His - Maximize Your Wardrobe

As I mentioned in my first "Distinguished Gentleman" post, when it comes to classic pieces, think quality over quantity.  You can maximize one piece by having a little fun with the items already in your closet.  Don't be afraid to wear a favorite item like crazy.  Just try it in different ways.  My {His} recently purchased a great pair of Theory shorts via Bluefly for warm weather wear.  Here's how he's mixing them into his wardrobe in a variety of ways...

Button Down: Monarchy

Shorts: Theory

Watch: Burberry

Sweater: TopMan

T-Shirt: J. Crew

Shorts: Theory

Watch: Burberry

Button Down: Original Penguin

Shorts: Theory

Watch: Burberry

Shoes: Toms

Hers - Bright White

Do you remember that old style rule that says you're not supposed to wear white before Memorial Day, or after Labor Day?  Do you follow it?  Well, if you haven't noticed, I don't {see my "Black & White" post for reference}.  In fact, black, gray, and white are my favorite neutrals to wear regardless of season.  So, when I planned an outfit around a new pair of summer wedges, I was instantly drawn to white denim.

I've been so excited to breakout these new wedges.  They're super comfy, super high, and super cute ~ a killer combination in my book!!  On top of all that, they're reasonably priced.  I purchased mine at Bakers but also noticed ModCloth has a similar pair.  I plan to sport these puppies with plenty of fun numbers this summer.

{ Hers }

Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Earrings & Necklace: gifted

Blazer: Club Monaco

Shirt: Banana Republic

Pants: J. Crew

Shoes: Bakers

His & Hers Picks - Chambray Chic

There's a wealth of chambray garments in stores this spring and we're quickly falling in love with all the options.  The chambray shirt is still a classic, but there are now so many other chambray pieces that you can mix into your wardrobe ~ modern hats and ties for the {His} and adorable bags and rompers for the {Hers}.  Plus, chambray is the perfect fabric to add to the mix as we head into the warm weather months, because it's soft and lightweight.  So, without further adieu, here are our chambray chic picks for this spring and summer...

{ His }

Chambray Driving Cap - Banana Republic

Chambray Cotton Windbreaker - Club Monaco

Chambray Tie - Urban Outfitters

Vintage Chambray Utility Shirt - J.Crew

{ Hers }

Pins and Needles Chambray Bow Skirt - Urban Outfitters

Perception of Personality Dress - ModCloth

Chambray Tote - Gap

Simply Woven Romper - Forever 21

His & Hers Picks - Faux Leather

Faux, done well, is just as chic as the real thing.  There are more and more great faux options popping up on the scene, particularly in fur and leather {I shared my very favorite faux fur vest in my last post}.  The texture and feel of faux leather has greatly improved over the years and can easily be mistaken for the real deal.  So in honor of Earth Month, we're sharing our favorite {His} faux leather picks...

Charles & 1/2 Daniel Faux Leather Moto - Urban Outfitters

Charles & 1/2 Faux Leather Moto - Urban Outfitters

Black Apple by Public School Golden Jacket - Urban Outfitters

Matt & Nat Messenger Bag - Saks Fifth Avenue

Matt & Nat Voigt Laptop Carrier - Revolve Clothing

Matt & Nat Faithless Duffle Bag - Revolve Clothing

Hers - Faux Fur

The spring has forsaken us in Chicago.  After a couple weeks of lovely weather, it seemed like spring was here to stay.  Apparently it was only a tease, because we're back to fall-like conditions.  So, as I dressed for a day where my outfit had to be versatile, I instantly thought warm layers.

I spent the morning at work then was off for a wonderful afternoon of shopping with my Mom.   Therefore, I had to be warm and comfortable for walking around the Windy City.  I choose my very favorite faux fur vest by Rachel Zoe {one of my recent fashion crushes} and comfy Steve Madden booties.  

