bag name and drool!  Fun-fun-fun!

Marc Jacobs Side-Ruched Dress

I’m starting to get pumped about the Grammy Awards!  Eight days until I land at LAX!  I’ll need to concentrate on the “wardrobe” and put my outfits together this weekend.  I’ve been mulling it around for a while and I think I have it down.

Here is a great party dress.  Check out the site. Bergdorf Goodman is having a super on-line sale and you may find just what you’re looking for!