Monthly Archives: August 2009

The Perfect Fabric for Frequent Fliers

Day 5: Polyester.  Polyester is making a comeback with interesting textures like crushed silk and knits which are now imitating silk jersey and its draping ability. Wash often because it attracts greasy soiling. Most are machine washable in warm water but, don’t add fabric softener until the final rinse to prevent static and excess creasing. [...]

What is Viscose? Do I Have Any Clothes with It?

Day 4: Viscose.  Viscose is easily blended with other fibers such as satin but, it is very difficult to get 100% viscose.  Its fibers are natural even though chemicals are used to make it. Viscose becomes weaker when wet. Best fabric care is to hand-wash frequently in warm water; avoid wringing or twisting; and blot [...]

‘Cotton is King’ or So They Said in the South!

Day 3: Cotton.  Cotton is king if you live in a warm climate–it breathes as opposed to generating extra heat for the body.  Whether in its crisp form, poplin, or its softer form, sateen, its multi-faceted and versatile. Cotton comes in several gauges from lightweight summer fabrics to heavy duty denim. Although cooler temperatures are [...]

Loving Linen…Gently

Day 2: Linen.  Linen has a life of its own and can drape wonderfully if it is of high quality.  It is one of the coolest fibers to wear for the summer climate…and we need that in DC! Linen can be treated as a hardwearing fiber, but it can stretch or lose shape if not cared [...]

Cole, Rood & Haan’s Archival Collection Debuts

Since the buzz started about six months ago, fashion folks have been waiting to get their ‘fix’ with the new collection by Cole Haan called Cole, Rood & Haan — after the three gentleman who started the company back in the 1920s.  Part of the line features men’s shoes that have a vintage and gently [...]

Dear Blueprint…Need Help! Need Dressy Casual Heels that Work Now & into Fall

Mystery: I have 3 weddings to do across two days so, I need a nice, classy pump or heel that I can wear at an afternoon outdoor wedding, evening wedding, and indoor and slightly dressier wedding; plus one pair is better than three. I can’t spend a ton…as a matter of fact, my budget is $200 and [...]

Caring for the Sexy, Sophisticated Clothes You Have!

Day 1: Cashmere, Lamb’s Wool & Mohair.  Woolens are natural, soft fibers which can quickly felt with careless washing so, when washing, check the label! If the garment indicates ‘machine washable’ always use the gentlest cycle. For hand washables, take extra care because they can felt as well! Woolens should be left to dry flat and [...]

How to Throw Fall Colors into Your Wardrobe & Maintain Your Manhood

The colors of the season are purple, grey and forest green and although Blueprint will be sharing several ideas about how to integrate these colors into your closet, I wanted to start us out right!  To get your splash of color without going too crazy and maintaining your ‘macho’ persona, try these forest green Clae [...]

Work-Dinner-Date Dress that a Stylishly Chic Woman Should Own

In reality, it’s a houndstooth waistcoat and dress — and it’s divine!  You can wear this into the office, head to dinner with your colleagues afterwards, and then meet your other-half for a late (light) dinner….in one dress! Outnet has this Thread Social houndstooth waistcoat and dress for $198!  This is chic-onomics at its best especially [...]

Oh La La Lustful Item

Does this ooze with class and sophistication…or what?!  If anyone is interested in purchasing, please contact Smith & Company in Houston, TX (713-599-0007) but, for the rest, let’s just note the specs or head to 1stdibs to get a closer look: 2008 large man’s Cartier Roadster watch with all links; also has a brown crocodile strap with deployment [...]

Older Entries »