{ Hers }

Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Earrings: Macy's

Faux Fur Vest: Rachel Zoe

Shirt: H&M

Necklace: The Glamourai

Jeans: J.Crew

Booties: Steve Madden

Ring: F21

Bag: H&M

Scarf: Target

His & Hers Inspiration - Mates of State

Music always inspires me, especially when seen live.  You're able to experience the passion behind the sound and the vision behind the albums.  I'm very fortunate to be married to a {His} who is constantly introducing me to great new music {you may have picked up on this from my post on Beach House}.  One of my nostalgic favorites is Mates of State.  This dynamic, married, Indie Rock duo creates the kind of music you just want to dance and sing along too.  They remind me so much of the early stages of dating my now husband.  We even affectionately call ourselves 'Team Boo' after one of their albums.

Their fun, whimsical style truly represents their fun, whimsical sound.  I'm always inspired by their looks.  They make me want to try something new or throw on something a bit geeky.  Mates of State are currently touring and releasing a new album this summer.  I recommend checking them out live or via Last.fm.

His - Distinguished Gentleman 3 of 3

Let's face it, sometimes a guy just needs to be casual and comfortable.  That doesn't mean casual and comfortable can't be stylish too though.  Try cotton trousers instead of jeans.  They're a refreshing alternative and lighter weight than denim.  An easy way to look casual cool.

{ His }

Jacket: Urban Outfitters

T-Shirt: NYC via a street vendor

Watch: Suunto

Pants: United Colors of Benetton

Shoes: Vans

{His} Tip: When you see a cool, one-of-a-kind item, snag it.  It's the best way to create and build your own personal style.  The bicycle t-shirt pictured above was a NYC find and a {His} favorite.  It was purchased from an artist who was creating and selling his works as a vendor on the streets of SoHo.

His - Distinguished Gentleman 2 of 3

An easy way for gents to look casually dressed up is to throw on a button down instead of a T.  Roll-up the sleeves, leave it untucked, and you're ready to roll.  The important thing to note, as with all clothing, is fit.  Select shirts that fit your body best ~ not too tight, not too baggy.

{ His }

Sunglasses: Ray-Ban 

Button Down: Steven Alan

Watch: Suunto

Pants: United Colors of Benetton

Shoes: Vans

{His} Tip: Patterned, slip-ons are great alternatives to sneakers, especially in the warm weather months.  They add a bit of interest to light weight pants, jeans, or shorts, without sacrificing the most important thing ~ comfort. 

His - Distinguished Gentleman 1 of 3

As noted in my previous post, this next set is dedicated to documenting more {His} style.  There isn't enough mens street style in the blogosphere and we hope to provide you with a healthy dose, not only in this mini-series, but moving forward as well.

For men, the key to great style is looking effortless, but with an air of sophistication.  It isn't hard.  It just requires having a few key pieces and knowing how to pull it all together, so that effortless doesn't look sloppy.  Good fitting button downs, modern ties, and a pair classic black shoes are wardrobe staples.

{ His }

Button Down: Original Penguin 

Tie: Urban Outfitters

Tie Clip: Kenneth Cole

Watch: ESQ

Pants: Gardeur

Shoes: Ferragamo

{His} Tip: When it comes to key pieces, like a classic black shoe, the {His} moto is quality over quantity.  Invest in one pair of great shoes that will last you for years to come.

Hers - Spring Showers

Today was a typical Chicago spring day.  It started chilly and rainy, but ended as lovely as can be.  All in all, it was the perfect opportunity to break out one of my pretty parapluies...

{ Hers }

Earrings: Target

Jacket: T.J. Maxx

Brooches: 1) Urban Outfitters and 2) self made (seen here)

Tunic: ModCloth

Pants: Citizens of Humanity (seen here and here)

Flats: Daniblack 

Rings: F21

Bag: H&M

Scarf: Target

Umbrella: Target

P.S. {For His Lovers}...

The next set of posts are dedicated to {His} style.  I've received several requests for more, which I love (keep the requests coming!!).  There's really not enough mens street style in the blogosphere, so we're going to give you a healthy dose.  Stay tuned...

His & Hers Picks - The Trench

When talking trench, Burberry says it all.  This iconic brand developed the iconic trench coat in 1901 when Thomas Burberry proposed it as the official raincoat for British Army officers.  How stylish the British Army was!!  What I love about the trench is it's military roots.  So guys, if you think a trench is too preppy for you, think again.

