Haute Summer

Oven heat is the last source of inspiration from the minds of fashion makers for men’s wear this summer. As a true testament of the limited amount of comfortable summer fashions for “hot as hell” cities like Houston; men sporting old college t-shirts and cargo shorts just to keep cool are not a rarity. Although  comfort is understandably priority for the weekend and after hours, stepping up the professional to business casual attire can be cumbersome, but corporate wear is and will be cumbersome if you allow it.

Corporate hours can be long and draining. Whether a top executive or mailroom clerk, if you’re not the HDIC (HEAD DUDE IN CHARGE) work sucks, so why ruin your sense of self with played out summer clothes?

Fashion accompanied with function should not be an anomaly for the young, hip and educated male. By narrowing down options and finding retailers that house a mix of appealing, modern, and well-tailored garments, the angst to step up your “playa” will subside. To separate yourself from looking like the IT guy on the 5th floor, try wearing a cotton Khaki suit paired with a light printed French cuffed shirt along with a peppermint striped tie. The Khaki suit will calm the boldness of the tie and shirt. Remember to throw in a light loafer with vents to cool the feet.

Gingham is a summer Favorite for designers. From Ralph Lauren to Etro, this all-American checker box print is a must have for an update on light cotton shirts. Although bold in print, colors range from vibrant red to a dull grey. If you want to add some American sexy, throw on the classic khaki polo shorts with a clean pair of converses.

A cotton khaki blazer that was once for work can convert into a fresh taste of suave. A light floral print button-up accessorized with a paperboy hat will simultaneously block the sun and keep heads turning. Adding a pocket square adds a “debonair” quality, without forcing an unnecessary fashion statement.

Red, the color of love, sex, anger and heat. Why not take the bold approach? Duo’s white collared, red sports shirt is airy and light to the touch. Accompanied with James Dean-esque chinos or a light cotton plaid pant, day or night, those occasional incidents of coming home alone may end.

If ever there is a time when you rub elbows with Jack Nicholson at a boxing match in Las Vegas, you better make sure you’re wearing the right suit. Take a trip to the Galley (Galleria) and you will find that Zara’s suits have an Itialian tailor-made quality at an affordable price (around $350). Duo’s polka dotted shirt adds some fun to the gray. Keep the sun out of your eyes with the American classic Ray Bans, and you’ll be unstoppable.

RULE OF THUMB (Lets make a toast to not ruining these style tips described above)

• Chinos should never ruffle at the ankles like granny panties, a simple trip to the cleaners can hem this problem.

• By now, Gingham should be apart of your wardrobe.

• Fitted Jeans are great. Skinny jeans are not!

• Love thyself and dress for success, even though the job may be a crapshoot, the sex life should be a win.

Photography by, Debra Ham

Styled by: Hollywood Cole

Model: Hani Abdulbaki

Special Thanks to Ruben from Duo

© 2009 – 2010, Hollywood Cole. All rights reserved by Sub Urban Media Group.