The Perfect Fabric for Frequent Fliers

posted by Blueprint on August 31, 2009

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. [...]

14 Days of Fall Fashions! Day 6 & Dressing Up with a Dress

posted by Blueprint on August 31, 2009

After spending an entire weekend doing style consultations, scheduled and ad-hoc, and doing a few wardrobe assessments for women, it occurred to me that business women today do not have enough dresses in their repetoire.  I’m not sure if it’s because we’re so focused on the ‘power suit’ or we want ‘versatility’ so opt for [...]

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

posted by Blueprint on August 30, 2009

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 [...]

It’s amazing how the littlest of things can make the biggest difference!  In this case, we’re talking about your accessories (yes, in general, shoes and bags are where you want to invest your big dollars but….), more specifically, we’re talking about your jewelry.  Today’s fall fashion must have is chunky, feminine statement jewelry.  The bonus [...]

Was Sammy Davis Jr a style icon?  I’d be inclined to look at the tapered slacks he sported even before tapered was cool, the sport coats and ascots he wore that screamed ‘man about town’, the cigar he smoked, and the company he kept (the Brat Pack) and say  MOST DEFINITELY!  So, in honor of [...]

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

posted by Blueprint on August 29, 2009

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 [...]

14 Days of Fall Fashions! Day 4: Zoot Suits Are Back!

posted by Blueprint on August 29, 2009

I’m just joking…more specifically, this fall means every man with any business should be seen in a pinstripe suit at some point.  The choices are endless because every major designer from Brooks Brothers to Zegna to Dunhill, JCrew and Hugo Boss has one.  Again the key to this trend is to (1) review the Guide [...]

14 Days of Fall Fashions! Day 4: Bright-colored Overcoat

posted by Blueprint on August 29, 2009

For ladies, the runways have been filled with lots of grey and black but, also vibrant and rich colors like purple, teal and warm orange.  So, beyond the trench coat you’ve already got, it’s time to kick it up a notch and when you’re outfit isn’t as perfect as you’d hoped, a bright colored coat [...]

Loving Linen…Gently

posted by Blueprint on August 28, 2009

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 [...]

Hickey Summer Sale

posted by Blueprint on August 28, 2009

Hickey is having a summer sale – additional 30% off current sale prices!  Be there to grab the $318 red seersucker suit jacket or the $638 leather baracuda jacket!!