Public School Black Trench @ Tobi.com

Ben Sherman Plaid Trench @ Nordstrom.com

Burberry Double Breasted Trench @ Nordstrom.com

Burberry London Lightweight Packable Trench @ Nordstrom.com

P.S. {For The Hers}...

I was so excited when I received the below email promotion from Club Monaco this morning announcing the release of their Rochelle Trenchette, a slightly shorter version of their traditional trench.  Perfect timing for my mini trench series!!  Plus, I was smitten with the look they pulled together.  The knee highs add the perfect touch of sass to the traditional trench.

{ Click to see the collection }

Hers - The Trench

This time of year, a classic trench is a must.  The temperature is up and down with frequent showers, so it's important to have a little something stylish to throw over your shoulders when the temperature takes a dip.  Today as I trenched-up, I decided I wanted to channel a bit of the lovely Jackie O...

{ Hers }

Trench: Mango

Flower Pin: H&M

Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Earrings: Macy's

Necklace: The Glamourai

Sweater: H&M

Pants: Citizens of Humanity

Shoes: Ralph Lauren

Redux - Big Earrings, Light Weight

I am a big fan of big earrings.  I think they add so much glamour to a look, especially for those of us with short hair.  When I went pixie, I found myself regularly clutching for bigger, danglier adornments.  Yet, while I do think the bigger the better with earrings, I am very cautious of weight.  I don't want earrings hanging too heavy on my lobes.


I recently purchased a pair of rocker-chic earrings from Forever 21 {a great source for fabulous, inexpensive baubles}.

{ The Original Pair }

However, the first time I wore them, I realized the weight of all the chains really added up.  They were too cool to ditch and I saw potential with a little reworking.  So, with a pair of small needle-nose pliers, I gently removed the horseshoe bar and some of the additional chains to create a much lighter, dangly earring.  They've quickly become my favorites!!

{ The Redux }

His & Hers Picks - Take Care Of Your Tips

Having good hand hygiene is important, whether you're a {His} or a {Hers}.  You'd be surprised how often people notice if your tips are trimmed and tidy.  Here are our picks to help keep your hands happy...

{ His & Hers Pick }

Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme

This product is more of a wax than a creme and perfectly sized to drop in your pocket or bag, making it great for on-the-go cuticle care.

{ Her Pick }

Sula's Paint & Peel Polish

I'm generally an OPI girl.  However, I recently came across Sula's Paint & Peel polish and was instantly drawn in by the concept and pretty colors.  This polish is a "Big 3-Free" water based formula ~ essentially making it free of the toxic, smelly stuff found in most polish.  You also don't have to use polish remover to take it off.  Simply peel it off when you're ready for a color change ~ Paint & Peel.

{ colors above from left to right }

Dove, Haze, Crush

His & Hers Looks - Black & White

Continuing on my black & white theme, we had some fun snapping vintage-looking polaroids before heading out for a wonderful evening with wonderful friends the other evening.  The {His'} pics remind me of the era of Jesse James...

{ His }

Blazer: Theory

Vest: Rag & Bone

Shirt: John Varvatos

Pants: Obey

Watch: Burberry

Wedding Band: Black Tungsten (also seen here)

Shoes: Gucci

{ Hers }

Earrings: Macy's

Jacket: H&M (also seen here)

T-Shirt: Gap

Necklace: The Glamourai (also seen here & here)

Pants: Citizens of Humanity

Shoes: Ralph Lauren

Hers - Black & White

There is nothing more classic than black & white.  When color is stripped away, you're left with a simplicity that is elegant and timeless.  It's a palette that arises nostalgia, reminding us of the classic films and photographs we all adore.  For me, black & white will forever parallel Audrey Hepburn, Coco Chanel, James Dean, The Beatles, Andy & Edie ~ the icons that transcend time.  For that reason, I am always drawn to black & white ensembles and today was no exception.

{ Hers }

Hair Pin: Claire's

Earrings: Anthropologie

Cardigan: Club Monaco

Skirt: Club Monaco

Tights: Hue

Boots: United Colors of Benetton